Church Leaders Warn Against Misuse Of Pulpit By Preachers

Langham Expository Bible Preaching Initiative (LEBPI), Nigeria has condemned the attitude of some preachers who misuse the pulpit for political gains, personal enrichment and self-promotion in the country.

It also stated that such practices distort the gospel, stressing that the pulpit must remain a sacred space for proclaiming Christ crucified, risen and exalted.

LEBPI stated this in a communique issued to newsmen in Jos, the Plateau State capital, at the end of the 2025 Africa Expository Bible Preaching Summit.

The communique, which was jointly signed by Pastor Dr. Hankuri Gaya and Rev. Dr. Jwan Zhumbes, also condemned all forms of false teaching that mislead God’s people, especially messages that prioritize materialism over godliness.

LEADERSHIP reports that the 2025 Africa Expository Bible Preaching Summit, held at First Baptist Church Garki Abuja brought together over 300 participants onsite and virtual from across Africa under the theme, “Preaching Christ, The Bible’s Main Character.”

According to the communique, sound doctrine must prevail over sensationalism, and believers must be equipped to discern truth from deception. It urges preachers to resist the temptation to manipulate scripture for personal gain or applause.

The Summit further reaffirmed the biblical place of women in ministry and called for their inclusion in leadership and expository preaching training, stressing that their God-given abilities and perspectives enrich the Church’s witness and strengthen the mission of Christ in all spheres.

LEBPI admonished believers in professions, governance, media, education, and business to boldly represent Christ in the public sphere, noting that the Gospel must shape churches and society, influencing policies, culture, and values toward righteousness.

The communique further called on the Church to actively advocate for peace, justice, compassion and reconciliation, warning that they must not be silent when lives are destroyed by terrorism, corruption, and oppression in the face of rising insecurity, economic hardship, and social injustice in Nigeria and across Africa.

The summit participants further encouraged Christians to be actively and ethically involved in governance, bringing biblical values into policy-making and public service and serving with integrity.