The Nation Newspaper

Category: Worship

  • PFN: #EndSARS protest is for new Nigeria

    PFN: #EndSARS protest is for new Nigeria

    By  Adeola Ogunlade

     

    Lagos Chapter of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria has described the ongoing EndSARS protest as a call for a new Nigeria Nigeria where equity, righteousness, justice, equal access to opportunities and national opportunity reigns

    It’s also urge the government to put in measures for a total overhaul of the police force.

    PFN made this call in a statement made available to The Nation  yesterday and signed by its Chairman Bishop Sola Ore.

    It states, “as a body, we believe that the strident cries and calls by our young people is, in reality, a call for a new Nigeria where equity, righteousness, justice, equal access to opportunities and national opportunity reigns. It will be wise to give attention to these cries as it is in effect a desire that is burning in the hearts of all Nigerians regardless of tribe or religion.”

    The body traced the history of police brutality from the time Dele Udoh; the celebrated Nigerian US-based athlete was shot dead in 1981, to the more recent murder of Jamiu Isaq Udoh was shot dead following an argument with a police officer in Lagos.

    The common trend in all the murders according to the Christian body is the non-prosecution of the killer cops.

    It noted further that in the last couple of years the murderous activities of killer cops have soared to new heights of notoriety and impunity.

    “Our young people and children are being hunted down, killed, extorted, raped and murdered in the most gruesome manner, while the police affairs ministry, the national assembly and the leadership of the Nigerian Police and the Presidency have looked on with a frightening lack of concern and empathy.”

    While condemning the barbaric activities of some members of the SARS unit particularly and other officers of the Nigerian Police Force in general it called for the disbanding of the unit insisting that they are beyond reform.

    Read Also: EndSARS: Kogi inaugurates 10-man committee on police excesses

     

    It described the swift change of its name from SARS to SWAT by the Inspector General as insensitive to public opinion and does not seem to have been very well thought out.

    It called on the authorities not to redeploy these men to other units without subjecting them to scrutiny while those found guilty of crime should be tried in the law court.

    “We call on the authorities to ensure that all officers and men of the NPF no matter how highly ranked who are culpable in any acts of unleashing violence against protesters, who are culpable in acts of murder, kidnapping, extortion, assault, rape, intimidation of citizens to be prosecuted in an open and transparent manner.”

    The prevailing culture in the police in the words of the PFN “is oppressive to the average citizen and seems to be skewed to protect the rich and powerful and oppress the weak and the poor.”

    It asked that “government should set up an independent judicial panel of inquiry that will investigate the SARS unit and determine the culpability or otherwise of its men and officers in the numerous acts of vileness alleged of them, many of which have been captured on camera.”

    The fellowship noted further that public confidence in the force is at an all-time low and that it cannot be trusted to reform itself, urging the President “to set up a commission that will propose appropriate legislative and organizational reforms for the Nigerian Police.”

    It also observed that there is a need to look into the poor remuneration, living, and operating conditions of the men and officers of the NPF adding that “it is important for their all-around wellbeing that these areas must be improved very drastically.”

    It called the young people to be firm in their protest, do it peacefully, and be mindful of the rights of others adding, “the future is yours, and that future is here.”

  • Pope appoints new Chief of Vatican Sainthood Department

    Pope appoints new Chief of Vatican Sainthood Department

    Agency Reporter

    Pope Francis has appointed a new chief of the Vatican’s sainthood department, a post left vacant three weeks ago by the resignation of disgraced Cardinal Angelo Becciu.

    Italian Bishop Marcello Semeraro will be the new Prefect of the Congregation for Saints’ Causes, the Vatican said in a Thursday statement.

    Semeraro was until now bishop of Albano, a lakeside town some 25 kilometers south-east of Rome, and secretary of the committee of cardinals drafting a reform of the Curia, the Vatican bureaucracy.

    Becciu resigned as prefect and gave up his cardinal rights on Sept. 24, after the pope accused him of using Vatican charity funds to help a cooperative run by his brother.

    The cardinal, who admitted the payment but insists it was legitimate, had access to the funds in his previous role as second-in-command at the Secretariat of State, the Vatican’s main office.

    READ ALSO: Pope Francis: gossip is ‘worse plague’ than COVID

    The cardinal has not been charged by Vatican prosecutors, but his dramatic ouster has renewed scrutiny over the Vatican’s murky financial affairs.

