Opinion
By Valentine Obienyem
I would like to begin by referencing Edward Gibbon’s “The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.” While Gibbon identified several causes, including Christianity, the key takeaway is that, in his view, the fall of Rome was not due to a single event but rather a long, gradual process involving both internal and external factors over several centuries.
On the foundation of Christianity, specifically through Catholicism, Christ promised that the gates of hell would not prevail against the Church. Over the centuries, the Church has fought valiantly against external forces that sought to destroy Christianity. The irony, however, is that today, it faces destruction from within. The Church, being led by fallible human beings subject to the sins of Adam, has experienced significant challenges throughout its history, notably the Great Schism of 1054 and the Protestant Reformation of 1517. While some may argue that these challenges, resulting in a multiplicity of faiths, introduced healthy competition, from objective and historical perspective, such divisions have inflicted considerable harm on the body of Christ.
When I write about divisions in Christianity, it is often with a heavy heart. You may not fully grasp the depth of my feelings until you readUt Unum Sint” (“That They May Be One”). “Ut Unum Sint” focuses on the importance of Christian unity and ecumenism, reaffirming the Catholic Church’s commitment to dialogue with other Christian denominations in the pursuit of unity.
Today, the Church’s major challenge is Pentecostalism. Characterised by emotional appeals that leave its followers captive and unthinking, many Pentecostal groups resort to all manner of questionable practices to sustain their growth. One pastor in Warri was seen engaging in a spiritual duel with a “Haba” priest from Agulu. The “Haba” priest later admitted to a friend that he had been paid to stage the drama. Is this what Pentecostalism offers to the body of Christ?
Perhaps the most disturbing of these practices is the staging of so-called miracles. Even figures like the comedic Odumeje have claimed to raise the dead.
When pastors boast of drinking tea with God, controlling the weather, or causing roads to widen miraculously to allow them passage, they not only display early signs of delusion but also bring Christianity into ridicule. While they may attract the gullible masses, including some captains of industry, who unfortunately form the majority, they simultaneously provoke thoughtful individuals to question the very foundation of their faith. Such deception is one of the reasons many are now preaching a return to the roots, seeing nothing but lies in what these preachers offer.
They are busy reducing Christianity to an egregious call for tithes. Rather than boast of the souls and territories they have converted, as the orthodox churches do, they boast about their fat bank accounts, perquisites, and the number of private jets they own. They are even corrupting some in orthodox churches who now see founding ministries within their churches, devoid of established controls, as an open sesame to wealth and renown. This cannot be Christianity!
The current challenges facing Christianity, particularly with the rise of manipulative practices in Pentecostal circles, serve as a stark reminder of the need for discernment and authenticity in faith. The history of the Church is one of resilience, surviving schisms, reforms, and doctrinal challenges. Yet, the core of Christianity—its truth, love, and teachings—must remain uncompromised. True faith cannot be sustained on emotional manipulation or deceit; rather, it thrives on genuine spiritual growth, intellectual engagement, and a return to the authentic teachings of Christ. As Christians, we must guard against these distortions, ensuring that our beliefs remain rooted in truth and are not swayed by the allure of sensationalism.
And what happens? The deluded, always ready to engage anyone who questions their pastors, will undoubtedly come forward like mosquitoes, to buzz irritatingly in my ears. In the face of obvious truth, meant to salvage Christianity, all they will offer in defence is accusation of fanaticism, intolerance, jealousy, and other predictable catchphrases.
A.I
Oct. 19, 2024
Tags: Valentine Obienyem
