Power of Apostle Ministry - Ayo Babalola

This renowned prophet was born in April 25, 1904, Odo-Owa, Oke-Ero Local GovernmentKwara State, in Nigeria; In the family of Pa David Lawani Rotimi and Madam Martha Talabi Rotimi. He died in July 26, 1959 (aged 55) Ede, Osun State , southwestern, in Nigeria. THE SATANIC PROGRAMS AGAINST APOSTLE AYO BABALOLA Apostle Babalola was heavenly anointed by God even before his birth. The kingdom of darkness (astrologers]; whom are specialized in detecting glorious and special stars of an unborn human being were able to decipher the greatness of his ministry exploit. However, his whole ministry data and glory was sent to Sister Olufumilayo Adebayo who was a demonic agent during those era and also specialized in satanic exploit in African continent. She was perturb on how she can inter-change or manipulates the glory and ministry exploit of an unborn child. Nevertheless, she soul-ties Ayo Babalola with a demonic reincarnate woman from the pit of Hell as his future wife. READ ALSO; Divine Ministry Encounter Of Apostle Ayo Babalola. Apostle babalola eventually get married to her but she frustrated and terrorized his ministry. He was a mighty man of God who married the head witches of Yoruba land in Nigeria, a demonic re-incarnated wife from the pit of hell. Though his wife frustrated his ministry both physically and spiritually yet, by Grace of God he prevails. Confession By Evangelist Olufumilayo Adebayo. During our report meeting in the kingdom of darkness, when we sent the astrologer’s to go and made a research, in order to know, what cause the problem and reason why 8 souls were able to make heaven at that particular year. In their research they discover that, this barrier was broken by God in the land of Africa, in Nigeria. The Devil immediately commanded them to go and verify. Who is that person that cause's this problem? But the report made me afraid. Because they came back with a report of a man, who’s I made judgment for, in the kingdom of darkness, when I was in California. That man name is called Apostle Ayodele Babalola. The founder of the church called C.A.C (Christ Apostolic Church) Apostle Ayodele Babalola That was the man I made judgment for, in our Kingdom that time and I told you that, the judgment I made for that man is that, I program demon and re-incarnate demon as human being. And I made him to marry that wife. And truly, physically on earth, am sorry to say, those people that are member of that church, knows the story of that church very well. They knew the very woman that man married didn't repent until she dies. Not that she didn't want to repent, but even though she repents, God will not accept her, because she is a demon re-incarnate. So, if you knew about that church story very well, you will knew that am not lying. So, we program so many things about that church, but I thank God, God help that man, called Apostle Ayodele Babalola to overcome the power of this woman. Even though, this woman disturbs this him. But still, he make Heaven. All glory be to God. And I pray that the Hand of God will come upon that church and destroy everything that still remain, every plantation of the devil planted in that church and the church shall live and grow to the glory of the Lord in Jesus Name. So, as i was saying. It was the case of this man that comes out. They say it was this man who was the cause, which brings the barrier that made the number of people to make Heaven like that. And argument started how a single man can break such barrier. It’s so strong, or is it, the message that is so powerful or the anointing. And the Astrologer's now told us, isn’t the message or anointing. He gives order in the church, that the entire member should not wear earring and they must not use jewelries at all. The above confession was culled from evangelist Olufumilayo Adebayo, 990 years in kingdom of darkness confession; The woman who spent 990 years in the kingdom of darkness and her demonic manipulation against Apostle Ayo Babalola. Apostle Babalola only mistake was his choice of wife. History has it that the woman he truly loved was a single mother, been a respected christian leader, the elders of CAC considered it an embarrassment for their leader to marry a single mother. Hence, they misled him to marry the spinster who later became the thorn in his flesh. There was a time she poured palm oil on the white garment of the man of God on his way to a crusade ground. Another time after returning from the mountain after long days of prayers and fasting, the wife served him a delicious meal to break his fast. He had only taken about 2 or 3 morsels when the wife told him" i thought you were a true prophet, because you should have known by revelation that the chicken in the food was stolen" The great man of God gently left the remaining food and returned to the mountain to ask God for forgiveness. One of the days, he was expected to preach in an open air crusade but suddenly his wife locked him inside the room and ran off. The man just look up and cried "Oh Lord, see what my wife has done" The Lord ask him to lay his hands on the wall and immediately he found himself in the crusade ground. He usually floats on air while preaching, he can also pray for 3 months on knee without standing up. READ ALSO: Danger Of Wearing Ornaments, Gold And Jewelries On Body. Pa Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola once told his fellow ministers during prayer meeting to knee down for SHORT prayer. After about 2-3 hours of kneeing down, the minister becomes frustrated and sat down, leaving only Apostle Babalola still on his knee praying for about 5-6 hours. The following day, they asked him "Baba, if you ask us to pray a short prayer with you which took almost 6 hours, How many hours will your LONG prayer last?" Many of us knew Ori Oke Aanu (Mountain of Mercy) Praying Ground, Erio-Ekiti in Osun State