    On Monday, Italian police arrested Cecilia Marogna, a woman who allegedly conducted secret intelligence work for Becciu and received 500,000 euros from him (587,000 dollars).

    She is wanted by the Vatican for embezzlement, amid reports that she used almost half of the money to buy luxury goods such as designer handbags and perfume.

    (dpa/NAN)

  • How to grow a productive faith in Christ Jesus

    How to grow a productive faith in Christ Jesus

    By Bishop Taiwo Akinola

    Introduction: The Christian life, from start to finish, is designed to be a supernatural experience, and living daily on this supernatural platform is the real excitement of Christianity. However, faith is the wheel that makes this possible. Real faith puts you in the class of God and moves God to work in your favour. And, the faith that will produce desirable results must be nurtured to grow appreciably.

    The Bible teaches that there are varying levels of faith: No faith (Deut. 32:20); Little faith (Mat 6:30, 14:31); Weak faith (Rom 4:19); Erring faith (1Tim 6:10); Mustard seed faith (Mat 17:20); Growing faith (2Thes 1:3); Living faith (Gal 2:20); Unfeigned faith (2 Tim 1:5); Established faith (Act 16:5); Strong faith (Rom 4:20); Great faith Mat (15:28); Steadfast faith (Col 2:5); Bold faith (1Tim 3:13); Speaking faith (Rom1:8); Fighting faith (1Tim 6:12) and Sound faith (Tit 1:3).

    Yes, there are different levels of faith. But I must quickly add that, since no one could be saved without faith, every believer has faith in a measure (Eph 2:8,9; Rom 12:3). Your faith cannot be static; it is either growing, diminishing or withering. Thus, you must ensure that your faith grows continually because it is very crucial to your life (Rom 1:17). Only those who live by faith are qualified to enjoy the Abrahamic blessings and are guaranteed divine protection against the darts of evil (Gal. 3:7-9; Eph .6:16). But, how do you grow a productive faith?

    In the natural world, if a seed is not given conducive conditions (good soil, water, and sunshine), it will not grow though it has the potentials.

    Similarly, hearing the Word of God is essential to growing a luxuriant and truly productive faith. You cannot truly hear God’s Word and remain unchanged (Rom. 10:17). However, just hearing God’s Word is not enough, you must position yourself to hear it from HIM. Besides, hearing God’s word is more than just listening; it means to hear and act upon what was heard (James 1:22).

    Saul was a violent persecutor, but the day he heard the voice of Jesus Christ, he recognized His Lordship and his life changed forever (Act 22:6-9). Other people saw the light, only Saul heard the voice. The light here represents information, Voice represents Jesus’ personality. If all you do about the faith ends just at the information level with no intimate knowledge of Jesus Christ, the faith won’t be productive.

    Moses heard from God, he boldly proceeded to Pharaoh, the same man he ran away from earlier. Destiny transformation comes with God’s majestic and irresistible Voice (Ps 29:4). He still speaks today, but we must be spiritual to discern His Voice (Rev. 1:10-11).

    Furthermore, speaking God’s Word in affirmative faith is very essential to growing your faith (Mk 11:22, 23; Pro 10:11; Pro 18:21; Rev 12:11).

    The force of faith is one of the strongest creative forces available to man, but it works by your words spoken to situations and circumstances around you. A believing on the inside of you, and a speaking forth on the outside give birth to the creative force of faith (Rom 10:10). In other words, what you believe and speak forth is what is created for you (Mk 11:23).

    Your life is whatsoever you call it (Gen 2:19). What you see and say is what you get and eventually become (Deut. 1:28; Num 13:33). No matter what, don’t ever take side with the devil. Rather, take side with God by constantly speaking what He says. When you see peace by faith and speak peace, you overrule turmoils around you (Mk4:39; Ps 8:9) And, even if you cannot control the entire world, you can control your own world by the words you speak regularly.

    Moreover, to grow a truly productive faith, fellowshipping constantly with God through obedience, confidence and humility cannot be overemphasized (John 2:5; Pet 5:5; Jam. 4:7). Growing your faith is not intended to be a struggle; rather, it is a product of a heart that follows after God. Your faith cannot grow beyond your obedience, and as you develop in your fellowship with God, learn to be still and confident in Him (Is 30:15; Ps 4:4; 46:10; 84:4). Anxiety is an enemy of faith and progress; it chokes the seed of the word (Lk 8:14). Nothing good works by anxiety. Remember Elijah (1Kg 19:4).

