The Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Nigeria and Overseas is currently facing significant challenges in its spiritual journey. The church’s foundation, rooted in the legacy of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, who was instrumental in the apostolic revival in Nigeria, is now being threatened by materialism and divisions in leadership. To navigate this critical juncture, there is a pressing need for the church to reconnect with its original apostolic values, which once fostered unity and sparked revival throughout the nation.

Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola: A Model of Apostolic Leadership

Apostle Babalola’s ministry was marked by exceptional spiritual discipline, genuine humility, and an unwavering commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ. He traveled extensively, often journeying great distances on foot to reach communities in dire need. Throughout his travels, he boldly preached a message of hope and salvation, healed the sick, and performed miracles through prayer, all while resolutely rejecting any pursuit of material wealth or personal gain.

“One of his most famous declarations, ‘Silver and gold I have none, but what I have I give to you: In Jesus’ Name, rise and walk,’ exemplifies a profound rejection of materialism and a complete reliance on the divine power within him. This statement highlights his unwavering commitment to faith over worldly riches and stands as a powerful testament to the transformative power of belief in Christ.”

Apostle Babalola’s leadership style was profoundly anchored in prayer, fasting, and holiness. His unwavering commitment to sanctity and devotion set an inspiring standard for those who followed him. His life encouraged countless individuals to seek a deeper spiritual journey and actively serve others, embodying the principles of love, compassion, and faith that he championed. The influence of his ministry endures, shaping the spiritual journeys of generations to come.

Leadership Values During the Church Fathers Era

The founding era of CAC was marked by the inspiring vision of leaders like Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, who laid down core principles that would become the bedrock of the church’s identity and mission. Central to their philosophy was the concept of servant leadership—an idea that leaders should selflessly place the needs of their congregation above their own ambitions or the allure of recognition.

The journey didn’t end there; spiritual accountability took center stage. These pioneering leaders recognized that integrity and transparency were far more than noble ideals—they were the bedrock of their mission. They believed that by embodying these values, their actions would harmonize with biblical teachings and strengthen the core beliefs of the church. Their vision was clear: to cultivate a vibrant community where faith and leadership were seamlessly intertwined, fostering an atmosphere of trust and genuine spiritual growth that would inspire all.

The process of selecting church leaders was deeply rooted in specific criteria that emphasized spiritual maturity and an authentic sense of divine calling. Rather than focusing on material wealth, social status, or external influence, the emphasis was placed on qualities that reflected a strong character and a profound commitment to God. This thoughtful approach created a nurturing environment where individuals were acknowledged and respected for their integrity, dedication to the faith, and ability to guide others spiritually. Consequently, the church became a place where leadership was defined by one’s moral and ethical standing, fostering a community that valued faithfulness and resilience over financial success or popularity among peers. This emphasis ensured that leaders were genuinely invested in their congregations, promoting a culture of support, growth, and spiritual development.

The CAC was originally conceived as a dynamic and Influential movement aimed at spiritual revival. Its primary purpose is to cultivate a profound sense of spiritual awakening and empowerment among its members, emphasizing personal and communal growth rather than operating solely as an institution driven by financial interests. This dedication to prophetic revival has fostered an environment rich in trust and cohesion within the church community.

At the heart of this movement is a shared commitment among members to a collective vision that prioritizes the advancement of God’s kingdom. United in their mission, they focus on spreading the gospel’s message and serving others through various outreach programs and community service initiatives. This collaborative spirit not only strengthens their bond but also serves as a catalyst for individual faith development.

By establishing a vibrant and supportive community, the CAC lays a strong foundation that promotes both growth and sustainability for the church. Members are encouraged to nurture their spiritual gifts, participate actively in church activities, and engage with one another in meaningful ways. This holistic approach to ministry cultivates a sense of belonging and purpose, which further fuels the church’s mission and enhances the overall impact of its outreach efforts. Ultimately, the CAC seeks to create an environment where believers can thrive spiritually and contribute positively to society.

Implications of Division in CAC Leadership

The divisions that began to surface in the 1990s have had a profound impact on the spiritual authority and public witness of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC). This fragmentation has not only resulted in doctrinal inconsistencies but has also given rise to leadership rivalries that undermine the church’s cohesion and effectiveness. As differing interpretations and practices emerged, the clarity of the church’s core beliefs and teachings became muddled, leading to confusion among both members and those observing from the outside.

The prevailing lack of unity within the congregation has significantly hampered the potential for a meaningful spiritual revival. This division creates a challenging environment as members of the community find it increasingly difficult to unite in faith and a shared purpose. The discord is particularly disheartening for younger generations, who may feel alienated from a church that appears to be fragmented and lacks a coherent, collective vision. This disconnect creates a sense of disenchantment, diminishing their enthusiasm for engaging in a vibrant spiritual life.

As a consequence, the church’s once-strong apostolic mandate, which had been a hallmark of its mission and outreach, now feels weakened and diluted. The absence of a strong, unified voice hinders the ability to inspire both current and potential members to embrace their faith fully. Navigating the complexities of spiritual life within the Christian community has become an increasingly arduous task, ultimately acting as a barrier to both personal growth and effective outreach efforts. This situation underscores the urgent need for reconciliation and renewal within the church to revitalize its mission and foster a welcoming atmosphere for all members, especially the youth.

