CAN Slams Prophet Fufeyin for Claiming First Fruit Offering Can Wipe Away Sins, Including Fraud

 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a sharp rebuke against Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin, the founder and General Overseer of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry, over his controversial sermon suggesting that the "first fruit" offering has the divine power to cancel sins, even those of individuals involved in fraudulent activities.

Fufeyin, popularly referred to as “Papa J” by his followers, made the statement in a sermon that originally took place in January 2022 but has recently gone viral after resurfacing on social media. In the widely circulated video, the Warri-based preacher claimed that when believers offer their first income of the year to God, they receive not only blessings but also forgiveness, regardless of the nature of their sins.

"Your first income, please let it pain you, try God with it," he told his congregation. "Not that there are no blessings in the year, but the first fruit that you carry once you give it unto the Lord, it breaks protocols, even your sins, it cancels them." He went further to assert that God could overlook a person’s criminal or fraudulent history if such a person gave a sincere first fruit offering.

Fufeyin’s remarks quickly drew the ire of Christian leaders and theologians who questioned both the scriptural validity and spiritual implications of his claims. CAN described the teaching as a "heresy" and strongly advised Nigerian Christians to be cautious of doctrines coming from sources that lack theological integrity.

Abimbola Ayuba, National Director of National Issues and Social Welfare at CAN, did not mince words in his response. He stated that God's holiness is not subject to material offerings and that He does not compromise His righteousness for financial contributions, regardless of their size or source.

"Heresy and false teaching. CAN does not join issues with people of doubtful theological background," Ayuba stated. "God is not fraudulent. He has more treasures than any one man. He has everything under His control. He is not a thief that shares booty with crooks."

Critics have long voiced concerns about Fufeyin’s ministry, particularly on social media where his teachings, miracle products, and public displays often attract heated debate. Among the items promoted by the cleric are spiritual soaps, oils, and perfumes which he claims have the power to address personal and health issues. Such promotions have led to accusations of exploiting vulnerable individuals and commercializing spiritual faith.

In 2024, Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) launched an investigation into some of his miracle products following bold claims that they could cure infertility and other medical conditions. While the agency has not concluded its probe, many have continued to view his ministry with skepticism.

Responding to the controversy, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Chairman of CAN in Lagos State, dismissed the sermon as dangerously misleading and unbiblical. He criticized the message for potentially encouraging sinful behavior under the mistaken belief that financial offerings could serve as a divine escape route.

“He is preaching out of context and he does not know what he is talking about," Adegbite said. "Such teaching can embolden people to continue in sin with the hope that their yearly offering would absolve them. Let him show us where in scripture such doctrine was taught.”

Adegbite emphasized that the Bible contains no instruction from God suggesting that forgiveness can be purchased through financial contributions. He warned that preachers spreading such ideas are indicative of the false teachers mentioned in end-time prophecies.

Efforts to reach Prophet Fufeyin for clarification proved unsuccessful. Calls and text messages to his publicly listed contact number went unanswered. When contacted through a number listed on the church’s website, a woman who answered declined to comment on the sermon.

“If what you see on social media is what you people want to believe, no problem," the unnamed woman said. "If you want to know about the scriptures or what he really said, you will come down to the church and look for the admin, then get the real copy of the message."

Despite mounting criticism, Fufeyin’s followers continue to express support, praising his teachings and affirming his spiritual authority. However, the growing scrutiny from major Christian bodies such as CAN signals a broader concern about the spread of doctrines that may distort biblical teachings for personal or financial gain.

As debate over the first fruit sermon continues to rage online and offline, the incident has reignited discussions around accountability, doctrinal soundness, and the need for stronger theological education among church leaders in Nigeria.