A recent video circulating on Facebook has stirred up a lively debate in Christian circles. In the now-viral clip, an usher is seen walking through th
A recent video circulating on Facebook has stirred up a lively debate in Christian circles. In the now-viral clip, an usher is seen walking through the pews of a church, quietly collecting smartphones from congregants found using them during service and handing each one a hardcopy Bible in return. The video, though brief, has sparked a wide range of reactions, some praising the move as a bold return to reverence, others questioning its necessity or appropriateness.
This opinion poll seeks to capture the diverse perspectives of church leaders, pastors, and everyday Christians on the matter. Is the use of phones in church a distraction or a modern tool for engagement? Is it right, or even necessary, for ushers to confiscate phones and insist on hardcopy Bibles? What does this say about discipline, technology, and worship in the 21st-century church? We gathered reactions from across the Christian community to understand where the balance might lie.
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SUCH STEPS MUST NOT BE TAKEN ARBITRARILY – Ven. Dr. Kanta Y. Ayuba, Kebbi State CAN Chairman.
The Ven. Dr. Kanta Y. Ayuba, Kebbi State CAN Chairman
Honestly, this video appears to be a bold step in an attempt to curb the menace of the misuse of cellphones during church services. It seems to convey the reality in most churches.
However, it goes beyond ceasing worshippers cellphones and replacing them with bibles. It is one thing to hold the bible and it is another thing to open, read and accept it.
Everything starts from the heart (Rom.10:9-10). Church leadership must embark on what I call “intentional discipleship teaching”(Matt.19:20) “Teaching them to observe all things…” The Holy Spirit will do the conviction and conversion.
Finally, I wish to submit that steps can be taken to address numerous issues in the church, but such steps must not be taken arbitrarily. When we ask God to guide and lead us like King Solomon who asked for God’s wisdom to lead his people, God gave him more than he asked for.
SUCH INITIATIVES SHOULD BE IMPLEMENTED WITH WISDOM, CONSENT, AND CLEAR PASTORAL COMMUNICATION
Bishop Manasseh Kamau, Nairobi, Kenya.
Rather than enforcing a blanket policy, churches can consider more thoughtful approaches, such as:
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Brief digital fasts during specific parts of the service
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Bishop Manaseh Kamau, Nairobi, Kenya.
A clear invitation at the beginning of worship for attendees to silence or set aside their phones
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Teaching series on digital discipline and focused worship
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Designated “tech-free zones” or moments during youth meetings or retreats
The intent behind a “phones-for-Bibles” exchange is commendable—it aims to restore focus on Scripture and reverence during worship. However, such initiatives should be implemented with wisdom, consent, and clear pastoral communication. Spiritual formation flourishes not through compulsion but by cultivating a heartfelt desire for God above all distractions.
As Jesus said in Matthew 6:6, “When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father…” The principle is solitude and focus. Whether through phone collection or personal conviction, the ultimate goal is to create space where God is the only notification we truly listen to.
READING THE WORD OF GOD ON A PHONE OFTEN COMES WITH DISTRACTIONS OF THE DIGITAL WORLD
– Agnes N Singine Nyendwa, Lusaka, Zambia.
First of all, I believe using a phone in church, whether for the right or wrong reasons, is not appropriate. At first, I thought it was just a trendy thing to use a phone Bible, but eventually, it became a distraction for me. Time and again, pop-up ads would interrupt my focus on the Word and the preacher.
* Agnes N Singine Nyendwa, Bespoke Publishing House, Lusaka, Zambia.
Yes, many Christians read the Bible on their phones in church, but the Word of God on a phone often comes with the distractions of the digital world. It’s not that the Word itself is corrupted, but the interruptions and additions are.
In my church—The Apostles Church International (formerly part of the Apostolic Faith Mission)—we discourage members from using their phones during service because no one can truly know what each person is doing on their phone while the preacher is ministering.
I have personally experienced both the pros and cons, and I recommend using a physical, printed Bible rather than a phone Bible during church services.
I LEAD BY EXAMPLE — I NEITHER USE NOR CARRY MY PHONE IN CHURCH –
Upendo Malaki Likondi, Conference Superintendent of the Global Methodist Church, Tanzania.
Usage of cellphones in churches has become a chronic issue. This problem affects not only the laity (church members) but also church leaders and pastors. It is common to find people talking on their phones during church services, and some even receive calls during prayer sessions. Many seem to have lost the reverence and fear of God in their lives.
