Founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Obiyeome, has stirred widespread reactions online after outlining strict behavioural rules for members during church services.
In a viral video making rounds on X (formerly Twitter), the clergyman firmly warned worshippers against chewing gum, drinking water, or using mobile phones while inside the church auditorium.
According to him, the church is a sacred environment that demands reverence and discipline at all times.
“Don’t chew gum when you’re in church, you’re not a goat. Don’t drink water in church. If you want to drink water, go outside. Don’t use phone at all in church. This is not a Pentecostal church, only Pentecostal churches allow water inside church,” he stated.
Pastor Obiyeome emphasized that worship centres should not be treated casually, stressing that behaviours often considered normal in public spaces can be disrespectful in a spiritual setting.
His remarks have since generated mixed reactions across social media platforms.
While some users supported his call for discipline and respect during worship, others criticized the tone of his message and described some of the restrictions as overly rigid for contemporary church practices.
One user reacted:
“He made his point, but the delivery wasn’t right.”
Another added:
“Some of these rules are too extreme for modern church settings.”
As debates continue online, the video has further fueled conversations about balancing reverence, discipline, and changing worship culture in modern-day churches.
Published by Ejoh Caleb
