Senior Pastor of Grace Revolution Center, Tunde Ayeni, has ignited social media discussion after warning believers against marrying solely out of romantic love, describing the practice as non-Biblical and emotionally risky.

Delivering a sermon on relationship dynamics and marital longevity, the cleric argued that placing romantic feelings at the center of a marriage leads to emotional subjugation.

"I have never told anyone to marry someone you are in love with. It is not Biblical. Most of the things you love, you cannot maintain. If you marry someone you love, you are already a slave to that person. You will live all your life trying not to displease the person. Even when you are right," Pastor Ayeni declared.

Addressing what he characterized as a fundamental misunderstanding of partner selection, Pastor Ayeni urged single individuals to prioritize compatibility, shared vision, and character alignment over initial emotional attachment.

"Choose the person you can live with, not the person you love. Don’t marry the person you love, love the person you marry. Some people, because of love, will marry drug addicts and people with anger issues. Choose someone you can live with, someone who aligns with your vision, someone who can follow you," he advised.

The pastor's comments have drawn sharp responses across digital platforms, dividing commentators:

Supporters praised his pragmatic approach, agreeing that compatibility, shared values, and character are far more critical for a lasting marriage than temporary romantic feelings.

Critics countered that building a fulfilling union without foundational love is counterintuitive, arguing that mutual affection forms the bedrock of healthy relationships.

“Don’t marry the person you love. Instead, love the person you marry. Marrying the person you love makes you a sl@ve to them” — Pastor Tunde Ayeni pic.twitter.com/28z0cblsys

— YabaLeftOnline (@yabaleftonline) August 24, 2026