Founder and Presiding Pastor of Salvation Ministries, David Ibiyeomie, has urged Christians to focus on the love and compassion of Jesus Christ when evangelising to Nigerians facing economic hardship, rather than relying heavily on messages about hell.
Ibiyeomie said many Nigerians were already dealing with severe economic difficulties, making fear-based messages about hell less effective in encouraging people to accept Christianity.
He made the remarks on Sunday while preaching on “The Power of Compassion,” where he encouraged Christians to show people experiencing hardship that God loves them and can change their circumstances.
“You can imagine preaching hell to Nigerians; they are already in hell.”
The pastor argued that telling Nigerians who are struggling with basic needs that they would go to hell may not effectively reach them, urging Christians instead to present the message of God’s love and mercy.
“Just tell them God loves you; He can change your story. Come to Jesus.”
According to Ibiyeomie, compassion should drive Christians to reassure people that Jesus loves them regardless of their circumstances and that God can show them mercy.
“Compassion is the greatest tool that brings people to Christ.”
He said God himself is compassionate and encouraged Christians to demonstrate the same quality towards others.
Citing Psalm 103:8, he described God as compassionate, gracious and slow to anger, adding that Christians who have experienced God’s compassion should extend it to others.
Ibiyeomie also referenced Ephesians 4:32, urging believers to be kind and compassionate and to forgive others as Christ forgave them.
The pastor explained that compassion goes beyond simply feeling sorry for someone, saying it involves seeing a person’s situation, caring about it and taking action.
He further stressed that helping people should not be limited to financial assistance, noting that Christians could also use their faith and other means to support people in need.
Citing Acts 3:6, Ibiyeomie said compassion could involve exercising faith on behalf of others, while acknowledging that financial assistance may sometimes be necessary.
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