Nigeria. This mountain of prayer was founded by this same Apostle Babalola. There is a spot on top of that mountain rock where he knee to pray and his knee pierced through, leaving a giant hole in the rock due to his long hours in praying. That hole is still over there till-date. He was the only man that traveled overseas for missionary works without airplane or ship. He usual traveled abroad with his ministers for missionary work neither by air or water, he only gathered his minister for prayer and instantly they disappeared into thin-air. Sometimes, when preaching the angel will left-up his two legs and he will begin to move and float in air without his feet touching the ground. Apostle Ayo Babalola MINISTRY CALLING. Babalola was born of Yoruba parents at Odo- Owa, Kwara State, Nigeria. He was brought up as an Anglican. He was registered at an elementary school at Oto-Awori on Badagry Road, Lagos State, in 1914. He got to standard four, before he became a blacksmith's apprentice and he learned it for two years, before he became a steamroller operator under the PWD (Public Works Department), then under the control of Great Britain, learning to become a steamroller driver. After 15 days of learning to drive the caterpillar, he was able to drive it without any assistance. After nine months; he became a master in his class. A steam-roller was first given to him on 1 April 1928 to work on the Osogbo – Ilesha road. On June 14, 1928 he was transferred to Akure – Ilesha road. On 9 October 1928 at about 12 o'clock he was by his steamroller by the river Ariran, it was here he heard a loud voice from above like the roar of thunder which called his name thrice saying "Joseph! Joseph!! Joseph. Leave this job you are doing; if not, this year you are going to be cut off from the earth." Again On 11 October 1928, while trying to repair his machine, he heard an audible voice from the Lord to abandon the job and start preaching. That is how he received the call and he went into fasting and prayer. The watershed in his early ministry came when when he was commanded by God to go to his hometown to warn his people against Idolatry , fetish practices and evil works. According to him; The Spirit told me to go to my hometown , where I was born. The Lord said I should rub my face with ashes and to carry palm leaves in my hand and to buy a bell, which I was to be ringing the moment I entered the town and I obeyed. The voice told me to tell my people that unless they repented , evil beasts would enter the town to destroy them. On that same day I entered the town with a bell in my hand. The entire town was moved and there was great stir and consternation as people fled as they saw me. The moment they set eyes on me they fled. The Voice told me to ring the bell in my hand round the town and I obeyed. His people however refused to repent or change their ways they instead summarily beat him up and his family was subjected to heavy persecution by the people of the town. In defense against the prophesied invasion of the town by wild beasts the people of the town armed themselves with Guns and Cutlasses. However God told His Servant to tell them he would not bring beasts again but instead would bring epidemics and it would start within forty- five days. At the expiration of the prophesied forty-five days and epidermic of small pox broke out and however the Apostke went to the tree rand his bell and prayed on the tree and it was cut down forever.witch into eating gogundo berries from his hand. He deduced that this behavior was caused by a swamp witch. This divinely kicked off The Great Revival of 1930. A CAC retreat center was built at Ikeji-Arakeji. Christ Apostolic Church (CAC). he toured Yoruba land and eastern Nigeria. On June 25. 60 blind people and 50 lame persons. speak in tongues and pray vigorously. and went to her hut where she quickly turned into a terrible Yabagibwe bird beast. This led to his joining the Faith Tabernacle Church in November 1929 where he was baptized in Lagos lagoon in December 1929. The terrible gods of Ifira: There was a god called " egule" worshipped in the Isowo Quarters of the town .C regards Babalola as an apostle and his revival ministry as the beginning of the church. then people from neighboring towns and villages came . This also resulted in the desolation of Churches in Ilesa because their members transferred their allegiance to the revivalist and that all the patients in Wesley Hospital. with bell and Yoruba Bible in hand. Ministry and healing of the revival of his mission began with the raising of a dead child in September 1930. Osun State where Babalola was first called in 1928. In 1930 Faith Tabernacle affiliated with the British Apostolic Church. abandoned their beds to seek healing from Babalola. This god was so ruthless that no man dares point a finger at it to call attention to it as such acts led to forfeiture of fingers or death. When the Apostle got to this town he requested to visit the hill of this god. 2. allowing him to clonk her on the head and break the curse. and the power of God to heal sickness. where he continued his healing and revivalistic activities until his death. Ayo Babalola was sent out of the Anglican Church of his village by his Bishop because most members of the Church see visions. The C. and renunciation of idolatry.within 3 weeks about 300 persons had died. Then following a schism in the Apostolic Church about 1940. Ilesa. Realizing if he tried a direct fight he would surely lose. This tree had been cut many times but it stood again as if nothing hd been done to it. 1931 he slew the sinister Abugabu dragon of the jungles of Yogumbo. The Mysterious Tree of Usi Ekiti: This was a tree in a Forest believed to be inhabited by evil spirits and it was in this forest a land was given to him for his revival campaign. Bablola went with a new independent church. wielding a holy sword imbued with