Be Christlike, Not Combative: Rev. Hayab Warns Christians to Stop Fighting for God

By Emmanuel Kwada

Prominent Christian leader Rev. Joseph John Hayab has urged Christians across the country to respond to provocations and criticisms of their faith with maturity, love, and Christlike character instead of engaging in combative or abusive arguments.

Rev. Hayab, Chairman of the Northern Christian Association, issued the statement in reaction to recent trending posts on social media that have stirred anger among some Christians.

He warned believers against what the Bible describes as vain arguments, which include reckless, unprofitable, and provocative debates that generate strife, ungodliness, and ultimately harm both speakers and listeners.

The cleric emphasised that Christians are instructed to avoid such arguments because they do not foster spiritual growth or love.

He explained that an honest study of the Scriptures reveals that believers cannot “fight for God,” as the Lord Himself is capable of defending His honour.

Citing the encounter between Jesus Christ and Saul on the road to Damascus, Rev. Hayab noted that God is an omnipotent warrior whose battles are strategic and who never loses.

He therefore cautioned Christians against copying any form of religious zeal that contradicts biblical principles.

Rev. Hayab backed his position with several scriptural references. He pointed to Titus 3:9, which advises believers to avoid foolish debates, quarrels, and disputes about the law because they are unprofitable and worthless.

Similarly, 2 Timothy 2:14 charges Christians not to quarrel about words, as such arguments only ruin the hearers. In 2 Timothy 2:23, the Bible warns against foolish and stupid arguments because they produce quarrels, while 1 Timothy 6:4-5 describes how unhealthy interest in controversies leads to envy, strife, malicious talk, and evil suspicions.

He further referenced Titus 3:10, which instructs that after a first and second warning, one should avoid anyone who causes arguments.

The Christian leader advised young Christians, clergy, and all believers who feel provoked by negative posts against Christianity to demonstrate maturity and sound knowledge of the Holy Scriptures.

He urged them not to yield to calls by overzealous individuals asking Christians to join in misbehaviour in the name of religion.

Rev. Hayab stressed that using abusive or insulting words against others, even under the guise of defending the faith, does not show strength.

Instead, such actions ridicule the Christian faith, mock Christ’s spiritual authority, and dim the bright light of the Gospel in the world. He reminded believers of the words of Apostle Paul in Ephesians 4:29: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what helps build others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

He concluded by encouraging Christians to communicate only words that encourage, build up, and offer grace, rather than engaging in foul or worthless language.

Rev. Hayab prayed that the Lord would help believers to continue shining the light of the Gospel by living as Christ did.

The statement comes at a time of heightened religious debates on social media platforms in Nigeria, where provocative content targeting different faiths frequently emerges.

Rev. Hayab’s message seeks to promote restraint, peace, and Christlike conduct among believers.