By Gama Hassan Oscas
In the realm of modern Christianity, a disconcerting trend has emerged, wherein self-proclaimed prophets and fake churches lay claim to divine authority through demonstrations of extraordinary gifts like speaking in tongues, casting out demons, healing the sick, and prophesying. However, it is crucial to understand that possessing these gifts does not automatically equate to a genuine connection with Jesus Christ. As referenced in Matthew 7:22-23, true spirituality is defined by the fruits of the spirit, not merely by showcasing supernatural abilities.
Before we delve into the importance of the fruits of the spirit, let us first address the prevailing issue of fake churches and their self-proclaimed prophets. In recent years, there has been a surge in charismatic leaders who boast about their supernatural prowess and claim to be divinely ordained messengers. These individuals often lure unsuspecting followers with promises of miracles, prophecies, and blessings. However, such grandiose displays of power are often misleading and serve as a smokescreen to hide their true intentions.
One of the most common signs of a fake church is their overemphasis on outward manifestations rather than inward transformation. They prioritize spectacle over substance, often holding extravagant healing sessions and prophecies to attract crowds and maintain their followers’ loyalty. Instead of leading people towards a deeper relationship with God, these fake churches exploit the vulnerability of their congregants for personal gain.
The allure of speaking in tongues, casting out demons, healing the sick, and prophecy can be intoxicating to both followers and leaders. However, as mentioned in Matthew 7:22-23, performing these acts alone does not guarantee a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. True spirituality is marked by a heart that is aligned with God’s will and characterized by the fruits of the spirit.
The fruits of the spirit, as elucidated in Galatians 5:22-23, are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities are the true litmus test of a person’s connection with the Holy Spirit and reflect a genuine commitment to Christ’s teachings. Unlike the showmanship of gifts, the fruits of the spirit require a consistent effort to cultivate and demonstrate in one’s daily life.
Love stands at the core of the fruits of the spirit. It goes beyond superficial affection and encompasses selflessness, compassion, and a desire to serve others. Joy and peace emanate from a heart that finds contentment and solace in God, irrespective of external circumstances. Patience, kindness, and goodness reveal a person’s character in how they treat others and navigate life’s challenges. Faithfulness demonstrates unwavering loyalty and commitment to God’s principles and promises.
Equally important are gentleness and self-control, which exhibit humility, modesty, and restraint in one’s actions and speech. Lastly, knowledge in the context of the fruits of the spirit refers to a deep understanding of God’s wisdom and principles that guides a person’s decisions and conduct.
Contrary to the ostentatious displays of gifts, cultivating the fruits of the spirit requires a profound inner transformation. It necessitates humility, discipline, and a willingness to surrender to God’s guidance. This process of personal growth and character development is far more challenging than merely faking spiritual gifts.
However, fake churches and self-proclaimed prophets often evade this rigorous path of transformation. Instead, they resort to emotional manipulation, fear tactics, and sensationalism to maintain their followers’ allegiance. Their teachings might focus on prosperity theology, promising worldly wealth and success in exchange for blind obedience and financial contributions.
In many instances, the leaders of such churches may live extravagant lifestyles, amassing great wealth at the expense of their gullible followers. This exploitation of faith undermines the very essence of Christianity, which encourages humility, compassion, and service to others.
Furthermore, the obsession with showcasing spiritual gifts as a sign of authenticity leads to a distorted perception of spirituality. Instead of encouraging individuals to seek a deep, personal relationship with God, these fake churches promote a superficial understanding of faith, centered on chasing miracles and external validations of their “spirituality.”
In contrast, true spirituality nurtures a relationship with God based on love, trust, and obedience. It involves cultivating the fruits of the spirit, which serve as a genuine reflection of one’s faith and character. When individuals focus on developing these fruits, their actions become more aligned with God’s will, fostering an environment of love, unity, and compassion within their communities.
As Christians, it is essential to be discerning and critical of the teachings we encounter. The Bible warns against false prophets and misleading teachings in several passages, urging believers to test the spirits to discern their authenticity (1 John 4:1). To do so, we must ground ourselves in the Word of God, seeking wisdom and guidance through prayer and reflection.
In conclusion, modern fake churches and self-proclaimed prophets often prioritize the exhibition of spiritual gifts over cultivating the fruits of the spirit. The allure of supernatural demonstrations can be deceiving, but they do not guarantee a genuine connection with Jesus Christ. As Matthew 7:22-23 warns, mere displays of power are not enough to secure a place in the Kingdom of Heaven.
The true essence of spirituality lies in the fruits of the spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities reflect a heart transformed by God’s love and exemplify a deep commitment to following Christ’s teachings.
As believers, let us be vigilant and discerning, seeking authentic spirituality that leads us to a closer relationship with God and a life characterized by the genuine fruits of the spirit. Only by focusing on inner transformation and living out the values of love, humility, and compassion can we truly reflect the teachings of Jesus Christ in our lives and in the world around us.
The author of this article is an advocate and can be reached on email: oscarsgama@gmail.com