the fire of the Lord. It is said that a big python coiled around the pot on which the god was placed. People were concerned for his safety but he insisted . This god was situate on a bushy hill and no one dares goes there for fear of being harmed by the god or the python guarding it. 1. which saw people coming from most parts of Africa and Diaspora without posters and TV adverts. Joseph devised a cunning scheme and tricked the bird. From then on. preaching about repentance. But those who repented and those who came to the man of god after contracting the disease were spared.A. THE MYSTERIES ENCOUNTER OF BABALOLA. What followed this in 3 weeks was the healing of about 100 lepers. the importance of prayer and fasting. Nigeria. with many churches under the Christ Apostolic Church name but each church with a specific branch name. He was credited with healing powers and salvation messages. Other instances encounter include : The Forbidden forest of EFON ALAAYE . 5 Prophetic Mountains CAC Founder Established Posted by Adeola Shittu on August 21. he would look for a prayer mountain where he would pray for the power .. Idols jumping out of fire while they are being burnt etc. located at the place where he says he was called by God in 1928. In fact it has grown rapidly over the years. Ekiti State .A. All he took was his bell and his staff and he went to the hill with people watching him. 2016  Why They Call Them Apostle BABALOLA Prayer Mountains One of the calling of late Babalola is evangelism and soul winning.C) Worldwide is named after him. Immediately he sited this god and its python he started ringing his bell as he moved towards it. READ ALSO: The Death Of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola. The Christ Apostolic Church has not died along with Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola in 1959. and immediately the pot on which the god stood broke into pieces and the snake fled . A lot has to be done to document the many great works of this man of God. Deliverance of Oke Luse (Ondo State) from Elephants. when people saw this they started singing and rejoicing and the people beheld the Python and trampled it till it died and the people abandoned the Idols for God..5 . Posted by Evang Paulinus Paul on 19 May 2016 . The case of Isua .Rating: 6. Prophet Joseph Ayo Babalola was the founder of the Christ Apostolic Church . so whenever he went out to plant any church. For Questions And Inquires Contact "Evang Paulinus Paul" On Whatsapp @ +2348096567919. He was laid to rest at the Grave Prayer House Mausoleum Effon-Alaiye .to see what was going to happen. The Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) a private Nigerian university located in Ikeji- Arakeji in Osun State.. established by the Christ Apostolic Church (C. popularly called Aladura in Nigeria ..Your Spiritual Welfare Is Our Concern. Apostle Babalola established several prayer mountain where he went with his followers to fast and pray in other to seek the face of God before going for revivals then and even after many years after his death. In this report Adeola Shittu unveiling some of the popular and prophetic prayer mountain of late Apostle babalola during his 30 year ministry on earth. APOSTLE BABALOLA GRAVESIDE IN EFON ALAYE One of the historic towns in Ekiti that have the highest number of Prayer Mountain is Efon -Alaaye in Ekiti west local government area of Ekiti state. ministry on earth.of God on that mountain to consume the spiritual powers that were affecting the community where he went to or where he is going next. This town is very popular that they called it “prayer town” because of the number of praying mountains where many Christian go to for spiritual incubation. While many bring kegs of water to the grave with the belief that the power of their founder is still potent and could still perform . No man of God whom God call that does not visit one or all this Babalola mountain once they are call by God. During this period. and special prayer but it has also become a tourist center where the Christ Apostolic Church [CAC] members and other believers go to either to pray at the grave side of the late Apostle Ayo Babalola the founder of the church or sleep in the mausoleum believing the spirit of late Apostle would solve their problem. It was also gathered that the general believe of most CAC and others who believes in the God of 1930 is that despite the fact that he is dead. said to have been blessed by the late Babalola. David Rotimi have become a source of receiving power. so burying them side by side was the decision of the Church in other to honour them for their impact and role in the church and the world at large. “This is to Commemorate the Immutable Work. when you pray on the oil or water which is placed on the grave and you take it home and rub the oil on your body or drink it. the Priceless Love and Selfless Service to Mankind and Evangelisation Of Late Apostle Ayodele Babalola. it would remove all the curses or bad dream laced on you and the bad dreams will stop. Called to God’s Ministry in October 1928 and slept in The Lord on Sunday26th July 1959 By Apostolic Church Council”. because the spirit of Babalola is still working and he has blessed it. Babalola still speaks from the grave and there is no place or church in the world where Jesus’ name is mentioned without mentioning Babalolas name. David Rotimi were buried has become a Mecca of sorts for its faithful. potent for healing and miracles]. Another thing to note at the Babalola efon Alaye prayer center is that the olive oil or water pray upon at the grave gives an instant healing. Babalola died in 1959. On the grave of Ayo Babalola are the following words engraved on the tombstone. Born In 1904. is one of the few prophetic prayer mountain that was found and bless by Apostle Babalola and after over 57 years of his death. Ekiti.state. Many big celebrities and