In a statement that has sparked wide conversation across Christian communities, Rev. Kesiena Esiri, a Nigerian clergyman and teacher of the Word, stated that Afrogospel, Christian Rap, originate from what he described as the spirit of Babylon.
Speaking during a recent sermon, Rev. Esiri expressed deep concern over what he views as the growing worldly influence within the body of Christ, particularly in music.
According to him, many modern gospel genres have strayed from their spiritual roots and are now being shaped by secular patterns rather than divine inspiration.
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“These sounds Afrogospel, Christian Rap, and Rock, are not born of the Spirit; they are borrowed from Babylon,” Esiri asserted.
“The Church should not copy the world to reach the world. When we do, we lose the purity and power of true worship.”
The comments have since generated mixed reactions online. While some Christians applaud Rev. Esiri for standing for holiness and traditional worship, others argue that music styles are merely cultural expressions and that God can use any sound, including rap, rock, or Afro rhythms, to reach different generations.
Despite the debate, Rev. Esiri’s statement has reignited conversations about the role of creativity, culture, and sanctification in modern gospel music.