Upendo Malaki Likondi, Conference Superintendent of the Global Methodist Church, Tanzania.
To combat this situation, many churches have placed signs on the walls, near the doors, and around the pulpit, requesting people to switch off their cellphones. Still, phones often remain active during services.
I appreciate the approach used by some ushers, where they replace the phone with a Bible. This is a wise and gentle method that holds individuals accountable without embarrassing them.
I have spent many sessions educating my fellow church members on the importance of switching off their phones during service. I lead by example — I neither use nor carry my phone in church. Instead, I encourage others to buy and use wristwatches for checking the time. Many have adopted this habit.
Another approach I’ve implemented is encouraging each church member to discreetly observe whether their neighbor is using a phone during the service. We also promote the habit of taking notes using notebooks to record important points from the sermons.
My advice is to continue discouraging phone use in church by involving all members, starting with the leaders themselves.
BEYOND COLLECTING PHONES, CHURCHES COULD ENCOURAGE “DIGITAL DETOX” ZONES
– Jean Kamga, Douala, Cameroon.
The viral video of ushers collecting phones in exchange for Bibles is certainly attention-grabbing, and for many, it feels like a radical measure.
Jean Kamga, Douala, Cameroon.
While the method may be drastic, it highlights an uncomfortable truth: why are so many of us glued to our phones—scrolling, texting, or otherwise distracted—when the gospel of Christ is being shared, a community is gathering, or a moment of reflection is intended?
This points to a broader struggle with digital distraction that has even infiltrated sacred spaces.
Personally, I’ve found a way to combat this. For the past two years, I’ve made a conscious decision not to bring my phone into church on Sundays.
The difference in my ability to concentrate, truly listen, and engage with the service and those around me has been profound. Perhaps beyond collecting phones, churches could more actively encourage what I’d call “digital detox” zones or moments.
Alternatively, we as individuals could re-evaluate our commitment to being fully present in spaces designed for connection, prayer, meditation, and contemplation.
IT STARTED DURING COVID. NOW, WE CAN’T CONTROL IT AGAIN
– Bishop Femi Soneye, Ajah, Lagos, Nigeria.
Bishop Femi Soneye, Ajah, Lagos, Nigeria.
Even in our church, I do catch my leaders on social media while service is going on.
I think it’s a fallout of COVID when we went online and we will tell them take out your phone and tag someone, that made them free to do social media and now, we can’t control it again.
THE CHURCH IS HIGH HANDED AND IT SHOWS MORE TERRIBLE THINGS IN THEIR ADMINISTRATION
– Dayo Emmanuel, Lagos Nigeria.
Dayo Emmanuel, Secretary, Network of African Christian Journalists.
The usher is not civil. Though the member’s action is wrong.
You can tell the person to concentrate. The person leading the service can keep announcing.
The phone user would be embarrassed and behave. The church is high handed and it shows more terrible things in their administration. You collect my phone, I won’t attend the church again.
PHONES HAVE BECOME A MENACE IN CHURCHES
– Pastor Tosin Adebayo Daniels, Lagos, Nigeria.
Pastor Tosin Daniels, God of Glory Christian Church, Ketu, Lagos, Nigeria.
I strongly support it. Phones have become a menace in the church. People no longer focus . I imagine how people will say they’re in the mood of worship and still be doing Tiktok and Instagram live video to post to follow.
Worship and live video to fans at the same time ? Either our environment accepts the truth or not, we will not stop saying the truth at every opportunity we have .
Only the truth remains true. Our individual imperfections should not become the standard for the church or the word of God, as some of us, Pastors want.
Rather the standard of the word of God should correct our imperfections as men. Use of phones should be restricted in the church.
Leave recording to the media team. You can’t be worshipping and filming at the same time. You’re not in church to show the world but to worship God. Focus is essential in aligning with the move of the holy Spirit (avoid all distractions)
PHONES HAVE BECOME SILENT INVADERS OF OUR SACRED MOMENTS WITH GOD
– Hulda Vagheni, Goma, Congo.
Hulda Vagheni, Goma, Congo.
At first, I felt a bit uncomfortable watching the usher collect phones during service. It felt almost too forceful. But as I reflected more deeply, I realized that the heart behind the action is actually quite powerful.