    In conclusion, please know that God’s only pleasure is to be believed and His only pain is to be doubted (Heb 4:6). Hence, the glory of God shows in your life up to how grown your faith is. Anything beyond your faith level remains undone. Developed faith is faith for living (Hab. 2:4). As you believe God’s Word and speak it boldly, I see your faith producing gracious results henceforward, in Jesus Name. Amen.

    Bishop Taiwo Akinola is the presiding Bishop of Rhema Christian Church and Towers.

  • Godliness: God’s condition for greatness!

    Godliness: God’s condition for greatness!

    Bishop David Oyedepo

     

    WELCOME to another exciting week! I hope you were blessed by last week teaching. This week, we shall focus on: Godliness: God’s Condition for Greatness!

    We understand from Scriptures that godliness is one condition that must be met before sustainable and ever growing greatness can be attained. Our lives can never blossom beyond God’s rating of our godliness. At the root of Job’s greatness was godliness.  Concerning him it is written, And the Lord said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil (Job 1:8). He was an upright business man and God testified to that. Even his wife testified to it (Job 2:9).  The greatness of Paul was anchored on grace. He said, …I am what I am by the grace of God… (1 Corinthians 15:10). It is grace that makes great and the Bible says, What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein (Romans 6:1-2). Wherever sin thrives, grace is disconnected. That means if we do not quit sin, it will stop our greatness. Anyone can fail in God’s grace. Scripture says, Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled. Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears (Hebrews 12:15-17). That means we can drop off the flow of His grace and it is a disconnection from His grace that results in disgrace. However, one of our greatest battles in this world is against the spirit of the world. It is written, Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God (1 Corinthians 2:12). The spirit of the world is the engine room for worldliness and it is the exact opposite of godliness. We cannot be worldly and godly at the same time; it is like darkness and light (1 John 2:15-17).

    So, we must overcome the spirit of the world in order to abide in God forever. This spirit operates through three main channels:

    • The lust of the eyes: Wanting everything at any cost.
    • The lust of the flesh: Sexual perversion of all kinds.
    • The pride of life: A destroyer of destiny —for pride goes before destruction (Proverbs 16:18; 1 Corinthians 3:17).

    Bible Characters that Failed in God’s Grace include:

    • Achan: He was caught with the goodly Babylonian garment and a wedge of gold. Though he confessed and repented; however, it was too late (Joshua 7:20-21, 25).
    • Judas: This man already had his name written in the book of life but satan got him (Luke 22:3). In Matthew 27:3-5, he repented but it was too late.
    • Solomon: He loved God so much that God came from heaven to respond to him (1 Kings 3:3-5). But in 1 Kings 11:1, …Solomon loved many strange women. It takes some demonic influence to have 700 wives and 300 concubines (1 Kings 11:1-4). Solomon ended his journey in vanity.
    • Samson: Samson was a one man winning army, but when he went after Delilah he ended up in horror and his eyes were plucked out (Judges 16:1-31). He then became a toy in the hands of the people he had once conquered.

    How do we Overcome the Spirit of the World?

    We cannot overcome the spirit of the world without engaging the Spirit of God. The Spirit of Holiness is the only cure for the filthiness of the spirit and the flesh (Romans 1:4).

    How does the Holy Spirit Operate?

    • As God’s fuller soap: He is the highest quality soap that is able to remove any stain of sin from our lives (Matthew 3:2-5).
    • As the refiner’s fire: He burns away every chaff of sin in us. His job is to purify and refine us (Matthew 3:11-12). The Holy Spirit is available to all that truly desire and demand His empowerment (Luke 11:13).

    In summary, everything about our destiny both now and in eternity has to do with our sanctification. It is not enough to be sanctified; we must stay sanctified. Once sanctified is not always sanctified (1 Corinthians 10:12). However, you must be born again. If you are not, this is an opportunity to do so. Simply say the following prayer: Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. Today, I accept You as my Lord and personal Saviour. Thank You Jesus for saving me! Now, I know I am born again! For further reading, get my books: Walking In The Newness Of Life, Conquering Controlling Powers and The Blood Triumph. I invite you to fellowship with us at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, the covenant home of Winners. We have three services on Sundays, holding at 6:00 a.m., 8:30 a.m., and 11:00 a.m. respectively. Also, you can join our live services via Facebook: David Oyedepo Ministries International, Twitter: @Davidoyedepomin, Instagram: davidoyedepomin, YouTube: Domi Stream, Hebron 95.9 FM, Winners World App, Impact Africa TV (on Startimes and NigComSat), Domi Radio and via the Church Satellite. I know this teaching has blessed you. Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria, call 01-4548070, 01-4548280, or E-mail: dphprints@gmail.com.

