ANC president Jacob Zuma told a Rustenburg church on Sunday that he was there "for the word of God" and "nothing else".

"I came here for the word, nothing else," he told congregants at the New Covenant Fellowship International Church in the North West.

Zuma's appearance and address at Rhema church in Johannesburg on 15 March sparked a furore, with accusations from some quarters that he was using the opportunity to campaign for the ANC.

Zuma said the ANC and the church had a long-standing relationship dating back to the formation of the African National Congress in 1912.

The church had a duty, as described in the Bible, to pray for those in government and give constructive criticism, he said.

"We need constructive criticism. Why don't you speak so that we can see when things go wrong?" Zuma asked, adding that congregants should keep political parties in touch with their needs.

Following Zuma's speech, pastor Isaac Mokgope took over, saying that if everyone did their part, "a lot" could be achieved.

He compared the parable involving Jesus feeding 5000 people with five loaves of bread and two fish with the government's batho-pele (people first) service programme.

"Jesus taught us to care for others. Today the same message can be found in the principle of batho-pele."

Mokgope prayed for Zuma and the 22 April elections to be successful.

Congregant Lesego Mongale (20) from Boitekong near Rustenburg told Sapa that Zuma's attendance meant he appreciated them. Zuma was portraying himself as a human being, showing that he associated himself with ordinary people, he said.

Zuma arrived at the church flanked by Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi and Safety and Security Minister Nathi Mthethwa.

An ANC branded-helicopter circled above as Zuma prepared to leave the church for the Olympia Park stadium, where he was expected to address an ANC provincial election rally.