In a recent post on Facebook, Nigerian gospel drama veteran, Evangelist Mike Bamiloye, has joined the growing conversation around Never Going Back, a gospel track by Gaise Baba and Lawrence Oyor that has captured the hearts of Nigerian youth while sparking mixed reactions among Christians.
The viral song, which fuses Yoruba rhythm with deep spiritual lyrics, has garnered millions of streams since its release. Despite its popularity, several conservative Christian figures have criticized it, focusing on the artists’ appearance, performance style, and non-traditional delivery.
Reacting to the backlash, Bamiloye emphasized the need to discern the heart of the message rather than judge by outward appearances. “We can’t keep condemning the tools God is using to reach this generation,” he said. “The song is declaring the gospel in a language they understand. If Jesus were walking the streets of Lagos today, he wouldn’t ignore a song that says, ‘Ife Jesu lo wa mi ri.’ That’s pure gospel.”
The lyrics of the song, translated as “The love of Jesus sought me, found me, and died for me,” have been lauded by many as a refreshing anthem of spiritual transformation. However, critics have pointed to Gaise Baba’s dyed hair, flashy outfits, and Lawrence Oyor’s dance movements as reasons to question the song’s reverence.
Bamiloye, founder of Mount Zion Faith Ministries, urged believers to focus on the song’s spiritual impact. “The devil isn’t resting, and we’re attacking the few expressions that are pulling our young people back from the edge? Let’s be wise.”
In response to critics citing the artists’ style as irreverent, some Christian creatives have echoed Bamiloye’s sentiment, pointing out that Jesus’ ministry defied societal norms and reached people where they were.
As debates continue, youth pastors and Christian influencers have launched the hashtag #PrayNotCriticize, encouraging the church to support gospel content that connects authentically with Gen Z and Millennials.
Bamiloye concluded, “The ark has moved. Some people are still trying to ‘save’ what God is no longer using. Let the gospel sound—on every beat, in every tongue, with every tool.”
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