“African Traditional Spiritism Has Entered Christianity Like Nobody’s Business” – Pastor Otabil Laments

Introduction

At the 2025 Doulos Conference, Pastor Mensa Otabil delivered a thought-provoking message titled “SWOT Analysis of the Charismatic Church in Africa” at ICGC Christ Temple East in Accra. 

In his analysis, he identified three major threats confronting the charismatic movement in Africa: syncretism, scepticism, and secularism. 

His insights highlight urgent issues that demand attention if the Church is to remain spiritually vibrant and doctrinally sound.

1. Syncretism – The Infiltration of Non-Christian Spiritism

The first major threat Pastor Otabil addressed is syncretism, which he describes as “the invasion of non-Christian spiritism.” He explained that the African Church’s openness to the supernatural has made it vulnerable to various spiritist and occult practices that have found their way into charismatic Christianity.

“African traditional spiritism has entered Christianity like nobody’s business,” he lamented. He pointed out that not only have traditional African religious practices blended into Christian worship, but also astrological and psychic influences such as tarot card readings, palmistry, crystal ball reading, and other mystical practices.

Pastor Otabil warned that the charismatic movement’s greatest strength—its emphasis on the supernatural—has become an entry point for false doctrines and occult influences. He cautioned, “We don’t have a door to filter what comes in and what stays out.” This lack of discernment has led to a dangerous mix of Christianity with non-biblical spiritual practices masquerading as divine revelations.

The challenge of syncretism, therefore, calls for a return to biblical purity and doctrinal soundness. The Church must remain vigilant in distinguishing the power of God from deceptive spiritual manifestations that are incompatible with Christian faith.

2. Scepticism – The Growing Doubt Among Young Christians

Another critical challenge is the rise of scepticism, particularly among young people who have been raised in charismatic churches. According to Pastor Otabil, many young believers are beginning to question the authenticity of their faith due to the excesses and manipulations they have witnessed in the charismatic movement.

“A lot of young people raised in charismatic churches have serious questions, and they are very, very sceptical,” he observed. Some remain in the Church physically, but internally, they struggle with doubt. “The pastor preaches and before they say amen, they wonder, ‘Is he conning me or what?’”

This scepticism is not merely an external attack from unbelievers but an internal crisis within the Church. Many young people, having observed questionable doctrines and exaggerated spiritual claims, are losing faith in the authenticity of charismatic Christianity. If left unaddressed, this scepticism could result in a generational faith crisis, leading to a significant decline in church attendance and commitment.

Pastor Otabil warned, “If we don’t deal with this threat, the next generation will be lost.” To counteract this, he urged the Church to prioritize spiritual integrity, sound teaching, and intellectual engagement with the youth to restore faith and confidence in Christian doctrine.

3. Secularism – The Rise of ‘Cultural Christians’

The third and final threat Pastor Otabil identified is secularism, which he described as “new ways of living the abundant life.” He explained that while charismatic churches have emphasized prosperity, favor, and increase—especially as a response to the poverty that characterized their early days—this message has sometimes been overemphasized to the detriment of deeper spiritual truths.

“We have preached prosperity and well-being as it,” he noted, warning that when people realize they can achieve success and wealth without prayer, fasting, or church involvement, they may see no need for Christianity.

This has already happened in Europe, where many people still identify as Christian but no longer practice the faith. Pastor Otabil cautioned that Africa could experience the same trend if the Church continues to prioritize material success over spiritual depth.

“If we make the good life the be-all of Christianity,” he warned, “then when people find other ways of living that life, they will abandon Christianity altogether.” Instead, he encouraged the Church to preach a holistic gospel—one that acknowledges God’s desire for His people to prosper but also emphasizes faith, obedience, holiness, and a deeper relationship with God.

A Call to Action: Strengthening the Charismatic Church

Pastor Mensa Otabil’s message at the Doulos Conference serves as a wake-up call for the charismatic movement in Africa. The threats of syncretism, scepticism, and secularism must be addressed with urgency if the Church is to remain a transformative force in society.

To combat syncretism, the Church must reinforce biblical teaching and discernment, ensuring that spiritual practices align with Scripture.

To address scepticism, leaders must be transparent, accountable, and intellectually engaging, restoring trust among the next generation.

To counter secularism, the Church must teach a balanced gospel that promotes both spiritual growth and righteous living, rather than reducing Christianity to a formula for material success.

By acknowledging and addressing these challenges, the charismatic Church in Africa can preserve its spiritual integrity and sustain its impact for future generations. As Pastor Otabil concluded, “Our message should go deeper than just helping people to live a good life.”