Founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has ignited widespread debate following a recent sermon in which he claimed that Jesus Christ disliked poverty and intentionally distanced himself from the poor during his time on earth.
Pastor Ibiyeomie Sparks Controversy with Comments on Poverty and Christianity
Addressing his congregation, Pastor Ibiyeomie asserted that Jesus’ mission extended beyond spiritual salvation to include financial prosperity for believers. He argued that poverty is fundamentally at odds with the true message of Christ.
“Jesus never visited any poor person in their home; check your Bible,” Ibiyeomie declared. “That means he hates poverty. He visited Lazarus, who wasn’t poor—they were feeding him. He visited a sinner, Zacchaeus, who was rich. Show me one poor man Jesus entered his house.”
He further claimed that remaining in poverty is contrary to Christian doctrine.
“Jesus hates people who are poor. He died so you wouldn’t be poor. It’s fine to come to Christ in poverty, but it’s wrong to stay that way,” he said.
Public Reaction
Pastor Ibiyeomie’s remarks have sparked mixed reactions online. While some supporters praise his focus on financial empowerment and self-sufficiency, others accuse him of distorting the teachings of Jesus—particularly those centered on humility, compassion, and care for the poor.
Critics argue that his message echoes the prosperity gospel, a doctrine popular in some modern evangelical circles that equates material wealth with divine favor and spiritual growth.
As public discourse continues, Pastor Ibiyeomie’s interpretation has reignited longstanding theological debates about wealth, poverty, and the role of social justice in the Christian faith.
