By Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The Senior Pastor of House of Purpose Ministry, U/Sunday, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Apostle Yusuf Yakubu, has cautioned Christians against pursuing prophecies, miracles and religious personalities at the expense of studying and obeying the Word of God.
Yakubu gave the warning during his Sunday sermon titled “Understanding Your God-Ordained Pastor or Prophet,” where he urged believers to seek spiritual guidance from leaders who demonstrate a clear commitment to Scripture, godly character and genuine service.
Basing his message on passages including Jeremiah 3:15, 2 Chronicles 20:20, Hosea 12:13, 1 Corinthians 4:15, Ephesians 4:11-12 and Amos 3:7, the cleric said Christians must exercise discernment when choosing whom to follow spiritually.
He identified three major areas believers should consider: how to identify a God-ordained pastor or prophet, the qualities of such a leader, and how to recognise genuine spiritual leadership.
“Not every voice behind a pulpit is God-sent,” Yakubu said, stressing that true spiritual leaders should direct believers to Christ rather than build personal followership around themselves.
According to him, character, a clear sense of calling and commitment to the Word of God are among the qualities that distinguish genuine spiritual leadership.
“He does not draw you to himself. He points you to Christ. He feeds you, corrects you and equips you for ministry,” he said.
The pastor also warned against measuring spiritual leadership solely by miracles or prophetic declarations, saying the fruit of discipleship should be a major consideration.
“You will recognise your pastor by the fruit of discipleship, not just by miracles,” he said.
Yakubu expressed concern over what he described as a growing practice among some Christians of moving from one church to another in search of prophecies, miracles and quick solutions to personal challenges.
He said such desperation could expose believers to manipulation and exploitation, particularly where individuals are charged large sums of money for prayers, deliverance or prophetic directions without sound biblical foundation.
“Many chase after pastors and prophecies for quick answers. But if you don’t know the Word, any voice can deceive you,” he warned.
The cleric emphasised that prophetic messages should not replace Scripture, but should be examined in the light of biblical teachings.
He further said genuine spiritual leadership should provide believers with stability, spiritual growth and guidance, rather than fear or manipulation.
“A true shepherd will not flee when the wolf comes. He will feed you, guard you and prepare you for destiny,” Yakubu said.
He also urged Christians to pray for Nigeria’s leaders and contribute positively to society by promoting truth, integrity and godly values.
Yakubu said the Church should not focus solely on political prophecies but should also help raise responsible citizens capable of influencing society positively.
He cautioned that Christians who pursue prophecies without a strong foundation in Scripture could become vulnerable to deception and easily influenced by political and economic developments.
“The Word of God is the anchor. Prophecy is the light. Both must work together,” he said.
The pastor encouraged believers to develop a deeper understanding of the Bible and pray for discernment in identifying genuine spiritual leadership.
The service ended with prayers for Nigeria, Kaduna State and believers to remain committed to Scripture, discernment, obedience and sustained spiritual growth.
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