Subject: On the Trending Comparison Between Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola and Prophet Elijah

Beloved in Christ,

In recent days, a Facebook Reel has circulated wherein a Pastor publicly claimed that Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola—the first General Evangelist of Christ Apostolic Church Nigeria and Overseas—is greater than the biblical Prophet Elijah. As the current General Evangelist of CAC Nigeria and Overseas, I find it necessary to address this matter with clarity, reverence, and doctrinal integrity.

Let it be clearly stated: there is no legitimate theological basis for comparing Apostle Babalola with Prophet Elijah. The Holy Scriptures do not support such a ranking of divine vessels. Elijah was a prophet of the Old Covenant, divinely commissioned to confront idolatry and call Israel back to Yahweh. Apostle Babalola, mightily used by God in the 20th-century Nigerian revival, operated under the New Covenant, pointing souls to Christ through holiness, signs, and wonders. Both were uniquely called, but the glory belongs to God alone, not to any man.

We are in a digital age where nearly every claim can trend. However, virality must never override veracity. Ministers of the Gospel must remain guarded, refraining from utterances that are not rooted in sound exegesis. The pulpit is not a platform for sensationalism—it is a sacred trust. We are called to preach Christ crucified, not to elevate personalities above the message of redemption.

Furthermore, some have asked whether the Roman Catholic Church could canonise Apostle Babalola. Canonisation within the Catholic tradition involves a formal process, typically reserved for those within its ecclesiastical framework. Apostle Babalola, though revered across denominations, was not Roman Catholic. Therefore, canonisation by the Roman Catholic Church is not applicable. Nonetheless, his legacy remains spiritually monumental within Pentecostal and evangelical circles, especially in Nigeria and the diaspora.

I speak now with pastoral urgency: Let us honour our fathers in the faith, but never at the expense of doctrinal purity. Let us uphold the Gospel, not personalities. Let us remain faithful stewards of the Word, rightly dividing truth and resisting the temptation to entertain or impress.

To all Pastors, Evangelists, and Ministers: remain guarded. Refrain from utterances that are not for exegesis. Preach Christ. Guard the sacred trust.

May we continue to uphold the integrity, unity, and spiritual excellence of the Church of Christ.

In His Service,

Ojo Emmanuel Ademola

General Evangelist, Christ Apostolic Church Nigeria and Overseas

JESUS IS LORD