You Can’t Fight For God, Northern Christians Warn Against Religious Hostility

The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has called on Nigerians to exercise restraint amid rising religious tension on social media, warning that confrontational online exchanges could threaten peaceful coexistence.

In a statement issued yesterday in Kaduna, the NCA chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, cautioned that unchecked religious provocations on digital platforms might deepen divisions across communities.

He particularly urged Christians, especially youths and clergy, to refrain from engaging in what he described as vain and unprofitable arguments, noting that such exchanges often do more harm than good.

Hayab observed that many religious debates on social media, often presented as attempts to defend the faith, have increasingly degenerated into insults and hostility, contrary to the teachings of Christianity.

Citing biblical passages including Titus 3:9, 2 Timothy 2:14, 2 Timothy 2:23 and 1 Timothy 6:4–5, he stressed that the scriptures clearly caution believers against quarrels that generate strife rather than edification.

“Believers in Christ are instructed to avoid vain arguments because they generate strife, ungodliness and ruin both the speakers and listeners”.

The cleric emphasised that Christians are not called to respond to provocation with abusive words, even when their faith is mocked or misunderstood, adding that true Christian maturity is demonstrated through restraint, wisdom and peaceful conduct.

He further warned that no believer should see hostility as a means of defending the faith, stressing that such actions only ridicule the gospel and weaken its moral authority.

“An honest study of the Bible will help you understand that, as an ardent follower of Christ, you cannot fight for God. God, being omnipotent, is capable of defending Himself”.

Hayab urged Christians to focus on promoting love, unity, and spiritual growth rather than engaging in divisive arguments that could inflame tensions.