Jimmy Odukoya Responds to Critics of His Comment on Pastor Richie the Barber’s Appearance

Pastor Jimmy Odukoya’s Sermon on Physical Appearance Sparks Online Reactions

Jimmy Odukoya, the senior pastor of The Fountain of Life Church, has been trending online following his recent statement that physical appearance does not determine one’s ability to be used by God.

His remarks stirred various reactions, including criticism from Christian writer Solomon Buchi. Odukoya had urged his congregation to avoid judging people based on their outward looks, using Instagram influencer and pastor Richie the Barber as an example. He highlighted that despite Richie’s unconventional appearance—featuring multiple tattoos and a clown-inspired look—he still preaches about Jesus.

Richie the Barber’s Transformation

According to the Daily Mail, Richie The Barber initially concealed his love for clowns for years. However, as his career progressed, he chose to embrace it permanently. He got his first face tattoo at 23, which marked the beginning of his full transformation into a circus-themed character.

Odukoya Responds to Critics

In response to criticisms, Odukoya shared another clip from his sermon, referencing John the Baptist’s rugged appearance and how he became the forerunner of Jesus Christ. He emphasized that many people today might struggle to accept John the Baptist based on his described looks. Odukoya captioned the video, “Our problem is that we know too much.”

Mixed Reactions from Netizens

His statement sparked discussions, with some defending him while others expressed skepticism. Here are a few reactions:

• @myfitishforties: “Jesus Himself was accused of being possessed and working with the devil. He looked different from John the Baptist, yet they still found something to criticize.”
• @morenikeadams: “The mouthpiece of God must be spotless, must walk circumspectly, and must carry a big Bible. God, help us to see beyond the physical.”
• @mona_blcvk: “I need to watch this sermon ASAP.”
• @sweetglam155: “We think we know everything but actually know nothing. We judge by appearance and are easily misled by outward ‘packaging.’”
• @solaoyegbade: “This message struck a deep chord. I’m still meditating on it. God help me.”

Odukoya on His Hairstyle

In a related discussion, Jimmy Odukoya addressed concerns about his dreadlocks. Shortly after being named senior pastor following his father’s passing, he was questioned about whether his hairstyle aligned with biblical teachings.

During an interview with the BBC, Odukoya revealed he was ordained as a minister in 2009 and became a full-time pastor in 2012. He had led the church’s youth ministry for years. Addressing the controversy, he stated that certain Bible passages support his choice of hairstyle.

Odukoya is the son of late pastors Taiwo and Bimbo Odukoya, founders of The Fountain of Life Church in Ilupeju, Lagos. His mother, a well-known relationship expert, sustained injuries in the 2005 Sosoliso plane crash and passed away the following day.