“A lot of things are wrong in the leadership essence of Christ Apostolic Church in modern times. Avarice, pride, love of position. It was not like the days of our fathers. However, the new CAC that we are expecting must be born in the womb of prayers, so that God will remove the removable.” (Prophet Peter Olajide Owolabi)

The message serves as a powerful call to action for all members and leaders of the Christ Apostolic Church, emphasizing the urgent need to address the serious issues plaguing leadership within the church. It portrays the current state of leadership not as a discreet problem but as a significant threat that could undermine the church’s apostolic heritage and spiritual integrity. This call to vigilance is framed as a rallying cry for collective responsibility and renewal within the faith community.

The Crisis of Essence

The current crisis we face is not rooted in organizational issues but rather in a spiritual decline. We observe a troubling shift where avarice has taken the place of selfless sacrifice, pride has overshadowed humility, and the pursuit of status has replaced the genuine love for others. This stark contrast to the values upheld by our forebears is concerning. The patriarchs of the CAC, who approached God with deep reverence, did not seek personal glory through their work. Instead, they dedicated themselves to building movements grounded in prayer and humility, focusing on spiritual growth rather than personal titles or empires.

The Brand Is Bleeding

CAC, once hailed for its vibrant revival spirit, prophetic integrity, and profound theological insights, finds itself grappling with significant challenges that threaten its credibility and mission. Many observers and church members alike are becoming increasingly aware of the troubling internal conflicts and power struggles that have surfaced within its leadership ranks. These internal divisions, coupled with alarming spiritual compromises, have begun to erode the strong foundation of faith that characterized the church in its earlier days.

Throughout history, CAC has significantly influenced both individuals and communities through its passionate dedication to prayer and a steadfast commitment to fostering spiritual growth. This profound impact has inspired countless believers to deepen their faith and engage more meaningfully with their spiritual journeys. However, as contemporary challenges and issues begin to surface within this context, we are compelled to confront a vital and urgent question: What kind of example are we truly setting for the next generation of believers? Are we equipping them with the values and practices that will sustain their faith in an ever-changing world? It’s essential that we reflect on our actions and the legacy we leave behind, ensuring that it resonates with the principles we hold dear and encourages the younger generation to thrive in their own spiritual paths.

Given the profound heritage that the church embodies, it is imperative for its leadership and community to engage in a thorough examination of its current path. This introspection is crucial, as it will help identify both the strengths and weaknesses that have shaped the church’s standing in society. Taking deliberate and meaningful steps toward restoring the church’s integrity and enhancing its influence within the community is not just an immediate necessity; it is a long-term commitment to uphold the values and traditions that have been cultivated over generations.

Such reflection should encompass a broad range of factors, including the church’s engagement with its members, its outreach efforts, and its role in addressing contemporary issues facing the congregation and the wider community. By fostering open dialogues and encouraging participation from various stakeholders, the church can better align its mission with the needs and aspirations of those it serves.

This process is not solely about preserving the church’s legacy; it is also fundamentally tied to the spiritual growth and nurturing of future generations. Young people, in particular, often look to the church as a cornerstone for guidance, inspiration, and moral support. Therefore, it is essential that the church evolves in a way that resonates with them, offering relevant teachings and programs that connect with their experiences and challenges. Ultimately, by prioritising reflection and action, the church can cultivate a vibrant community that honours its past while actively shaping a hopeful future.

The New CAC Must Be Born in Prayer

We don’t merely require a rebranding; we are in dire need of a profound rebirth, one that is rooted in heartfelt prayers and spiritual convictions rather than mere corporate strategies. For the new CAC to truly manifest, it must undergo a thorough cleansing of detrimental elements and negative attitudes that have obstructed our collective spiritual growth. This transformation necessitates a courageous return to the core values of holiness and simplicity, a process that will undoubtedly be refined through the challenges we face, and anchored firmly in the prophetic insights and purity of our faith rather than in fleeting political ambitions.

Every assembly should evolve into a sanctuary for new beginnings, a sacred space where revival can flourish. In this context, leaders must embrace the role of midwives of revival, guiding and nurturing the spiritual awakening of our community. They should actively encourage all members to earnestly pursue the eradication of anything that distracts from our divine purpose, promoting an atmosphere of unity, prayer, and commitment to our spiritual journey. By fostering an environment where every individual feels empowered to contribute to this transformative process, we can collectively create a thriving community dedicated to genuine spiritual growth and renewal.

Renewal Pentecostal Insight: Reclaiming Apostolic Fire

The journey to restore the leadership essence of the CAC is fundamentally rooted in the principles of Renewal Pentecostal theology. This theological framework demands a decisive return to a governance model that is led by the Holy Spirit, accompanied by a steadfast commitment to prophetic integrity and an unwavering pursuit of holiness. Instead of simply critiquing the current state of decline within the church, this approach is poised to catalyse authentic and transformative change that will revitalize the community’s spiritual vitality.

In this context, leaders are unambiguously echoing the Apostle Paul’s exhortation to Timothy, compelling them to reignite the divine gifts bestowed upon them. They are called to revive the apostolic fervour that once defined their assemblies, characterized by a vibrant relationship with God that drives both collective action and spiritual growth. Renewal Pentecostalism asserts that true leadership must firmly stem from spiritual guidance, not from political manoeuvring or personal ambition. It underscores the undeniable truth that it is ultimately God’s Spirit that empowers and directs authentic leadership.

This theology inspires a profound shift from secular ambitions and self-serving interests, encouraging leaders to embody a model of servanthood that reflects the example of Jesus Christ. He taught that true greatness lies in humility and in serving others, rather than pursuing power for its own sake.

In this revitalized framework, prayer stands as the foundational bedrock for all endeavours, fostering a profound communion with God that decisively informs decision-making and empowers ministry. Prophecy assumes a crucial role in providing direction and insight, steering the church in its mission and enabling a clear discernment of God’s will in diverse situations. Moreover, holiness not only establishes the benchmark for individual conduct but also serves as a communal ethic, firmly reinforcing the church’s identity as a reflection of divine character.

The Remnant movement emphasizes the CAC dedication to revitalizing its foundational principles to tackle contemporary challenges. Rather than being seen as a relic of past revivals, the church aims to emerge as a dynamic force. It is committed to transforming lives and communities by harnessing the steadfast influence of God’s Spirit among its members, reinforcing its role as a vital source of Pentecostal inspiration and power.

A Call to Action

The message serves as a powerful call for sincere dedication and renewal within the CAC in Nigeria and its branches overseas. It encourages every member to take a moment for self-reflection and to acknowledge any past mistakes they may have made. This process of introspection is framed as crucial for fostering repentance, which is essential for personal and communal healing.

The message boldly asserts the need to confront and repair existing divisions within CAC, emphasizing that reconciliation is essential for achieving true unity. It demands that individuals take an active role in restoring integrity wherever it has been undermined, urging a strong, collective commitment to uphold the values and principles that define the organization.

At the core of this message lies a powerful idea: the future of CAC isn’t just shaped by its leaders. It’s truly the humble heart and steadfast commitment of its members that will guide the organization forward. Those who sincerely seek strength and wisdom through prayer and God’s grace are the ones who hold the key to our collective journey. This message encourages each of us to step up and actively cultivate a spirit of collaboration and renewal. Together, as a united community in faith, we can create a brighter path for CAC!

Final Benediction

May the Lord inspire a new generation of leaders—fiery, humble, and courageous. May the essence of CAC be renewed not through human efforts, but by divine intervention. And may our prayers bring forth a church that embodies the true spirit of Christ Apostolic once more.