CAC stands as a testament to divine purpose and fervent prayers, a beacon of spiritual light dispelling darkness across the world. From its inception, CAC has upheld the truth of the Gospel with unshakable conviction, serving as a sanctuary for those seeking spiritual liberation and deliverance from apostasy. However, the journey has not been without challenges. The crisis that erupted in 1990, fueled by unchecked ambition and deviation from the humble foundations laid by the church’s pioneers, led to disunity and fragmentation. Today, as we face the significant challenges of leadership disputes, ethical practices, administrative dysfunction, and the need for spiritual revival, the call for restoration and unity within CAC is more urgent than ever. This piece explores the path towards “One Fold One Shepherd,” emphasizing the importance of unifying around the Certificate of Incorporation of 1985, number 147, as a cornerstone for healing and renewal.

CAC is deeply rooted in divine purpose and fervent prayers. Its origin was not a mere coincidence but a divine response to the cries of saints longing for spiritual liberation and deliverance from the darkness of apostasy. From its inception, CAC has served as a beacon of light, shining brightly across the world, dispelling spiritual darkness, and upholding the truth of the Gospel with unshakable conviction.

However, as with any vessel of divine power, opposition has inevitably risen. The enemy of righteousness, Satan himself, is not ignorant of the power of God within CAC. He has worked tirelessly to undermine the unity and integrity of the church. The crisis that erupted in 1990 was not born out of necessity, but rather stemmed from unchecked ambition, overzealous leadership, and a deviation from the humble spiritual foundation laid by the pioneers of the church. The fallout from this period led to avoidable disunity and fragmentation.

Over the years, various actions—some ungodly and unethical—have been mistakenly perceived as progress. In reality, many of these actions have contradicted the spirit and principles that governed the church at its founding. These deviations have contributed to a distorted sense of fruitfulness and success, which, while externally appealing, are misaligned with the true values of the kingdom of God. Though the church appears divided, God’s covenant with CAC remains steadfast. It is this enduring covenant that has sustained the church, even in its fragmented state.

The period of crisis within the church can be likened to the exile of Israel as recorded in the Bible. Despite flourishing in a foreign land, the Israelites never lost sight of the importance of returning to Jerusalem—their covenant land. Likewise, while various factions within CAC have continued to operate and even grow, the need for restoration and return to the original divine blueprint remains paramount. History remembers faithful men like Nehemiah, Ezra, and Daniel—men who longed for and worked toward the restoration of God’s people. Such a call for spiritual restoration is once again timely and necessary for CAC today.

The time for restoration is now. Enough is enough. We have endured decades of disunity, internal crises, falsification of records, unethical practices, and the undermining of the foundational truths of the church. The vision of our spiritual forefathers is being diluted, and the legacy they left behind is being misrepresented. A genuine desire to return to the foundational principles and unity of CAC must now guide every decision and action going forward.

To address this division, there is a pressing need for all parties to come together in truth and humility to access the original, unaltered certificate of incorporation—the only authentic foundation upon which unity can be built. With this as a reference point, a mutual and transparent agreement can be reached concerning the way forward, particularly regarding the legal and spiritual renewal of the church.

The primary obstacle to unity has been the issue of leadership. Despite multiple peace meetings and negotiations, disputes persist over who should lead, which faction should be at the helm, and how positions should be distributed. These questions, though significant, should not supersede the greater call to unity in Christ.

If true healing and reconciliation are to take place, it is essential for all current leaders to lay down their positions for the sake of Christ and the future of His church. We must collectively return to the ancient landmark of CAC Nigeria and Overseas.

This new dispensation should begin with a spiritual revival that will cut across all CAC assemblies globally. A season of prayer, fasting, and sincere supplication should be declared—a time for the church to seek God’s face and await His direction. During this period, retired pastors alive should be fully recalled across all factions.

For far too long, CAC has operated without a unified administrative structure. This lack of structure has led to serious dysfunction in the governance and overall growth of the church. Essentially, this period offers a unique opportunity to rebuild a strong and sustainable organizational framework.

