The Nation Newspaper

Category: worship

  • Harvest of miracles in Eneche’s Pakistan crusade

    Harvest of miracles in Eneche’s Pakistan crusade

    The Christian community in Pakistan has been buoyed by spectacular miracles recorded at a crusade organised by Nigeria’s Pastor Paul Eneche.

    The miracles left thousands in awe as people testified of healing, deliverance and lives transformed by the gospel.

    Attendees from all walks of life gathered to witness what many are calling a “historic revival” as the Holy Spirit moved powerfully through the services.

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    The atmosphere was charged with faith as the crowds experienced firsthand the miraculous works of God.

    From physical healings to spiritual breakthroughs, the miracles that took place served as undeniable signs of God’s presence. Pastor Eneche, known for his dynamic ministry, shared messages of hope and restoration, inspiring believers and non-believers alike.

    This powerful move of God is being hailed as a significant milestone for the Christian community in Pakistan, with many believing it marks the beginning of a greater revival across the nation.

  • NCPC secretary emphasises prayer as essence of pilgrimage

    NCPC secretary emphasises prayer as essence of pilgrimage

    The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has stressed that prayer is the real essence of pilgrimage.

    He made this assertion during the airlift of the 13th and last batch of intending Christian pilgrims to Israel and Jordan at the Pilgrims Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

    Represented by Barrister Sonny Ebiyaibo, the director of administration of NCPC, Adegbite urged the intending Christian pilgrims to pray fervently at the various holy sites.

    He stated that prayer was key to a successful pilgrimage, adding that the spiritual content of pilgrimage must be maintained at all times, emphasizing that pilgrimage is not for leisure.

    The NCPC boss enjoined the pilgrims to pray for those in authority in Nigeria and the well-being of the country and its citizens.

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    He also reminded them to see themselves as true representatives of Nigeria in the holy land, irrespective of their state of origin. “You are all ambassadors of Nigeria in the holy land,” he said.

    In his remarks,  the Board member representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the Board of NCPC, Amb. Martin Adamu emphasized that the intending Christian pilgrims should use the pilgrimage to renew their faith in God and return spiritually fulfilled.

    While praising Adegite for his effective and visionary leadership, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Police Affairs, Dr Anuma Nlia, who was also an intending pilgrim, commended President Bola Tinubu for his overwhelming support for the NCPC, which has enabled the Commission to successfully airlift pilgrims from the first to the last batch.

    Among the intending Christian pilgrims was the Permanent Secretary, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Mrs. Daju Kachollom.

  • Excitement as son introduces Oyakhilome at Abuja prayer conference

    Excitement as son introduces Oyakhilome at Abuja prayer conference

    There was excitement on Friday night at the grand opening of the Upward and Forward healing conference in Abuja when Pastor Daysman introduced his father, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome. 

    The father and son moment was an heartwarming session that created admiration among Netizens. 

    They noted the special bond between the duo and described the moment as historic. 

    Social media has been flooded with reactions with many expressing joy and admiration for the father-son connection.

    @FaithFowosire said: “This is so incredible for real, I have always wished the day Pastor Daysman Oyakhilome will introduce his dad, this is so amazing, bad Belle people make una cry more…” 

    @DamsonAdeleke stated: “I’ve been seeing this video trending everywhere on X, what’s about this…? But I love Pastor Chris sha.”

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    The conference, which has drawn believers and faith leaders from across the world, is making headlines. 

     This father and son moment has further amplified the excitement. 

    As the UPWARD AND FORWARD HEALING CONFERENCE LIVE IN ABUJA continues, more moments of inspiration and spiritual upliftment are expected to unfold. 

    With the touching introduction by Oyakhilome’s son the conference has already become one of the most talked-about events in recent times.

  • ​FBC Garki denies alleged misappropriation under ex-Pastor Akanji

    ​FBC Garki denies alleged misappropriation under ex-Pastor Akanji

    The First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja has refuted allegations of financial misappropriation under the watch of its former senior Pastor, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji.

    Akanji, according to the church, helped it to grow in leaps and bounds, becoming unarguably one of the leading Churches in the Nigerian Baptist Convention.