  • ‘Politicians cannot deliver Nigeria’

    ‘Politicians cannot deliver Nigeria’

    By Adeola Ogunlade

     

    THE Founder and President of Love of God Evangelistic Association International, International Evangelist Joshua Adegboyega has called on the council of states and wise men to make a way for a non-political government of National Redemption based on the recommendation of the past sovereign national conference in order to meet the aspiration and expectation of Nigerians.

    Adegboyega said this over the week at his 53rd Year Ministry Thanksgiving held at Christian Prayer Life Ministry, Agege, Lagos.

    He said that it is evident that politicians across party lines have disappointed Nigeria and are not interested in restructuring Nigeria on the path of fairness, equity and national progress.

    He noted that the way forward for this great country is for the council of states to look to the necessity and possibility of a break from deceptive superficial democracy which has given no signal of hope to Nigerian and to make way for Non-political government of National redemption.

    Read Also: Nigeria Aviation: Flight in sync with national growth

    He asserted that Nigeria is a great country and there is no country as blessed as Nigeria with immerse human and material resources,  but our major problem is that we are bereft of sincere and committed leaders.

    “Political leaders have failed to moved Nigeria forward. Realistically, There is little or no difference in their approach to the affairs of Nigeria as they kept on blaming one another.

    He added that the APC led federal government who came was like a beacon of hope when it came to power, owe Nigerian apology for not fulfilling their promised agenda and slogan of Change.

    Although, he pointed out that the commitment of Preside Buhari on corruption which has yielded some positive results,  stressed that but his inability to take advise that could have improve the prevailing state of insecurity, kidnapping and rape by refusing to send packing His Service, chiefs, has made many Nigerian disenchanted with his administration.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Sacrilege: diocese begins novena of reparation

    Sacrilege: diocese begins novena of reparation

    Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

     

    BISHOP Wilfred Anagbe has called on the clergy and the laity of Makurdi Diocese to participate actively in the Novena of Reparation for the sacrilege at St. Peter’s Parish, Wurukum, Makurdi which was closed on September 15, 2020.

    The Novena of Reparation began on 4th October and ends on October 12. It will be concluded with the rite of atonement by the bishop on October 13, which marks the official reopening of the parish.

    Pastoral activities were suspended at St. Peter’s and the priests withdrawn following two sacrilegious attacks on 12 August and 13th September this year by yet-to-be identified persons.

    The attackers desecrated the Holy Eucharist and looted sacred vessels thereby defiling the Church.

    Priests have been directed to enforce active participation in the Novena at parish levels across the diocese.

     

  • Understanding the reach of God’s faithfulness

    Understanding the reach of God’s faithfulness

    By Bishop Taiwo Akinola

    “God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:9).

    Introduction: One of the strongest truths in the entire Bible is that God is inherently faithful. He is trustworthy. He honours His words, fulfills His promises, and He won’t let down anyone that trusts in Him. Our God is too faithful to fail!

    God’s faithfulness is in direct contrast to the other heathen faiths. Other gods are, generally, immoral, selfish, cruel, and careless with their promises regardless of their pledged word. Contrariwise, the God of the Bible is always loving and caring, and especially faithful both to His covenant and to His children (Ps. 89:34).

    God’s Faithfulness Reaches Unto the Clouds

    Reflecting on history, magnificent thoughts of God’s faithfulness spring forth! Yet, from his personal experience, King David saw God through his many cloudy seasons, and he sang: “Thy mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds” (Ps. 36:5). Such inspirations must be stamped upon our hearts, never to be erased by any ominous finger.

    In every life are shadowed days when the sun withdraws its shining, as it were, and the clouds return. This may be a time of family trouble or of great financial anxiety, a time of failing health or times when the grave is full and the living is beginning to envy the dead. It may even be a time when all that a man has lived for seems washed away like a castle in the sand – a day of unexpected turns.

