Navigating Factional Challenges Within CAC Nigeria and Overseas: A Call to Unity and Revival
Within the vibrant tapestry of the Church, there are often challenges that test our faith and unity. Within the confines of CAC Nigeria and Overseas, there have been whispers of factions feasting on lies, deceptions, and vulnerabilities, threatening to disrupt the harmony within our community. From the remnants seeking revival and unity to those fostering rebellions against the fathers since the late 80s, our Church stands at a crossroads of discord and hope. As we navigate these turbulent waters, we must come together, with faith, wisdom, and resilience, to overcome these trials and emerge more substantial together.
Could the concepts of open heavens and doors be the key for the Remnants within CAC Nigeria and Overseas to delve into as they strive towards Revival and Unity within the Church? In these pivotal times, perhaps these ideas hold the potential to unlock new paths and possibilities for growth and cohesion within the spiritual community.
Open heavens and doors are key concepts in the Christian faith that are often associated with spiritual breakthroughs, blessings, and divine favour. In the Bible, there are several instances where God promised to open the heavens and pour blessings upon His people if they remained faithful and obedient.
For the Remnants in CAC Nigeria and Overseas, seeking open heavens and doors can be a powerful way to invite God’s presence and power into their lives, ministries, and churches. By seeking God’s face, repenting of sin, and aligning themselves with His will, they can position themselves to receive the abundant blessings and favour that come with open heaven.
Furthermore, seeking unity and revival in the church is crucial for the growth and impact of the body of Christ. When believers come together in love, humility, and harmony, they can experience the fullness of God’s presence and power, leading to transformation, revival, and spiritual breakthroughs.
Therefore, as the Remnants in CAC Nigeria and Overseas seek open heavens and doors, they must also prioritize unity and revival in the church, working together in prayer, worship, and service to see God’s kingdom come and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven. May they continue to press on in faith, perseverance, and obedience, believing that God is faithful to fulfill His promises and bring about a mighty outpouring of His Spirit in their midst.
In the Biblical context, open doors symbolize God’s provision, favor, and opportunities for His children. By living in alignment with His Word and striving to honor Him in all aspects of our lives, we can expect to see doors of blessing and abundance opened before us. We must remain steadfast, trusting God’s faithfulness to guide us into fully realizing His promises.
Moreover, the efforts towards fostering revival and unity in CAC Nigeria and Overseas may prove to be fruitless without God’s divine intervention, which is essential for the opening of doors that are needed in the Church at this moment. As the Remnants embark on this journey, it is through God’s intervention that open doors will prevail, leading to the revival and unity within CAC Nigeria and Overseas that are so crucial.
By exposition, Revival is often viewed as a spiritual awakening or renewal within a specific group of believers or a church community. It involves revitalising faith, deepening spiritual commitment, and a renewed passion for serving God and sharing the gospel with others. Revival is typically characterised by an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, an increased hunger for God’s presence, and a revival of spiritual gifts and graces among believers.
In an open heaven, revival can be seen as a manifestation of God’s presence and power descending upon His people. Just as the heavens were opened when Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:16), open heaven during revival signifies a heightened awareness of God’s presence, a closer intimacy with Him, and a greater capacity to receive His blessings and guidance. As an open heaven, Revival brings spiritual transformation, healing, and restoration, drawing believers closer to God and empowering them to live out their faith more boldly and authentically.
On the other hand, unity is essential for the body of Christ to function effectively and fulfil its mission. Unity among believers reflects the harmonious relationship we share as members of the same body, with Christ as the head (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). It involves mutual love, respect, cooperation, and a shared commitment to serving God and advancing His kingdom.
In an open door, unity can be seen as an invitation from God to walk together in harmony and agreement, opening up opportunities for collaboration, partnership, and collective action. Just as God promised to set before His people an open door that no one can shut (Revelation 3:8), unity among believers unlocks possibilities for impactful ministry, effective evangelism, and transformative outreach. As an open door, unity enables the body of Christ to work together seamlessly, leveraging each member’s unique gifts and abilities for the greater good and the glory of God.
Therefore, for CAC Nigeria and Overseas to experience a profound revival and foster lasting unity at this time, we must seek after God’s presence, cultivate a spirit of unity and cooperation among believers, and embrace the opportunities and blessings that God opens before us through an open heaven of revival and an open door of unity. By pursuing revival as an open heaven and unity as an open door, CAC Nigeria and Overseas can be in a position to experience a decisive move of God’s Spirit and to fulfil the divine calling as a unified and practical body of Christ.
How does the wisdom of Psalm 127:1-2 fit into this discourse on open heavens and doors for the Remnants in both CAC Nigeria and Overseas as we navigate the pursuit of Revival and Unity within the Church? Could the insights from these verses offer further guidance and clarity in our quest for spiritual growth and cohesion during these transformative times?
Psalm 127:1-2 states, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labour in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. In vain, you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat – for he grants sleep to those he loves.”
This passage emphasises the importance of relying on God for guidance, provision, and protection in all our endeavours. It reminds us that our efforts are futile without the Lord’s intervention and blessing. In the context of seeking revival and unity in CAC Nigeria and Overseas, Psalm 127:1-2 underscores the critical need for divine intervention and leadership in the work of building and guarding the spiritual house of God.
