The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly criticised Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin, General Overseer of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry, over his recent claim that offering a “first fruit” can wipe away sins, including fraudsters.
Fufeyin had made the assertion during a sermon at his church, saying the first fruit offering brings miraculous blessings and divine forgiveness. The message has since sparked backlash from Christian leaders and theologians.
Reacting to the sermon, the National Director of National Issues and Social Welfare of CAN, Abimbola Ayuba, dismissed the claim as heretical, describing it as the product of “dubious theological background.” He stressed that God does not condone sin or associate with fraudulent behavior under the guise of offerings.
“Heresy and false teaching,” Ayuba said. “CAN does not join issues with people of doubtful theological background. We recognize only approved speakers and men of God within the five blocs that make up CAN.”
He added, “God is not fraudulent. He does not share booty with crooks. He owns all things and does not need offerings to overlook sin.”
Also commenting, the Lagos State Chairman of CAN, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, dismissed Fufeyin’s teaching as unbiblical and misleading. He challenged the preacher to cite scriptural evidence for his claim and warned that such messages could embolden immoral behavior.
“He is preaching out of context and does not understand what he’s saying,” Adegbite said. “The Bible warns that in the end-times, there will be false teachers claiming to be sent by God. Nigerians must be discerning.”
CAN urged Christians to seek sound biblical teachings and be wary of being misled by sensational sermons that contradict Christian doctrine.
