Abuja, Nigeria — Prophet I.O. Samuel has issued a solemn warning to Christian leaders worldwide, cautioning that what he described as divine judgment would begin in the church from 2026.

In a strongly worded message that has sparked widespread reactions within the Christian community, the cleric urged ministers and pastors to engage in deep self-examination, warning against moral decay and spiritual complacency within the church.

“Judgment shall start in the church from 2026 upwards,” Prophet Samuel declared, calling on gospel ministers to “pause and examine ourselves together.”

He lamented what he described as the infiltration of a “mixed multitude with rotten character” into the church, arguing that genuine brokenness and repentance have been replaced by a focus on appearance, influence, and public image.

“Must we cover iniquities until God uses unbelievers to expose so-called Christians?” he asked, adding that “the spirit of Gehazi and Judas has already taken over our pulpits.”

The prophet expressed concern over what he termed an unhealthy obsession with outward success in ministry, where church growth is allegedly measured by staged miracles, orchestrated deliverances, and manufactured prophecies rather than the authentic work of the Holy Spirit.

“Must a minister validate church growth with staged miracles? Where is the help of the Holy Spirit?” he asked, warning that “confession without true repentance is like a generational cancer.”

While acknowledging human imperfection, Prophet Samuel stressed that spiritual leaders must remain accountable and should not hide behind titles, charisma, or popularity to excuse moral failure.

“I challenge all ministers of our time to worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness. Be humble. Confess sins to one another before it is too late. God’s judgment can be expensive,” he warned.

He further described pride as “a coat of many colours” worn by some ministers, cautioning that “God resists the proud.” According to him, operating a ministry without credible and humble mentorship is dangerous, as spiritual authority without accountability can lead to destruction.

Prophet Samuel also warned of what he called a “Babylonian spirit” gradually infiltrating the church, corrupting sacred altars and turning places of worship into centres of magic, entertainment, and comedy rather than reverence.

“Where is the end-time fire of revival?” he asked. “‘Get thee behind me, Satan’ should be a daily prayer. ‘Purify and use me for Your glory.’ No man can hide evil for too long. God shall purify His church.”

He concluded by urging ministers to repent and prepare the church for the return of Jesus Christ, warning that social media battles cannot replace divine judgment.

“In 2026, you will be neither cold nor hot,” he cautioned, referencing scripture. “If not, God will spit you out of His mouth.”