Just as was warned about in Matthew 24:24 (NKJV), the evil one is working hard “to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” Many of the deceptions come through the Scriptures being taken out of context or interpreted through the lens of traditions, where the weight of culture and traditions are heavier to the listeners than the Word of God itself. There are a number of leaders within fellowships who lead with a “strong man mentality,” making sure that the spotlight is on them and not on God, while speaking from the pulpit and twisting the Word to meet their desires. This type of leadership appeases many, as it’s the norm coming from African traditional religion and the culture as a whole. There’s a strong lack of servant leadership from the pulpits and a lack of reverence for the Word. However, there are those who are diligent to hold to the Scriptures and keep the Word and God as the focus. Pray for these diligent believers to gain respect and have a hearing with those who have strayed. Pray for leaders who are not leading well to be convicted of their sin and become the servant leaders that God desires them to be.