Embracing Unity and Revival: The Call of Aaron’s Staff in CAC Nigeria and Overseas
By: Ojo Emmanuel Ademola
Amidst the backdrop of factionalism and discord within the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Nigeria and Overseas, a profound call to unity and revival echoes through the corridors of history. The tumultuous events of the first coup against the fathers in 1990 are a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between tradition and progress within the church. In this context, the timeless principles of seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance, upholding truth and integrity, and fostering genuine unity resonate as guiding beacons amidst the storm. As the church stands at the crossroads of its destiny, the imperative of spiritual discernment and unwavering faith beckons all factions and perspectives to come together to pursue a shared vision of revival and reconciliation.
Inquisitively, is the immediate solution for Revival and Unity in CAC Nigeria and Overseas indeed within reach by embracing God’s Absolute Preference, akin to the robust budding of Aaron’s staff? Yes, of course!
Firstly, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those who have taken the time to read and contemplate my first article as General Evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC). Your dedicated reading and insightful feedback have been great encouragement and motivation. As we delve deeper into the theme of “Embracing Pentecostal and Apostolic Traditions: A Pathway to Revival and Unity within the Christ Apostolic Church,” I am reminded of the profound truth that our God has an absolute preference.
In my previous article, I emphasised that through fervent prayer, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and a dedication to unity in faith, the Church will not only witness a revival of spiritual passion but also become a shining light of hope in a world that craves the transformative power of God. This message has resonated with many, and I am genuinely grateful for the feedback that has been received.
One notable piece of feedback that stands out is the plea for individuals and groups to return to the traditional path of prayer and follow the lead of the Holy Spirit. This pursuit is crucial, especially when different groups claim to be led by the Holy Spirit, often leading to division and discord. It is important to remember that our God has a definitive preference. Throughout history, God has shown His favour in various ways – He preferred to banish Adam from the Garden of Eden, acknowledged Abraham’s faith as righteousness, and selected Moses to lead His people. Ultimately, God chose to send His only Son to redeem the world.
Therefore, we must recognise that God has chosen to uphold phrases such as “Thus said The Lord” and “The Holy Spirit says” as assertions of His authority in our spiritual communication. While humans may sometimes use these phrases without divine backing, we must remain faithful and accept God’s truth, even if it means admitting our flaws.
As we strive for revival and unity within the CAC, it is crucial to remain open and responsive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. By allowing the Holy Spirit to direct and shape our prayers by God’s perfect will, we can experience a revival similar to the historical events of Oke-Oye and witness the Church’s unity flourish like Aaron’s staff.
Let us, therefore, dedicate ourselves to fervent prayer, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and unity in faith. By doing so, we will reignite our spiritual passion and become a beacon of hope in a world that desperately needs God’s transformative power. Let us embrace God’s absolute preference and allow His will to be fulfilled in our lives and the Christ Apostolic Church.
Could the theological approach to viewing God as the God of Absolute Preference, supported by relevant Bible references, offer valuable insights for the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Nigeria and Overseas? The theological concept of God as the God of Absolute Preference revolves around the idea that God has a specific and unchanging preference for certain things or ways of life. This can be seen in various instances throughout the Bible, where God clearly demonstrates His preference in how He interacts with His people.
In the Old Testament, God’s preference for obedience and faithfulness is highlighted in passages such as Deuteronomy 30:16, which says, “In that, I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in His ways, and to keep His commandments.” This reinforces the idea that God prefers His people to follow His commandments and walk in His ways.
Furthermore, in the New Testament, God’s preference for humility and service is exemplified in Philippians 2:3-8, which says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your interests but each of you to the interests of others.” This passage illustrates God’s preference for His people to be humble and to serve others.
When it comes to the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Nigeria and Overseas, applying the theological concept of God as the God of Absolute Preference can help guide the church in making decisions and setting priorities based on what aligns with God’s preferences. For example, CAC can promote unity, humility, obedience, faithfulness, and service within the church communities, as these qualities reflect God’s preference as seen in the Bible.
By emphasising these values and aligning their actions with God’s preferences, CAC in Nigeria and Overseas can strengthen their relationship with God, enhance communal unity, and promote spiritual growth among their members. Ultimately, by embracing God’s Absolute Preference, CAC can fulfil its mission to spread the Gospel, serve others, and bring glory to God in all aspects of its ministry and outreach efforts.
Is it possible that amidst the numerous factions within CAC Nigeria and Overseas, one faction may symbolically hold Aaron’s staff, poised to bloom and usher in a revitalising era of unity and revival within the Church? Delving deeper into this intriguing concept with the support of relevant Biblical references could provide profound insights.
The idea of one faction within the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Nigeria and Overseas holding Aaron’s staff, which will soon blossom robustly and carry the mantle of Revival and Unity of the Church, is a powerful metaphorical concept that draws on biblical imagery to symbolise leadership, revival, and unity.
The reference to Aaron’s staff blossoming robustly is reminiscent of the story in the book of Numbers, chapter 17, where God demonstrates his favour towards Aaron by causing his staff to blossom with buds, blossoms, and ripe almonds. This miraculous sign validated Aaron’s authority as the chosen leader appointed by God.
Similarly, in the context of the CAC, the faction that is said to hold Aaron’s staff could be seen as the chosen and anointed group that God has favoured to lead the church towards revival and unity. This faction may possess obedience, faithfulness, and alignment with God’s will, much like Aaron did in the biblical narrative.
The blossoming of Aaron’s staff also signifies the flourishing of God’s purposes and plans. In the same way, the faction within CAC that holds Aaron’s staff is expected to experience growth, development, and spiritual abundance, leading to a revival of fervour and zeal within the church.
