Reverend Lydia Kahiga Sparks Heated Debate After Urging Congregation to Pay Tithes on Both Salary and Debts

Reverend Lydia Kahiga of the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) has caused a stir. She told her congregation to pay tithes from both salaries and debts. The sermon went viral on social media. Kenyans are debating whether her advice goes too far.

Kahiga said tithing on debts lets God “stretch His holy arms” to clear what a believer owes. She urged people to calculate their total debts. Then, they should give ten percent as a tithe. This may increase what is owed on paper, but she promises spiritual debt relief.

“Kama uko na deni ya 150k, tafuta 15k utoe kama tithe na Mungu atakuonekania,” she said. Someone owing KSh 150,000 would give KSh 15,000 as a tithe on the debt. Kahiga said spiritually, this opens the way for God’s intervention.

The message sparked mixed reactions online. Some fans supported her. They said it is bold and faith driven. Others criticized it as impractical. They said it could worsen financial burdens. Many questioned whether tithing should apply to borrowed money.

Financial and religious experts have commented. They said faith can inspire hope and discipline. But practical money management is still important. Spiritual exercises should complement, not replace, financial planning.

The sermon has sparked wider debates. It shows how religious leaders influence both spiritual and financial decisions. Many Kenyans are reflecting on the balance between faith and money. Kahiga’s advice is controversial. But it has also made people think about divine intervention and financial responsibility.

The debate continues online. Some praise the bold approach. Others warn against following it blindly. Either way, Kahiga’s sermon has captured attention and sparked national conversation about faith and finances.