Teenage preachers from the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Ibadan, Nigeria, have called on Christians to face life's challenges with joy and strength derived from knowing and trusting God. Peter Omotoso and Tolulope Abioye, who delivered a sermon at the church's 31st Children's Anniversary, emphasized that God's time is always the best in every situation. Their message was themed "The Joy of the Lord Is Your Strength," taken from Nehemiah 8:10.
The young preachers stressed that the joy and strength from God provide comfort in times of trial and lead to salvation and eternal life. They believe this joy and strength are key antidotes to Nigeria's numerous challenges and personal difficulties. According to them, the joy of earthly things and possessions is nothing compared to the joy of the Lord, and sinners should seek God's forgiveness and salvation.
The preachers admonished Christians not to let troubles make them forsake God or the joy, strength, and wisdom that come from knowing Him. Ezekiel Afolabi, chairman of the anniversary committee, described the theme as apt given the challenges facing many people, including Christians. He called for stronger faith in God to navigate difficult times and experience His joy and strength.
Madam Victoria F. Aluko, chairperson of the anniversary, noted that those who trust in God during difficult times will reap joy. She emphasized that living according to God's word leads to a fulfilling life. Pastor Samuel Ogungbemi, Assistant General Superintendent and Children's Coordinator of the church, said the theme was relevant to Nigeria's challenges, including insecurity and economic hardship.
Ogungbemi prayed that these challenges would not rob God's children of their joy. He stated that the church's Children's Department aims to nurture children in the full knowledge of God, enabling them to grow in Christian character, righteousness, academics, and leadership. Another Assistant General Superintendent, Pastor M. A. Ategbero, urged children to depend on God at all times.
Ategbero said depending on God would strengthen them and give them everlasting joy. He related the anniversary theme to Nigeria's current situation, stating that the country's circumstances cannot guarantee lasting joy on their own. Personal decisions rooted in the fear of God, he maintained, can help people navigate life's challenges with the assurance that God will address them at the right time.
As part of the event, nine Senior Secondary Two (SS2) students of the church graduated and were charged to become God's ambassadors. The graduation session was anchored by Ogungbemi and Pastor M. O. Olowe. The event concluded with a call to the graduates to participate actively in church activities and spread God's message.
Key points
- Christians are urged to face life's challenges with joy and strength derived from knowing and trusting God.
- The Christ Apostolic Church's 31st Children's Anniversary was themed "The Joy of the Lord Is Your Strength."
- The event included the graduation of nine SS2 students who were charged to become God's ambassadors.
