In the shifting landscape of Liberia’s ecclesiastical and civic life, the Liberia Council of Churches (LCC) finds itself under siege—not from external forces, but from within. A coordinated onslaught of propaganda, disinformation, and misleading rhetoric, often peddled by those who claim to be spiritual leaders, is eroding not only national unity but also the moral credibility of the Church itself. Chief among these divisive figures is Bishop Joseph Gadea Johnson and his circle, whose actions exemplify the corrosion of truth-based leadership in our times.
This reflection explores the grave consequences of misinformation on Liberia’s spiritual, social, and national fabric. It is a clarion call to all Liberians—from pews to public office—to reject falsehood, embrace truth, and return to the principles of peace, integrity, and godly accountability.
The Landscape of Misinformation
In today’s digital age, falsehoods travel faster than facts. Sensational social media posts, inflammatory speeches, and orchestrated community mobilizations built on half-truths now dominate public discourse. The result is a volatile atmosphere where trust is scarce, fear thrives, and discernment is compromised.
Religious and political actors—some now calling themselves “bishops”—are exploiting this environment to vilify opponents, manipulate public sentiment, and distract from their own leadership failures. These tactics mirror political propaganda more than the Gospel of peace.
Within the Church, these distortions have created confusion among believers, weakened our witness, and undermined the very fabric of unity Christ prayed for in John 17:21. Young people, in particular, are vulnerable—many being shaped not by Scripture, but by distorted online narratives designed to divide.
Political Fragmentation and Ecclesial Disunity
Liberia is witnessing a troubling trend where the pulpit has become a podium for tribal rhetoric and personal ambition. Bishops like Joseph Gadea Johnson have leveraged misinformation as a political tool—replacing Christ’s message of reconciliation with division and self-promotion.
Within the ecclesiastical sphere, this fragmentation is especially damaging. Church bodies meant to be bastions of reconciliation have become fractured along party and tribal lines. As loyalty to partisan narratives overshadows loyalty to Christ, the Church’s prophetic voice is diminished, and its moral authority compromised.
Damaging Liberia’s International Reputation
The impact of these behaviors is not confined to national borders. Liberia’s international reputation—already fragile from decades of conflict—is being further harmed when church leaders like Bishop Johnson amplify disinformation.
International partners, including donors and investors, closely watch Liberia’s spiritual and political stability. When church leaders are seen as spreading propaganda, it signals unreliability and chaos. This perception can reduce critical development aid and strain diplomatic relations—impacting healthcare, education, and infrastructure efforts tied to the Church.
The Role of the Church: A Path Forward
This is not merely a political crisis—it is a spiritual emergency. The Church must rise with clarity and courage. The Liberia Council of Churches must reclaim its prophetic voice—not to echo the world’s chaos, but to bring light, truth, and unity. Leaders must resist the temptation to chase influence through controversy. Instead, they should model humility, integrity, and truth-telling.
The pulpit must be used to heal—not harm; to uplift—not divide. Faith communities must invest in educating the youth, fostering digital literacy, spiritual maturity, and civic responsibility. Our next generation must not inherit a Church divided by ego and misinformation, but one united in love and truth.
Conclusion: A Call to Righteous Leadership
Liberia stands at a crossroads. The continued spread of divisive rhetoric by individuals like Bishop Joseph Gadea Johnson threatens to undo the hard-won progress achieved under leaders like Rev. Dr. Samuel B. Reeves. This is a moment of decision. Will we trade long-term unity for short-term political gain? Will we allow lies to corrupt our pulpits and our public discourse? Or will we rise to the occasion—choosing truth over propaganda, peace over division, and Christ over ego?
Let the Liberia Council of Churches lead this transformation—not merely through words, but by sacrificial leadership that embodies repentance, renewal, and unity. Let us build a Liberia where truth prevails, differences are respected, and the Gospel shines brighter than any personal agenda.
May we never forget the price paid for our democracy—by our people, our African neighbors, and the international community. We honor them best by building a society rooted in justice, truth, and genuine Christian love.
