My father’s house, once a sacred place for worship, is now being turned into a den of thieves—a political arena filled with contention and irreverence. It’s heart-breaking to witness. Thank God heaven is not located near Nigeria, or else we might see a jailbreak in hell and people rigging their way into heaven.
Recently, I saw a former governor shamelessly ranting in a church, boasting and criticizing his former boss. Worse still, the congregation applauded him. This behaviour is appalling. The church is supposed to be a sanctuary, a place for reverence and worship, not a platform for political mudslinging.
The Desecration of the Altar
When you invite political figures into the church, you risk desecrating the sacred pulpit. I’ve watched political leaders in other countries, like Barack Obama, sit humbly at public services without demanding the spotlight. In contrast, here in Nigeria, we roll out the red carpet for politicians who arrive late, disrupt services, and turn the house of God into a stage for their egos.
As pastors, we must recognize our own shortcomings. Many of us suffer from inferiority complexes, groveling before politicians because of the donations they might give. How much do they truly offer? And at what cost to the sanctity of the church?
The Pulpit is for Preaching, Not Politics
The pulpit is a place for preaching Christ, love, and reconciliation—not a venue for political thugs or partisan propaganda. If someone is coming for Thanksgiving, let them thank God and sit down. There’s no need to bring others to rail and rant on the altar.
Pastors, learn to distinguish between what belongs to Caesar and what belongs to God. The pulpit belongs to God. When you allow politicians to take over your altar, you not only dishonor God but also set a poor example for your congregation.
The Role of Leadership in the Church
I’ve been in church leadership, and I understand the pressures. But we must stand firm. The altar is not for showmanship or political debates. Leadership is about guiding people towards Christ, not towards divisive rhetoric.
I once attended a Baptist church in Rivers State where a politician tried to assert his authority. I rebuked him. If we were in the same workplace, he would have been my junior. This sense of entitlement that some of these individuals carry must be confronted.
A Call for Accountability
Nigerian pastors, it’s time to respect the house of God. Fear God and remember that all men are like grass. Their glory fades, but the word of God stands forever. Don’t allow yourself to be manipulated or intimidated by wealth or political power.
Let’s preserve the sanctity of the church and focus on our true mission: preaching the gospel and guiding people to Christ.
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Remember, your bills won’t wait, and the rich are making money even during the holidays. Don’t let the season distract you from planning for the future.
God bless you.
Dr. Charles Apoki
The Area Grandfather