well know man of God do visit this prayer ground some every 15 days while majority comes every month. they would bring the water to the grave side for prayer. According to the Grave Prayer House Pastor. healing and miracles in Efon Alaaye.painted mausoleum where the graves of the founder of Christ Apostolic Church [CAC] Apostle Babalola and his father.miracles as he did when alive. He still communicates with his people so he answers prayers and with a condition. after taking the water from the stream.Many people have received miracles and healings from all kinds of diseases because the power of Babalola is still there. The white. . Pastor Rufus Babatunde Adetayo who heads the mausoleum and prays for those who come to the mausoleum seeking solutions to their problems said People come from all places to take from the Omi Holy water of which the late Babalola blessed before he departed. so Efon Alaye were Apostle live before his death. that is if you believe it will be done .You must have faith that it will be done. The graves of Apostle Ayo Babalola and his father.Another important thing to note is the Omi stream water [of which they called Holy water. Babalola’s grave is placed side by side with his father in the same mausoleum as his Father David Rotimi died in 1935 while his son. Many celebrity and Man of God have one or two testimony coming to Ori-Oke Aanu. the mountain is open to everyone while some great prophet who believe in Babalola’s wonders link their own calling to Olorun Babalola Ori Oke Erio to start their own ministry there on the mountain. Erio-Ekiti in Ekiti State Nigeria. . There is a spot on top of the mountain rock where he knee to pray and his knee pierced through. This mountain of prayer was founded by Apostle Babalola and he name it Mountain of Mercy. That hole is still there till-date.ORI OKE AANU (MOUNTAIN OF MERCY) One of popular and famous Babalola Prayer Mountain is the Ori Oke Aanu (Mountain of Mercy) Praying Ground. leaving a giant hole in the rock due to his long hours in praying. . It was why he was on this mountain that a big python snake came out of the thick forest and cross over Babalola were he lied down flat. The first one was said to be meant for general while the second mountain which is about 20 minute walk to the main one is strictly for women and the last mountain on the hill is the power house of Babalola.ORI OKE IDO AJINARERE Ori Oke Ido Ajinarere is another powerful mountain that was discover by Apostle Babalola in the early forties. This mountain is the longest in Ekiti that takes over 1 hour to climb to the last hail. Apostle Babalola had the direction from God who asks him to go to the mountain to meet with him. While does seeking for God special attention on a particular issue prefer this mountain to others. the highest Babalola Mountain had no stairs and this make people wondered how he was able to climb the hills. It was said that he started from the first mountain before God instructed him to move follow till he got to the last one. the wonder was that as the snake was coming down on him. The Ido Ajinarere Mountain have 3 different hills. Ido Ajinarere is located in Ido-Ile town of Ekiti west local government area. the snake was cutting and dry off immediately. . Those that visit this mountain most are man of God whom sometime God ask to meet him there. It was review that the mountain was a forbidden forest that abode various evil spirit and dangerous animal as at then and it’s very far from the town. Not until recently when staircase was provided to climb the mountain. . Also preserved within the Power House is the mortar used by Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola for palm fruits processing which is the major occupation of the Odo-Owa people. Another most prominent amongst the buildings erected on the mountain was the one called Power House built close to the stream where the Apostle had his first bathe as a baby.ORI OKE BABALOLA AT ODO-OWA The ancient city of Odo-Owa in Oke-Ero local government area of Kwara state the place of birth of the Late Apostle Ayodele Babalola is another small mecca for the Christian who believes in the miracle of God of Babalola 1930. Aside the stream is the Babalola Mountain itself. it was gathered that the evil forest as at that time was a deadly area for the community as the mountain was initially a den of tigers and haven for evil spirits. it has become one of the hot spots where prayers are held on the mountain. the stream has not run dry for a day” and this attract lot of people from all walks of life trooping in with kegs to take the water with many also testify to the healing power of God in the stream. he was said to have proclaimed the Evangelism of Jesus Christ calling on people to repentance and no one cared. In fact. Apostle Babalola Prayer Mountain is a small stream labeled Odo-Iwosan (meaning healing stream) this stream was said to have been sanctified by the Apostle to heal the community of chicken pox that ravaged the town in the hay time of the Apostle’s evangelism that kills the adults and children then. it was during that period that God slip the tiger mouth and they never harmed him and since then the people now to the mountain for prayers while some even live on the mountain without fear of any evil spirits or animal. It said that the cave which nature constructed like a room carved exclusively behind a building and in other to identify the place and the Iron Gate appended to the outer rocks by the Supreme Council of the Christ Apostolic Church was built. The mountain has become an attractive place where Christians from all parts of the world visit for one miracle. . Accord to information gathered. Before he entered the forest. He was on the mountain for two week praying to God. Babalola’s trip to the evil mountain started in front of his father’s palace after he had been spiritually transformed by God. Also