Apostle Joshua Selman Speaks Boldly Against Marriage Pressures, Says 'Not Getting Married' Will Not Lead to Hell [VIDEO]

Renowned Nigerian preacher and founder of Eternity Network International, Apostle Joshua Selman, has stirred conversations both within and beyond religious circles following his recent remarks on marriage. Addressing a congregation during a widely viewed sermon, Selman made it clear that societal and religious expectations should not compel individuals into marriage. He emphasized that remaining single is not a spiritual failure, nor is it a guaranteed ticket to eternal damnation.

His statement came as a response to growing anxiety among many singles, especially within Christian communities, who often feel forced to marry by a certain age or to meet religious benchmarks. Selman took a firm but compassionate stand, declaring that it is better to stay single and fulfill one's divine assignment than to enter into a marriage that lacks vision, direction, or genuine conviction.

Drawing from biblical principles and practical experience, Selman deconstructed many of the cultural myths that have shaped people’s approach to marriage. He reminded his listeners that while marriage is indeed honorable and sacred, it is not a requirement for salvation. According to him, living a purposeful life in alignment with God’s will carries more eternal weight than conforming to societal timelines.

"The fear of being left out or being seen as incomplete should never be the reason anyone chooses to marry," he stated passionately. "Marriage is not a badge of righteousness. It is a covenant that requires deep understanding, readiness, and divine conviction."

Listeners in the packed auditorium responded with silent nods, thoughtful expressions, and in many cases, a visible sense of relief. It was evident that Selman’s words touched on a sensitive but necessary subject that resonates with countless people navigating the intersection between faith, culture, and personal purpose.

Cultural pressure surrounding marriage is deeply rooted in many African societies, where an unmarried adult, particularly a woman, often faces stigma and unwarranted scrutiny. Within religious spaces, these expectations can be even more intense, sometimes interpreted as divine instruction rather than cultural tradition. Many people, Selman observed, have ended up in painful or unfulfilling marriages simply because they feared judgment or rejection.

"Your journey with God is not validated by your marital status," he continued. "Jesus Christ, the Son of God, lived a sinless and impactful life, and He was never married. Paul the Apostle, who wrote more than half of the New Testament, also lived single. They both fulfilled their divine purpose. That should tell you something."

By using examples from scripture, Selman reinforced the idea that singleness is not synonymous with incompleteness. Instead, he described it as a season — or in some cases, a lifelong calling — that can be rich with meaning, growth, and impact.

He urged church leaders and congregations to adopt a more balanced and empathetic view of singleness, rather than using sermons and social interactions to pressure individuals into marriage. According to him, pushing people into matrimony based on timelines or appearances does more harm than good.

Selman warned that the fear of missing out or fear of disapproval can lead people to ignore serious red flags in relationships. Many end up enduring abusive, loveless, or spiritually dry unions just to meet expectations that were never set by God in the first place. He lamented the emotional and psychological toll this has taken on many believers who feel trapped between cultural loyalty and personal truth.

"Marriage should be by revelation, not by manipulation. Don’t let anyone corner you emotionally or spiritually into making a covenant you are not ready for," he advised. "It is better to marry late and right than to marry early and wrong."

Beyond the personal consequences, Selman also highlighted how rushed or unwise marriages can hinder destiny. A partner who does not align with one’s spiritual mission or vision can unknowingly become a distraction, or worse, an obstacle. He called on the youth especially to spend their single years discovering purpose, building character, and seeking divine direction rather than obsessing over marital status.

The preacher’s sermon quickly made rounds on social media, sparking a wave of reactions from both fans and critics. While some hailed his courage and clarity, others expressed concern that such messages could discourage marriage entirely. But Selman, known for his articulate and thoughtful teachings, had already addressed this line of reasoning within his sermon.

He clarified that he is not anti-marriage, but pro-purpose. His goal, he explained, is to shift the focus from social pressure to spiritual clarity. Marriage remains a beautiful institution designed by God, but like any divine assignment, it requires preparation, wisdom, and timing.

"Let no one make you feel less than whole because you’re not married. And if you're married, let it be because God led you, not because people pushed you," he concluded.

As the sermon wrapped up, a standing ovation erupted from the congregation. Many appeared deeply moved, not only by the truth of the message but by the compassion with which it was delivered. Selman’s words are expected to resonate for a long time, challenging churches and communities to rethink their messaging around marriage.

In a world that often equates happiness and worth with marital status, Selman’s sermon serves as a refreshing reminder that true fulfillment lies in walking faithfully with God, whether married or single. His message encourages reflection, introspection, and most importantly, freedom from fear-based decisions.

As believers continue to navigate these complex spaces, one thing remains clear: choosing purpose over pressure is a decision heaven can honor.