We’re living in a time where even in the sanctuary, our minds are often elsewhere. Phones can be helpful tools, yes. but they’ve also become silent invaders of our sacred moments with God.
So, in that sense, I truly admire the boldness of that church. It may not be the method every congregation will adopt, but the message is urgent and necessary: let’s bring back intentional focus, reverence, and awe in our worship.
In fact, it reminds me of when Moses was told to remove his sandals because the ground was holy. Today, it might not be sandals, but screens we need to lay down. We must protect the sanctity of worship from the noise of the world even if it takes uncomfortable measures.
So, is it extreme? Maybe. But is it timely? Definitely. Thanks for raising this topic. It’s refreshing to see someone speaking up for truth without fear.
EVEN IN MOSQUES, THE IMAN WOULD BE PREACHING, THE YOUNG ONES WOULD BE ON PHONE
– Oseni Abiodun, Abuja, Nigeria.
Oseni Adegbola Abiodun, Abuja, Nigeria.
Nice one, I hope it can be replicated all over and even in mosques where an Iman will be delivering sermon but all these young boys will be busy on their phones.
NO ONE DARES USE PHONES IN VISA HALL. YOU ARE NOT EVEN ALLOWED TO BRING IT IN
– Pastor Bunmi Oduwole, Ibadan, Nigeria.
Replacing the Bible with a phone in church may seem convenient, but using the phone during a sermon is a sign of deep disrespect. It dishonors the unseen God who gives life and sustains the very body we so casually engage in distraction.
Would these same people dare to scroll through their phones in the presence of a governor or the President? Absolutely not. That kind of behavior would be deemed rude and unacceptable.
Pastor Oduwole Bunmi Idowu Ibadan, Nigeria.
What about in a visa application hall? Regardless of status, no one dares to use their phone there—often, you’re not even allowed to bring one in. The environment demands order and attentiveness. If we can respect those spaces, how much more should we honor the presence of God during worship?
Therefore, anyone who uses a phone for casual purposes during service is displaying not only irresponsibility and ingratitude, but also subtle signs of pride, self-righteousness, and other deeply concerning attitudes.
If you must take a call or respond to an urgent message, please excuse yourself and step out respectfully—it could be an emergency and require your full attention. But let us treat God’s presence with the reverence it truly deserves.
THE GOOD THING ABOUT THE CLIP IS THAT THE USHER REPLACES THE CELL PHONE WITH A HARD COVER BIBLE – Apostle Derek Mutungu, Lusaka Zambia.
Apostle Derek Mutungu, Lusaka Zambia.
Like many things, having a phone in hand during worship can be a double-edged issue. I conducted a quick survey in our church recently: “How many of you have a Bible on you?” Fewer than five people out of about fifty raised their hands. “How many of you have a Bible at all?” Fewer than fifteen responded positively. Does this mean they don’t have — let alone read — their Bibles? Maybe.
In our church, it’s standard practice for the preacher to display the preaching texts on a digital screen. Rarely does any preacher read or present full paragraphs, let alone entire chapters. It’s usually just short verses. The modern church rarely encourages true, contextual Bible reading. So, the actual value of the Bible may not be perceived as high.
Of course, it’s normal to assume that anyone looking at a cell phone during service is scrolling through social media. I often carry a phone myself. For me, it’s a tool: I compare translations while the message is being preached, and sometimes I take notes directly on my phone. But it’s easy to make assumptions — and, perhaps for many, those assumptions are accurate: looking at a phone often does mean engaging with social media.
Given the current situation, people will arrive at different conclusions. One good thing about the clip is that the usher replaced the phone with a hardcover Bible. That clearly signaled what the priority should be.
CHURCHES SHOULD SENSITIZE MEMBERS BEFORE IMPLEMENTING THIS
– Archbishop Mike Akinyoade, Lagos, Nigeria.
Mike Honour Akinyoade (Archbishop) Lagos Nigeria.
This generation has truly degenerated; Christian and Kingdom values have been devalued.
However, churches that would implement actions like the one seen in the video should first dedicate time to sensitization, instruction, and clear directives, stating explicitly that reading the Bible from any technological device, not just phones, is not allowed.
This guideline should also extend to the preachers themselves: they must not prepare or deliver their messages using iPads, laptops, palmtops, or similar devices.
