Religious tension: NCA warns Christians against online abuse, says God needs no defense through insults
Northern Christian Association (NCA) has called on Christians across the country to exercise restraint amid rising religious provocations on social media, warning that engaging in heated exchanges undermines the true teachings of Christianity.
Chairman of the association, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, made the call in a statement issued on Wednesday in Kaduna, urging both clergy and youths to avoid what he described as “vain and unprofitable arguments” capable of breeding division and weakening spiritual growth.
Hayab expressed concern over the increasing trend of online religious debates, noting that such engagements have shifted from meaningful dialogue to hostile and abusive exchanges that do not reflect Christian values.
Citing biblical references including Titus 3:9 and 2 Timothy 2:23, he stressed that scripture clearly warns believers against quarrels that generate strife rather than edification, adding that Christians are not called to respond to provocation with insults or hostility.
He maintained that true Christian maturity is demonstrated through restraint, wisdom and peaceful conduct, even in the face of criticism or mockery of the faith.
“The Bible warns Christians against engaging in vain arguments. These include reckless and provocative debates that generate strife and ungodliness,” he said, adding that such actions ruin both the speaker and the listener.
The cleric further emphasised that Christians should not be misled into thinking they must defend God through verbal attacks, noting that divine authority does not require human aggression.
According to him, “no Christian should be deceived into copying anyone’s religious zeal,” stressing that responding with abusive words only diminishes the message of the gospel and misrepresents the teachings of Christ.
He urged believers to focus on promoting love, peace and understanding, rather than engaging in divisive conversations that do not foster spiritual growth.
Hayab concluded by reminding Christians that their conduct, especially in the digital space, should reflect the core values of their faith and serve as a positive example to others.