The Nation Newspaper

Category: worship

  • Assemblies calls Christians to steadfastness amidst challenges

    Assemblies calls Christians to steadfastness amidst challenges

    The Osun District Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Rev. Ojo Gbadagesin, has urged Christians to remain unwavering in their faith and commitment to God, assuring them that “light will emerge at the end of the tunnel.”

    Gbadagesin gave this message recently at the ‘Exceeding Glory 2024 Conference,” organized by the Assemblies of God, Ojo International Mega Church (AGOIMC) in Lagos,

    The event featured an array of impactful activities, including Bible teachings, prayers, prophetic ministrations, and a Fire Conference for ministers and church workers.

    He said that believers were instruments of God wherever they find themselves, carrying out His purposes in their communities.

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    He spoke passionately about the necessity of complete dedication to God, explaining, “All we owe Him is total commitment. As we represent God’s interests, He remains faithful, providing and protecting us in return.”

    He likened this relationship to that of an employer caring for employees, affirming, “God is not in short supply; our part is to uphold our commitment to Him, positioning ourselves for His blessings.”

    Acknowledging the social and economic struggles faced by many Nigerians, Gbadagesin drew strength from the history of the church, noting that Christianity had weathered dark periods, including times when publicly identifying with the church was dangerous. “One of the brightest scholars who initially wrote against Christianity eventually became one of the church’s greatest teachers,” he added, emphasizing the transformative power of prayer and faith.

  • Stop evil predictions against Tinubu, Nigeria, Guru Maharaj Ji warns Primate Ayodele

    Stop evil predictions against Tinubu, Nigeria, Guru Maharaj Ji warns Primate Ayodele

    Primate Elijah Ayodele of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church has been told to desist from prophecies of doom against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and downfall of Nigeria as a nation.

    He said constant prophesying of doom and disaster by Primate Ayodele won’t materialise, saying the cleric should learn from Primate Olabayo and TB Joshua and others whose negative predictions caught up with them.

    Satguru Maharaj Ji, while reacting to Primate Ayodele’s statement where he had said President Tinubu’s government had no solution to Nigeria’s economic problems wonders how a man of God can be prophesying doom events always and warning of gunshots.

    A statement signed by Ayodele’s media aide, Osho Oluwatosin described Nigeria’s economic state as hypertensive, saying Nigeria will continue to be difficult till there’s an economic reset which the current government may not be able to carry out.

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    But Guru Maharaj Ji in his reaction said men of God, both in the Bible and holy Koran are known to follow the God of peace, unity, love and happiness.

    He said, “Even when such negative things are revealed to them about their nation or individuals, against such occurrences and anything to the contrary is deviant and ungodly because when light comes, darkness disappears. They ought to stand at sight as Divine intervention.

    “Through this and similar prophecies, Primate Ayodele tends to make people believe that he is a politician in cassock.

    “From the presentation and analysis of the prophecy in question, it is clear that it is a personal, politically motivated opinion by a man of god, being used by marine forces to destabilize the people and government and the people from the path of greatness, a neo-colonialist ploy to incite the people to war and therefore this is treason.

    “If his prophecies in the past as an agent of colonialism have failed to come true, he should look back and return to the divine path of religious rectitude.

    “How can you be saying that to the President of your country?  How do you want the people of the world to believe in him? This statement by you is demeaning of the President. You deserve to be taught a lesson of your life in order to stop this demonic behaviour

    According to him, if such negative prophesies lead to the collapse of the country, even the prophet of doom will be affected in one way or the other.

    “ He should be bold to tell the people that The Christ and Mahdi of our time, The True Essence of life, our inheritance is walking on the planet now in whose love, and compassion all nations would thrive in a full blown rainbow of peace and tranquility.

    He further cautioned the clergy to stop criticising, placing curses and uttering judgmental prayers on leaders, but should rather go to work in the farm to produce food for the people as a positive way of contributing to the nation to succeed in their mandate.

    He noted that Nigeria will still be great and regain its lost glory because it has the capacity to be a leading country across the globe, while saying that the present economic problems facing the country are temporary.

