Pastor Chris on Marriage: “Marital Problems Can occur to All Couples”
By Space Coast Daily // February 8, 2024
On the topic of spiritual guidance and marital advice, few figures resonate as profoundly as Pastor Chris Oyakhilome. In this article, Pastor Chris talks about marriage in depth, as he has endured a very public marriage and divorce.
With a global following and a reputation for insightful teachings, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has become a beacon of wisdom for couples seeking guidance on the journey of marriage. Through his sermons, books, and counseling sessions, Pastor Chris offers invaluable insights into the dynamics of marriage, emphasizing spiritual principles and practical wisdom for building enduring unions.
In the face of a very public marriage and subsequent separation leading to divorce, Pastor Chris acknowledged the challenges, saying:
“Marital problems can occur to all couples – even those close to God.”
Pastor Chris on marriage, relationships, and challenges
Pastor Chris approaches the topic of marriage with a deep understanding of its sacred significance and the challenges that couples may encounter along the way.
Central to his teachings is the belief that marriage is a divine institution ordained by God, designed to foster love, companionship, and mutual support between partners. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating a strong spiritual foundation in marriage, viewing it as essential for weathering the storms of life and sustaining a deep, meaningful connection.
Pastor Chris’ marriage: The early years
Pastor Chris’ marriage to Anita Ebhodaghe began in Lagos, Nigeria in 1991, and together, they served in the ministry of Christ Embassy.
This was a very happy and busy time, and soon, the Oyakhilome family expanded with the birth of their first child, daughter Carissa Sharon in 1993. Two years later, there was an addition to the family, another daughter, Charlene, born in 1995.
Unfortunately, after 23 years of marriage, Pastor Chris and his wife Anita separated in 2014, stating irreconcilable differences.
This was a huge shock to the Christ Embassy community, and the separation was surrounded by rumors and speculation.
This was a very difficult and challenging time for the family, and eventually, they divorced in 2016.
All of a sudden, the perfect ‘role models’ were no longer together, and this had a profound effect on the community.
Pastor Chris’ key principles in relationships
One of the key principles espoused by Pastor Chris on marriage is the concept of love as a choice rather than merely a feeling. He teaches that true love is characterized by selflessness, commitment, and a willingness to prioritize the well-being of one’s spouse above one’s own desires.
According to Pastor Chris, cultivating a love that is rooted in God’s unconditional love enables couples to navigate challenges with grace and resilience, fostering harmony and unity in their relationship.
Communication is another cornerstone of Pastor Chris’ teachings on marriage. He emphasizes the importance of open, honest communication between spouses, urging couples to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns with transparency and empathy. By fostering a culture of communication and understanding, couples can build trust, resolve conflicts, and deepen their emotional connection.
Furthermore, Pastor Chris underscores the significance of mutual respect and submission in marriage. Contrary to notions of dominance or control, Pastor Chris teaches that true leadership in marriage is exemplified through sacrificial love and servant-heartedness.
He encourages husbands to cherish and honor their wives, recognizing their unique strengths and contributions, while wives are encouraged to support and respect their husbands as leaders in the household.
Pastor, leader, author, mentor, and life coach
In addition to spiritual principles, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome also offers practical guidance for nurturing marital intimacy and passion. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing quality time together, cultivating shared interests, and continuously investing in the emotional and physical connection between partners. By fostering an atmosphere of love, affection, and romance, couples can reignite the spark in their relationship and deepen their bond over time.
Moreover, Pastor Chris is a staunch advocate for the sanctity of marriage and the importance of upholding biblical values in the face of cultural pressures and societal norms. He encourages couples to remain steadfast in their commitment to each other, prioritizing fidelity, trust, and mutual respect in their marital union.
Since the divorce, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has continued with his passion to take the Word of God to everyone in the world. He has used technology to ensure that nobody will be left out of his soul-winning endeavors.
He wrote the most widely spread daily devotional, “Rhapsody of Realities,” used as a powerful evangelical tool and translated into 8123 living languages.
Through his emphasis on love, communication, and mutual respect, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome provides a roadmap for cultivating thriving, God-honoring marriages that respect the sanctity of God and Christian values.
