Controversial pastor Abel Damina says it is wrong for Christians to believe that only those who serve God will go to heaven.

Damina, the senior pastor of Abel Damina Ministries International, made this known in a sermon on Monday, July 8.

The cleric in the sermon chided Christians who thought Christianity was the only religion that could lead one to paradise, urging them to reconsider their position. He further hinted that Jesus was not even a Christian.

According to him, biblical characters like Abraham, David, and Jesus Christ did not use the term “Christianity.” Instead, he noted that these holy figures were simply disciples or believers, not “Christians” in the traditional sense.

He said, “Many of you think God is a Christian. God is not a Christian. Many of you believe that if you are not a Christian, you won’t go to heaven, but that is a lie. People went to heaven before Christianity even started. Christianity began in Antioch in the Book of Acts. This should humble you and prompt you to adjust your theology.

“It was unbelievers who coined the term Christianity as a requirement for entry into heaven. They observed the followers of Brother Paul and saw the transformation that had taken place in them. Prior to that, they were known as believers and disciples of Paul.

“Then the people said, instead of calling them disciples, they resemble Christ, so let’s call them Christians. But before that, many people went to heaven, including the thief on the cross. So, you don’t have to be a Christian to enter heaven.”

Damina referenced biblical figures such as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Abel, Isaiah, David, and Jesus, emphasizing that they were not Christians during their lifetimes.

Damina is known for his controversial views on important issues in his sermons, which often prompt other pastors to respond.