Renowned preacher Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has sparked fresh debate with his bold claims that the music industry has been exploiting the church for decades.
In a viral sermon clip, Pastor Chris argued that churches nurture talented singers who use the platform to develop their skills and gain exposure before abandoning it in pursuit of success in secular music.
“In probably the last 50 years, no one has cheated the church like the music industry. What most of them have ever done is to use the church,” he stated.
He went on to say that many mainstream artists started out singing in church choirs but later embraced what he described as “satanic ideas” in the secular music scene.
“They are always looking for how to use the church to make money, leveraging the opportunities for financial reasons. Once they go out, they collect the same (evil) spirit and return to lure others.”
The Christ Embassy founder advised churches to be cautious, urging them to ensure that musicians contribute to other aspects of ministry before being given a platform.
“Pastors, don’t give this important aspect of ministry to those whose only desire is to take advantage of the church. Let them serve in other areas like the cell ministry.”
Notably, Christ Embassy has played a crucial role in grooming several gospel artists, including Sinach, one of Africa’s most respected gospel musicians.
Pastor Chris’ remarks come amid growing conversations about gospel artists’ relationship with the church, especially after Pastor Femi Lazarus recently criticized gospel musicians who demand fees to perform in churches.
The music industry has cheated the church in last 40 or 50 years – Pastor Chris Oyakilome pic.twitter.com/NBNhLHosdt
— Naija (@Naija_PR) March 21, 2025