  • Why I did not remarry — Lagos PFN Deputy Chair, Onaolapo

    Why I did not remarry — Lagos PFN Deputy Chair, Onaolapo

    As Rev. Dr. Janet Onaolapo, Deputy Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) Lagos and General Overseer of Abundant Life Gospel Church, celebrates the church’s 40th anniversary, she reflects on her journey in ministry, the challenges and the evolving role of women. In this exclusive interview with The Nation, Rev. Onaolapo shares lessons learnt  remarriage, commitment to boundaries and a vision for the future of women in ministry. Excerpts: 

    Looking back on your journey of 40 years in ministry, what are your thoughts on this path?

    I feel immensely grateful to God for His grace and sustaining power. Abundant Life Gospel Church began in 1984, founded by my husband before we met. We married in 1986 and I joined him in full-time ministry in 1988 after resigning from my job. It’s been a long journey but one filled with purpose and a deep commitment to serving God.

    What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned over the years?

    Faith, focus, and reliance on God. I have learnt to trust Him completely, even when the journey feels uncertain. One of our greatest accomplishments is the 40,000-seat cathedral, a vision God gave my husband back in 1984. Although it seemed impossible, we stepped forward in faith, believing in God’s promises. It’s a testament to how faith can turn the unseen into reality.

    I’ve learnt to be focused. I have learnt to trust the Lord. I have learnt to believe in the Lord. I have learnt to rely on Him absolutely. I’ve learnt never to rely on men. I have learnt to walk by faith. Because, when you are looking forward, or expecting something from the Lord and it’s not happening. You can easily lose hope. Hope that it is coming. Eventually, you will see the manifestation. Because I do not see it now, it does not mean it’s not coming.

    The cathedral that we built, God showed  my husband in 1984 that he would build a 40, 000 sitting-capacity cathedral in the heart of a city but God didn’t tell him that city. In the end, it came into fruition.

    After your husband’s passing, how did you handle transitioning into leadership?

    I had been involved in the ministry alongside my husband, so when he passed, it was a continuation rather than a new beginning. We have been doing it together so it was not difficult continuing the ministry. The problem with some wives is that they are not involved in their husband’s ministry. When their husband passes on, they just want to take over. It does not make sense because those who have been there, are the best to continue. Many women face a brick wall trying to take over from their husband’s ministry after their departure.

     I used to tell women, how were you involved in your husband’s ministry? It is not ‘Thus saith the Lord when the husband dies, the wife takes over.’ If you had been there and you were doing it together, then the transition to the wife could be possible. I did not ask to be the GO. When my husband died and we were praying, God told me to continue where he stopped. I had a spiritual mandate only my spiritual mentor, family and a few others knew. I didn’t pursue leadership; it was a path God led me to. The board of trustees asked me to step into the role a day after we buried my husband and though I hesitated, they insisted, seeing that God’s hand was on this decision. I had to adjust from being a supportive partner to leading the vision, but God’s grace has sustained me in this new role. I have been involved. It was not strange and difficult to flow.

    What is your approach to leading as a woman in ministry?

    I focus on being faithful to God’s calling rather than on any perceptions around gender. In God’s eyes, His Spirit empowers us equally. I aim to lead with integrity and a heart aligned with His purpose, trusting in the strength He gives me.

    After years of ministry and dedication, have you ever considered remarrying?

    No, I haven’t. My calling was to serve alongside my husband for the purpose of fulfilling God’s mandate, and that purpose continues. I’m content with the grace God has given me and I feel no need to remarry. Each person’s path is different, and for me, I am at peace where I am, fulfilling God’s work.

    I never wanted to get married in the first place. So God said, marry this man ( my late husband) to fulfill my mandate. So I am not looking for a man. I don’t want to marry. I will be 63 in December. I’m not going to marry. So, I mean, my disposition is such that anybody that comes around me knows that this woman is not interested. Of course, I have had one or two people’s body language.  I’m a very straightforward person. If you come around me and I see body language, I say, look, I’m not somebody like that. I just put you where you belong. My love is without hypocrisy. And my work is without hypocrisy. I do my thing uprightly.

    Is it an issue to remarry?

