Published on January 6th, 2025 | by Alberto Krinsky
0Pastor Chris and the True Essence of Christianity
Christianity is more than a belief system; it’s a divine life imparted to us. Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has consistently taught that Christianity is not a religion, even though it may appear so to the world.
It transcends rituals, traditions, and mere acts of worship. Pastor Chris emphasizes that every Christian must grasp the profound truth of what it means to be a Christian.
Christianity: A Life Beyond Religion
Pastor Chris explains that while Christianity has elements such as prayer, worship, and a moral code, these are not its essence. These practices exist in religions, but they don’t define Christianity. True Christianity, as Pastor Chris describes, is the embodiment of Christ’s virtues and the life of God in a believer.
When someone becomes a Christian, they don’t adopt a religion or become “religious.” Instead, they receive a new life—the very life of God. According to Pastor Chris, authentic Christianity is not about rituals but about a transformed existence. The Bible describes this as becoming a “new creature” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Pastor Chris on Living as God’s Chosen
Pastor Chris frequently references 1 Peter 2:9, which declares believers as “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, God’s own special people.” He highlights that this is not a promise of what Christians will become but a statement of who they already are in Christ.
This identity as God’s chosen people is not symbolic. He teaches that it’s a present reality for every Christian. Whether or not one feels extraordinary doesn’t change the fact that, in Christ, they are extraordinary. Christians are called to display and demonstrate the virtues and perfections of Christ in their daily lives.
Pastor Chris on Displaying Christ’s Virtues
Pastor Chris explains that true Christianity is the active demonstration of Christ’s righteousness, love, and power. It’s not about blending into the ordinary but standing out as extraordinary individuals empowered by God.
Pastor Chris often corrects the misconception that Christians are just ‘ordinary people doing extraordinary things.’ Instead, he affirms that Christians are extraordinary people doing extraordinary things through the power of God.
This could mean healing the sick, bringing hope to the hopeless, or even just living a life of love and service. This mindset shift is crucial for believers to live out their calling boldly.
Vision for the Body of Christ
Pastor Chris is passionate about equipping Christians to fully embrace their identity in Christ. His teachings aim to inspire believers to live boldly, demonstrating Christ’s virtues and excellence. He envisions a body of Christ that is united in purpose and confident in its divine nature.
This involves helping Christians understand that their lives are not subject to the limitations of the world. Pastor Chris frequently shares that the life of God in a believer makes them impervious to sickness, failure, and defeat. Instead, Christians are called to reign in life, which means exercising dominion over circumstances and living a life of victory and success.
Essential Teachings from Pastor Chris
A core message in Pastor Chris’s teachings is the distinction between religion and Christianity. While some elements of religion may exist in Christianity, such as caring for the needy (James 1:27), these are not its foundation. The true essence of Christianity lies in living out the divine nature imparted to every believer.
Another key focus of Pastor Chris’s teachings is the believer’s identity. He passionately teaches that understanding who you are in Christ changes everything. Christians are not just saved from sin; they are empowered to live a victorious and purpose-driven life, instilling a sense of confidence and reassurance in every believer.
Inspiring Lives with the Gospel
Through his teachings, Pastor Chris continues to inspire millions worldwide to embrace the fullness of their identity in Christ. His messages challenge Christians to rise above mediocrity and manifest the life of Christ in every aspect of their lives.
As Pastor Chris teaches, Christianity is not just about attending church or following rules. It’s about living a life that reflects God’s love, righteousness, and power. This is the genuine and authentic Christianity he invites every believer to experience.
By embracing these truths, Christians can fulfil their divine calling and impact the world with Christ’s virtues and perfections. Pastor Chris’s teachings remind us that being a Christian is not about religion—it’s about living out the extraordinary life God has given us.