    Sometimes, to our chagrin, these cloudy moments gather very swiftly like some tropical thunderstorms, and we think that God has forgotten to be gracious and are tempted to secretly doubt His care for us. However, we ought to keep in mind that our God is faithful to “them that love him and keep his commandments” (Deut. 7:9).

    Certainly, history has its cloudy days. It was a cloudy day experience when the Jews were carried away to Babylon. Exiled to a distant, heathen land, they thought that God had forgotten them and had broken His covenanted faithfulness (Isaiah 40:7). They were seriously confounded: “By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion” (Ps. 137:1).

    One day, their heart would rise to sing again on the other side of captivity. But at that time, they had hung their harps, not wanting to sing the Lord’s song of faithfulness in that strange land. Then suddenly, across those dark and cloudy days, came to the ringing prophetic voices with the message of ransom and return (Is. 35:1-10). God is faithful!

    Another desolating moment showed up when our Lord ascended to the Father, and a cloud received Him from the disciples’ sight (Act 1:9). The disciples had loved Him and leaned upon Him, so they were well-nigh broken-hearted when the cloud took him away from them, thinking the sweet companionship was over, forever. But, Jesus Christ had promised them His abiding presence, and He showed up to fulfill that promise on the day of Pentecost.

    Jehovah God is faithful, and He won’t break His covenant, no matter what (Hebrews 10:23). Remember Abraham? He held on to God’s faithfulness, even in his hopeless situations (Romans 4:19-21). And his Isaac – meaning Smile – came at last!

    God’s Faithfulness Is Inexhaustible

    Yes indeed, from time to time, the clouds of uncertainty do hangover humanity. But, if we only could carefully reflect on our personal experiences of dark days, remembering how, severally, God had acted to illuminate our paths, we cannot but shout: Great is His faithfulness. Alleluia!

    We were stained with sin and shame and marked for death. But God, who is rich in mercy and unfailing in His faithfulness, marked us by His love in Christ Jesus and redeemed us unto Himself. Assuredly, He won’t abandon us, anytime.

    For people out there, anxious and distressed because things are presently dark and cloudy – have faith in God. Do not despair. The hour is nearer than you think when you also, like David, will sing the songs of God’s faithfulness.

    Tomorrow belongs to those who live today by a faith that sees beyond the limitations of human reasoning, trusting in the unfailing love of the Faithful God. He alone has helped us thus far, and He alone will carry us all the way to our Hope of Glory.

    Maturing Confidence In God’s Faithfulness

    It’s very crucial to have robust faith in God’s ability to keep us away from evils and answer our prayers, but it is also very important that we grow up spiritually to a point where our relationship with God is not based just on His ability to perform, but on our love for Him, because He first loved us.

    The three young Hebrews, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, faced a tragic death threat for choosing not to worship the Babylonian golden image. However, their resolution was not based only on God’s power and faithfulness to save them, they said they would rather die than to worship any heathen god, even if God wouldn’t deliver them. That’s a statement of genuine love for God, which won’t disobey His commandment even in the face of death. And it was this unwavering love for God, not just their faith, that provoked and attracted God to them in their desperate hours. When we live true to the Lord, we will in turn enjoy His faithfulness in full.

    Conclusion

    God’s faithfulness is never, in any way, diminished by men’s unfaithfulness. Albeit, unfaithful men cannot access the provisions that the Faithful God had reserved for the faithful (2 Timothy 2:13).

    With God’s faithfulness in view, keep up hope even if it appears that disappointment is staring you in the face. God will never give up on you, no matter what. He’s constantly holding out hope concerning His people so that we might fulfill all His pleasure.

    The challenges may not be all over yet, nor the changes complete, but when our hearts are excited with loving faith in God’s faithfulness, things long-awaited will certainty land in our hands.

    Friends, the smell of rain is in the air, renew your trust in the Faithful God. For it will soon be said of us as it was of our predecessors: “They did eat of the fruit of the land of Canaan that year” (Jos.5:12). Happy Sunday!

    Further Reading: Isaiah 35:1-10; Leviticus 26:42-45; Psalm 89:1-24; Lamentations 3:22-23; 2 Thessalonians 3:3.

    Akinola is Presiding Bishop, Rhema Christian Church, and Towers

  • Daystar Christian Centre resumes physical services

    Daystar Christian Centre resumes physical services

    Daystar Christian Centre Lagos will resume physical worship services from Sunday October 18, 2020.

