Bishop Marvin Sapp is currently at the center of controversy after a resurfaced video from a Pentecostal Assemblies of the World (PAW) convention revealed his unconventional approach to fundraising, one that some are calling extreme.
In the viral clip, Sapp can be heard instructing ushers to lock the doors until a $40,000 donation goal is met. With around 1,000 worshipers in attendance, he urged each person to give at least $20, emphasizing that the goal was easily achievable. He also extended his appeal to online viewers, calling on them to contribute.
Even pastors seated on stage weren’t exempt, as Sapp insisted they each donate $100. To lead by example, he pulled out his own cash and publicly contributed.
The situation escalated when Sapp invited worshipers to the stage to physically present their offerings. Those donating electronically were asked to provide proof of payment.
The video has ignited a wave of backlash, with critics comparing the move to holding churchgoers hostage. While authorities confirm no official complaints were filed, the optics of closing the doors until donations were collected have sparked intense debate over ethics in church fundraising.
