“If You Want the Church to Pay You, Apply for Employment” — Prophet ElBernard Nelson-Eshun Speaks on Instrumentalist Payment Debate
Renowned Ghanaian preacher, Prophet ElBernard Nelson-Eshun, has weighed in on the ongoing conversation surrounding whether church instrumentalists should be paid for their services.
In a recent statement, Prophet ElBernard addressed the “Should Instrumentalists Be Paid?” saga that has stirred debate across church circles and social media platforms. His response was both direct and thought-provoking:
“If you want the church to pay you for your services, apply for employment,” he stated.
The prophet’s comments highlight a growing tension in many churches between the expectations of musicians who offer their talents and the financial policies of the church. While some believe instrumentalists deserve compensation for their time and skill, others view their service as an act of worship and voluntary ministry.
Prophet ElBernard’s stance suggests that clarity is needed when it comes to roles and expectations in the church. According to him, those seeking formal payment should pursue official employment arrangements rather than expecting compensation for what is often considered voluntary service.
His statement has sparked fresh discussions within the Christian community, with some praising his straightforwardness and others calling for deeper conversations around valuing and supporting church musicians.
As the debate continues, many will be watching to see if churches across Ghana and beyond revisit their approach to recognizing and rewarding the talents of their music ministries.
