Every Sunday, millions of Nigerians fill churches with songs, prayers, and offerings. Our country is home to some of the largest congregations in the world.
Yet, from Monday to Saturday, our society continues to struggle with corruption, injustice, poverty, and insecurity. This raises a sobering question: What difference is all our worship making for the nation we live in?
True Christianity goes beyond the walls of the church. It is not measured only by how passionately we sing or how generously we give in offerings. Christianity becomes powerful when it shapes how we live, work, and serve in society.
Nation-building is the collective responsibility of all citizens, and Christians cannot stand aside. Our faith calls us to be agents of righteousness, justice, and peace in the marketplace, the classroom, the farm, the office, and the corridors of power.
If we worship God on Sunday but oppress workers on Monday, cheat in business on Tuesday, lie in court on Wednesday, and give or take bribes on Thursday, then our Christianity is shallow.
The early Christians changed the Roman Empire not by numbers alone, but by living differently—showing integrity, compassion, and courage. Nigeria too can be transformed when Christians live out their faith daily, not just weekly.
To contribute to nation-building as Christians, we must:
- Live our faith in public – Let Christian values shape our work, politics, and relationships.
- Promote justice and fairness – Refuse discrimination, exploitation, and corruption.
- Contribute to the common good – Support education, healthcare, and social development.
- Pray and act for Nigeria – Combine intercession with practical initiatives that bring change.
- Raise godly leaders – Encourage and mentor Christians to take responsibility in governance and society.
Christianity that ends on Sunday is not true Christianity. God calls us to be nation-builders, shining His light beyond the pulpit and pews. Our worship must overflow into integrity, service, and justice for the good of Nigeria.
Let us rise beyond Sunday worship to live as Christ’s disciples every day—for in building our nation, we glorify our God.
Join us next Sunday for another reflection on the topic: The Prosperity Gospel vs. the Gospel of the Cross
PRINCEWILL IREOBA
CANON THEOLOGIAN, CATHEDRAL OF ADVENT, ABUJA & DIRECTOR OF THEOLOGICAL MATTERS, CHURCH OF NIGERIA
