He Died, Yet He Speaks: What Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola Would Say to CAC Nigeria and Overseas Today
He Died, Yet He Speaks: What Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola Would Say to CAC Nigeria and Overseas Today
By Ojo Emmanuel Ademola
In the dynamic spiritual landscape of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), both in Nigeria and beyond, one must ask: What would Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola assert if he were alive today? Though he left this world in 1959, his legacy powerfully reverberates through the corridors of Pentecostalism in Africa. His voice, though silenced by death, continues to resonate—imbued with authority, conviction, and an unmistakable sense of divine urgency.
Imagine a profound and sacred moment in history, where Apostle Babalola stands once again at the forefront of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC). His presence commands attention as he addresses a congregation grappling with a multitude of challenges: internal divisions that threaten unity, a drift from core doctrines that once anchored the faith, and an insatiable yearning for genuine spiritual revival.
As he surveys the faces of the faithful, Apostle Babalola, imbued with wisdom and divine authority, begins to speak. His voice resonates with passion, echoing the ancient truths of scripture while offering hope for the future. He acknowledges the struggles within the church, reminding the congregation that trials are part of the journey of faith. With fervor, he calls for a return to the foundational principles of the gospel, urging members to reevaluate their commitment and reignite their passion for Christ.
In this pivotal moment, he might share personal stories of perseverance and divine intervention, emphasizing the power of prayer and collective worship. He would challenge the church to embrace unity, trust in God’s transformative power, and actively seek revival through repentance and dedication. With a firm yet compassionate hand, he would guide them toward a renewed commitment to spiritual disciplines, urging everyone to engage deeply in prayer, fasting, and the study of the Word.
Drawing on his prophetic gift, Apostle Babalola would inspire the congregation to envision a vibrant future where the church thrives in authenticity, rooted in love and service. He would instill a sense of urgency, encouraging believers to step into their roles as ambassadors of Christ in their communities, to be the instruments of change they so desperately seek.
Essentially, he would pray fervently, invoking the Holy Spirit to awaken the hearts of the faithful, igniting a revival that echoes through the church and into the world, transforming lives and restoring hope. His message would linger long after he steps down, a call to action that resonates deeply within each heart present.
1. A Call to the Holy Spirit: The Wellspring of Power
Apostle Babalola’s ministry was characterized by a profound reliance on the Holy Spirit, igniting a passionate call for the church to return to its Pentecostal roots. In Acts 1:8, Jesus proclaimed, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…” This was not just a verse for Babalola; it was the very essence of his life and mission. He fervently encouraged the leaders and members of the Christ Apostolic Church to pursue the Spirit—not merely for miraculous signs and wonders but for deep transformation, unity among believers, and the courage to boldly share their faith. His message resonated with the heart of the church, urging everyone to embrace the dynamic power of the Holy Spirit in their everyday lives.
2. Revival Through the Word: Anchored in Scripture
Babalola’s teachings were firmly rooted in Scripture, and he passionately called on modern preachers to prioritize expository preaching over mere motivational speeches or hollow promises of wealth. Drawing inspiration from Paul’s powerful message to Timothy, “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction” (2 Timothy 4:2), Babalola underscored a vital truth: true and lasting revival depends on a solid foundation of sound doctrine.
3. Healing and Deliverance: A Ministry of Compassion
Throughout his life, Babalola was celebrated for the miraculous healings and deliverance he brought to many. Yet, what set his work apart was that these acts were never mere ends in themselves; they served as profound signs that pointed toward the Kingdom of God. He often reminded the members of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) that true healing is rooted in holiness and obedience, rather than in the theatrics of the moment. As emphasized in Mark 16:17-18, “These signs will accompany those who believe…”—healing emerges as a genuine expression of faith, not just a performance for show. His legacy resonates with the understanding that spiritual healing is intertwined with our commitment to faith and righteousness.
4. Unity in the Spirit: A Plea for Reconciliation
Amid a tumultuous period marked by considerable internal conflict within the organization, Babalola steps forward as a powerful advocate for unity and reconciliation. Demonstrating remarkable leadership qualities, he seeks to bridge divides and foster a sense of collaboration among members. His approach emphasizes understanding and dialogue, aiming to heal rifts and strengthen collective resolve during these challenging times. Babalola’s ability to inspire hope and cooperation makes him a pivotal figure in the pursuit of harmony within CAC.
The message emphasizes the importance of unity as expressed in John 17:21, where Jesus prays for all to be one. This unity is portrayed not just as a recommendation, but as a crucial sign of God’s presence among believers. Additionally, there is a strong call for leaders to exhibit humility, prioritizing the Gospel over personal ambitions. This insistence on collaboration and selflessness is vital for fostering a true sense of community and purpose within the faith.
5. Servant Leadership: The Model of Christ
Babalola’s leadership exemplified humility and sacrifice, embodying the principles of servant leadership as depicted by Christ in Matthew 20:26-28, which emphasizes that true greatness comes from serving others. He cautioned contemporary leaders about the pitfalls of clericalism and the pursuit of personal power, instead advocating for a focus on stewardship that prioritizes the values of the kingdom.
Members of CAC Nigeria and those living abroad are invited to wholeheartedly embrace a spirit of obedience, which is essential for personal and collective growth. We encourage everyone to actively seek a renewed sense of revival in their spiritual lives. This is more than just a call; it’s an urgent invitation to ignite our hearts with fervor and to unify our passions and purposes as one community. By coming together in faith and determination, we can cultivate an atmosphere of inspiration, commitment, and collective strength that will enhance our mission and deepen our connections. Let us strive together to uplift one another and fulfil our shared vision.
Conclusion: The Voice of the Remnant
Today, the CAC finds itself at a pivotal moment. The call from the Remnants for Revival and Unity goes beyond mere words—it is a holy invitation. Even though Apostle Babalola has long since passed, his voice continues to resonate. His life serves as a prophetic blueprint for what the church is meant to embody: a community that is filled with the Spirit, grounded in Scripture, united in purpose, and driven by mission.
We must listen intently to his words and respond with action. It is time to stand alongside the Remnants, those steadfast individuals who remain committed to the cause. Let us bring forth a renewed passion for revival, breathing life back into the flames of hope and transformation. We are called to journey down the age-old paths that have guided those before us, embracing their wisdom and strength. Though his physical presence has departed from this world, his spirit continues to resonate with us, reminding us that his message lives on and inspires us to persevere (Hebrews 11:4).
Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is an inspiring figure who embodies the roles of Pastor, Professor, Journalist, and Protestant Theologian. As the General Evangelist of CAC Nigeria and Overseas, he fervently shares messages of hope and faith, leaving a lasting impact on communities worldwide. His unique blend of expertise and unwavering commitment to service highlights his remarkable leadership in faith and education.