    Sunday worship services would be conducted in accordance with COVID-19 protocols and government’s laid down directives, the church said in a statement.

    It said Sunday worship services will hold while the mid-week services and other events continue online.

    Read Also: Why Daystar Christian Centre won’t reopen yet, by Sam Adeyemi

    Junior Church services will continue to hold online only pending further review, the church added.

    It said at all centres (Oregun, Lekki, Ikorodu, Badagry, Alimosho, and The Star Hub), well trained officials will be on ground to maintain order and follow government’s laid down crowd control protocols.

    The church further announced Sunday worship services will run at half capacity with two services at its centres.

    For physical attendance at any of these locations, attendees are required to pre-register via the church website for seat allocation.

  • Engaging the power of sanctification for fulfilment of destiny!

    Engaging the power of sanctification for fulfilment of destiny!

    By Dr. David Oyedepo

     

    Welcome to October! I have no doubt that we have been enlightened the more on how to be led by the Spirit of the Lord in the race of life all through the month of September, 2020. My prayer is that you shall not miss your steps all the days of your life, in Jesus name! This month, we shall focus on: Engaging the Power of Sanctification for Fulfilment of Destiny!

    From Scriptures, we discovered that every child of God is ordained a mountaintop global citizen. As it is written, Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid (Matthew 5:14; see also Deuteronomy 28:1; Genesis 28:14). However, it is not enough to discover destiny, we must know how to see it fulfilled. Thus, to fulfil that glorious, colourful and enviable destiny, certain things must be in place. Among these things is sanctification —living to please God. Sanctification is a spiritual catalyst for fulfilment of destiny (Proverbs 14:34). That means it takes sanctification to go up and to stay up. Samson went up by sanctification; but he came down by desecration (Judges 13:3-5, 16:1-30). Also, Solomon loved many strange women and he ended up in a shrine (1 Kings 11:1-6).  That establishes the fact that destiny is at risk without sanctification.

    Furthermore, sanctification is the will of God. As it is written, For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: that every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4). That means there must be a way to live a sanctified life and we must know what to do to possess our vessels in sanctification and honour. Jesus said, Which of you convinceth me of sin? (John 8:46; see also 2 Corinthians 5:21). If Jesus knew no sin, but became sin for us; how then did Jesus have dominion over sin?

    First, we must understand that iniquity is a mystery; but godliness is a ‘great mystery’. The Bible says, For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way (2 Thessalonians 2:7; see also 1 Timothy 3:16). So, we have the mystery of iniquity that can only be swallowed up by the great mystery of godliness just like in the case of Aaron’s Rod, swallowing up the rods of the magicians (Exodus 7:10-12). Jesus had the Spirit of Holiness on His life and that was what empowered Him for dominion over sin (Romans 1:4). Jesus, the holy child of God, still needed the Spirit of Holiness to live a sanctified life (Luke 1:30-35). That means every one of us must understand that the Spirit of Holiness is the only way to live a sanctified life (1 Corinthians 6:11).

    Why do we need Sanctification?

    • For Answered Prayers: It is important to know that we need sanctification to qualify for answered prayers (Psalm 66:18-20; Isaiah 59:1-2). However, one interesting thing about our God is that, any time we repent of our sins, He forgives us as if we never did it.
    • For Access to Revelation: Revelation is buying into the heart of God on the issues of the hour. Joseph had access to the secrets of God and as a result, he became a ruler in Egypt (Genesis 41:37-40; Psalm 25:14). When you have access to the secrets of God, you are in another class. However, access to revelation requires sanctification; otherwise, we will be limited to information, which anybody can have.
    • For Next-levels of Anointing: Not every anointed man is impactful, it takes fresh oil to command fresh impact (Psalm 92:10; Luke 5:37-38). If you do not change the oil in your car, the engine will soon knock down. Therefore, it is walking in the newness of life that guarantees access to fresh oil (Proverbs 1: 23; Psalm 45:7).
    • For Security of Destiny: Many great destinies in Scriptures crashed for lack of sanctification. Think of Achan, who saw a wedge of gold and coveted it. He took it into his tent, dug the ground and kept it there; that ended his destiny and his entire family (Joshua 7:19-26).
    • To Security Posterity: Our uprightness is the security of our generation (Psalm 112:1-2). Our walk today determines the blessings of our children tomorrow (Proverbs 20:7). So, stop playing games!
    • To Secure Eternity with Christ: Without sanctification, we cannot make heaven (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

