A United States evangelist has urged Christians not to use hypocrisy in the church as an excuse for turning away from Jesus Christ.
Dr Mark Strong, who heads Life Change Church in Portland, Oregon, said hypocrites could be found in all sections of society and were not unique to the church.
Speaking at Jomo Kenyatta Sports Ground in Kisumu on Tuesday evening, Dr Strong said hypocrisy could also be found in homes, workplaces and political offices.
He urged Christians to maintain hope and faith, citing the biblical story of a woman who had suffered from bleeding for years before being healed after touching Jesus.
Dr Strong, who has been involved in evangelism for 38 years, said strong faith could help Christians overcome challenges in their lives.
He was in Kisumu for a crusade and a pastors’ conference aimed at strengthening the church by equipping and encouraging its leaders.
He said pastors faced difficult responsibilities and needed support, practical tools and encouragement to strengthen their ministries.
“It has been an opportunity to share the good news of Jesus Christ with people who may have never heard it or may just need a little tug to draw them closer,” he said.
Dr Strong praised Kenyan hospitality, describing it as “absolutely and totally wonderful”.
He said church leaders had a responsibility to help bring about positive change in the hearts and lives of people in their congregations.
He also called for greater unity among church leaders in Kenya, saying cooperation between different denominations would strengthen their ability to serve communities.
“When folks are able to come together, cross-pollinate, it creates a web, a stronger fabric that allows the city, the pastors, the leaders to do things together in the future,” he said.
Dr Strong urged churches and denominations not to work at cross purposes, saying their common bond was Jesus Christ.
Meanwhile, Kisumu City Clergy Fellowship secretary-general Pastor Patrick Owuor warned that growing political violence in some parts of the country could escalate if not checked.
He urged politicians not to use young people as goons to perpetrate violence.
Pastor Owuor also cautioned young people against allowing themselves to be used for political expediency, saying they would ultimately bear the consequences.
He called for calm as Kenya prepares for the next general election.
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