Pastor Abel Damina: “God is Not a Christian” and Challenges Exclusive Heaven Beliefs
Popular pastor Abel Damina has stirred controversy by asserting that God is not a Christian and urging his congregation to abandon the belief that only Christians will enter heaven. Damina, senior pastor of Abel Damina Ministries International, shared these views during a sermon on Monday.
He criticized the notion that Christianity is the sole path to paradise, pointing out that key biblical figures like Abraham, David, and Jesus did not identify as Christians. Damina highlighted that the term “Christian” originated in Antioch, as described in the Book of Acts, and was coined by unbelievers observing the followers of Apostle Paul. Prior to this, believers were simply known as disciples.
“Many of you think God is a Christian. God is not a Christian. Many of you think if you are not a Christian, you won’t go to heaven. That’s a lie. People went to heaven before Christianity started,” Damina stated. He emphasized that individuals such as the thief on the cross attained heaven without being Christians, urging believers to reevaluate their theological perspectives.
Damina’s sermons are known for their provocative nature, often prompting responses from other religious leaders. Recently, The PUNCH reported backlash against his unconventional advice for overcoming porn addiction. Damina suggested that addicts should continue watching porn while immersing themselves in the word of God, predicting that their desire for pornography would eventually diminish.
This advice drew criticism, particularly from conservative Christians on social media, who accused Damina of condoning sinful behavior. Pastor Gideon Odoma of the Fortress Ministry countered Damina’s views, labeling pornography as a perversion and urging Christians not to trivialize it.
Damina’s bold statements continue to spark debate within the Christian community, challenging traditional beliefs and encouraging deeper theological reflection.