visible on the prayer mountain at Odo-Owa is the well protected spots where a big snake crawled over the Apostle while lying down in prayer and the very spot where the snake was said to have mysteriously caught fire and burnt. It has now become a protective room for Christian tourists who keep vigil on the mountain.The two spots have been preserved with fence built around them for Christians who came for prayer on the mountain. according to history. the building is said to be for men only. Another prayer area at Ori Oke Babalola in Odo-Owa is the rocky area where Babalola said the dead appears to him before proceeding on a journey to the unknown. it was said that “Since the sanctification of the stream in 1946. who visit the mountain of Refuge. Ori-Oke Ikoyi have different prayer spot on the mountain when both male and female prayer together but the Top eager on the mountain is strictly for men. When going to the mountain one needs to go with his faith and properly his or her anointing oil. The late Apostle Joseph Ayodele Babalola established this mountain in 1935. . at a time when idol worship. because of the covenant of God on the mountain. in 1959. Ori-Oke Ikoyi which is known as A Refuge in the mountain of Godis at located at Ede in Osun state. This is one mountain that is been patronized by all the big men in Nigerian and some even come from aboard to prayer on this mountain either once in a year or every month or quarterly. people from all over the world still visit the place to pray. no visitor is allowed to wear his or her shoes. governor or a traditional ruler on the mountain.ORI OKE IKOYI Ori-Oke Ikoyi was said to be the mostfavorite prayer mountain of late Apostle Babalola and he chose a particular spot on the mountain where he do spend days praying before going for crusades. be that person the president. After his demise. The mountain (ori oke) is for various reasons like Breakthrough. One will be surprised to see the kind of people. This is a mountain were prayer are held for 24 hours a day and one get result immediately. witchcraft and so many devilish acts were at their peak in the continent. There is nobody that comes to the mountain that does not receive answers to his or her prayer.At this mountain which is refer to as holy ground. mercy of God and to spend moment with God. rituals. black magic. . It will recall that one of the significant of Babalola ministry while he was alive was the water therapy. The place is a rallying prayer ground for most Christian who doesn’t want to go to the mountain. if not. this year you are going to be cut off from the earth. Another is the prayer is the bathing wash that was said to have no source and it had never gone dry since it was sanctify by the Apostle and this water is used to heal all kind of illness.C private university Joseph Ayodele Babalola University named after the late Apostle is cited is the most popular among Babalola prayer mountain and no C. One of the prayer spot is the Babalola prayer room when he spent 6 days praying for 120 times.IKEJI ARAKEJI PRAYER GROUND The over thousand acres of land where Apostle Babalola was working as a steamroller along Akure – Ilesha road in October 9th 1928 by the river Ariran when he heard a loud voice from above like the roar of thunder which called his name thrice saying “Joseph! Joseph!! Joseph!!! Leave this job you are doing.C prophet or pastors that do have one or two link with this place. The post 5 Prophetic Mountains CAC Founder Established appeared first on CityPeople Magazine Nigeria | Nigerian Celerbrities | Entertainment | Stars.A. Arakeji where the present C.” The place is known as Ikeji-Arakeji today and it is located at Osun State. Ikeji Arakeji has 5 significant prayer sections which believe that God of Babalola answers prayers within a sector. disease and it also open the womb of barren woman.A. there is water again meant for strictly drinking while Babalola prayer ground where he do stand to pray for hours. . that is why we will not stop to preach and preach all the time. from verse 20. water will quench the power of fire. miracles happen. However terrible fire is. and why? God gave Ayo Babalola water and it worked. the power of miracles and wonders is also there. the first prophet and evangelist of the mission. sin will be rampant. Sin has entered into the church.What is unique about Christ Apostolic Church compared to other denominations? Christ Apostolic Church is a powerful church that God has established through his anointed man of God. This time is the end time and many people will be worldly. we believe in prayers. there will be a perilous times. people like it and with God behind him. The uniqueness of CAC is that the power of prayer is there. we will pray instead of embarrassing the people the vision concerns. so it is very important. Do you believe in spiritual works. in the last days. we won't reveal it. this is the time many people do whatever they like. we will pray about it. we don't just talk and talk. we must reveal. talked about sin being rampant on the last days. and those are parts of spiritual works. but concerning the vision. when God tells us to say it. you know this is the last days. depending on what it is. It also mentioned anointing with oil. if not why? If God give us visions. Even without praying on water. we will say it but if He doesn't permit us to say it. and likewise talking about of the Word of God is present there so people can worship. according to 2 Timothy Chapter 3. Is it every vision you must reveal. CAC was established. and according to Matthew 24. What is your view on the present day christian world compared to how it was several years before? Well. go to the elders to pray for you. . if any of you is sick. That is what is unique about CAC. Baba Joseph Ayo Babalola. and it is in the bible James 5 verse 13 and 14. What is the difference between CAC Ayo Babalola. . are they one? Is there any plan on unifying? We are one. Jesus is not divided. There is no difference between us in christiandom and we are unified in Christ. Jesus is one. Your role as the general evangelist? I am the third in command in Christ Apostolic Church. I am the general evangelist for CAC all over the world. and my work is evangelism. to win souls into the kingdom of God. just as Jesus commanded us to. And Obadare (Wosem). there is no discrimination at all. Pastor Medayese wrote in his book Itan Igbe dide Woli Ayo Babalola that mysterious circumstances surrounded the birth of Babalola. 