Salvation Ministries’ founder and current pastor, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has sparked controversy after voicing concerns about compensating church musicians for their efforts.

During a recent lecture, the clergyman questioned the practice of paying musicians—especially drummers—for their services during church events.

He argued that commitment and a desire to serve God should be the driving forces behind service in God’s home rather than monetary gain.

Citing Exodus 23:25, which states, “You shall serve the Lord your God, and He will bless your bread and your water,” Ibiyeomie said divine blessings are attached to selfless service and dedication to God.

The pastor claims that people who prioritise financial gain over enjoying what he called God’s bigger benefits may confine themselves to the salary they receive for church duties.

“The moment they pay you, the blessing stops,” he said, adding that the blessing of the Lord is what brings lasting prosperity and increase.

“‘And the blessing of the Lord maketh rich,’ so you just remain at the level they are paying you. You will never rise. As you see, drummers who receive money never get rich”

Many Christians and church officials have expressed varied views on whether church musicians and other employees should get financial compensation for their contributions as a result of the remarks.

While some Christians concur that serving God and making sacrifices should be the foundation of ministry, others contend that church employees and instrumentalists should be compensated for their labour because they devote a substantial amount of time, expertise, and resources to their work.