You Shall Have Whatsoever You Say
Dr. Abel Damina, the Senior Pastor of Power City International Church, is a prominent Nigerian preacher and author known for his dynamic teachings and writings on Christian faith and practice. Over the years, he has authored several books and delivered numerous sermons, some of which have sparked significant discussions within the Christian community.
Teachings on Prosperity and Subsequent Reassessment
In his earlier ministry, Dr. Damina was a proponent of the prosperity gospel, emphasizing material wealth and financial blessings as indicators of divine favor. He authored several books on this subject and preached extensively about the correlation between giving and receiving financial blessings. However, in recent years, Dr. Damina has publicly reassessed his stance on these teachings.
In August 2024, during an interactive session in his “30 Days of Glory” program, Dr. Damina advised his congregation to discard his previous books on prosperity, describing them as misleading. He acknowledged that those teachings did not accurately reflect the true message of Christ and encouraged believers to focus on his current teachings, which he believes are more aligned with the gospel.
Critique of Seed Sowing and Financial Exploitation
Dr. Damina has also been vocal in criticizing certain practices within modern Christianity, particularly the doctrine of seed sowing—the act of giving money to the church with the expectation of receiving financial blessings in return. He argues that such practices are not biblically grounded and have been exploited by some pastors to manipulate congregants for personal gain. In a December 2024 interview, he stated, “Seed sowing is not a biblical principle,” emphasizing that the gospel’s true message is about salvation, not financial exploitation.
Emphasis on Hard Work and Integrity
Beyond critiquing prosperity teachings, Dr. Damina emphasizes the importance of hard work, integrity, and personal responsibility. He teaches that financial prosperity results from diligence and seizing opportunities rather than solely relying on religious rituals or donations. He has shared personal anecdotes about his own experiences with hard work, including farming during his university years to support himself financially.
Access to Teachings and Resources
For those interested in exploring Dr. Damina’s current teachings, his official website offers a selection of his books and downloadable materials. Additionally, audio recordings of his sermons are available through his Telegram channel.
Controversies and Scrutiny
Dr. Damina’s teachings have not been without controversy. In October 2024, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA) cautioned him over alleged fallacious teachings of the Christian faith. This highlights the ongoing debates and discussions surrounding his interpretations of scripture and doctrinal positions.
Conclusion
Dr. Abel Damina’s journey from a prosperity gospel advocate to a critic of such teachings underscores a significant shift in his theological perspective. His current emphasis on salvation, hard work, and integrity reflects a move towards what he believes is a more authentic representation of the Christian faith. As with any religious teachings, individuals are encouraged to approach them with discernment and consider consulting multiple sources to gain a well-rounded understanding.