    It was reacting to media reports that Akanji and some officials of the church were involved in alleged N620m fraud and forged its constitution. 

    The church in a statement stressed that there was never a time its money or property waa misappropriated or converted by anyone or group of people, noting that its financial activities were regularly audited.

    It said: “Our attention has been drawn to some misinformation, rumours and fabricated stories making the rounds in the social media about the financial situation of First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja under the watch of our former senior Pastor, Rev Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, FAR.

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    “We would have ignored the misinformation but in the interest of some well- meaning members of the public who desire to know the true position of the situation, we are using this forum to set the record straight.

    “That the Church condemns in strong terms the activities of those who are hell-bent on embarrassing and harassing our former Senior Pastor, Rev Dr Israel Adelani Akanji, FAR. We know that the One who called him into the ministry and who made him lead our Church for 22 years will vindicate him in Jesus’ Name.

    “That there was never a time when the Constitution and the Byelaw of our church (First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja) duly filed and certified by the Corporate Affairs Commission, was forged by anyone or group of people for whatever reason.

    “There was never a time in the history of our Church when any money or property was misappropriated or converted by anyone or group of people. The account of our Church is intact, regularly audited and has been under the management of qualified financial personnel.

    “That under the watch of our former Senior Pastor, Rev Dr Israel Adelani Akanji, every transaction made by the Church adhered strictly to the due process and the policies of the Church.

    “That under the watch of our former Senior Pastor, Rev Dr Israel Adelani Akanji, the Church grew up from nowhere to become unarguably one of the leading Churches in the Nigerian Baptist Convention.

    “That everything done under the watch of the former Senior Pastor, Rev Dr Israel Adelani Akanji was endorsed by the whole church in accordance with the Practices and Policies of the Nigerian Baptist Convention.

    “That our former Senior Pastor, Rev Dr Israel Adelani Akanji is still enjoying the respect, honour and the support of the Church and the entire members to date because of his unprecedented contributions to the Church.

    “The church as represented by her Board of Trustees (BOT) has not lodged any complaints with the Nigeria Police. Any legal action against the Church and her leadership is sponsored by evil forces determined to malign, harass and embarrass the church and the former Senior Pastor.

    “We appreciate the love, concern and understanding of those who are sincerely disturbed and worried about the unfortunate narrative being spread about the Church. We know that First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja is marching on and the gate of hell shall not prevail. In the fullness of time the church and the gospel of Christ shall prevail in Jesus Name.”

  • Are you a Christian in deed?

    Are you a Christian in deed?

    • By Henry O. Adelegan

    As we journey through the solemn season of Lent—a time designated for introspection, repentance, and spiritual renewal—it becomes imperative to reflect deeply on the essence of our Christian faith. The Apostle Paul’s poignant words in 1 Corinthians 15:19 serve as a profound catalyst for such contemplation: “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.” This verse challenges us to examine the foundation and focus of our faith, urging us to transcend a purely worldly perspective.

    Scripture consistently reminds us of the transient nature of our earthly existence. King Solomon, reflecting on his life filled with wisdom and wealth, concluded that all is vanity—a mere chasing after the wind (Ecclesiastes 1:14). Similarly, the Psalmist likens our days to a fleeting shadow, emphasizing the brevity of life (Psalm 144:4). These reflections beckon us to anchor our hope beyond the temporal, seeking the eternal promises found in Christ.

    Paul’s assertion in 1 Corinthians 15:19 addresses a critical concern: if our hope in Christ is confined solely to the benefits and comforts of this earthly life, we are to be pitied above all. Such a limited perspective reduces our faith to a transactional relationship, seeking material gain rather than spiritual transformation. This mindset not only impoverishes the soul but also misses the profound joy and peace that come from a deep, abiding relationship with Christ.

    True Christianity calls us to a life of self-denial, compassion, and service. Jesus taught that to follow Him, we must take up our cross daily, signifying a willingness to forsake personal desires for the sake of God’s will (Luke 9:23). This path often involves challenges and persecutions, yet it leads to ultimate fulfillment and eternal life. As Paul reminds us, “If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied” (1 Corinthians 15:19). Our faith must, therefore, be rooted in the eternal, looking forward to the resurrection and the life to come.