Just as the psalmist acknowledges that human labour is meaningless without God’s involvement, CAC Nigeria and Overseas must recognise their dependency on the Lord to bring revival and foster unity within the church. It is not through our striving or endeavour that true spiritual awakening and lasting unity can be achieved but through the power and provision of God.
As believers in Christ, we are called to labour diligently for the kingdom’s work, but always in partnership with God, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His guidance. Psalm 127:1-2 reminds us that our efforts are only effective when aligned with God’s will and carried out in dependence on Him. By entrusting the work of revival and unity to the Lord, CAC Nigeria and Overseas can rest assured that He will grant success and enable them to accomplish His purposes for His glory.
How do the contrasting factions within CAC Nigeria and Overseas, one fostering rebellion against the established order while the other preys on the weaknesses of the fathers through deceit to maintain control, align with the biblical principle of builders toiling in vain without God’s intervention? And amidst this discord, how do the Remnants, steadfast in their belief that God will ultimately build His Church, envision bringing Revival and Unity to CAC Nigeria and Overseas in the current tumultuous period?
It is evident from this description that there are challenges and divisions within CAC Nigeria and Overseas, with factions perpetuating rebellion against established leadership and using deceit to maintain their positions of power. This situation reflects the struggles that often arise within religious organisations when discord and power struggles emerge among members.
In such times of turmoil and conflict, it is crucial for the Remnants, or those faithful believers who adhere to the truth of God’s Word and His promises, to stand firm in their faith and rely on God’s sovereignty to bring about revival and unity within the church. Just as Psalm 127:1-2 reminds us that our efforts are in vain without the Lord’s involvement, proper restoration and reconciliation can occur only by aligning with God’s truth and plan.
The Remnants, by holding onto the truth of God’s promise to build His Church and bring about revival and unity, serve as a beacon of hope and light in the midst of darkness and discord. Their unwavering faith and commitment to following God’s will provide a foundation for healing, restoration, and spiritual growth within CAC Nigeria and Overseas.
Ultimately, true revival and unity can be achieved through the power of God and His Spirit. As the Remnants continue to trust in God’s faithfulness and seek His guidance, they can rest assured that He will work to bring about His purposes for the Church, despite the challenges and obstacles that may arise.
Additionally, in dealing with the faction that is feasting on lies, deceptions, and exploiting vulnerabilities to maintain their hold on leadership within the church, the Remnants must first and foremost rely on God’s wisdom, guidance, and strength. It is essential for the Remnants to stay grounded in God’s truth and to operate with integrity, humility, and love in all their actions and interactions.
Here are some practical steps that the Remnants can take to address this situation and bring about God’s hand of revival and unity within the church:
1. Prayer: The Remnants should commit this situation to prayer and seek God’s discernment, guidance, and intervention. They should pray for wisdom, courage, and strength to navigate this challenging situation with grace and humility.
2. Accountability: The Remnants should hold themselves and others accountable to God’s Word and the principles of righteousness. They should strive to live lives of transparency, honesty, and integrity, modelling the character of Christ in all they do.
3. Truth and Love: The Remnants should speak the truth in love, confronting deception and falsehood with grace and compassion. They should seek to address issues of discord and division through open communication, reconciliation, and forgiveness.
4. Unity in Diversity: The Remnants should embrace the diversity of perspectives and opinions within the church, recognising that unity does not mean uniformity. They should work towards fostering a spirit of unity that celebrates the unique gifts, talents, and contributions of all members.
5. Leading by Example: The Remnants should lead by example, demonstrating humility, servanthood, and love in their interactions with others. They should strive to be peacemakers, bridge-builders, and agents of reconciliation within the church community.
By following these steps and relying on God’s grace and power, the Remnants can play a vital role in bringing about revival and unity within CAC Nigeria and Overseas. God is faithful to His promises, and He will work through His people to bring about transformation, healing, and restoration within His Church.
In the midst of factions and challenges within the Church of God, where we are members, it is important for us to stand firm in our faith and seek God’s wisdom, guidance, and strength. We acknowledge that there are those who may be feasting on lies, deceptions, and vulnerabilities to maintain their leadership positions. However, we, the Remnants, are called to lean on the truth that God shall build His Church and bring about revival and unity in CAC Nigeria and Overseas.
As we navigate these turbulent times, let us remember our mission to be One Fold under the guidance of the One Shepherd, Jesus Christ. We are called to seek unity and revival in the Church, trusting in God’s plan for us. With His wisdom and strength, we are empowered to overcome any obstacles that may stand in our way.
Let us come together in prayer and action, embodying the values of honesty, integrity, and unity in all that we do. As we stand on the foundation of God’s Word, we can be confident that He will lead us on the path of righteousness and unity. Together, let us work towards fulfilling His purposes within our Church, knowing that with God, all things are possible.
May God’s Hand be upon us as we strive towards unity, revival, and fulfillment of His Mission for CAC Nigeria and Overseas.
In conclusion, as members of CAC Nigeria and Overseas, let us acknowledge the presence of factions seeking to sow discord and rebellion within our midst. Let us rise above the temptations of falsehoods and divisions and stand united under the banner of truth and righteousness. Together, with unwavering faith and determination, let us confront these challenges head-on and pave the way for revival and unity within our Church. May God’s guidance and strength be with us as we journey towards a future filled with hope, harmony, and His divine purpose.
Ojo Emmanuel Ademola, a Pastor and the General Evangelist of CAC Nigeria and Overseas, writes from London