0. The family lived at Odo-Owa in Ilofa. On that day.A. he quit school when he decided to learn a trade and became a motor mechanic apprentice. Nigeria. he did not continue long in this vocation before joining the Public Works Department (PWD). However. his life and work can be thus classified. it was believed that a strange and mighty object exploded and shook the clouds.Church at Odo-Owa. to Osogbo. 1914.S.M. Again. His Background Joseph Ayodele Babalola was born on April 25. young Babalola was taken by his brother M. a Nigerian indigenous church.M.S. Babalola started school at Ilofa and got as far as standard five at All Saints' School Osogbo. On January 18. . His father was the Baba Ijo ("church father") of the C. Rotimi.C.Prophet Joseph Ayo Babalola | Print | Article Index Prophet Joseph Ayo Babalola Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Birth of CAC All Pages Page 1 of 5 Prophet Joseph Ayo Babalola (1904-1959) Founder of Christ Apostolic Church (Aladura) The story of Apostle Joseph Ayodele Babalola. a Sunday school teacher in the C. church at Ilofa. a small town about ninety kilometres from Ilorin in Kwara State. 1904 to David Rotimi and Madam Marta Talabi who belonged to the Anglican Church. His unprecedented Oke-Oye Revival gave birth to what is now known as the Christ Apostolic Church (C.). cover his body with palm fronds. Babalola and the . there was an outbreak of smallpox in the town. Babalola immediately started preaching and prophesying. To go on the mission. His was a specific and personal call.M. who. Pa David Rotimi. as usual. Babalola gave in only after he had received the assurance of divine guidance. Elder Abraham Owoyemi of Odo-Owa. said that the prophet regularly saw angels who delivered divine messages to him. An angel appeared in one of his prayers and forbade him to wear caps. Suddenly the steam roller's engine stopped to his utter amazement. The same voice came to Joseph a second time asking him to fast for seven days. Consequently. The voice was loud and clear and it told him that he would die if he refused to heed the divine call to go into the world and preach. and disfigure himself with charcoal paints. He was directed to go first to Odo-Owa and start preaching. He was to arrive in the town on a market day. 1928 when he suddenly became restless and could not sleep. The man in a dazzling robe spoke at length about the mission he was to embark upon. Babalola's Call to Ministry Just like the Old Testament prophets. He was arrested and taken to the district officer at Ilorin for allegedly disturbing the peace. He told the inhabitants of Odo-Owa about an impending danger if they did not repent. according to Pastor Alokan.Church in Odo- Owa. the head of his unit. The district officer later released him when the allegations could not be proven. an angel appeared to him and gave him a big yam.M. Men like Moses and Jeremiah submitted to God only when it became inevitable. wherever and whenever he prayed into the water for therapeutic purposes. Mr. working as a steam roller driver. had been instrumental in the establishment of a C. it was said that a few days later. In October 1928. tried to dissuade him from resigning but the young man was bent on going on the Lord's mission. Babalola was called by God into the prophetic office to stand before men. Information had reached the bishop that almost all members of the C. when they were called out by Yahweh as prophets. The angel told him that the yam was the tuber with which God fed the whole world.Church in Ilofa were seeing visions. The Itinerary of Prophet Babalola During one of his prayer sessions. effective healing was procured for those who drank the water. did not normally yield to the first call. So.S. He obeyed and at the end of the period he saw a great figure of a man who. Fergusson. The climax came one day when he was. However. Babalola's father. He was told that the sound of the bell would always drive away evil spirits. There was no visible mechanical problem. he had to resign his appointment with the Public Works Department.He was among the road workers who constructed the road from Igbara-Oke to Ilesa. He was in this state of confusion when a great voice "like the sound of many waters" called him three times. which he ordered him to eat. and Joseph became confused and perplexed. Enabled by the power of the Holy Spirit he could spend several weeks in prayer. He was also given a bottle of "life-giving water" to heal all manners of sickness. The man also told him of the persecutions he would face and at the same time assured him of God's protection and victory. Babalola organized regular prayer meetings in this church. Babalola became a prophet and a man with extraordinary powers. he entered the town in the manner described and was taken for a mad man. which many people attended because of the miracles God performed through him. Babalola did not want to listen to this voice and he responded like many of the Biblical prophets. Babalola's strange experience started on the night of September 25th. He further revealed that God had granted unto him the power to deliver those who were possessed of evil spirits in the world. working on the Ilesa-Igbara-Oke road. A hand prayer bell was given to Babalola as a symbol. speaking in tongues and praying