Discover how faith became a marketplace commodity, why blind obedience harms churches, and how to reclaim authentic, Christ-centered faith.
Have you ever felt pressured in church to give or obey without question? Do you wonder why some pastors demand blind obedience, discouraging any questions or suggestions?
Even Jesus was questioned. When He told Thomas, “Where I go, you know the way,” Thomas replied, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going.” Jesus didn’t rebuke him. Instead, He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” If Jesus and Paul welcomed questions, why are many modern churches afraid of being questioned?
In my ministry experience as a junior pastor, I once disagreed with my senior pastor when he commanded the entire church to pray publicly for a brother who had brought food to his home. While this may seem innocent, commanding the congregation to pray publicly to inspire continued giving is a subtle form of manipulation. It turns genuine generosity into pressure and worship into obligation.
The Danger of Blind Obedience in the Church
Blind obedience is not only risky but can lead to tragedy. Consider the story of Uzzah (2 Samuel 6). King David ordered the Ark of the Covenant moved, but he failed to follow God’s specific instructions. Uzzah and his brother obeyed the king without understanding God’s law, and when Uzzah touched the Ark to steady it, God struck him dead. This shows how blindly following human commands, especially when misguided, can have dire consequences.
How Fear and Blind Obedience Manipulate Congregations Today
Many churches today use fear to control their members:
- Members who ask questions or offer suggestions are threatened, shunned, or even cursed.
- Leaders act as though their opinions are infallible, discouraging critical thinking.
- Some pastors claim exclusive divine insight, demanding unquestioning loyalty.
- Congregants are led to believe they belong to the church or pastor, not to Christ.
For instance, I have seen pastors tell members, “If you don’t agree, start your own church.” This turns the church into a kingdom of control rather than a community of faith.
Why do these practices persist? Often, it’s about maintaining power and financial gain. Leaders tell stories of signs and wonders to glorify themselves and convince members to give generously—even from poverty. This is exploitation, not true faith.
Why Do Pastors Inflict Fear?
- Fear keeps members obedient and less likely to challenge leadership.
- Manipulating faith into a transaction ensures steady income.
- Leaders benefit from congregants’ ignorance and desperation.
- Members fear losing blessings or favor if they don’t comply.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Faith
- Remember, questioning is biblical and strengthens faith.
- Speak out respectfully against manipulation and abuse.
- Support churches that encourage growth, freedom, and transparency.
- Recognize fear-based tactics and refuse to be controlled by them.
Personal Ministry Experience with Manipulation
I have personally encountered ministers who threaten members for asking questions or offering alternative views. They treat any challenge as a personal attack, as if only they hear from God. Some even lay curses on dissenters.
I recall one pastor telling a member, “Use the door and open your own church. This one belongs to me.” This is control, not godly leadership.
True Giving Comes from Love and Faith, Not Manipulation
It is vital to understand that any gift or offering given as a transaction for blessings cannot be accepted by God. He accepts only what is given out of genuine love and faith. Anything given through manipulation or fear is demonic.
God knows how to build His church and provide for His servants.
For example, a wealthy lady once wanted to gift a car to Pastor Gbile Akani. Though generous, God instructed him not to accept it.
Why? Because the gift came with the mindset: “I just want to help this man of God so he doesn’t die serving God.” This implies God cannot provide for His servants, which is false and can lead to manipulative giving.
Instead, we should give joyfully, partnering with God’s work rather than trying to do what only He can do.
Way Forward: Reclaiming Authentic, Christ-Centered Faith
- Encourage Healthy Questioning — Questions strengthen faith and are biblical.
- Discern Leadership — Support leaders who promote transparency and accountability.
- Guard Your Giving — Give cheerfully, not under pressure or fear.
- Build Freedom, Not Control — Foster churches that prioritize love and truth over manipulation.
- Educate Yourself — Know God’s Word to resist manipulation and grow your faith.
Questions Fod Reflection
- Have you experienced pressure to obey without question in your church?
- Do you know how to spot manipulation disguised as faith?
- How can you help create a church culture of freedom, transparency, and Christ-centered love?
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