In 1993, amid the emerging crisis within Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Nigeria and Overseas, I, Ojo Emmanuel Ademola, dedicated myself intensively to fasting and prayers, demanding divine intervention. The Holy Spirit unequivocally revealed to me that the crisis’s root lay in human ambitions to assume roles that God had not intended for them. This revelation was crystal clear: God would decisively use His divine judgment to rectify these misalignments.

Divine Revelation and Encounter with Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola

After the profound revelation I experienced, I found myself spiritually uplifted to a celestial realm that can only be described as Paradise. In this divine setting, I was graced with the presence of the revered prophets from the era of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola. Each prophet I encountered was adorned in resplendent white garments, which radiated purity and the essence of divine presence, creating an atmosphere filled with holiness and serenity.

As I absorbed the significance of this gathering, I felt a deep yearning to engage with them. Summoning my courage, I requested an opportunity for an interview, and to my amazement, Apostle Babalola himself stepped forward. His presence was unique and awe-inspiring, enveloped in a glorious light that seemed to resonate with wisdom and authority.

During our meeting, Apostle Babalola shared three impactful statements that resonated deeply with me. He acknowledged the ongoing crisis we are experiencing and indicated that it would likely continue for some time. However, he instilled a sense of hope by asserting that this turmoil would eventually be resolved through a significant revival. His message was not just his own; it reflected a collective sentiment shared by all the prophets present, creating a powerful and unified expression of faith and assurance.

The speaker highlighted the urgent need for unity within the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), both in Nigeria and its international branches. This call for cohesiveness went beyond mere suggestion; it was a passionate appeal for collective action. He emphasized that by standing together in faith, the church could effectively navigate and overcome the challenges that lie ahead.

Upon returning from a powerful experience, I felt a strong obligation to share the messages I had received. I communicated these divine insights to Baba G. O. ‘Lagunju and subsequently to Pastor E. H. L. Olusheye. I understood that Baba ‘Lagunju’s leadership and wisdom were essential for guiding our community toward the revival and unity that Apostle Babalola had envisioned. He advised me to relay the message to Pastor Olusheye during that period.

Personal Reflection as the Current General Evangelist

Reflecting on my life’s journey, I find it both fascinating and humbling to consider the timeline of events that have shaped my spiritual path. I was born a decade after the passing of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, who is revered as the first General Evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Nigeria and overseas. His legacy has had a profound impact on the church and its mission.

Twelve years into my life, I experienced a transformative moment when I became born again, an event that would set the course for my future. This newfound faith took a significant turn in 1986 when I received the baptism of the Holy Spirit, which filled me with a sense of purpose and divine empowerment.

Fast forward to 2024, I reached the age of 55 and was chosen by the Holy Spirit to serve as the General Evangelist of CAC Nigeria and Overseas. It feels like a divine coincidence that I stepped into this role at the same age at which Apostle Babalola transitioned from this earthly life. This notable connection drives me to honor his legacy while fostering the church’s growth and outreach in my own capacity.

Legacy of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola

Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola was a prominent and influential leader in the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), renowned for his vital role in the church’s revivalist movement in the 1930s. His ministry particularly shone during the pivotal 1930 Oke-Ooye and Erio Revival, a significant event that transformed the spiritual landscape of the region. Babalola emphasized revival, healing, and deliverance in his teachings, addressing the deep spiritual needs of the people during that era.

At the core of his ministry was a compelling message centered on repentance, prayer, and a heartfelt return to biblical principles. He encouraged his congregants to pursue a deeper relationship with God, a journey he called the ‘Time of Power.’ This transformative period was marked by a profound outpouring of the Holy Spirit, enabling individuals to experience life-altering encounters that brought about divine healing and spiritual freedom.

Babalola was well-known for his healing abilities, which were evidenced by many accounts of miraculous recoveries and effective deliverances. His reputation as a spiritual leader was firmly established, as he placed a strong emphasis on faith in God, empowering his followers to navigate and overcome different types of spiritual challenges.