vigorously. Among the regulars was Isaiah Oluyemi who later saw the wrath of Bishop Smith of Ilorin diocese. resembled Jesus. The man whose prophecies and messages were once rejected was quickly sought for. This went on for a week and he had no inkling of the cause of such a strange experience. He went around praying for the victims and they were all healed.S. Thus. Ilesa". The first was the validity of baptism administered to a man with many wives. At Ilesa. a delegation of peacemakers made up of all leading Faith Tabernacle pastors.visionaries were allegedly ordered by Bishop Smith to leave the church. Babalola had not yet been baptized by immersion and Senior Pastor Esinsinade emphasized that he needed to go through that rite. he was introduced to the whole conference and was lodged in a separate room because of his prophetic mission. B. Oke-Oye Mighty Revival There was a controversy among the leaders of the Faith Tabernacle in Nigeria over some doctrines. He introduced Prophet Babalola to Pastor D. Akinyele's residence at Ibadan. Babalola went to Lagos. But Babalola did not leave the town until June 1930. when suddenly a mighty sweeping revival broke out at FaithTabernacleCongregationChurch at Oke-Oye. B. To facilitate this. P. A. especially as he was not yet well acquainted with the doctrines. Pastor Titus was a teacher and preacher at the Sudan Interior Mission which was then thriving at Yagba. According to Pastor Medayese. Medayese. The mother of the dead child who was restored to life went about spreading the news around the town of Ilesa proclaiming that a miracle working prophet had come to the town of Oke-Oye.D. O. The representatives began their meeting and on the agenda were twenty-four items. On an invitation from Daniel Ajibola. B. one of the leaders of the Faith Tabernacle in Lagos. Babatope. Esinsinade of Ijebu-Ode. Odubanjo. Babalola returned to Odo-Owa a few days after that and Elder (later Pastor) J. 1930. a notable Anglican teacher. present KwaraState. and administration of the church. Elder Daniel Ajibola at that time was working in Ibadan where he was a member of the Faith Tabernacle Congregation. The second was the issue of divine healing because some of the members believed in the use of drugs like quinine to cure malaria fever. In the midst of it were. in particular. but his intention was not to start a new church. president of the General Headquarters of the movement and D. are precedents in seeking ecclesiastical direction on matters affecting the life and peace of the church Before the delegation left Lagos for Ilesa. The revival began with the raising by Babalola of a dead child. and other important church councils. This attracted a large number of people to Oke-Oye to see the prophet. Joseph Ayodele Babalola while in Yagba. Pastor Esinsinade then baptized him in the lagoon at the back of the FaithTabernacleChurch building at 51. The Ilesa meeting was scheduled for the 9th and l0th of July. was sent to Ilesa. The news of the conversion of the new prophet reached Pastor K. the Faith Tabernacle leaders warmly received the young prophet into their midst. he went to Lagos to confer with the leaders. O. The fact that Babalola did not use the opportunity to establish a separate Christian organization despite his marvelous evangelical success must be puzzling to historians. 48. Many Muslims and Christians from other denominations and some traditional religionists were converted to the new faith during the revival. Moloney Bridge Street. These issues had caused dissension at the IIesa Tabernacle and in order to avoid a split. Titus at Araromi in Yagba. the Ilesa and Oyan branches of the tabernacle. They were only able to discuss the first item when there was a sudden interruption which Pastor Adegboyega described thus: "The concilatory talks at Ilesa were going on. It was headed by Pastor J. polygamy and whether polygamous husbands should be allowed to partake of the Lord's Supper were among those doctrines that needed to be agreed on. Lagos. one of the outstanding leaders of the Faith Tabernacle in Nigeria. Senior Pastor Esinsinade who was then the president of the Faith Tabernacle was invited to see Babalola. Issues like the use of western and traditional drugs versus divine healing. He invited Prophet Babalola for a revival service. He declared to his followers that he had registered his membership with the Faith Tabernacle. performed mighty works of healing. before his conversion and later. After listening to the details of his call and his ministry. tenets. A. Babalola had been invited to meet the leaders at Pastor I. paid him a visit. The Oyan branch was under the supervision of Pastor J. He thus persuaded them to become members of the Faith Tabernacle. Odubanjo of the Lagos Missionary Headquarters. The Apostolic Council of Jerusalem in A. From thereI. many of those afflicted . the society that had him baptized in Lagos. Akinyele and Babalola joined the delegation to Ilesa. . but Babalola insisted on establishing his prayer ground there. But to the great amazement of the people. When no harm came upon them. But the general superintendent of the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society of Nigeria at the time has described the reports as "grotesquely inaccurate accounts of the operations of Babalola. deliverances and blessings.with various diseases who came to Oke-Oye were healed. and Omotunde. It was popularly held in Christ Apostolic Church (C. Efon-Alaaye. Joseph Babalola went to Offa. A revelation was later given to Ayo Babalola to burn down a big tree in front of the Owa's Palace. the inhabitants of Efon were inspired to accept the new faith in large numbers. people turned out to hear his preaching and see miracles. the prophet was directed by the Holy Spirit to go out on further missionary journeys. There was apprehension that this bold act would result in the instantaneous