Spode

Spode is a deity worshipped by Philosophy of Faith (Zealot) civilizations. These civilizations have a habit of having violent traits, being distrusting of strangers, and being agressive towards anyone who refuses to accept "the wisdom of Spode". Spode is most prominent in the Space stage, but religious cities in the Civilization stage may also give a player a bonus or a penalty depending on if they are religious or not. Even when allied with then they will continue to exort you for money, so its best to destroy them.

About Spode
Spode probably is the fusion between the words "Spore" and "God". Little is known about Spode, but there is a The Book of Spode which is the religion's holy scripture. This book details how Spode is almighty and how his teachings will bring enlightenment, as well as instructing that all who reject the ways of Spode must be destroyed. It also states that the Grox are evil and so is "the false God That Will Come". It also tells people to seek the Eye of Spode. ("Eye of Spode" likely refers to the center of the galaxy)

Also, according to what Zealot Empires say on delivery missions, Spode has tentacles. This has led some to belive that the Eye of Spode is the Galactic Core and the tentacles are the arms of the spiral galaxy, This could mean that Spode would be the entire Galaxy. Based on how Spode is referred to, it's more likly Spode created the Galaxy in his image. Because of the Spode's followers violent tendencies, they will often be among non-religious player's first enemies, and as another result, many non Zealot players do not like Spode.

The False God That Will Come
"The false God That Will Come" might be referring to the player. Omnipotent means all powerful aka God. Since you can become Omnipotent through gaining enough badge points, its very possible you are the "false god". However, it would be rather paradoxical if a player plays the Zealot path and gain this. It may also refer to Steve, though he is slightly more likely to be Spode himself.

It is possible that the name "Spode" is a portmanteau of "Spore" and "God".

Rumor
Some players claim to have warped through a worm hole and appeared in a star system, name unknown, with a planet called Planet Spode, which has a T3 atmosphere and is inhabited by Spodelings. The citizens can't be scanned, and if abducted appear in your cargo hold as the vase symbol and can be sold for 900,000 each.