The Reckless Endorsements & Ordinations of Questionable Characters in Ministry
Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people’s sins; keep yourself pure—(1 Timothy 5:22)
Unless there was genuine repentance overnight, it is evident to many that this self-proclaimed “servant of God” is far from being a true servant of the Most High. In today’s ministry landscape—distorted by superficial validations, reputational laundering, and financial motivation—the anguished cries of a wounded younger generation have reached heaven. They are asking hard questions: Is this endorsement biblical? Is this endorsement right? Yet, answers remain elusive in a culture that increasingly prioritizes results over biblical inerrancy.
This individual is wealthy, influential, and well-connected. Yet, for reasons best known to them, some respected elders and fathers in the faith have publicly endorsed him—tragically misleading the younger generation. The Lord has issued a solemn warning: every endorser of false ministers must repent immediately. In an era where cash for ordination and status for validation have a firm grip in the rank and file of church leadership, let it be on record that both the endorsed and the endorsers stand marked for divine judgment here on earth or there in eternity unless swift repentance occurs.
The practice of laying on of hands is not a casual ritual; it is a sacred ordinance deeply rooted in Scripture. Historically, it served as a divine channel for imparting spiritual authority, grace, and blessings—always under God’s explicit instruction. From Samuel anointing Saul (1 Samuel 9:15–16) to Moses commissioning Joshua (Numbers 27:18), and Elijah anointing Elisha (1 Kings 19:16), every instance was preceded by God’s clear directive. Even patriarchs like Jacob and Isaac laid hands on their children under divine guidance (Genesis 48:14; Genesis 27:22–23). In the New Testament, the apostles laid hands on individuals only after prayerful discernment and the Spirit’s leading (Acts 13:3).
This underscores a critical truth: no leader should lay hands on anyone without God’s express approval. Most importantly, the God of the Bible–not that of Mammon—-never sanctions the endorsement of individuals lacking godliness, obedience, and integrity. Paul’s warning remains timeless: “Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people’s sins; keep yourself pure” (1 Timothy 5:22).
Unfortunately, a troubling trend has emerged in modern Pentecostal circles: respected fathers and elders are endorsing ministers whose lives are riddled with scandals, doctrinal errors, and moral compromise. Such endorsements embolden these individuals, creating a false sense of legitimacy: “If a revered father approves me, who are you to question me?” This is not about condemnation but about safeguarding the purity of the gospel and the sanctity of Christ’s body. The consequences are severe and include:
- Spiritual Contamination: Whoever you endorse will be embraced by vulnerable believers—young converts, impressionable youths, and even seasoned Christians who trust your judgment. They will unknowingly absorb the corruption and spiritual pollution emanating from these ministries.
- Transgenerational Impact: False impartations and compromised spiritual transfers can affect entire generations, perpetuating cycles of error and rebellion against God.
- Loss of Credibility: When leaders endorse questionable characters, the church’s moral authority erodes, fueling skepticism and apostasy.
- Divine Judgment: Scripture is clear—those who participate in or enable sin share in its guilt. Endorsers will give account for every soul misled through their actions.
Today’s ministries often showcase glamorous frontends—lavish auditoriums, massive crowds, and polished social media presence. But the backend, where character and integrity should be cultivated, is frequently compromised for pecuniary gains. Endorsements are increasingly driven by money, influence, and fame rather than spiritual authenticity and the express leading of the Spirit in a manner that showcases and prioritizes Christ and His values. This has created a marketplace of validation where financial transactions, submissions, and in some cases, political alliances often dictate who receives public endorsements through the laying on of hands.
This evil has reached alarming proportions. Highly revered fathers now serve as the crown jewel for false prophets, money launderers, ritualists, unrepentant adulterers, financial manipulators, and even spiritual mafias, all of whom claim to be servants of God. Like Simon the Sorcerer, many of these false ministers are buying endorsements with money—and tragically, many fathers and leaders are selling them. The rebuke of Simon by Peter in Acts 8:20—“Your money perish with you”—is no longer active and relevant in our days.
This must stop. Do not lay hands on controversial figures whose lack of integrity is evident even to a new convert. Once impartation occurs, its effects cannot be easily reversed—just as Isaac could not retract the blessing given to Jacob.
God is calling every leader, father, and influencer in the body of Christ to return to biblical standards. Do not trade the sacred act of laying on of hands for financial gain, influence, or fame. Do not confuse or corrupt the next generation. We are already struggling to keep believers on the narrow path; do not widen the gate to destruction.
You will give account to God for every soul damaged by your reckless endorsements. Preserve the integrity of the gospel. Protect the sanctity of the church. Test every spirit before laying hands. Let obedience to God—not ambition—be your guiding principle.
Shalom
Dr Ayo Akerele
