Church Bingo: 50 Things Every Nigerian Has Heard in a Sermon
Every Nigerian who has ever attended church — whether once a week, every Sunday, or only during Christmas — knows the familiar phrases, habits, and quirky moments that make sermons memorable. Some are profound, some are hilarious, and some are downright predictable. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
We’ve compiled 50 things every Nigerian has probably heard or experienced during a church service. Check off how many you recognize — it’s practically a game of Church Bingo!
1–10: The Classics
“Can I get an Amen?”
“Touch your neighbour and say God bless you.”
“Lift your hands and praise the Lord!”
“Somebody clap for God!”
“God is about to do something unusual in your life.”
“Raise your voice!”
“The enemy is trying to fight your destiny!”
“If you believe, shout Hallelujah!”
“I see a financial breakthrough coming your way.”
“Don’t let the devil steal your joy.”
11–20: Common Church Habits
Money being sprayed on the pastor or choir.
Ushers shouting, “Please, switch off your phones!”
Offering plates being passed around multiple times.
People using umbrellas indoors to “protect themselves from spiritual attack.”
Someone dozing off in the middle of the sermon.
Bible verses being read from memory, flawlessly.
Children crying in the middle of worship.
Congregants nodding, smiling, or laughing at a joke you don’t get.
The pastor asking, “Can I see a show of hands?”
Choir singing louder than the microphone can handle.
21–30: Preach & Teach Moments
“The Lord told me to tell you…”
References to tithing and sowing seeds.
Stories about how God delivered someone from a big problem.
Testimonies that leave everyone inspired or jealous.
Warnings about evil spirits or witches.
“Somebody in this church needs to forgive today.”
Encouragement to read your Bible every day.
“If you keep faith, miracles will happen.”
Calls to repentance: “Somebody needs to repent today!”
“God’s timing is perfect.”
31–40: Funny & Relatable Moments
The pastor saying, “I feel led by the Spirit…” before dropping a bombshell.
Everyone trying to find a seat because the church is full.
Ushers gently nudging you out of a “reserved” seat.
Pastors using local slangs mixed with English.
Congregants praying for the person in front of them to let go of the microphone.
People whispering gossip under the guise of “praying in tongues.”
Someone loudly shouting “Amen!” mid-sermon for no reason.
The pastor dramatically pointing at someone in the congregation.
Church members recording every moment on their phones.
People checking the clock to see how much time is left.
41–50: The Holy Finale
Pastor declaring, “This message is for someone here today!”
Everyone raising hands for the final blessing.
Congregants leaving slowly, pretending to chat with the pastor.
Ushers collecting leftover tithes and offering in plastic bags.
People bumping into each other while trying to exit.
Choir singing the “closing song” loudly.
Pastor reminding everyone about the next service.
Members greeting each other: “God bless you, see you next Sunday.”
Church snacks being passed out at the exit.
The universal church selfie moment or group photo.
How Many Did You Recognize?
If you ticked off more than 30, congratulations — you are a true Nigerian church veteran!
Church Bingo isn’t just fun — it’s a reminder of how shared experiences bring communities together, even when the moments are humorous or quirky.
Which of these moments have you seen happen in your church? Share your own Church Bingo moments in the comments — and don’t forget to tag your friends to see how many they recognize too!