Faith
Judge Allows Lawsuit Against Gateway Church to Proceed
Faith Facts
- Gateway Church and founder Robert Morris face a class action lawsuit from former members and tithers.
- A federal judge allowed claims of fraud, misrepresentation, and breach of contract to proceed.
- Plaintiffs allege a lack of transparency in church finances and misrepresentation of donation use.
In a recent decision, U.S. District Judge Amos L. Mazzant denied a request to dismiss a significant class action lawsuit filed against Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, and its founder Robert Morris. The court granted the church members permission to file an amended complaint and include additional claims and parties, reinforcing their pursuit of accountability.
Plaintiffs, who are former church members and faithful tithers, accuse Gateway Church and Morris of fraud and breaching promises regarding the use of church donations. They claim they were led to believe that a specific portion of their tithes supported global missions and Jewish ministry partners, but say they have not seen transparent proof or satisfactory accounting.
Gateway Church and Morris have denied these allegations and sought dismissal, but the judge ruled that the plaintiffs stated plausible claims for relief. The court emphasized that the claims of fraud and lack of transparency are sufficient to proceed in court, allowing faith-based accountability to be examined further.
Robert Morris, who stepped down in June 2024 amid separate allegations unrelated to the lawsuit, previously promoted a “money-back guarantee” on tithes to encourage giving as an act of faith and obedience. Christian stewardship teaches the importance of handling offerings with integrity, as believers are called to honor God and uplift fellow Christians in all matters, including church finances.
Integrity and transparency are essential values that build trust within the Body of Christ. Let us continue to pray for truth, justice, and restoration in our churches as these matters are resolved.