That said, as godly as this measure may appear, it could still amount to mere religion—completely lacking in true godliness, holiness, righteousness, and commitment.
I believe our members should be taught what true godly values are—not just religion.
MANY CHURCH MEMBERS NO LONGER PAY ATTENTION TO SERMONS
– Rev. Mrs Lois Aklaku, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana.
Hmmm. It’s wrong and quite inappropriate for people to browse social media during church services. Unless they are using a Bible app, even then, they should read along when the Scripture is being read and then look up to listen attentively to the message.
This is a timely concern. It seems that many people no longer pay attention to sermons—except perhaps our generation. Young adults, in particular, often don’t seem to care.
They say, “My phone has a Bible installed,” but that’s not an excuse for distraction. May God help us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Yes, there are Bibles on phones, and using them isn’t wrong. But without self-discipline, it’s easy to veer off into social media—and that is a real problem.
Rev Lois Aklaku,
Ho, Ghana.
WHAT CAN WE SAY WHEN SOME PROMINENT GENERAL OVERSEERS HAVE REPLACED THE BIBLE WITH A CELL PHONE TO DELIVER THEIR MESSAGES
– Rev. D. B. Kayode, USA.
Rev Dr. D. B. Kayode, New York, USA.
This kind of habit should not be acceptable in the house of God.
But what can we say when some of our prominent General Overseers have replaced the Bible with a cell phone to deliver their messages?
These days, it is rare to see a physical Bible in many of our modern-day born-again churches.
With this new trend, I truly don’t know where we are heading spiritually. I visited some mosques to see if they followed the same pattern of unholy practice.
My answer is a capital NO.
Togbe Adanu Sacrafo, X, Ho, Ghana.
THIS BEHAVIOR IS NOT ENTIRELY APPROPRIATE
– Togbe Adanu Sacrafo, X, Ho, Ghana.
Some people no longer take their Bibles to church because they have Bible apps on their phones. I believe this behavior is not entirely appropriate.
How does she truly listen to the Word of God in a way that transforms her life? Even if she is a steward assigned to move around and ensure people are not sleeping during the service, she should have paused beside individuals to see what they were actually viewing on their phones before collecting the devices.
He or she might have been reading the very Scriptures that were being referenced. How would she know otherwise?
INTERESTING AND INNOVATIVE WAY TO MANAGE DISTRACTIONS DURING CHURCH SERVICES
– Deacon Benjamin Adekunle, Ogun State, Nigeria.
Archdeacon Benjamin Adekunle, Magboro, Ogun State.
This is a big challenge in many churches and it’s very common with the Gen Z and the approach taken by the usher in the video is an interesting and innovative way to manage distractions during church services. Here are my thoughts on this approach:
a) Minimizing distractions: By collecting phones, the usher helps minimize distractions and encourages members to focus on the service.
b) Promoting engagement: Providing Bibles for use during the service can encourage members to engage more deeply with the message and participate in the service.
c) Setting boundaries: The approach sets clear boundaries and expectations for behaviour during the service, which can help maintain a respectful atmosphere
d) Respect for tradition: The use of Bibles during the service honours the traditional role of scripture in worship and study.
Though some individuals might view the collection of phones as an infringement on their personal freedom or autonomy. but if implemented thoughtfully, it could be a valuable way to promote focus and engagement during services.
DO YOU KNOW THAT MANY PEOPLE COME TO CHURCH AND LEAVE WITHOUT GAINING ANYTHING?
– Apostle Tony Nwasolu, Lagos Nigeria.
Apostle Tony Nwasolu, PFN Chairman, Ikosi Isheri LCDA, Lagos.
This is a new trend Satan has introduced to the church to distract Christians from focusing on hearing the Word of God and giving Him our undivided attention. Some General Overseers see it as the new normal, and because they don’t want to offend their members, they allow it to slide. But some of us, like myself, stand firmly against such an evil trend.
Sir, do you know that many people come to church and leave without gaining anything? If this continues unchecked, church will become uninteresting to them. We must confront this satanic practice and put a stop to it before it’s too late.
Do you also know, sir, that some of our youths and even parents can hardly go 10 minutes without going online? It’s as if they become ill when disconnected. In our church, we strongly oppose such behavior. If the ushers notice that someone is not complying, they report to me. I will seize the phone and return it only after the service—with a stern warning that if it happens again, the phone will become mine.
