Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)

The youths are vulnerable to false teachings, especially those disguised as truth. Some of Pastor Abel Damina’s heretic and fallacious teachings have gained significant attention especially among young people. As concerned mentors at the Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical (NSCEA), it is crucial to provide guidance and counsel to the youths to protect them from spiritual deception.

It is obvious that some of Abel Damina’s teachings contradict biblical doctrine, as they emphasize hype up preaching style over spirituality and self-centeredness over humility. Such teachings lead to spiritual confusion as found in (Matthew 15:14) – doctrine distortion (2 Timothy 4:3-4) – emotional manipulation (2 Corinthians 11:3), and eternal consequences (Galatians 1:8-9).

Some warning signs of false teachings as found in the Holy Scriptures are when it:
1. Contradicts biblical doctrine (2 Timothy 4:3-4)
2. Emphasizes self over God (2 Corinthians 10:5)
3. Lacks love, compassion and respect (1 Corinthians 13:1-3)
4. Focuses on prosperity over generosity and spirituality (1 Timothy 6:10).

COUNCELS TO YOUTHS:
The youths are therefore strongly advised to safeguard against false teachings and fallacious staments. Youths must be careful with online negative catchy titles and hype up phrases being used by Abel Damina and other content creators and other heretic preachers.

Be reminded that, youths and all other Christians are encouraged to always:

*1. Study Scripture Diligently*
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15). This is to understand biblical doctrine and principles. Regularly read and meditate on Scripture to discern truth from falsehood.

*2. Evaluate Teachings Critically*
“Test all things; hold fast what is good.” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Assess teachings against biblical standards. This helps to be cautious of emotional appeals and logical fallacies.

*3. Seek Guidance from Trusted Authorities*
“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14). There is the need to consult with spiritually mature mentors, pastors, or teachers. Seek wisdom from those grounded in biblical truth.

*4. Cultivate a Personal Relationship with God*
“And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” (John 17:3). There is the need to prioritize prayer, devotion, and obedience. A strong relationship with God fosters discernment and spiritual growth.

*5. Engage in Critical Thinking*
“Test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” (1 John 4:1). It’s pertinent to question assumptions and evaluate evidence. Avoid blindly following teachings without examining their biblical validity.

*6. Surround Yourself with Like-Minded Believers*
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrew:24-25). It’s important to fellowship with those who share biblical values. Encourage and support one another in spiritual growth.

To conclude, youths must be vigilant against any form of false teachings, especially those being propagated by pastor Pastor Abel Damina. That is to say, by studying scriptures, evaluating teachings critically, seeking guidance, cultivating a personal relationship with God, engaging in critical thinking, and surrounding themselves with like-minded believers, it would safeguard your faith and spiritual well-being that the man of God may be perfected.

The scriptures says, “Put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” (Ephesians 6:13).

*Recommended Resources*
1. The Bible
2. The Audio Bible
3. Christian apologetics books (e.g., “The Reason for God”)
4. Biblical teaching podcasts (e.g., “The Bible Project” )
5. Christian counseling resources).

PRAYER
Dear Lord God, please protect us youths from false teachings and guide
Your youths into your truth. Give us discerning hearts and minds, and help us to stand firm on Your Word, without any form of confusions. Amen. (Psalm 119:130).