Marvin Sapp Faces Backlash, Accused of 'Locking Congregation in Church' Over $40,000 Donation Request

Gospel singer and pastor Marvin Sapp is under fire after a video surfaced showing him urging his congregation to donate $40,000 during a church service. The clip, which has sparked widespread criticism, depicts Sapp instructing ushers to close the church doors to prevent anyone from leaving while he made his appeal.

In the video, Sapp suggests that if 1,000 people in attendance and another 1,000 watching online each contribute $20, they would quickly meet the $40,000 target. He also asked those standing behind him to donate $100, stating, “Because, again, it costs to stand up here”. The approach has been criticized as aggressive and manipulative, with many calling it a form of holding church members “hostage” for money.

Sapp has responded to the backlash, explaining that his intention was to create a safe and reverent environment for giving, not to control the congregation. “When finances are being received in any worship gathering, it is one of the most vulnerable and exposed times for both the finance and security teams,” wrote Sapp. “Movement during this sacred exchange can be distracting and, at times, even risky. My directive was not about control it was about creating a safe, focused, and reverent environment for those choosing to give, and for those handling the resources.”

Sapp further emphasized that the event was part of a larger conference with its own budget, and his role was to help raise funds.

Despite his explanation, the incident has sparked significant online criticism, with many questioning the credibility of church activities and expressing disappointment in Sapp’s methods. Some even called for his arrest. According to reports, Sapp has an estimated net worth of $4 million, which has further fueled public skepticism about his fundraising tactics.