Yes, I’ve lost some youths because of this stand, but that has not discouraged me. Occasionally, they still attend our programs, but fear won’t let them touch their phones until after the service. Addiction to smartphones is something we must speak up against. It comes with many disadvantages, and to exhibit such habits in church is totally unacceptable.
WHY SHOULD CHRISTIANS BE READING THE BIBLE ON THEIR PHONES DURING SERVICE?
– Apostle Gabriel King James, Lagos Nigeria.
Apostle Gabriel King James, Lagos Nigeria.
This is seriously, seriously good. It’s the right step in the right direction. I’m very sure their under-shepherds must have warned them countless times.
I honestly don’t understand what the problem is with us Christians in this evil generation. We have become too familiar with sacred things and now treat them casually. There’s no fear of God anymore.
In fact, why should Christians be reading the Bible on their phones during service? Personally, I always switch off my phone completely whenever I’m going to church. I do not turn it back on until the service is completely over.
However, after I learned about the airplane mode feature, I started putting my phone on airplane mode instead of switching it off.
In our services, we don’t allow phone usage, yet there are always a few disobedient individuals who claim to have forgotten. But we don’t take it lightly. Never.
WHEN YOU GO TO SEE THE GOVERNOR, YOUR PHONES… WILL BE COLLECTED FROM YOU … HOW MUCH MORE WHEN WE COME BEFORE THE GOVERNOR-GENERAL OF THE UNIVERSE
– Bishop Theophilus Ajose, Lagos Nigeria.
Bishop Theophilus Ajose, Lagos Nigeria.
Right on time, sir!
Nowadays, I think people just attend church as another form of social gathering, not to worship the Lord. Also, like shepherd, like sheep!
Pastors are more guilty than members; church members are just taking a queue from pastors who are also busy browsing on their devices during services right on the altar even when ministration or worship is going on!
When you go to the state house to see the governor, your phone and other devices will be collected from you at the ante-room or security desk before you go in to see the governor how much more when we come before the Governor-General of the universe, the King of kings and the Lord of lords.
Any church that can enforce this ban during worship shall be doing a great service to the kingdom of God. Amen.
THIS CHURCH HERE DID THE RIGHT THING. THEY WERE EVEN LIBERAL IN GIVING THEM A COPY OF THE HOLY BIBLE TO USE DURING THE SERVICE. – Rev Dr. Davis Oriakhi, Edo State, Nigeria.
Rev Dr. Davis Oriakhi, Edo State, Nigeria.
As a LEADER in the body of Christ in Nigeria, I will say that it is quite unfortunate to see our children (members) playing with their phones while Church services are on-going. It is a disturbing trend, and also disheartening. My sincere recommendation is let Christians revert to the the old order of coming to Church with their hardcopy of the Holy Scripture. In this way, they will be forced to open their Bibles to read during Church Service.
After all, when Jesus Christ entered the Synagogue during his earthly journey, he was given the Books. He went ahead to OPEN THE SCRIPTURES TO READ FROM THE BOOK OF ISAIAH. Christians should develop the culture of going with their Bibles to Church.
This Church here did the right thing. They were even liberal in giving them a copy of the Holy Bible to use during the service. These actions by the ushers in this Church is commendable.
Shalom.
.
I BROWSE ALL THE TIME IN CHURCH WHEN OUR PASTOR’S SERMON, OR THE SERVICE IS GENERALLY BORING
– Mbi Njang, Cameroon.
Let me confess a sin before committing it doc; nonetheless, don’t proscribe me Pls.
Mbi Njang, Cameroon.
I browse all the time in church when our pastor’s sermon, or the service is generally boring. I worship in a small church called RCCG- Open Heavens Parish, MOWOH QTRES in Limbe, Cameroon, where the Pastor isn’t only untrained, but lacks the basics in the art of teaching and preaching. His messages are always clueless, disorganized and clumsy, without facts and substance, except emotion and passion.
With the background of journalist/teacher, I find most of his ministrations a complete waste of my time. So, in order not to fall asleep, I’m tempted to start browsing on my phone; otherwise, I’ll sometimes kindly go home.
A good speaker doesn’t struggle to keep the attention of his audience coz he masters his subject matter. I believe that when a church service is well structured, and lively, far less number of people will be browsing during service.
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