    It’s not an issue. It’s not an issue at all. I tell young widows, the bible says that young widows should remarry. But for older widows that can hold themselves, it’s not necessary. So, it’s your decision, not anybody else’s. A lot of people have asked me, ‘Oh, you are still young now. I mean, you need a companion.’ I’m fine. I’m fine. I am fine. God has given me the grace. So, if I’m not, I would not be deceiving myself. For me, I may be alone. I am not lonely. I have the Holy Spirit and it is God’s grace. So, don’t look at me as a superwoman thing. When God gives you grace, you listen to Him. So, to me, I think it’s a grace.

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    How do you maintain boundaries to avoid negative influences in ministry?

    I set clear boundaries to keep my focus and well-being intact. For example, I don’t entertain men or ministry guests in my home. Instead, I meet them at my office on designated days. Once I’m home, I make it known that my door is closed. I avoid staying late or being available for spontaneous visits. I set clear boundaries. So, it’s my way of helping me not to be under too much pressure. This discipline helps me maintain a structured environment, allowing rest and ensuring I stay focused on God’s work.

    What is your perspective on women’s role in ministry?

    I believe there’s no gender distinction in the Holy Spirit’s work. At Pentecost, the Spirit-filled both men and women equally. As women, while we do have family responsibilities, our ability to serve God is not limited. I encourage women in ministry to pursue their calling fully, with the understanding that God has equipped them for the roles He calls them to.

    So personally, I don’t have the mentality of gender. I don’t ever look at myself and say I am a woman. I look at myself as somebody who is filled with the Holy Spirit. Women in ministry should be allowed to thrive. There is no gender. However, we are wives, and mothers and are limited in our roles. If you are in ministry, do ministry. We have presidents who are women, governors and prime ministers who are women

    What is your vision for the PFN and its new direction?

    There’s a fresh vision and hope to change narratives that may have affected the church in the past. I’m here to serve and bring a renewed focus. We’re committed to a new dawn, a season of integrity and dedication to advancing the mission God has given us.

  • PFN urges pastors to prioritise community impact over titles

    PFN urges pastors to prioritise community impact over titles

    The Lagos Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) Pastor Yemi Davids has called on church leaders to concentrate on creating a lasting impact in their communities and congregations, asserting that genuine leadership is rooted in service rather than the quest for recognition.

    Davids gave this advice at the Lagos Pastors and Ministers Conference with the theme: ‘New dawn’  at the Household of David in Ikeja, Lagos.

    According to Davids: “Our legacy as leaders in both the church and the nation will be defined by our impact. Titles will fade, but the difference we make in the world will endure. When our time in leadership is done, what will be remembered are not the titles we held, but the lives we changed, the hope we inspired, and the faith we nurtured.”

    Reflecting on the urgent needs of the community, he stated: “People didn’t care what my title was when they were hungry, cold, and displaced. They needed help, and that is what we must focus on—providing relief and giving hope and reconciliation that Christ brings to the world.”

    He urged leaders to remind the youths that it is not the grandeur of a title that matters, but the depth of one’s contribution. “Leadership is about sacrifice, about being the hands and feet of God in the world. Titles can be given or taken away, but the impact lasts forever.”

    He encouraged church leaders to emulate Jesus by prioritizing the needs of their congregations, ensuring their efforts glorify God and enrich the community rather than seeking personal recognition. 

    “There are people who won’t hear the gospel until they see the good works we are doing. This is the reality of our country today; people don’t want to hear sermons; they want to see action.”

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    Davids reiterated the church must continue to be the salt and light of the world, explaining that true relevance for the church lies in its community impact. 

    “The church just needs to be the church. When you shine your light, darkness will recede. We have more rescuing to do as a church, especially for the nation itself.”

    He further called on leaders to embrace their roles as agents of change, stating, “Relevance means different things to different leaders. For some, it’s about good works; for others, it is about character. But the key is that, as leaders, we must be salt and light. A changed leader will impact their community, and that impact will trickle down.”

    Expressing confidence that God is working through the church to facilitate the change Nigeria desperately needs, Davids shared ongoing efforts to establish doctrinal standards and statements of faith to help leaders stay focused. 

