Actress and filmmaker Mary Njoku has criticised Christians who invoke scriptures to evade accountability for their words and actions.
Njoku, in a post shared on Instagram, faulted the common use of the biblical phrase, ‘touch not my anointed,’ arguing that it should not be used to shield individuals from legitimate criticism.
She said the scripture was often cited in situations involving false accusations or deliberate attacks but should not be invoked when a person is facing backlash over their own public statements or actions.
According to her, using the Bible to suppress legitimate concerns or discourage people from speaking the truth could have negative consequences.
Njoku also stressed that religious leaders and other public figures are human and, therefore, capable of making mistakes.
She urged Christians to take responsibility for their words and actions, apologise when necessary and show grace to others.
Her comments have sparked discussions about accountability, criticism and the interpretation of biblical scriptures in dealing with public figures.
‘When someone gives an accurate account of what you said or did publicly, and it’s causing you harm. Brethren, the problem isn’t the storyteller.
‘The problem is what you said or did. Take responsibility for it. Own your words. Own your actions. Reflect on them, apologise if necessary, explain yourself if there is context, and move on.
‘Touch not my anointed applies when someone falsely accuses you, lies against you, or deliberately tries to harm you.
‘It doesn’t apply when you bring the consequences upon yourself through your own words or actions. Weaponising scripture against the truth can backfire.
‘Nobody is perfect. After all, men of God are still human. They aren’t above making mistakes or being held accountable. They deserve grace and understanding, just like everyone else.
‘So cut yourself some slack, take responsibility when necessary, and allow others the same grace you would want for yourself’, she wrote.