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    The Lenten season offers a unique opportunity to reassess and deepen our commitment to Christ. It is a period to engage in practices that draw us closer to God, such as fasting, prayer, and almsgiving. These disciplines are not merely ritualistic but are meant to transform our hearts and align our lives more closely with the teachings of Jesus. As noted in contemporary reflections, Lent is a time to “take a long, loving look at our lives to see if our values and priorities are in line with God’s desires for us.” 

    In this Lenten season, let us evaluate the depth and focus of our faith. Are we Christians merely for the temporal benefits, or is our hope firmly anchored in the eternal promises of God? Let us strive to embody a faith that transcends the material, embracing the sacrificial and transformative journey that leads to eternal life with Christ.

    Prayer: Father, grant us the grace to reflect deeply on our faith. Help us to move beyond a superficial belief centered on worldly gains, and guide us toward a profound, enduring relationship with You in the name of Jesus Christ.

  • Excitement, anticipation over Oyakhilome’s son Abuja crusade

    Excitement, anticipation over Oyakhilome’s son Abuja crusade

    The social media is buzzing with excitement over the buildup to a crusade by Pastor Daysman, son of founder of Christ Embassy, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome.

    The third-day crusade billed for the National Stadium in Abuja is expected to witness massive miracles and healing.

    Many took to their social media handles to express anticipation over the crusade.

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    Bonafide_Mercy tweeted: “Wow, this is a massive evangelism, and it’s not yet the day. Amazing, I must say!”

    Adetolala_Isaac stated: “Indeed! If this is just the buildup, the actual day will be something extraordinary. God is really moving!”

    They hailed Pastor Daysman Oyakhilome’s commitment to spreading the gospel, saying he is inspiring countless believers and igniting fresh passion for evangelism across Nigeria.

  • Miracles, supernatural acts characterise Enenches’ crusade in Pakistan

    Miracles, supernatural acts characterise Enenches’ crusade in Pakistan

    The city of Pakistan is alive with the transformative power of Christ as Dr. Paul and Dr. Becky Enenche, renowned servants of God bring hope, healing and compassion to the people. 

    The Enenches have touched countless lives, offering not only spiritual guidance but also practical aid in the form of medicine for the sick, food for the hungry, and clothes for the needy. 

    Their presence in the country has sparked a wave of miracles as many have experienced divine healing through Dr. Paul’s ministry.

    The streets of Pakistan overflowed with the love and gratitude of the people, who eagerly welcome the Enenches with open arms.

     In a moving show of affection, crowds showered Dr. Paul and Dr. Becky with flowers, demonstrating their deep respect and appreciation for the couple’s selfless service. 

    These touching moments reflect the profound impact of Christ’s love, as it is felt live in this nation, offering physical and spiritual renewal to all who encounter it.

    Social media has since being flooded with reactions as Nigerians express their money excitement over the Impact of the Crusade. 

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    One User,@ Josh_Badmus described the event as nothing short of divine. 

    He said: “Wow! This is massive! See Multitudes Standing for Jesus Christ,this looks like the biggest Crusade Crowd I’ve seen.”

    Another user,@Gideon_Ayotunde,was deeply moved by the spiritual atmosphere of the Crusade stating:

    “Dey Play with the Pastor Paul Enenche Grace,Person wey dey Pack Out the World Largest auditorium,the Glory Dome every Sunday, is that a Joke to you….?”

  • Victory Over the Storm

    Victory Over the Storm

    “He saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side… And there arose a great storm of wind…” (Mark 4:35,37)

    By Henry O. Adelegan

    As we journey through this sacred season of Lent, a time of reflection, prayer, and spiritual renewal, we are reminded that storms—both physical and spiritual—are inevitable in life. A storm is a powerful force that disrupts order, bringing destruction and distress. While natural storms leave behind visible devastation, spiritual storms often strike suddenly and invisibly, shaking the very foundations of our lives.

