Prophet Odekunle Epaphras, Founder and General Overseer of Comfort Life Mission International, has urged critics of his ministry to refrain from judging him without understanding his background and journey in ministry. The cleric, who has recently come under criticism from some religious leaders and members of the public, said his current success is the result of years of spiritual training, perseverance, and divine guidance.
Humble Beginnings and Spiritual Training
Speaking during an interview with journalists, Odekunle recounted his humble beginnings, revealing that he surrendered his life to Christ at the age of 13 and became actively involved in church activities, including serving in prayer teams and participating in intensive fasting programmes. According to him, he spent years undergoing spiritual training and mentorship under various Christian leaders before establishing his ministry.
He said his path to prominence was marked by numerous challenges, including financial difficulties and years of waiting for what he described as God's appointed time. The cleric noted that he worked with several notable ministers and attended Bible school in his quest for spiritual growth, adding that despite witnessing the success of others around him, his own breakthrough appeared delayed.
Overcoming Frustration and Divine Encouragement
Odekunle said there were moments when he considered abandoning ministry due to frustration, but remained steadfast after what he described as divine encouragement and direction. He attributed a major turning point in his ministry to events that occurred in 2020, which he said led to the establishment and expansion of his annual '7/7' programme held every July 7.
According to him, the programme emerged following what he described as divine instructions concerning the development of a well within the church premises and the distribution of water to worshippers. The prophet said the initiative later attracted large crowds and contributed significantly to the growth of the ministry.
Defending Ministry Practices
Addressing criticisms surrounding the sale and distribution of the ministry's bottled water and other religious items, Odekunle maintained that all activities of the church were carried out based on divine instructions. He also defended the ministry's practice of distributing free anointing oil during its annual programmes, saying the initiative had continued despite concerns raised by some fellow clerics over its financial implications.
The cleric further alleged that some of his critics were motivated by envy, insisting that he had chosen not to respond to attacks against him because of his belief that God would vindicate him. Odekunle expressed appreciation to his critics, saying their opposition had strengthened his faith and deepened his commitment to prayer and Christian service.
Call for Understanding and Continued Commitment
He urged Nigerians and members of the Christian community to seek a better understanding of individuals' backgrounds before passing judgment on them, stressing that every successful ministry has a story of sacrifice, hardship, and perseverance behind it. The prophet reaffirmed his commitment to following what he described as God's instructions and vowed to continue his ministry despite criticisms and controversies.
