Apostle John Okoriko, founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, has challenged the conventional practice among Christians of undertaking annual pilgrimages to Jerusalem. He argues that such journeys are rooted in a misunderstanding of God’s omnipresence and are ultimately futile. Okoriko emphasizes that God’s presence is not confined to any specific geographical location, including Jerusalem, but is universally accessible. He asserts that true connection with the divine lies in cultivating a personal relationship with God rather than seeking external validation through visits to purportedly holy sites. He contends that the biblical miracles associated with Israel were manifestations of “Heavenly Places,” a transient phenomenon specific to that era, and that believers today can experience these “Heavenly Places” through faith in Christ Jesus, regardless of their physical location.
Okoriko’s message centers on the concept of “Heavenly Places in Christ Jesus.” He explains that this spiritual realm is not a distant, ethereal location attainable only after death, but a present reality accessible through faith. He contrasts this perspective with the common misconception that heaven is a physical destination reached only after death. He argues that the pursuit of “Heavenly Places” should not be confused with religious tourism or the veneration of physical locations. He believes that the true essence of “Heavenly Places” lies in the personal transformation and spiritual enlightenment that comes from a genuine relationship with God. This inner transformation, he argues, is far more significant than any outward pilgrimage.
The Apostle further critiques the practice of collecting physical objects from Jerusalem, such as sand, stones, or water, as misplaced attempts to connect with the divine. He questions the spiritual value of these items, emphasizing that salvation and spiritual growth are not dependent on tangible souvenirs from a specific location. Instead, he encourages believers to focus on cultivating their internal connection with God, which transcends physical boundaries and material possessions. He posits that true spiritual connection is fostered through prayer, reflection, and living a life guided by Christian principles, rather than through the acquisition of physical relics.
Okoriko’s theological perspective also challenges the traditional understanding of Jerusalem as the “holy land.” He argues that the significance of Jerusalem, as depicted in the Bible, was specific to a particular historical period and is not eternally binding. He points to the current state of Jerusalem, marked by conflict and suffering, as evidence that its supposed holiness has been compromised. He suggests that clinging to outdated notions of a geographically defined holy land is a distraction from the true essence of faith, which lies in a personal relationship with God.
Furthermore, Okoriko draws on biblical teachings to support his argument. He cites Jesus’s pronouncements that “heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words will stand forever,” emphasizing the enduring nature of Christ’s teachings over physical locations. He interprets this to mean that the true focus of faith should be on internalizing and living by Christ’s teachings rather than on external rituals or pilgrimages. He argues that Christ’s message transcends physical boundaries and remains relevant regardless of time or location.
Okoriko concludes by offering an alternative understanding of “Heavenly Places.” He posits that these are not restricted to a physical location or a post-mortem experience, but are accessible in the present through faith, even amidst challenging circumstances. He suggests that “Heavenly Places” can be experienced during times of oppression, calamity, sickness, and adversity, as God provides guidance, comfort, and strength. He emphasizes that these experiences of divine intervention and spiritual insight are the true manifestations of “Heavenly Places,” not physical locations or religious rituals. He envisions a future “new Jerusalem,” a spiritual realm accessible through faith, surpassing the limitations and imperfections of the earthly city.