    In the physical world, storms cause displacement, disorder, and destruction. Captains of ships are advised to avoid stormy waters, and when storms hit, passengers take necessary precautions to ensure survival. Similarly, in our spiritual journey, storms come in various forms—unexpected sickness, financial struggles, marital crises, loss of a loved one, or sudden hardships that seem unexplainable. The woman with the issue of blood (Mark 5:25-26), Naaman’s affliction with leprosy (2 Kings 5:1-14), and the untimely death of the Shunammite woman’s son (2 Kings 4:18-20) all illustrate how spiritual storms can strike without warning.

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    At times, these storms appear as misunderstandings that lead to broken relationships, businesses that suddenly collapse, or situations where hard work yields no results. A person may experience rejection, inexplicable hatred, or setbacks that defy logic. These are the unseen yet deeply felt tempests of life.

    In Mark 4:35-41, Jesus and His disciples set out on a journey across the sea, but midway, a fierce storm arose, threatening to sink their boat. The storm was not a coincidence—it was an attempt to hinder them from reaching the other side, where a man bound by demonic oppression awaited deliverance (Mark 5:1-20). Fearful, the disciples cried out to Jesus, who rebuked the wind and calmed the storm with a single command.

    This passage reminds us that even when Jesus is in the boat of our lives, storms may still come. Being a believer, a dedicated church worker, or even a pastor does not exempt us from life’s challenges (Psalm 34:19; John 16:33). However, the presence of Jesus guarantees our victory. The One who calmed the storm for His disciples is the same God who “makes the storm calm, so that the waves thereof are still” (Psalm 107:29).

    Beloved, no matter what storm you are facing, it has an expiration date. Just as the night gives way to the morning, your weeping will turn to joy (Psalm 30:5). The storm will not last forever. As surely as Jesus delivered the demon-possessed man and turned him into a great evangelist, He will bring you to your destined place of glory. If Jesus is in your life, cry out to Him in your distress. Persist in prayer (Luke 18:1), remain steadfast in faith, and trust His perfect timing (John 16:24). Patience in the place of prayer is a mark of a true prayer warrior.

    During this Lenten season, build your life on the solid Rock—Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:24; Romans 9:33). Surrender your life to Him completely. Confess your sins, seek His forgiveness, and invite Him into your heart. Make a commitment to live for Him, obey His word, and trust in His power to save and deliver. As the Lord lives, every storm within and around you shall be silenced, and you will reach your “other side” of victory, breakthrough, and testimony in Jesus’ name.

    •Prayer: Almighty God, come into the boat of my life. Calm every storm, take me to the other side of my destiny, terminate my weeping, and restore the joy of my salvation, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

  • Nothing is forgotten!

    Nothing is forgotten!

    • By Henry O. Adelegan

    As we journey through this sacred season of Lent—a time of introspection, repentance, and renewal—we are reminded that every action, no matter how small, carries eternal significance. The ancient wisdom of Ecclesiastes 11:1, “Cast your bread upon the waters: for you shall find it after many days,” invites us to understand that our deeds, both noble and petty, do not vanish into oblivion. Rather, they echo into eternity, coming back to us in ways we may not anticipate.

    Many individuals—whether through ignorance or pride in their social or ecclesiastical positions—forget that true power and authority originate from God (Psalm 62:11). Those placed in positions of trust are stewards of privileges, and all blessings come by divine grace, not by human works (1 Corinthians 15:10; 1 Corinthians 4:7). Indeed, God is free to lift the least experienced to heights the world might never expect, while even the most learned may find themselves humbled.

    King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom, reminds us that nothing is forgotten. Every act of pettiness, every careless deed, leaves its mark. As the Psalmist declares, nothing escapes the all-seeing eyes of the Almighty (Psalm 139:7-12). Even the great scientist Isaac Newton echoed a similar truth in his third law of motion: “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.” This natural principle mirrors the spiritual truth that every deed—whether righteous or rebellious—will yield a corresponding consequence.

