The Rise of the "Prophetic Mafia": Fake Pastors and the End Time Signs

The Rise of the "Prophetic Mafia": Fake Pastors and the End Time Signs

​The headlines are currently dominated by stories of betrayal, financial exploitation, and broken promises within the church. From the ₦1 billion lawsuit involving actress Doris Ogala and Pastor Chris Okafor to the global warnings issued by respected leaders like Pastor Mensa Otabil, the African church is facing a season of intense scrutiny.

​1. The Biblical Warning: "Ferocious Wolves"

​The Bible was never silent about this. In Matthew 7:15, Jesus gave a clear warning: "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves." In the "End Times," these figures are expected to increase. Matthew 24:11 explicitly states that "many false prophets will appear and deceive many people." The recent surge in social media-driven "prophetic" ministries—where miracles are performed for views and tithes—mirrors these ancient warnings.

​2. 5 Red Flags: How to Spot a Fake Pastor in 2025

​Based on recent scandals and biblical principles, here are the top signs that a "Man of God" might be a merchant of deception:

• ​The "Me-Centered" Gospel: If the message is always about the Pastor’s greatness, the Pastor’s wealth, or the Pastor’s special "secret" access to God, be careful. A true servant points to Christ, not themselves.
• ​The Price Tag on Grace: Beware of "seed sowing" that feels like a transaction. If you are told to pay for an "oil of favor," a "special prayer," or to ward off a "curse of death" (as seen in recent Nigerian police investigations), it is a red flag.
• ​Fruitless Lifestyles: Jesus said, "By their fruit you will recognize them" (Matthew 7:16). If a leader preaches holiness but is constantly embroiled in scandals involving sexual abuse, financial theft, or broken marriages, their "fruit" is rotten.

• ​Emotional Manipulation: Fake pastors thrive on fear. They use "visions of death" or "spirit of poverty" to keep followers dependent on them for "deliverance."

• ​Twisting the Word: Many modern false teachers use "partial truths"—using a few Bible verses to justify living a life of extreme luxury while their congregation suffers in poverty.

​3. Is This the End Time?

​Theologians argue that the current chaos in the church is a "sifting" process. The Bible predicts that in the last days, people will have "itching ears" and will seek out teachers who tell them what they want to hear (2 Timothy 4:3).

​The exposure of these pastors—often by the very people they helped or hurt (like the recent Doris Ogala and Harrison Gwamnishu sagas)—is seen by many as a divine "exposure" before the end.

​Spiritual growth requires discernment. While there are many genuine men and women of God doing great work, the "End Time" is a season of high deception. Don't be a "spiritual victim." Test every spirit, check every message against the Bible, and remember that God's grace is free—it cannot be bought in a "prophetic" shop.