I am sure you have seen or heard about the viral video of pastor/recording artist Marvin Sapp requesting a large sum of money from a congregation. The video has spread on social media like wildfire, resulting in hundreds of mocking memes being created, and negative feedback accusing the pastor of holding people hostage and demanding money “like a pimp.” What many do not realize is the video is from an event that occurred nearly a year ago.
In July 2024, during the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World Convention fundraiser in Baltimore, Maryland, Sapp attended as a guest speaker. The video resurfaced online in March 2025, in which Sapp is seen instructing ushers to “close the doors” and telling the congregation and online viewers to collectively give $40,000, $100 was requested from pastors and $20 for attendees and online viewers.
Here is the original video of the entire incident. The part of the video that went viral starts at 2:15.
Sapp spoke out defended his actions, stating that his intent was not to hold anyone hostage but to prevent distractions during a sacred moment. He emphasized that the practice aligns with biblical principles of stewardship stating you are not permitted to walk during prayer, alter call, or offering time. Despite his explanation, the pastor continues to receive taunts and negative feedback.
Now the situation has gotten out of hand escalating into death threats to the pastor and profanity laced calls to his church, leaving employees terrified and afraid for their lives.
On Monday, March 31, 2025, Sapp appeared on the nationally syndicated, Rickey Smiley Morning Show, to shed light on what he is calling “a misunderstanding.” Check out the entire interview below as he explains what actually happened, why, and how the ordeal has affected his entire family and church staff.