A restructured administrative system should include clearly defined leadership roles, transparent record-keeping, effective conflict resolution mechanisms, and accountability protocols at all levels. There should also be a renewed emphasis on pastoral ethics, spiritual training, and the mentoring of the next generation of leaders.

Furthermore, this structure should not be merely bureaucratic but spiritually guided, grounded in the principles that defined the early church and the values upheld by the founding fathers of CAC—unity, humility, holiness, prayer, and absolute dependence on the Holy Spirit.

In rebuilding, we must also return to the unity and spiritual values cherished by our forefathers. The early leaders of CAC were united in spirit and purpose. Their relationships were not based on competition or ambition but on mutual respect, shared burdens, and a common goal—to glorify Christ and spread the Gospel. The current generation must learn from their example and rekindle the old religion that prioritized God above all else.

The path forward is not easy, but it is possible. If the church can look beyond personal ambitions and human politics, and instead fix its eyes on Christ, the author and finisher of our faith, restoration will come. A new chapter will be written in the history of CAC—one of unity, power, and spiritual revival.

Let it be said that this generation chose Revelation, Renewal and Revival over rivalry, Peace, Unity and Glorious manifestation over pride, and Purpose fulfilling, Destine actuality and Perseverance of faith over politics. The time for healing is now. Enough is enough.

CAC, apparently, faces several significant challenges today:

1. Leadership Disputes: The church is divided under multiple leadership structures, leading to conflicts over authority and governance. This fragmentation has hindered unified decision-making and progress.

2. Unity and Restoration: There is a pressing need for spiritual and organisational restoration. The divisions within the church have diluted the foundational principles and vision of the early leaders, creating a fragmented and less effective ministry.

3. Ethical Practices: Over the years, some actions perceived as progress have contradicted the church’s original spirit and principles. These unethical practices have led to a distorted sense of success, misaligned. with the true values of the kingdom of God.

4. Administrative Structure: CAC has operated without a unified administrative framework, leading to dysfunction in governance and overall growth. Rebuilding a strong and sustainable organizational structure is crucial for the church’s future

5. Spiritual Revival: There is a need for a renewed emphasis on spiritual revival across all CAC assemblies worldwide. This includes prayer, fasting, and sincere supplication to seek God’s direction and restore the church’s spiritual vitality.

Addressing these challenges requires a collective effort to return to the foundational principles, prioritise unity, and rebuild the church’s structure with integrity and spiritual guidance.

To chart the path towards “One Fold One Shepherd” for CAC Nigeria and Overseas, we need to address the significant challenges facing the church today. Here’s a structured approach to achieving unity and restoration:

1. Resolving Leadership Disputes
Steps:
– Unified Leadership Council: Establish a transitional leadership council comprising respected, neutral senior pastors from all factions. This council will oversee the unification process.
– Transparent Dialogue: Facilitate open and honest discussions among all leaders to address grievances and build trust.
– Interim Leadership: Appoint interim leaders who are widely respected and neutral to guide the church through the transition period.

2. Promoting Unity and Restoration
Steps:
– Spiritual Revival: Declare a season of prayer, fasting, and supplication across all CAC assemblies to seek divine guidance and foster spiritual renewal.
– Reconciliation Programs: Organize reconciliation retreats and workshops to heal past wounds and promote forgiveness and unity.
– Covenant Renewal: Reaffirm the church’s commitment to its foundational principles and divine covenant through special services and ceremonies.

3. Ensuring Ethical Practices
Steps:
– Ethical Guidelines: Develop and enforce a comprehensive code of ethics for all church leaders and members.
– Accountability Mechanisms: Establish transparent accountability systems to monitor and address unethical practices.
– Training and Education: Conduct regular training sessions on ethical leadership and governance for all church officials.

4. Rebuilding Administrative Structure
Steps:
– Unified Administrative Framework: Design and implement a unified administrative structure with clearly defined roles and responsibilities.
– Effective Record-Keeping: Introduce transparent and efficient record-keeping systems to ensure accurate documentation and accountability.
– Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Develop robust conflict resolution protocols to address disputes promptly and fairly.

