Pastor David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries has reinforced his teaching on Jesus and poverty, arguing that the Son of God detested poverty and did not associate with poor individuals during His earthly ministry
This statement, made during a sermon at his church the previous week, ignited heated discussions among religious groups and social media users.
In a follow-up sermon, Ibiyeomie insisted that his words were affirmed by the Holy Spirit.
“Some persons called me and said the internet was on fire. I wasn’t interested, but out of curiosity, I checked. Then I asked the Holy Spirit to tell me if I’m wrong, and I would take the blame.”
He further explained that his interpretation of the Bible revealed that believers should avoid mixing with poverty the same way they should steer clear of sin.
“He said, ‘I became sin for humanity, true?’ I said yes. He said, ‘Do you like sin?’ I said no. He said, ‘You can only lead people to Christ, but you cannot be a friend to a sinner. He said if a believer is mixing with sinners, everybody gets angry. So if a believer mixes with the poor, everybody should be angry.”
Debate Over the Message
Many critics argue that Jesus frequently helped and associated with those in need. However, Ibiyeomie maintained that poverty is a mentality, not just the lack of money.
“He said, ‘You can help the poor but don’t associate with the poor.’ You don’t have money does not mean you’re poor. Poverty is mentality.”
VIDEO: People should be angry when a believer associates with poor people – David Ibiyeomie
— The Nation Nigeria (@TheNationNews) April 23, 2025
Pastor David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries has stood by his recent controversial comments claiming that Jesus detested poverty and avoided associating with poor people.
The preacher… pic.twitter.com/53zCwiL2Qb
While some of his followers support his perspective, others believe his message misinterprets biblical teachings on compassion and charity.
Others still argue that most poverty arises from bad socioeconomic conditions perpetrated by incompetent and corrupt leaders with little compassion for others.
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