Pastor Dolapo Lawal has explained why his ministry rarely invites guest ministers, insisting that the focus of the church should be the Word of God rather than the attraction of a large crowd or the presence of popular personalities.
Speaking about the ministry’s approach to church gatherings, Pastor Dolapo said he does not believe in inviting guests simply to draw people to a programme. According to him, anyone coming to the church should be motivated by a genuine desire to receive the Word of God.
“We don’t invite guests to this church. Do you know why? If you can’t come for the Word, stay at home,” he said.
The pastor also disclosed that the ministry had invited only three people to the church throughout its eight years of existence, describing the decision to invite Pastor Nats for a camp meeting as an unusual step.
“This is the first time Pastor Nats that we are inviting for a camp meeting. It’s because he’s a prophet. I’m not inviting him because I’m looking for a crowd,” he explained. His statement suggests that the invitation was based on what he believes Pastor Nats brings spiritually, rather than the expectation that his presence would attract a larger audience.
Pastor Dolapo also addressed the use of guest singers and popular gospel music ministers to promote church programmes. He maintained that his ministry does not depend on filling promotional flyers with the names or images of singers to attract attendance. “There is no ZOE flyer you will see where I will pack singers. Because if my face is not enough, don’t come,” he said.
The comments have drawn attention to a ministry approach that places emphasis on the message being preached rather than the popularity of the personalities featured at an event. While many Christian programmes feature guest ministers, gospel singers and well-known speakers as part of their publicity, Pastor Dolapo’s remarks highlight his stated preference for keeping the focus on the Word and the purpose of the gathering.
His position also raises a broader question about church publicity: should people attend a Christian programme because of the guest ministers and singers featured on the flyer, or should the message and spiritual purpose of the gathering be the main attraction?
What do you think about Pastor Dolapo Lawal’s position? Should churches invite popular ministers and singers to draw crowds, or should the Word of God be enough to bring people together?
