Bishop Patrick Wooden Responds to the Viral Offering Controversy Involving Marvin Winans

In a recent message addressing a viral video that stirred controversy within the Christian community, Bishop Patrick Wooden spoke candidly about the situation involving Bishop Marvin Winans and the raising of an offering during a church service.

The video, which circulated widely on social media, showed a moment from the service that many viewers interpreted negatively, sparking debates and criticism aimed at Winans.

Bishop Wooden began by acknowledging the brevity of his remarks but stressed the importance of addressing the issue quickly to provide clarity.

He noted that while he could not do a deep dive into the matter, he wanted to “get in the water” enough to correct misconceptions.

Wooden pointed out that the offering in question was not for Bishop Winans personally but for his church’s building project—a mission to complete the house of God that he had been called to build.

Drawing a parallel to biblical history, Wooden reminded listeners that even during the rebuilding of Solomon’s temple, construction was halted for 16 years, and God raised prophets like Haggai and Zechariah to encourage the people to finish the work.

He emphasized that challenges and opposition are not new to church builders.

One of Wooden’s key points was about the nature of criticism directed at Bishop Winans.

He observed that many bloggers and commentators were not just speaking to Winans but to the entire church body.

He highlighted a broader societal hostility toward the church and the eagerness of some to find fault with religious leaders.

Wooden urged people to watch the entire service video rather than isolated clips, explaining that the full context shows that the woman involved was not embarrassed and that Winans did not rebuke her.

Instead, the issue was a misunderstanding about the line she was in during the offering.

He stressed that church members who know their pastor understand his character and intentions far better than those who see only snippets online.

Sharing his own support, Wooden revealed that after sending a generous offering along with Elder John I’m in Chuku, he reached out to Bishop Winans to express his encouragement.

He described himself as a builder and pastor who wants to see the church completed, acknowledging the spiritual opposition churches often face.

Addressing some of the theological objections raised online, Wooden tackled the claim that offerings should never be announced publicly or given openly.

He cited scripture to show that public giving is biblical.

For example, he referenced King David’s joyful offerings and pointed out that the Bible includes accounts of after-offerings and willing giving with a perfect heart.

Wooden encouraged everyone to read their Bibles carefully to understand what God says about offerings.

Finally, Wooden addressed the personal attacks on Bishop Winans, including accusations that he is arrogant or only successful because of his singing.

He called such criticism excessive and suggested that the viral clip revealed people’s pent-up frustrations.

He reminded believers that giving is a grace and a blessing, quoting 2 Corinthians 8, where the Apostle Paul encourages believers to abound in the grace of giving.

Bishop Wooden concluded by reaffirming his commitment to biblical teaching and leadership.

He emphasized that church leaders must stand on the Word of God in all they do and encouraged the congregation to support their pastors faithfully.

This message serves as a call for unity and understanding within the church, urging believers to seek full context, biblical truth, and grace before passing judgment on their leaders.