Moreover, the symbolism of Aaron’s staff can also be linked to the theme of unity within the church. Aaron’s staff symbolises authority in the Bible, representing divine leadership and guidance. Therefore, the faction holding Aaron’s staff in CAC Nigeria and overseas may be called to unify the church under God’s authority and direction.
Ultimately, by embracing the symbolic significance of Aaron’s staff as a representation of leadership, revival, and unity, the faction within CAC can strive to fulfil God’s purposes and bring about a transformational revival that will unite the church and reignite the fervour of its members. The reference to Aaron’s staff is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and ability to bring about renewal and unity within His people.
Could the remnant, possessing Aaron’s staff, be on the cusp of a robust blossoming that will bring forth Revival and Unity to CAC Nigeria and Overseas? This intriguing notion begs further exploration for clarity and insight. Throughout the Bible, remnants have played a pivotal role in bringing about Revival and Unity. We see examples in the stories of Noah, Abraham, Moses, Elijah, and the early Christian church. These remnants, chosen by God for their faithfulness and dedication, often stood apart from the majority, carrying the message of repentance, restoration, and reconciliation. As we consider the remnant in possession of Aaron’s staff in CAC Nigeria and Overseas, we are reminded of the potential for a potent blossoming of Revival and Unity. The remnant’s commitment to following God’s will and willingness to stand firm in their beliefs can catalyse transformative change within the church community. By drawing inspiration from the biblical examples of remnants who brought about Revival and Unity, we can hope for a similar result in the present-day context of CAC Nigeria and Overseas.
I wonder, amidst the various factions and lineages of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola within CAC Nigeria and Overseas, could there be a unifying force under the timeless emblem of the CAC logo from its establishment in 1943 to the present day, bearing silent witness to the upheaval of the 1990 coup against the founding fathers? It is crucial that no one feels intimidated in this complex landscape. Let us tread carefully, seeking the discernment of the Holy Spirit in all our actions, remembering the scripture forewarning of Judgment commencing within God’s House.
Nonetheless, how can we address the prolonged crisis in CAC Nigeria and Overseas without losing sight of our faith, considering the biblical call to contend for the faith we embrace? As we navigate this turbulent journey towards peace and unity, let us not deceive ourselves or one another. Our goal is to foster unity under the divine guidance of the Holy Spirit, eschewing rebellion and deceit. We must humbly seek divine revelation on the appointed leaders for CAC Nigeria and Overseas, setting aside personal loyalties in favor of following the Spirit’s direction.
Sincerely, leadership within the Church must be built on truth, not rebellion or exploitation of the fathers’ vulnerabilities. Let us hold fast to the truth, trusting that it will prevail. Just as Aaron’s Staff flourished with vigour, may Revival and Unity manifest in CAC Nigeria and Overseas, ultimately thwarting the schemes of darkness and ushering in peace among the faithful.
Infused with the context of calling individuals from every faction and lineage of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola within the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Nigeria and Overseas, while retaining the historical logo of CAC from 1943 to the present, the narrative takes on a poignant depth. The turbulent events of the first coup against the fathers in 1990 serve as a backdrop, underscoring the delicate balance between tradition and progress within the church.
It is imperative that all perspectives and factions within CAC Nigeria and Overseas feel included and respected in this call to unity and revival. The appeal for harmonious collaboration is underscored by the need for spiritual guidance and discernment, as highlighted by the importance of seeking the Holy Spirit’s wisdom in all actions within the church.
Addressing the current crisis within CAC with a keen awareness of the spiritual implications, the plea for transparency and honesty in communication is emphasised. The invitation to prayerfully seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance on the path towards unity and revival serves as a unifying force, transcending personal affiliations or loyalties.
The call to discern the true leadership guided by the Holy Spirit reflects a deeper commitment to upholding the foundational values of the church, rooted in truth and integrity. The rejection of rebellious or deceitful methods of attaining leadership underscores the belief that unity and revival must be founded on principles of righteousness and authenticity.
The analogy of Aaron’s staff blossoming robustly is invoked as a symbol of the imminent revival and unity within CAC Nigeria and Overseas. This optimistic vision of the church’s future is grounded in faith and the belief that truth will prevail over falsehood, ultimately bringing peace and harmony to the entire congregation, whilst thwarting the strategies of the adversary.
Essentially, the core message reverberates the urgency of upholding spiritual integrity, seeking divine guidance, and fostering a genuine spirit of unity within CAC Nigeria and Overseas. The overarching theme of renewal and reconciliation remains central to the narrative, as the church navigates through a season of transformation and restoration, anchored in faith and humility.
Conclusively, in the tapestry of CAC Nigeria and Overseas, woven with the threads of history, faith, and devotion, a new chapter beckons—a chapter of unity, revival, and reconciliation. As we navigate the complexities of our current reality, let us heed the call to seek the face of the Holy Spirit, uphold the principles of truth and integrity, and forge a path towards genuine unity. Just as Aaron’s staff blossomed robustly, heralding a season of revival and unity, let us stand firm in our faith, united in purpose, and guided by the divine light that illuminates our path. May the CAC Nigeria and Overseas emerge more substantial and united, carrying the mantle of revival and unity with grace, humility, and unwavering faith. The journey towards unity and revival is not without its challenges, but with faith as our compass and love as our guiding principle, we shall overcome, and the glory of God shall be magnified in our midst.
Ojo Emmanuel Ademola, a Pastor and the General Evangelist of CAC Nigeria and Overseas, writes from London
