Veteran Nigerian broadcaster, Patrick Doyle, has publicly condemned the popular phrase “I am a chosen,” which is frequently used by members of the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Movement. His critique highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the phrase, particularly as it has been adopted and mocked by various online content creators and bloggers.
Doyle's comments come in the wake of a trend where the phrase “I am a chosen” is employed in a mocking manner across social media platforms. This has prompted discussions about the implications of such language within the Christian community and its alignment with true Christian values.
In a detailed Facebook post, Doyle questioned the appropriateness of associating the phrase with Christianity. He argued that its usage elevates the church’s General Overseer (GO), Pastor Lazarus Muoka, above Jesus Christ, which he finds troubling. His strongly worded statement reflects a deep concern about how the phrase is interpreted and the implications it has for the faith.
Doyle elaborated on his position, stating, “The phrase ‘I am a chosen’ as espoused by members of the religious sect that goes by that nomenclature ‘Chosen’ should never be associated with the Body of Christ. The members of this sect do not have Jesus in mind when they chant the phrase.” He emphasized that the adoration expressed by members is directed at their GO and the sect he founded, rather than at Jesus, which he argues is a significant departure from Christian principles.
He continued, “To infer that the nonsensical phrase is remotely connected to giving glory to the name or person of our Saviour Jesus Christ is to make a mockery of our faith.” This point underscores his belief that the phrase, rather than fostering a sense of community within the church, detracts from the central tenets of Christianity.
Doyle also addressed the role of bloggers and content creators in this discourse, stating, “Bloggers and content makers having a field day with the phrase are in no way mocking the Church of God but the sect in question and its founder.” He argued that those in the clergy who interpret this mockery as an affront to Christianity are mistaken, and that such admonitions only serve to validate the cult-like nature of the sect, which he claims has overshadowed Jesus with its GO.
He concluded his remarks by clarifying his stance, saying, “This is not to encourage bloggers to mock the church, but this particular episode doesn’t amount to mocking Christianity.” Doyle’s comments have sparked a broader conversation about the intersection of faith, language, and the authority of religious leaders within the Nigerian context.
