Pastor Emmanuel Olumide has stirred widespread conversation within the Christian community after declaring that habits such as smoking and cohabiting with a partner outside marriage are clear signs that a person is not genuinely saved.
The controversial statement was made during a recent sermon where the pastor addressed the subject of salvation and Christian living, emphasizing that genuine faith must go beyond verbal confession and be evident in a believer’s daily lifestyle.
According to Pastor Olumide, salvation is not merely about claiming to be born again but about living in obedience to biblical principles.
“You cannot say you are saved and still comfortably live in habits the Bible clearly warns against,” the pastor reportedly said while addressing his congregation.
He explained that while salvation begins with faith, it must be sustained by transformation, holiness, and conscious decisions that align with God’s Word. Pastor Olumide cautioned against what he described as “cheap grace,” where people profess Christianity but resist lifestyle changes that reflect spiritual growth.
The pastor further urged believers to conduct personal self-examinations, asking Christians to assess whether their habits glorify God or merely conform to societal norms. He noted that the Christian journey requires discipline, repentance, and a willingness to let go of practices that contradict biblical teachings.
However, the sermon has generated mixed reactions online and within Christian circles. Supporters of Pastor Olumide argue that salvation should naturally manifest in visible change, citing scriptures that emphasize holiness and separation from sinful practices. They believe his message is a necessary reminder in a time when moral standards are increasingly blurred.
Despite the differing opinions, Pastor Olumide concluded his message with a call to growth rather than condemnation. He encouraged Christians to pursue holiness, deepen their relationship with God, and allow the Holy Spirit to shape their conduct over time.