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    History bears witness to the outcomes of forsaking God’s standards. There was a time when the sanctity of the temple in Jerusalem was abused. Leaders and worshippers alike had abandoned the altar, turning the holy space into a marketplace. When Jesus entered the city, He wept over Jerusalem—not only for the city’s physical state but for the spiritual blindness of its people. As recorded in Luke 19:42 and Jeremiah 2:13, He lamented how the people had forsaken the “fountain of living waters” in favor of broken cisterns that could hold no water. His righteous indignation culminated in cleansing the temple, reminding all that the house of God must remain a place for prayer, worship, and divine revelation—not for worldly commerce.

    Today, the immutable nature of Christ—“the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8; Malachi 3:6)—reminds us that His standards are unchanging. The question we must ask ourselves during this Lent is this: if Jesus were to visit our place of assignment or call us home today, would He celebrate our faithfulness, or would He cast us out as unprofitable servants (Matthew 25:14-30)? The consequences of our inconsequential actions are unpredictable and often grievous. To avoid a calamitous end, we must earnestly seek God’s mercy, retrace our steps, and commit to righteous deeds.

    In this season of repentance, let us place our hands on the plough of our Lord Jesus Christ, refusing to be derailed by the fleeting standards of society. We are called to stand firm against conformity (Romans 12:2) and, like Esther, boldly declare, “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16).

    Prayer: Father, give me grace to amend my ways before it is too late. Transform my heart and guide me in the path of righteousness through the power of Jesus Christ. Amen.

  • The inevitability of death!

    The inevitability of death!

    • By Henry O. Adelegan

    As we observe another Ash Wednesday today, we are reminded of the inevitable truth that death is a universal contract we all must honor. “Dust shall return to dust” (Genesis 3:19 cf Hebrews 9:27).

    Regardless of age, health, wealth, status, or spiritual gifts, we all have an appointment with death—except those who remain alive at the second coming of Christ (Psalms 89:48; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). Everything that starts must reach its end: a new garment frays, youth fades, possessions age, and temporary titles and positions eventually pass away (Ecclesiastes 12:3-7; Job 7:1).

    The story of King Hezekiah is a poignant reminder. After God granted him victory over the mightier King Sennacherib, the prophet Isaiah brought the news that Hezekiah should prepare for death. Distressed, Hezekiah prayed fervently, and God granted him an additional fifteen years (2 Kings 20:2-6). Ultimately, however, he too met his end (2 Kings 20:21). This illustrates the cycle of life: there is a time to be born and a time to die (Ecclesiastes 3:1-2)—”you shall return to dust.”

    In times like ours, where societal divides grow wider and the promise of democracy fades, many seek to cling to earthly life above all. Efforts to escape death often manifest in frantic spending on healthcare or reliance on dubious spiritual shortcuts. Yet, when death comes, it is impartial to wealth or status, respecting neither fear nor false security (2 Peter 3:10).

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    On this Ash Wednesday, marking the start of a 40-day period of reflection and fasting, we are confronted with our mortality. “Dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return” (Genesis 3:19). As ashes are placed on our foreheads, we are reminded that life is fleeting. We live in a time where extravagance often overshadows morality—where we pursue immediate gratification over lasting values.

    The Almighty God is again calling us to remembrance: we will all give an account of our lives (Haggai 1:5) and our stewardship (Romans 14:10). Wealth may shield you temporarily from the consequences of your actions in this world, but before God, no human argument can prevail (Job 9:3).

    Remember, nothing lasts forever. Our true legacy is determined by our relationship with Christ, the good we do, and how we uplift those around us (Matthew 25:30). This season invites us to engage in self-reflection, repentance, and change. Leaders, both political and spiritual, are urged to seek God’s mercy and realign with righteousness, lest we risk losing our purpose and light (Revelation 2:5).

    Dear friends, as we humble ourselves during this sacred time, let us shift our focus away from the temporary distractions of this world. Commit to selfless service, nurture love and charity, and live in holiness and peace. In doing so, may God bless you, and when your time comes, may you be welcomed into His eternal kingdom with joy and honor.

    •Prayer: Lord, grant me the grace to live a life pleasing to You, so that when I stand before You, I may be welcomed as a faithful servant, in Jesus’ name.