Broken Strategies and Leadership Values Needing Restoration

To foster revival and unity within the CAC, it is crucial to tackle several ineffective strategies and leadership values that have emerged. Key issues include the replacement of genuine spiritual calling with political appointments, the commercialization of spiritual gifts and services, and a focus on personal gain rather than the collective mission. Additionally, there has been a significant neglect of foundational practices such as prayer, fasting, and holiness in the formation of leaders. To achieve true restoration, the organization must embrace repentance, re-align with apostolic principles, and renew its commitment to servant leadership.

In this pivotal hour for CAC Nigeria and Overseas, the call to Renewal Pentecostal Theology transcends academia—it resonates with prophecy, pastoral care, and urgency. The subtitle, “Broken Strategies and Leadership Values Needing Restoration,” reflects the timeless lament of Jeremiah: “The shepherds have become dull-hearted, and have not sought the Lord; therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered” (Jeremiah 10:21).

The Renewal Pentecostal perspective urges us to address the Issues within leadership through spiritual insight and theological understanding. Historically grounded in passionate apostolic principles, some leadership approaches have become hindered by bureaucratic stagnation. The values that once reflected Christ’s humility and prophetic courage are now at risk of being compromised for the sake of convenience within institutions. Nevertheless, there remains an opportunity for renewal, as the Spirit continues to inspire a new beginning within the Christian community.

We must decisively return to the ancient paths: “Stand in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; then you will find rest for your souls” (Jeremiah 6:16). This goes beyond mere nostalgia—it is a vital theological recalibration. Renewal Pentecostal Theology asserts that revival is not just an emotional experience but a profound structural transformation. It demands the replacement of ineffective strategies with Spirit-led governance and insists that leadership be firmly rooted in holiness, vision, and a commitment to servanthood. Let us embrace this call with unwavering confidence.

The early CAC leaders, despite often lacking formal qualifications, possessed profound insights into pneumatology. Their approaches were rooted in prayer, fasting, and a commitment to prophetic guidance. It is essential for us today to embrace and carry forward that legacy. As the Apostle Paul encouraged Timothy, “Fan into flame the gift of God… For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:6–7).

Restoration starts with repentance, as highlighted in Malachi 3:7, where the Lord invites us to return to Him for His return to us. This process is followed by reforming our leaders, emphasizing the importance of instilling not just theological knowledge but also spiritual integrity and visionary leadership. To achieve this, the CAC Tule mentoring scheme needs revitalization, aiming to cultivate leaders who are both doctrinally sound and prophetically insightful.

Restoration will lead to a powerful revival. “Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You?” (Psalm 85:6). This revival must be comprehensive, impacting governance, outreach, youth mobilization, and doctrinal clarity. It will be characterized by the fruit of the Spirit and the fire of Pentecost.

It is time for the broken to be healed. The weary will be renewed. CAC Nigeria and Overseas will rise again—not by might, nor by power, but by the Spirit of the Lord (Zechariah 4:6). The trumpet has sounded, and the remnant must act decisively. The glory will return!

Unity in the Early Decades vs. Division in Recent Times

From the 1930s until 1985, CAC underwent a transformative period marked by an exceptional sense of unity. During this time, the church was guided by cohesive and visionary leadership that inspired its members and fostered a deep spiritual connection among them. This era was also distinguished by a series of powerful revivals that invigorated the congregation and drew new devotees, as believers experienced profound encounters that deeply affirmed their faith. Such fervent spirituality fueled not only a strong sense of identity among the members but also enabled the church to expand rapidly across various regions, solidifying its presence in the community and beyond.

Starting in the 1990s, CAC began to encounter a series of significant challenges that have impacted its stability and cohesion. These challenges include unresolved crises that have surfaced periodically, leading to increased tensions within the congregation. Leadership disputes have arisen, causing divisions among key figures and contributing to a lack of consensus on various theological and operational matters. As a result, multiple factions have emerged, each with its own interpretations and agendas, which have fractured the unity that was once a hallmark of the church.

This internal discord has not only resulted in legal battles over governance and property but has also contributed to a confusing landscape of doctrine. The absence of a clear and unified set of beliefs has diluted the church’s teachings, making it difficult for members to find common ground. Consequently, the fervour for revival that once characterised CAC has significantly diminished, and the church’s influence in local and broader communities has waned.

Given these challenges, CAC must decisively reflect on its foundational principles. The church can effectively tackle these pressing issues by re-embracing the core values of prayer, humility, holiness, and unity that initially shaped its mission. Reinforcing these essential tenets will empower CAC to restore its original purpose and rebuild the strong, cohesive community that has always defined it. This return to foundational values will not only inspire renewed commitment among members but will also reignite the powerful revival spirit that has historically characterized the church.

Conclusion: A Call to Apostolic Restoration

The revival promised to CAC through Apostle Babalola is within our grasp. Yet, to attain it, we must embrace apostolic unity and uphold leadership values that are proper to the church’s foundational principles. By distancing ourselves from materialism, reinstating spiritual discipline, and honouring the legacy of our founders, we can realise the covenantal revival. In doing so, CAC can shine once more as a beacon of divine power and holiness, reaching beyond Nigeria to inspire the world.