In January 2026, BBC News reported on former members of the International Christian Church (ICC) in London and Edinburgh who joined as university students. Several said they felt pressured to give money they didn't have, sometimes from student loans or overdrafts. One described giving until he had 46p left, afraid of "robbing" God.
Others said members asked about their income and outgoings, and in one case looked through bank statements.
The London International Christian Church denied the allegations. It told the BBC that giving is voluntary and never coerced.
Questions to consider
- How was giving taught where you were? Was the amount ever discussed with you, or reviewed?
- Compare what the church told the BBC with what you experienced. Do they match?
- What does 2 Corinthians 9:7 say about how giving should feel?
Sources
- BBC News, "'I gave my last 46p': Young people say they felt pressured by church to donate," January 23, 2026: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8e59zrxrypo
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