    Tele-evangelist, Apostle Joshua Selman emphasised the importance of genuine healing and transformation over titles. “It’s not so much about titles, but about the impact we make. A professor remains a professor even without declaring his title—it’s his impact that shows his worth.”

    He stressed the need to focus on being “light and salt,” making a real difference in the world instead of seeking recognition through titles alone.

    Apostle Selman also highlighted the significance of emotional healing in leadership, noting that many leaders who inflict harm on others are often grappling with unresolved wounds themselves. He encouraged the congregation to seek healing, stating, “It’s not un-Christian to seek professional help in diagnosing emotional wounds.”

    His message resonated with the audience as he emphasized the collective responsibility of the church, government, and other institutions in nurturing the nation’s youth and promoting healing. “Nation-building is about building the people,” he said, advocating for more inclusive programs that instill hope and confidence in young people.

    He called on the government to play a vital role in nation-building and healing the wounds of the youth, emphasizing collaboration with reputable institutions like the church. “The government should get involved in programs aimed at restoring hope to the young, remembering the importance of preparing them for future leadership roles.”

     The Lead Pastor of The Elevation Church, Pastor Godman Akinlabi called for a balanced approach to engaging with today’s youth, particularly regarding their expression of individuality.

    “Young people are often misunderstood and judged based on their appearance, but what they seek is love, acceptance, and affirmation. It’s time for the church and society to provide that,” he said.

  • Church holds ordination Nov 11

    Church holds ordination Nov 11

    Founder of The New Generation Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S) International, Mountain of Authority Rev. Mother Esther Adeojo has said the church’s annual Ark of Covenant celebration and Ordination Service will hold on Monday, November 11, 2024.

    She stated that this year’s celebration will be the 16th edition of the iconic program which was a revelation she got from God 16 years ago.

    A statement by Adeojo otherwise known as ‘Ewa Jesu’ noted that the event with the theme: “Blessings from the Ark of Covenant” and inspired by 2 Samuel 6:12, will commence in the morning at the church auditorium located at Ile Youth Ogijo, Ikorodu, Lagos State. 

    According to her, the service will be led by herself alongside other anointed ministers of God, while Emmanuel Oshiyoye is slated to deliver sermon at the event.

    She said highlight of the event will include ceremonial unveiling of the Ark of Covenant, scheduled for afternoon.

    She however urged people who wish to partake in the special occasion to dress in white which according to her is the event’s dress code.

    She said, “Ark of covenant celebration is a gathering of people to worship the Almighty God like in the old days. Its always a powerful moment of immense blessings and testimonies.”

  • How to tackle contemporary issues, by Lagos varsity Christian alumni

    How to tackle contemporary issues, by Lagos varsity Christian alumni

    Lagos Varsity Christian Alumni Fellowship has held its 2024 Annual General Membership Meeting and Reunion Fellowship: “Christian’s Response to Contemporary Issues,” at University of Lagos.

    The event addressed LGBTQ+, war, economic crunch, political correctness, and others.

    Pastor Yemi Osinaike of The Covenant Nation, Ikeja Campus, delivered a keynote address, emphasising that Christians must respond to contemporary issues with assurance and skill, rooted in their relationship with God.

    “As Christians, our response should be based on God’s standard from His word,” Osinaike stressed.

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     “We must choose to skilfully respond to demands of our time, recognising that God’s expectation of us remains same regardless of our location.”

    On LGBTQ+, Osinaike urged the church to respond with love and intelligent engagement. “We shouldn’t just be annoyed; we should be grieved, pray and show love to those involved.”

    Regarding economic stability, he cautioned against prioritising the love of money and encouraged Christians to seek biblical financial principles, financial literacy, and wisdom from God.

    Outgoing President of the Alumni body, John Oluleye, noted the fellowship’s 58-year history and its mission to support members’ spiritual and professional growth.

     “The Lagos Varsity Christian Alumni Fellowship provides a forum for members to come together, share experiences, and support one another,” Oluleye said.

    Oluleye also emphasised significance of the theme, noting that the issues are not new, but rather, have been present throughout history.

    “These issues are not unique to our time,” Oluleye said.

     “As Christians, we must learn from examples of those who have gone before us and stand firm in our faith.”

