General Overseer of the Gospel Faith Mission International (GOFAMINT), Pastor (Dr.) Elijah Oludele Abina, has expressed disappointment at the changes within the Church over the years, particularly regarding the rise of prosperity teachings.
According to Pastor Abina, the focus of the Church has dramatically changed over the years. He noted that churches today, especially within the Pentecostal movement, are increasingly prioritizing prosperity teachings, where the pursuit of wealth and fame is often overemphasised.
This stands in contrast to the early days of his ministry, when, as he recalls, the focus was solely on serving the Lord without the distractions of wealth.
“When I was converted, our goal was not to pursue money. We believed that the love of money could pull us away from our calling,” he explained. However, he acknowledged that, with time, the necessity of financial resources to spread the gospel became clear. Still, Pastor Abina emphasized that the primary purpose of the Church should remain the spiritual transformation of individuals rather than the accumulation of earthly riches.
Pastor Abina explained that when he started his ministry, pastors were often viewed as poor and marginalized. “Back then, if you were not called, you would not want to associate with pastors,” he remarked, noting that the profession was not seen as prestigious by many.
He further stressed that the ministry of the gospel is far from being a “bread-and-butter” affair, and that there are inevitable struggles along the way. However, it is very important to live out the core principles of Christianity, which revolve around spiritual growth and salvation rather than earthly comforts.
Speaking on his achievements in ministry, Pastor Abina noted that he is not yet satisfied.
“I am not content with my achievements in life, especially in spreading the gospel; I want to accomplish more. I want to see more souls being saved. If everyone were a Christian, we would not need police stations or prisons, but I understand that this is not possible. I know God has significantly helped me in my ministry, and I want to see the church continue to grow and uphold its legacy.”
Pastor Abina noted that the purpose of ministry is to preach salvation and to bring people into the family of God. “We are not here for wealth; we are here for eternal life,” he said.
Pastor Abina acknowledged that while revival is taking place in some parts of the Church, there remains the need for true, internal transformation. According to him, revival should not just be an outward display of enthusiasm but should lead to deep, lasting change in people’s lives. “What happened to me was a transformation from within,” he said.
He further explained that true transformation in the Church would go beyond surface-level change and focus on the renewal of hearts and minds. “We need people who will preach and teach God’s word, not just focus on the material things,” he urged.
Pastor Abina noted that his vision for the future of the Church is centered on godliness and contentment. He stressed that believers should seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, as outlined in Matthew 6:33. “All other things will follow,” he said, emphasizing that God understands the needs of His people, including their need for shelter and sustenance. Just as parents take care of their children, so too does God take care of His own.
