Nigerian pastor and televangelist Chris Oyakhilome has openly criticized the position of Pope Leo XIV on the ongoing Iran war, describing the pontiff’s remarks as a misinterpretation of biblical teachings.
The controversy followed a Palm Sunday homily delivered at St. Peter’s Square, where the Pope portrayed Christ as the “King of Peace” and stated that God does not listen to the prayers of leaders who engage in warfare.
Reflecting on the message of Easter, the Pope emphasized Jesus’ humility and non-violence, noting that even in the face of hostility, He chose sacrifice over retaliation.
“As Jesus walked the Way of the Cross, we walk with Him… He remains steadfast in meekness, while others are stirring up violence,” the Pope said, adding that Christ embraced humanity even as others resorted to weapons.
However, speaking during a live Global Prayer programme at Christ Embassy, Oyakhilome rejected the interpretation, arguing that Scripture presents a more complex view of war.
According to him, the Bible contains several instances where God commanded His people to engage in battle, suggesting that warfare, in itself, is not inherently wrong but depends on divine purpose.
“Jesus is the will of the Father. If you have seen Him, you have seen the Father,” Oyakhilome said. “There are many wars God Himself told His children to start. Starting a war is not the problem; the issue is whether it aligns with God’s purpose. On this, the Pope erred.”
The pastor cited biblical accounts, including God’s instructions to the Israelites to take possession of the Promised Land, describing such conflicts as divinely sanctioned and necessary for fulfilling God’s plans.
The differing views have sparked debate among religious observers, with discussions centering on the interpretation of scripture, the morality of war, and the role of religious leaders in addressing global conflicts.