    The fellowship, which has over 1000 members domicilled in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe and the Americas, provides a platform for members to pray, mentor, and support one another through monthly prayer conferences, sets, and chapters.

     The hybrid meeting also saw election of a new Executive Committee, led by Gbenga Apampa,  to run its affairs for the next two years.

     As Lagos Varsity Christian Alumni Fellowship continues to inspire and empower its members, Osinaike’s words resonate: “The Nigerian church has no choice but to promote peace and reconciliation, love and forgiveness as Christ does,” Oluleye noted.

  • Baptist Academy 1984 marks 40

    Baptist Academy 1984 marks 40

    The 1984 set of Baptist Academy has  kicked off its 40th Anniversary celebrations with a Thanksgiving service  at Shepherdhill Baptist Church, Obanikoro, Lagos.

     The service was part of the school’s 169th Founder’s Day.

    Chair of Organising Committee, Kunle Osiyemi, noted the set rebuilt the dining hall.

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    He said the hall, disused for years, is the set’s way of giving back to their alma mater.

     Osiyemi noted that the set, under leadership of Akin Dosumu, would deliver a refurbished hall on December 31.

     Osiyemi said the hall was chosen after due its disuse,  adding it has cost N40 million.

    He noted N35 million is still needed, and urged assistance from the alumni and others.

    Ostend said there will be facilities for the physical challenged.

  • ‘Hatred bane of Nigeria’s unending troubles

    ‘Hatred bane of Nigeria’s unending troubles

    The Founder of Awamaridi C & S (Emerald), Lagos, Senior Prophet Solomon Jinadu, has said that Nigeria is wallowing in unending troubles because of the absence of love among the citizens.

    Jinadu disclosed this during a 14-day annual prayer and fasting of the church.

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    He, however, said Nigeria will survive the myriad of challenges confronting it.

    He admonished Nigerians, irrespective of tribes, culture, political affiliation to extend unconditional love to fellow citizens.

  • CCC Agidingbi Cathedral unveils harvest’s emblem

    CCC Agidingbi Cathedral unveils harvest’s emblem

    The Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Agidingbi Cathedral, Lagos Archdiocese, recently held a colorful ceremony to unveil the emblem for the church’s 44th harvest, titled ‘Wonders without numbers.’ The event marks the beginning of preparations for the annual celebration, which will culminate in the Harvest Thanksgiving on December 1, 2024.

    Speaking with The Nation, the Assistant Shepherd in Charge of the CCC, Agindigbi Cathedral Archdiocese, Superior Senior Evangelist Oluwatosin Taiwo, emphasized the deep spiritual significance of the harvest in Celestial Church tradition.

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    He described it as a profound act of worship and gratitude, symbolizing the connection between physical abundance and spiritual well-being.

    “Harvest to Celestial churches is very symbolic. It is a time of spiritual reflection, gratitude, and offering, deeply rooted in the church’s connection to both the physical and spiritual provision from God,”  Taiwo stated.

    He outlined a series of events leading up to the Harvest Thanksgiving, including a revival, symposium, praise night, Prophet and Prophetess Day, and Youth Day, all scheduled for the last week of November.

  • Lagos honours RCCG for advancing education, SDG initiatives

    Lagos honours RCCG for advancing education, SDG initiatives

    The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) LSC Omole, led by Pastor Adeola Abolaji, alongside RCCG Youth Province 1 under the leadership of Pastor Leke Adeboye, has received a prestigious award from the Lagos State Government.

    This recognition highlights the church’s significant contributions to education and its efforts towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across the state.

    The award was presented by Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, Lagos State Commissioner for Education, who was ably represented by Mr. Paul Legbeti, Director of Co-curriculum, Science and Technology from the Lagos State Education District 6.

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    This recognition highlights RCCG LSC Omole’s dedication to impactful interventions in critical sectors, especially in education, health, and youth empowerment.

    Speaking on the award, Pastor Adeola Abolaji expressed deep gratitude to the Lagos State Government, emphasizing the church’s continued commitment to contributing positively to society. “This recognition further encourages us to extend our hands in service and impact more lives through innovative and sustainable programs,” he said.