    In conclusion, destiny is at a risk without sanctification. Solomon lost it all and Samson became a toy in the hands of his enemies; his eyes were plucked out and he asked to dance for them. Judas, an apostle, lost it; Achan lost his entire lineage and Gehazi became leprous. In weakness, they all crashed; but we shall not crash!  However, you must be born again. If you are not, this is an opportunity to do so. Simply say the following prayer: Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. Today, I accept You as my Lord and personal Saviour. Thank You Jesus for saving me! Now, I know I am born again! For further reading, get my books: Walking In The Newness Of Life, Conquering Controlling Powers and The Blood Triumph. I invite you to fellowship with us at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, the covenant home of Winners. We have three services on Sundays, holding at 6:00 a.m., 8:30 a.m., and 11:00 a.m. respectively. Also, you can join our live services via Facebook: David Oyedepo Ministries International, Twitter: @Davidoyedepomin, Instagram: davidoyedepomin, YouTube: Domi Stream, Hebron 95.9 FM, Winners World App, Impact Africa TV (on Startimes and NigComSat), Domi Radio and via the Church Satellite. I know this teaching has blessed you. Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria, call 01-4548070, 01-4548280, or E-mail: dphprints@gmail.com.

     

  • ‘I can feature in secular music if… ‘

    ‘I can feature in secular music if… ‘

    With over 30,000 copies of her latest album titled Kosobabire sold last week through Gospel Vibe, Mobolaji Olayinka Oniyo, aka, Paslmos, a songwriter and gospel artiste spoke to Adeola Ogunlade about her latest album, her marriage, career and message to Christians as we exit lockdown

     

    What prompted this latest album Kosabire?

    Actually, the album had existed before the lock down. I had the album which was produce from a concert we had in 2019. One thing I know is that God always go ahead of everything that we do because he is in charge of the whole world. I think God gave us that mandate and that vision because of what was coming ahead. During the lock down, a lot of people stumbled on it on Youtube and watch and I have heard lots of testimonies. It was more like a companion for so many people and its really blessed them.

    What is your favourite track in the album?

    Each song has a story and I am attached to all of them but the one I really love is How Great Thou Hath, partly because of the way I got the song. God prompted me to sing and I wrote the song. The lyrics were powerful. That song took me to the heavenlies, somewhere I really loved, so I liked it.

    Actually, some of my songs came with experience. This one did not come with experience. I can’t remember what I was doing, but l got a prompt in my spirit. After I sang the song, I had to stay in God’s presence before I could get myself back. There were other songs that came with experience.

    Your songs are original and soul lifting, how did you come about those songs

    The songs I sang in the album were all my original works to the glory of God, except two songs Monibaba and Egbega Egbega which I feature Mummy Tope Alabi. One of my songs Orintuntun ni mako, Yes, he turn my life around.  I head it in my dream where I saw a large choir singing the song and by the time I work up, I started singing it, then, my husband know how God give me songs, his phone is always close to him to record them. Sometimes, I don’t remember those songs if I don’t record them immediately.

    Are there others ways that you get your songs other than dreams?

    I get my songs majorly through my experiences. I have been through a lot and have a lot of experiences and am still in it because am on a journey with God. Most times, I now realize that the things I go through and how God bring me out are indeed amazing. There was a time that l fall ill a lot and I kept asking God to heal me and God healed me. Today, I know that God has given me the power to heal and as many that are sick that listen to my songs, they will be healed. One of the track in my album-Miracle Agenda came when I heard Tuberculosis and it was a terrifying period in my life. I keep asking God to heal me and I kept confessing it until I got my healing.  You have to believe in the power of God. This song- Agbara to ji oku dide. You have to believe in the power of God. The bible says they that know their God, they shall be strong and do exploits.

    Did you see singing as a talent and at what point did you think that God want to use you as a gospel artist?

    I still don’t believe there is a big deal in it. This is because as a child, I love music. As a child, if I have malaria, and I hear a song, I will stand up and dance. I will sweat out the malaria. Though, growing up, I did not take recognize of it. Overtime, what made me to meet my husband in CLAM, he was a keyboardist, producer and voice trainer. I don’t know what he saw in me. God must have spoken to him. He kept believing in me. When I sing, he kept seeing a better voice inside of me.

