Apostle Emmanuel Iren has sparked public debate after advising a Christian woman to end her relationship with a Muslim man. He cautioned that interfaith relationships can have long-term spiritual and doctrinal consequences that are not always visible during courtship.

The pastor made the remarks in response to a question posed during a church service, in which a woman sought advice on whether to marry despite religious differences and family opposition.

Iren’s response was doctrinal rather than personal, emphasizing that marriage, from a Christian standpoint, is guided by spiritual principles rather than emotions or romantic attachment.

Marriage and spiritual alignment

“Marriage is not something you redesign to suit your feelings,” Iren said. “It is like entering a house you did not build. You don’t move in and start changing the structure because you didn’t design it. God did. The Bible clearly says, ‘Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers.’ This is not about culture or intention; it is about spiritual alignment. A Muslim does not believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, and that creates a divided foundation.”

Concerns over children and faith

He also warned that many interfaith unions reveal their complexities only after marriage, especially when children and religious practice become central issues. He believes that assurances made during dating can be undermined by marital authority and religious expectations.