5. Fostering Spiritual Revival
Steps:
– Revival Services: Organize regular revival services and spiritual retreats to reignite the church’s spiritual fervor.
– Discipleship Programs: Implement discipleship and mentoring programs to nurture the next generation of spiritual leaders.
– Community Outreach: Engage in community outreach initiatives to demonstrate the church’s commitment to serving others and spreading the Gospel.

Path Forward:
By addressing these challenges with a focused and prayerful approach, CAC Nigeria and Overseas can move towards becoming “One Fold One Shepherd.” This journey requires humility, dedication, and a collective effort to prioritize unity and spiritual integrity above all else.

To those who rose to factional leadership through rebellion or by exploiting vulnerabilities, here is some advice rooted in humility, repentance, and a genuine desire for unity and restoration:

1. Acknowledge Past Actions
– Self-Reflection: Take time to reflect on your actions and their impact on the church. Recognize the ways in which rebellion or exploitation has contributed to division and discord.
– Public Confession: Consider making a public confession of past wrongdoings. This act of humility can pave the way for healing and reconciliation within the church community.

2. Seek Forgiveness
– Repentance: Sincerely repent for any actions that have caused harm to the church and its members. True repentance involves a change of heart and a commitment to making amends.
– Ask for Forgiveness: Approach those you have wronged, including the church fathers and fellow leaders, and ask for their forgiveness. This step is crucial in rebuilding trust and fostering unity.

3. Promote Unity
– Reconciliation Efforts: Actively participate in reconciliation efforts. Engage in dialogue with other factions and work towards bridging gaps and healing divisions.
– Support Unified Leadership: Support the establishment of a unified leadership structure. Be willing to step aside if necessary to allow for a new, united leadership to emerge.

4. Commit to Ethical Leadership
– Adhere to Ethical Standards: Commit to upholding the highest ethical standards in your leadership. This includes transparency, accountability, and integrity in all actions.
– Lead by Example: Demonstrate ethical leadership by setting a positive example for others to follow. Show that true leadership is about serving others and prioritizing the well-being of the church.

5. Focus on Spiritual Revival
– Engage in Spiritual Practices: Participate in prayer, fasting, and other spiritual practices to seek God’s guidance and strength. A renewed focus on spirituality can help realign your leadership with the church’s divine mission.
– Encourage Revival: Encourage and support efforts to foster spiritual revival within the church. This includes promoting unity, holiness, and a deep dependence on the Holy Spirit.

6. Embrace Humility
– Humility in Leadership: Embrace a humble approach to leadership. Recognize that true leadership is about serving others and advancing the mission of the church, not personal ambition.
– Learn from the Past: Learn from past mistakes and use those lessons to guide your future actions. Strive to build a legacy of unity, integrity, and spiritual growth.

By taking these steps, those who have risen to leadership through rebellion or exploitation can contribute to the healing and restoration of Christ Apostolic Church. The path to “One Fold One Shepherd” requires humility, repentance, and a collective commitment to unity and spiritual renewal.

Unifying around the Certificate of Incorporation of 1985, number 147, is highly significant for CAC Nigeria and Overseas at this time. Here are the key reasons:

1. Legal Foundation
– Authenticity: The 1985 Certificate of Incorporation represents the original, unaltered legal foundation of the church. It is crucial for establishing the legitimacy and continuity of CAC Nigeria and Overseas.
– Resolution of Disputes: Accessing and recognising this certificate can help resolve disputes over the authenticity of leadership and governance structures. It provides a clear reference point for all factions to align with.

2. Symbol of Unity
– Common Ground: The certificate serves as a common ground for all factions. By unifying around this document, the church can move towards a single, cohesive leadership structure undisputed.
– Restoration of Trust: Embracing the original certificate can restore trust among members and leaders, fostering a sense of shared purpose and commitment to the foundational principles that the church fathers hold profoundly.

3. Spiritual Significance
– Divine Covenant: The certificate symbolizes the enduring covenant between God and CAC. Unifying around it reaffirms the church’s commitment to its divine mission and spiritual values.
– Renewal of Vision: It provides an opportunity to return to the original vision and principles laid down by the church’s pioneers, promoting spiritual revival and renewal.