    Where you the only vocalist in the choir that he (husband) sighted you? Smile 

    When I join the choir, the music director will give me solo and send me to him (my husband) to perfect my lines and the rest today is history

    Did you see gospel music as a career?

    I never saw music as a career. I just loved it. I was working in the bank. I had my career in the bank.  It was God that prompted me when it was time. God used one of my boss to tell me that I am a vessel in the hand of God. God, must have spoken to her about me. Life is a jorney. Then, I did not take it serious. God,  later caterported me back to the church. My first day in CLAM, where I met my husband, I was broken, I was in tears and I rededicated my life to Jesus. God told me at that point that this was where I belong.  That day, I join the church choir the very day I joined the church.

    How did you meet Tope Alabi?

    I knew her from a very long time. I met her first in Oshogbo, Osun state and that day we connected to each other. We were at a programme together.  Over the years, we lost contact and we reconnected back two years ago and it was so strong. It is better for God to connect you, than you doing the connection yourself. Since God reconnect us back, its has been from glory to glory.

    When did your produce your first album?

    My first album was in 2007

    You put so much energy in your songs?

    It is function of divine strength because most times, when I minister, sometimes am just there and even me myself, I wonder. I have no strength of my own. It is God. My latest concert was just God all through. Most times, when l minister most times, am just there but the moment I pick the microphone, God took over.

    How many hours did you spend rehearsing your latest album?

    We rehearsed for over a month vigorously, even at that, it was God that gave us the speed. Sometimes, you can rehease for six months and there will be mistakes. God helped and supported us.

    Did you have your fears before the concert?

    It is normal. I had my fears but the bible says, God has not given us the spirit of fear but of power and of sound mind. My fear brought us to the level of praying and trusting in God and we were not disappointed. We must learn to live everything in the hands of God.

    Are you in competition with any of the gospel artist?

    There is no competition in the body of Christ, everyone have their uniqueness in ministry. The reason we have concert and sometimes 10 ministers are called upon to minister is because one will discover that as each artists has different grace and the people of God are blessed. We have different uniqueness in ministries. You can’t target the style of another artist, if you do, you will lose your originality and your glory will be lost as you will be only helping to promote somebody else glory. I don’t believe in competition, do what God has called you do. Though, I rehearse so I can get a better me. It is better to be a better me than be like somebody.

    Can you feature in secular music?

    It depends if they will allow me to sing what I want to sing. They will not influence my lyrics. If am singing and I want to preach through that medium, please allow me. Also, if God allow me. If I pray about it and God says, you can go ahead. The bible says go ye into the world and preach the gospel to every creature. If a secular artistes that has a name and has huge fan based and call on me to feature in his or her song, I am going to use the medium to preach the gospel. For anyone to call me in the first place knows who I stand for. I can only minister in a secular music to preach the gospel. For you to call me in the first place means that you are semi-saved.

    Frank Edward last year said that if you want to make money, don’t be gospel musician, will that influence you from joining a secular musician if you are called upon?

    It is not about the money, the reason for going is important. It is not about the money, it is the gospel. God has given this voice to me and if you want to hear me, it is the message of Jesus that am going to preach there. If along the way, you bless me, oh glory to God. The riches of the gentiles are mine. Money is good. I am not disputing that but the love of money is not it at all. Money should not be the reason behind everything at the same time; you don’t take us for granted. 

    Managing the home front and ministration?

    My husband, who is also my producer understand the kind of work we do. It is easier because we do the same thing.

    Are you thinking of collaborating with some of the A list gospel singer?

    I am a royal Priesthood. Once, you know who you are, be open to anything good. I am open to everything good.

    Where are Your dream for the future?

    I don’t want to unveil them now. I have some works I have planned. I am on a journey with God and it is God that tells me now is the time. God told few months back that do you know I determine your pace. It was like I was hearing it from the first time. God told, he determine when I move, pause, move, and when to turn to at every give point in time.

    Nigeria just clock 60th, some of your fans are yet to recover from the economic crises occasioned by the lock-down, what is your advise.

    God said, that this is the season of restoration. This season and time, you will pursue, overtake and recover everything that has been lost. You will recover everything. When God restores, he bring new things and he bring them in full. Don’t worry; it is your season of restoration. You are coming out stronger.  You will recover all and come out better. I pray that everyone who have listen to my songs should have testimonies of God’s grace.