The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has faced significant backlash due to his prayer for Israel amid the ongoing conflict with Palestine. Israel initiated military action in the Gaza Strip following an unprecedented attack by the Palestinian group Hamas. This conflict, which began five days ago, has resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and the displacement of many individuals.
In the midst of this conflict, Pastor Adeboye took to the micro-blogging platform, X, to offer his prayers and support to the predominantly Jewish nation during these challenging times. He expressed, "It is my prayer for all our brethren in Israel that the Almighty will grant you absolute peace from now on in Jesus' name. #Israel #peace."
However, the clergyman's support for the Jews drew criticism from many Nigerians who condemned Pastor Adeboye for not showing the same level of concern during conflicts within Nigeria.
Reactions to Pastor Adeboye's Prayer for Israel Amidst the War with Palestine
laurentdarl expressed, "What about your beloved brothers in Palestine? These sentiments are the kind that less-informed Christians embrace, leading to ill-advised decisions."
Iamkingsleyf pointed out, "Sir, your brethren in Israel make up less than 5% of the population, and the country itself is predominantly of the Jewish faith. They may not necessarily share the same affinity with your religious group. When will uninformed Africans gain wisdom?"
EmperorKaas added, "Your prayers haven't seemed to work for Nigeria! Now you're directing them towards Israel. This is frustrating."
MohammedDBuhari raised concerns, stating, "I am ashamed of this man. While you pray for Israel, what about the Palestinians in Gaza? It's essential to realize that there are Christians among the Palestinians, and Palestine is not exclusively an Islamic country. As a religious leader, shouldn't you advocate for peace on both sides without bias? Women and children are suffering in both Israel and Palestine. Aren't they all human beings deserving of your prayers? I usually avoid discussing religion and religious leaders, but it's time to publicly offer advice if they lack wise counsel."
For more insight, watch the video below:
It is my prayer for all our brethren in Israel that the Almighty will grant you absolute peace from now on in Jesus' name.#Israel #peace pic.twitter.com/xpZAzdYh9Q
— Pastor Adeboye (@PastorEAAdeboye) October 11, 2023