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In recent days, headlines in the Christian world have been swirling with controversy surrounding prominent Black Evangelical theologian and pastor, Vince Bantu. Known for his scholarly work in early African Christianity and decolonizing theology, Bantu has now allegedly embraced polygamy following reports of serial infidelity. While these claims are yet to be fully verified, the situation raises serious theological and ethical concerns for believers.
Let’s be clear—when we witness public figures who claim the name of Christ openly embracing lifestyles that contradict biblical teaching, it is not judgmental to question their faith alignment. Scripture is our standard, not popularity, degrees, or cultural trends. And as Christians, we are called to test the spirits and examine the fruit (Matthew 7:16; 1 John 4:1).
What the Bible Says About Church Leadership
The Bible is not silent about what qualifies someone to be a spiritual leader—particularly a pastor or bishop (also called overseer or elder). In 1 Timothy 3:2, it says:
“A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach...” (NKJV)
The role of a pastor is not merely a job or a title—it’s a sacred office that carries a heavy responsibility. Titus 1:6-9 echoes this standard, emphasizing integrity in family life, personal discipline, and sound doctrine.
An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. - Titus 1:6-9
Embracing polygamy—especially in response to moral failure—directly contradicts these qualifications. And while we extend grace and recognize that all fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23), unrepentant sin and theological drift are not to be ignored. When someone persists in unbiblical behavior and teachings while claiming pastoral authority, it is not “Christian love” to stay silent—it’s negligence.
Why Who You Sit Under Matters
In today’s spiritual landscape, many believers jump from church to church or are drawn in by charisma and intellect rather than sound doctrine. But the Bible is clear: you should not sit under someone whose theology and lifestyle you do not align with. That’s not division—it’s discernment.
We are warned in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 that:
“For the time will come when people will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires... they will turn their ears away from the truth and be turned aside to fables.”
You wouldn’t trust a sick doctor to perform surgery on you. Why would you trust a spiritually compromised leader to guide your soul?
Choose a Church Thoughtfully
In this age of platform-driven Christianity, now more than ever, it’s important to think before joining a church. Ask yourself:
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What do they teach about Jesus, salvation, and sin?
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Does the leadership reflect the qualifications outlined in Scripture?
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Is there accountability in place for leaders and members?
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Are they living what they preach?
If the answer is no, you don’t need to stay there out of loyalty, culture, or guilt.
This moment with Vince Bantu is more than just gossip fodder—it’s a warning and a wake-up call. Theology isn’t just academic. It’s deeply personal, and it shapes how people live. If a leader’s theology permits polygamy, infidelity, or unchecked sin, they are not fit to shepherd God’s people—period.
Let this be a moment of reflection for us all. May we be slow to follow, quick to discern, and always rooted in the Word.
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care… not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” – 1 Peter 5:2-3