Babalola emphasized the importance of unity within the church, advocating for inclusivity and recognising diverse gifts and ministries. He encouraged members of the CAC to appreciate and embrace each other’s unique spiritual contributions, fostering a sense of community and collaboration in their shared mission.

Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola’s influence undeniably shaped the doctrines of the Christ Apostolic Church, establishing a robust foundation of sound biblical teaching. His sermons and theological insights powerfully emphasized the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and made it clear that leading a holy life in accordance with biblical standards is essential. Through his unwavering commitment to these principles, Babalola left a lasting impact on the CAC, inspiring generations of believers to actively pursue a vibrant and faith-driven life.

A Time of Power in CAC Today

Apostle Babalola’s lasting legacy stands as a profound source of inspiration for believers not just in Nigeria but around the globe. His innovative and visionary approach to spiritual revival and awakening has had a significant impact on countless lives, instilling a sense of hope and purpose among those seeking deeper connections with their faith. Many followers find themselves guided by his teachings and examples as they navigate their personal faith journeys, often drawing strength from his remarkable life story and unwavering dedication.

As the current General Evangelist, I am passionately dedicated to advancing the noble vision established by Apostle Babalola. My mission is to nurture the same spirit of revival he championed, ensuring his message continues to ignite the hearts of new generations of believers. I am committed to engaging with communities, fostering spiritual growth, and revitalizing faith practices that uplift individuals and draw them closer to God. Through collaborative efforts, outreach programs, and guidance, we strive to sustain the momentum of his transformative work and cultivate a vibrant faith experience for all.

My commitment is passionately dedicated to uniting believers and ushering in a transformative era of spiritual renewal within the CAC Nigeria and Overseas. This journey calls us to organize impactful outreach programs, strengthen fellowship among congregants, and cultivate deeper engagement with our faith.

We are committed to honoring the foundational principles established by Apostle Babalola while adapting to the evolving spiritual needs of our communities. Together, we will cultivate an environment where faith flourishes, inspiring a new generation to embrace a vibrant spiritual life.

Rallying the Remnant for Revival

This is a pivotal moment to unite the Remnant—those steadfast individuals who have resisted the seductive forces of division, pride, and self-aggrandizement. It is essential that the Remnant awakens with a sense of urgency, ready to bear the illuminating torch of revival and unity across our communities.

We are called to fervently advocate for a profound spiritual awakening—this is not a pursuit for our own personal recognition or self-serving benefits, but rather it is aimed at bringing the ultimate glory to God and restoring the integrity and vitality of His beloved Church. This awakening is envisioned as a collective movement, where every faithful servant, dedicated prayer warrior, and each believer who yearns to witness God’s transformative power at work must unite.

Together, we must foster a sense of harmony and purpose, aligning our hearts and minds to strive for spiritual renewal. This is a call to action, encouraging us to engage deeply in prayerful intercession and to actively seek God’s presence in our communities. We must not only seek personal transformation but also encourage others to experience the life-changing impact of faith. United in spirit and commitment, we can be instruments of change, paving the way for a revival that reflects God’s love and grace, ultimately leading to a rejuvenated Church that stands as a beacon of hope in the world.

The upcoming revival Is poised to exceed even the extraordinary spiritual movements of the 1930s at Oke Ooye, which were characterized by profound renewal and remarkable miracles. However, its success hinges on the commitment of the Remnant—those who are willing to respond to this divine call. We are encouraged to unite, fueled by a collective passion for God’s work, and dedicate ourselves to prayer, worship, and active participation. Through this commitment, we can expect to witness the manifestation of His kingdom among us, bringing healing, reconciliation, and a revitalized sense of hope.

Ademola is a dedicated Pastor, Professor, Journalist, and Protestant Theologian. He holds the esteemed position of General Evangelist for the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Nigeria and overseas, currently based in London.