4. Administrative Clarity
– Clear Governance: Establishing the certificate as the central document can lead to clearer governance and administrative practices. It helps in defining roles, responsibilities, and accountability within the church.
– Conflict Resolution: It can serve as a basis for developing effective conflict resolution mechanisms, ensuring that disputes are handled transparently and fairly.

Path Forward
To achieve “One Fold One Shepherd,” CAC Nigeria and Overseas must prioritise unifying around the Certificate of Incorporation of 1985. This involves:
– Accessing the Original Certificate: Ensuring that all factions have access to the original, unaltered certificate.
– Transparent Dialogue: Facilitating open discussions to address grievances and build consensus around the certificate.
– Commitment to Unity: Leaders and members must commit to the principles and vision embodied in the certificate, prioritising unity and spiritual integrity.

By taking these steps, CAC can move towards a unified, spiritually vibrant, and administratively sound future.

The theological evidence for unifying around the Certificate of Incorporation of 1985, number 147, in the custody of the Supreme Council, can be supported by several biblical principles and teachings:

1. Unity in the Body of Christ
– Scriptural Basis: The Bible emphasizes the importance of unity among believers. Ephesians 4:3-6 calls for believers to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit… one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
– Application: Unifying around the original certificate symbolizes a commitment to the foundational unity of the church, reflecting the biblical mandate for oneness in Christ.

2. Restoration and Return to Ancient Landmarks
– Scriptural Basis: Proverbs 22:28 advises, “Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your ancestors.” This principle underscores the importance of adhering to foundational truths and landmarks established by previous generations.
– Application: The 1985 certificate represents an ancient landmark for CAC. Returning to it signifies a restoration of the church’s original vision and principles, aligning with biblical teachings on maintaining foundational truths.

3. Truth and Integrity
– Scriptural Basis: Psalm 15:1-2 describes the character of those who dwell in God’s sanctuary: “Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart.”
– Application: Embracing the original certificate promotes truth and integrity within the church’s leadership and governance, reflecting the biblical call to uphold righteousness and honesty.

4. Reconciliation and Healing
– Scriptural Basis: 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 speaks of the ministry of reconciliation: “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation… And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.”
– Application: Unifying around the certificate can serve as a catalyst for reconciliation among divided factions, fostering healing and restoration within the church community.

5. Divine Covenant
– Scriptural Basis: Genesis 17:7 highlights God’s covenant with His people: “I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you.”
– Application: The certificate symbolizes the enduring covenant between God and CAC. Unifying around it reaffirms the church’s commitment to its divine mission and spiritual values.

6. Leadership and Servanthood
– Scriptural Basis: Mark 10:42-45 teaches about servant leadership: “Jesus called them together and said, ‘You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them… Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.'”
– Application: Embracing the original certificate encourages leaders to adopt a servant leadership approach, prioritizing the well-being and unity of the church over personal ambition.

By grounding the call for unity around the Certificate of Incorporation of 1985 in these biblical principles, CAC Nigeria and Overseas can move towards a unified, spiritually vibrant, and administratively sound future.

In conclusion, the journey towards “One Fold One Shepherd” for CAC Nigeria and Overseas is a call to return to our foundational principles, embrace unity, and prioritize spiritual integrity. By unifying around the Certificate of Incorporation of 1985, we reaffirm our commitment to the divine covenant that has sustained us through times of crisis. This path requires humility, repentance, and a collective effort to rebuild our administrative structure, promote ethical leadership, and foster spiritual revival. As we look beyond personal ambitions and human politics, fixing our eyes on Christ, the author and finisher of our faith, we can write a new chapter in the history of CAC—one of unity, power, and spiritual renewal. Let it be said that this generation chose restoration over rivalry, peace over pride, and purpose over politics. The time for healing is now. Enough is enough.

Ojo Emmanuel Ademola, a Pastor, Professor, Journalist, Protestant Theologian and General Evangelist of CAC Nigeria and Overseas