Apostle John Okoriko, the founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church in Akwa Ibom State, has cautioned Nigerian Christians against participating in annual religious tourism, particularly pilgrimages to Jerusalem. He described such journeys as spiritually meaningless and driven by ignorance, not by faith or divine instruction.
The cleric delivered the message during a monthly interactive service held at the church’s headquarters in Ukam, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area. The service carried the theme Heavenly Places in Christ Jesus, Part 2, and drew a large crowd of worshippers from across the state.
Apostle Okoriko told the congregation that biblical miracles in Israel during ancient times were temporary events and specific to the people of that era. He argued that these manifestations were signs of God’s heavenly presence at the time, but that this should not become a basis for modern Christians to idolize physical locations.
He emphasized that God’s presence is not restricted to any one place, explaining that the entire earth serves as a reflection of God’s power. He said Christians today can experience heavenly encounters in their everyday lives through faith, even during times of trouble, illness, or persecution.
According to the cleric, many Christians wrongly believe that Jerusalem still holds divine significance, while in reality, it has become a center of political unrest, violence, and religious conflicts. He said the idea of collecting physical items like sand, stones, or water from the city holds no spiritual value and contributes nothing to the growth of a believer’s faith.
He criticized those who assume that heaven can only be accessed after death. He stated that God reveals heavenly things to people while they are alive, especially when they are confronted with challenges or spiritual opposition. These divine encounters, he explained, are part of what he described as Heavenly Places in Christ.
He further explained that true Christianity is rooted in Christ, not in traditions or religious practices. He told worshippers that the idea of a holy land had expired, as the original purpose it served no longer applies in the New Covenant.
He warned that religious beliefs should not be built on physical locations or rituals, but on a personal understanding of God’s word and presence. He added that God interacts with individuals personally, not through a specific destination.
Apostle Okoriko summed up his warning by asking, “Why do you run to Jerusalem to pick mud sand, broken stones, water and other materials things that have nothing to do with your salvation in Christ Jesus”.
He urged Nigerians to strengthen their spiritual connection with God and stop chasing outdated religious traditions. He said a new Jerusalem would be revealed by God, replacing the current one that has been corrupted by man.
The preacher concluded his message by encouraging Christians to embrace faith over ceremony and to seek God where they are, instead of traveling far in search of what can only be found within.
