Marvin Sapp Sparks Controversy After Viral Church Fundraising Video
Renowned gospel singer and preacher Marvin Sapp is under fire after a viral video allegedly shows him pressuring his congregation to donate $40,000—even instructing ushers to "close the doors" until the amount was raised.
Sapp, known for gospel hits like "Never Would Have Made It" and "The Best in Me," reportedly made the statement at the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World annual summer convention in July 2024. His tactics have since sparked widespread criticism across social media, with many accusing him of manipulation and coercion in the name of faith.
The Viral Video: What Happened?
During the sermon, Sapp reportedly made the following remarks:
🗣️ "Ushers, close the doors. Close the doors. Close the doors."
🗣️ "We all gone leave together. Y’all ain’t going no place but the restaurant."
He then asked each of the 1,000 attendees to donate $20 and called on online viewers to give as well, stating that if everyone contributed, they would collect $40,000 that night.
Social Media Backlash: "This Ain’t Faith, This Is a Shakedown"
The video quickly ignited outrage, with X (formerly Twitter) users calling out Sapp for his aggressive approach:
💬 "Marvin Sapp is clearly HUSTLING his congregation for $40K. Locking doors? That’s not faith; that’s a shakedown!"
💬 "Marvin Sapp never would've made it messing with me. OPEN THESE DOORS NOW!"
💬 "This is why people stay away from the church. They struggle for years, yet can’t rely on the church for help."
Sapp Defends His Actions: "It’s Biblical"
In response to the backlash, Marvin Sapp released a statement on Facebook, claiming he was not forcing donations but rather creating a "safe space" for giving.
📝 "When finances are being received in any worship gathering, it is a vulnerable time for both the finance and security teams. My directive was not about control—it was about creating a focused, reverent environment," he explained.
He also cited 1 Chronicles 29 and Mark 7:13, stating that asking for specific donation amounts is consistent with scripture and not a form of manipulation.
Is This Justified or Exploitative?
The debate over faith-based fundraising practices continues, with some defending Sapp’s actions as traditional church stewardship, while others argue it was a misuse of spiritual authority.
What do you think? Was Marvin Sapp rightfully fundraising or wrongfully pressuring his congregation? Share your thoughts below! 👇
0 Comments