Prophet I.O. Samuel of the Shiloh Word Chapel, Abuja has addressed the current state of gospel music ministry in Nigeria, urging music ministers to remain steadfast in their faith and resist the temptation of materialism. In a message, the prophet called for a return to the core values of soul-winning and humility, warning against the dangers of financial exploitation in ministry.
Prophet Samuel emphasized that this is a defining moment for gospel ministers, urging them to “watch and pray” as they undergo spiritual trials. He warned against staining their garments or finding joy in worldly distractions. “The devil is after your souls and the crown of eternity,” he cautioned, urging ministers to focus on their relationship with God rather than engaging in debates with spiritual fathers.
“No man can win a battle with anointed fathers,” he stated, highlighting the importance of respecting spiritual hierarchy. “They have labored for your delivery in ministry; spirits recognize spiritual rankings. Be wise, be calm, be sensitive, be focused.”
Expressing concern over the growing commercialization of gospel music, Prophet Samuel traced the trend back to the influence of foreign gospel singers.
He noted that churches have paid thousands of dollars to host international gospel artists while offering minimal honorariums to local ministers. This, he argued, has led to a shift where Nigerian gospel artists now demand high performance fees, mirroring secular musicians.
“My heart bleeds for Nigerian churches now,” he lamented. “No more revivals for souls, no love among us. Kingdom debates on social media with fathers of faith have taken over.”
“No man who charges exorbitant fees for gospel music ministry will last more than ten years. God will simply remove the grace and turn down the volume.” Comparing this to Lucifer’s rebellion in heaven, he stated, “Lucifer demanded a high price and set conditions for his services. The most favored of God became rebellious, causing war in heaven—until Michael cast him down, restoring peace.”
Prophet Samuel urged both gospel ministers and church leaders to return to their first love—serving God with humility. He referenced past generations of faith fathers who raised first-class kingdom ministers and provided platforms for them without financial constraints.
“If this generation of gospel ministers refuses correction from our major fathers of faith, then it turns into a debate,” he warned.
“Once you say ‘With due respect’ and proceed to challenge fathers of faith with carnal language, we have lost our way.”
The prophet commended respected gospel figures such as Rev. Panam Percy Paul, Evangelist Tope Alabi, Pastor Nathaniel Bassey, Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, and Pastor Paul Adefarasin for their wisdom and contributions to the kingdom. He also delivered a prophetic message concerning Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, stating that “his children will learn the truth and return to him for the end-time movement and global revival for Jesus Christ.”
Prophet Samuel declared: “Jesus Christ is coming soon for a church without blemish. Glory to God!”
