Emphasize Integrity, Hard Work Over Wealth in Sermons -Former Vice President, Osibajo Tells Church Leaders

Osinbajo Calls For Churches 

By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde 

The Former Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, has urged Nigerian churches to move away from preaching prosperity and wealth accumulation, and instead focus on promoting peace, productivity, and community development. 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija (OTN) News reports that, Osinbajo shared this perspective during a lecture at the 68th Anniversary and 58th Annual Convention of The Gospel Faith Mission International (GOFAMINT) over the weekend.

Speaking on the lecture's theme, "The Christian Faith in the Political Struggles: A Case Study of Nigeria," Osinbajo criticized the excessive focus on wealth and lavish lifestyles by some religious leaders, arguing that it has distanced many, especially the youth, from the church. 

He emphasized that churches have become too preoccupied with personal prosperity, neglecting their fundamental mission of fostering peace, unity, and societal development.

Osinbajo urged church leaders to return to the core values of the gospel to promote hardwork, compassion, and service to the community if they genuinely desire to see Nigeria thrive. 

He stressed that only by shifting focus from materialism to these values can churches inspire people to become agents of positive change, rather than merely chasing prosperity.

He also warned that when preachers prioritize material rewards, particularly among Christians in Government and positions of power, it hinders national development by corrupting minds and preventing them from acting in the country’s best interest.

He highlighted that many of the world's most prosperous nations lack natural resources, while those rich in such resources often remain in poverty due to a disregard for the principles of hard work and productivity. 

OTN News further reports that Osinbajo pointed out that the countries in Europe and America, which Nigeria aspires to emulate, achieved their success through the true teachings of Jesus Christ, combined with values like hard work, integrity, and protection of the poor.

He criticized some preachers for failing to scrutinize the sources of their congregants' wealth, often attributing any unexplained riches to miracles. 

Osinbajo emphasized that the core responsibility of Christians and the Church is to propagate the authentic gospel of Jesus Christ, which has the power to transform nations.

"The nations we admire and seek to emulate, those in Europe and America were shaped by the gospel of Jesus Christ and the virtues of hard work, productivity, integrity, and care for the poor that were preached from their pulpits," he said. 

"If we are to transform and positively impact our nation as Christians and as a Church, we must carefully consider the messages we deliver, ensuring they promote values like hard work, integrity, and productivity, while also advocating for the care of the poor and needy among us," Osibajo concluded.