No Money, No Ministry? Pastor Chris Declares Poor People Can’t Do God’s Work Nigerians React

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, founder of Christ Embassy Church, has emphasized the role of financial stability in carrying out responsibilities within the Christian faith.

Speaking during a recent service, he argued that spiritual gifts and preaching alone are not sufficient if a believer remains financially disadvantaged. According to him, God does not entrust leadership of the body of Christ to those who lack resources—whether at the city, state, or global level.

Citing the scriptures, Pastor Chris explained why Jesus entrusted his mother to John instead of Peter, despite Peter’s leadership position. He noted that in Acts 3, Peter admitted to having no silver or gold, while John came from a wealthy and influential family connected to the high priest.

“No matter how gifted you are, no matter how much you preach, if you are broke, you cannot truly represent the body of Christ. God will not put you in charge of his people,” Pastor Chris said.

He further recalled how, at the cross, Jesus addressed his mother as “woman” before committing her into John’s care—signifying, according to him, the importance of vision, influence, and resources in divine assignments.