A fresh debate has erupted in Kenya’s religious circles after controversial televangelist James Maina Ng’ang’a and New Life Prayer Centre founder Ezekiel Odero publicly disagreed over the proper dress code for pastors while ministering.
The exchange, which has since gone viral on social media, began after Pastor Ezekiel weighed in on how men and women of God should present themselves before congregants.
According to Ezekiel, a pastor’s appearance should reflect dignity, modesty, and the sacred nature of the ministry.
Speaking during a church service, Ezekiel appeared to criticize the growing trend of some preachers dressing casually while delivering sermons.
He suggested that clergy should maintain a respectable appearance befitting their calling.
“Pastors should dress in a manner that reflects the office they hold,” Ezekiel said, emphasizing that church leaders are representatives of God’s work and should therefore uphold standards that inspire respect.
However, Pastor Ng’ang’a was quick to dismiss the sentiments, arguing that the effectiveness of a preacher should not be measured by the clothes they wear but by the message they deliver and the impact of their ministry.
In his characteristic blunt style, Ng’ang’a mocked the notion that specific attire makes one a better servant of God.
“What matters is the word of God, not the clothes. God did not call suits and ties; He called people,” Ng’ang’a remarked as he addressed his congregation.
The outspoken preacher further questioned why some church leaders focus heavily on outward appearance instead of spiritual growth and transformation among believers.
The clash has sparked widespread reactions online, with Kenyans divided on the issue.
While some agreed with Ezekiel that pastors should maintain a formal appearance to command respect, others sided with Ng’ang’a, arguing that faith should not be judged through clothing.
The debate highlights a broader conversation that has been taking place across churches worldwide.
In recent years, many modern pastors have adopted more relaxed styles of dressing, particularly among younger congregations, while traditional churches continue to insist on formal attire as a symbol of reverence and discipline.
Both Ng’ang’a and Ezekiel are no strangers to public disagreements and controversial remarks.
Over the years, the two influential preachers have occasionally found themselves on opposite sides of various issues affecting the church.
In 2024, Ng’ang’a publicly challenged Ezekiel after the latter contributed millions of shillings toward American televangelist Benny Hinn’s crusade in Kenya, with Ng’ang’a jokingly demanding that Ezekiel also send him money.
Their differing views have often fueled debate among followers and critics alike.
The latest disagreement comes at a time when scrutiny of religious leaders in Kenya remains high following recent discussions about church accountability, leadership standards, and the conduct of pastors.
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Despite the exchange of sharp words, both preachers remain among Kenya’s most influential televangelists, commanding huge followings both in churches and on digital platforms.
Their latest disagreement has once again demonstrated how discussions around faith, leadership, and religious practices continue to captivate Kenyans.
As the debate rages on, one question remains: should a pastor be judged by the clothes they wear, or solely by the message they preach?
For now, Ng’ang’a and Ezekiel appear firmly planted on opposite sides of that argument.
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