Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners Chapel, has sparked widespread discussion after a video emerged showing him preaching the gospel by the roadside in the Sango area of Ogun State. The religious leader, who is known for his commitment to evangelism, was seen inside his vehicle while his security operatives surrounded the car, leading to mixed reactions from Nigerians.
Background of the Video
The video, which went viral on social media, shows Bishop Oyedepo preaching to people at the Toll Gate in Sango. According to the caption accompanying the video, the bishop regularly visits public spaces to preach and pray for the people. The caption emphasized his dedication to winning souls, stating that he has been doing this for many years and continues faithfully. It also described his actions as something worth learning from.
Nigerians Express Mixed Feelings
The video has generated a variety of reactions from the public. Some users drew comparisons between Oyedepo and other public figures, while others questioned his approach to ministry. Giovanni Schube compared Oyedepo to Nigerian footballer Victor Osimhen, questioning what extra effort the bishop made beyond his usual routine. Another user, Chizzy009, criticized the bishop for not stepping down from his vehicle, pointing out that Jesus Christ and his disciples preached without bodyguards. The user questioned whether Oyedepo considers himself greater than Jesus.
Defenders and Critics Speak Out
Not all reactions were negative. Some users defended Oyedepo's method of preaching from inside his car. Abiodun argued that the mode of preaching does not matter, drawing a parallel to Jesus preaching from a canoe. He emphasized that sincerity of purpose and obedience to God's command are what truly matter. On the other hand, a user identified as MIV of Lagos insisted that the bishop should have come down from his vehicle, suggesting that the country's security situation prevents him from doing so freely. Another user, also named Abiodun, criticized the cleric's approach, comparing it to Jehovah's Witnesses' method of preaching.
Oyedepo's Previous Statements on Kidnapping
In a related development, Legit.ng earlier reported that Bishop Oyedepo shared a testimony about a kidnapped pastor who was released after giving the abductors the bishop's phone number. Oyedepo claimed that if any kidnapper failed to release their victim after contacting him, it would prove he was not sent by God. He also recounted how his daughter escaped captivity after boldly declaring her release time based on her father's authority.
The video of Bishop Oyedepo preaching by the roadside continues to spark debate among Nigerians, with opinions divided on the appropriateness of his approach to evangelism in a country facing security challenges.