death of Babalola since it was expected to arouse the anger of the gods. where they received a warm reception from the Oba Alaaye of Efon. Lagos. Ilesa's great revival. Consequently. abandoned their beds to seek healing from Babalola. It was during his Oke-Bola revival that Orekoya reportedly raised a dead pregnant woman. The assistant district officer in Ilesa in 1930 wrote that he visited the scene of the revival incognito and found a crowd of hundreds of people including a large contingent of the lame and blind and concluded that the whole affair was orderly. and there has not been sufficient money again to pay their teachers due to the fact that the majority of their members left to join us". Babalola requested an open space for prayer from the Oba who willingly and cheerfully gave him the privilege to choose a site. From Usi he and his men moved to Efon-Alaaye." This of course could be the biased view of a man whose church was said to be the greatest victim of the Ilesa revival. The missionaries entered the bush. from Aramoko Ekiti. popularly known as Aladura Omotunde. in present KwaraState. it was another day of Pentecost. to other parts of the country. These men drew great inspiration from Babalola. attendance rose to about forty thousand. revival meetings were shifted to an open field where men and women from all walks of life. the prophet did not die but rather continued to wax stronger in the Lord's work. Orekoya went on to reside in Ibadan where a great revival also broke out at Oke-Bola through him. Many of the schools belonging to the Wesleyan and Anglican Churches. Peter Olatunji who came from Okeho. Members of the church made fantastic claims such as: "Hopeless barren women were made fruitful. Accompanied by some followers. In fact.C. Traditionally the place was a forbidden forest because of the evil spirits that were believed to inhabit it. as well as to the Baptists and the Roman Catholics. To avoid bloodshed he was compelled to leave. The big tree believed traditionally to be the rendezvous of witches and wizards. Also. the prophet and his men chose a large area at the outskirts of town. An entire building was provided for their comfort. Witches confessed and some demon possessed people were exorcized. also in Ekitiland. The juju tree was therefore greatly feared and sacrifices were usually made to the spirits believed to reside in it. people from other parts of the country had been spreading the glad tidings of Oke-Oye. The dumb spoke and lunatics were cured. No greater revival preceded that of Babalola. but even before this. He further claimed that both the Anglican and WesleyanChurches in Ilesa were left desolate because their members transferred their allegiance to the revivalist and that all the patients in WesleyHospital. sixty blind people and fifty lame persons. Odubanjo testified that within three weeks Babalola had cured about one hundred lepers. The result was that thousands of people including traditional religionists.A.) circles that at one revival meeting. Ijebu. As there was no space in the church hall. Characteristically. Muslims and Christians from various other denominations were converted to the Faith Tabernacle. That single event was said to have made even the Owa of Ilesa and important people in the town to fear and respect the prophet. The tidal wave of Babalola's revival spread from Ilesa to Ibadan. closed down altogether. He next stopped in Usi in Ekitiland for his evangelical mission and he performed many works of healing. Among the men of faith who came as disciples to Babalola were Daniel Orekoya. The Muslims in Offa became jealous and for that reason incited the members of the community against him. women who had been carrying their pregnancies for long years were wonderfully delivered. cleared it and consecrated it as a prayer ground. from every part of the country and from neighbouring countries assembled daily for healing. Ilesa. Aramoko Ekiti and Abeokuta. Many mighty works were performed through the use of the prayer bell and the drinking of consecrated water from a stream called Omi Ayo ("Stream of Joy"). After the great revival of Oke-Oye. The Oba tried to dissuade Babalola and his men from entering the forbidden forest. Oyo and Baptist Seminary. They were both baptized with the names. It was unfortunate that the . This was followed by a formal request for missionaries to be sent to strengthen the position of the Nigerian Faith Tabernacle. The subject of divine healing. P. a warrant for his arrest was issued from Ilorin. The mission churches allegedly became jealous and hostile especially as their members constituted the main converts of the Faith Tabernacle. After a successful campaign in the Gold Coast he returned to Nigeria. Doctrinal differences between the two groups soon began to appear in forms similar to the ones that caused the termination of the association with the American groups. the name changed from Faith Tabernacle to the ApostolicChurch.Babalola's evangelistic success in Efon-Alaaye was a remarkable one. refused to come as such a venture was said to be against their principles. he was recognized by some people who had seen him at the Great Revival in Ilesa. The success of the revival was accelerated by the conversion of both the Oba of Efon and the Oba of Aramoko. When the prophet returned from the Calabar area. was one of the most important issues. At this time. Despite these disappointing relationships with foreign groups. On arrival at Accra. Cyprian E. the fellowship was stopped when Mr. After serving the jail term. Both Dallimure and the Baptist pastors reportedly asked some men from St. C. Certain members of this church received the gift of the Holy Spirit as Babalola was preaching to them and were baptized. the Nigerian Faith Tabernacle was ceded to the BritishApostolicChurch. In the letter Odubanjo claimed: "The officers of the government here fear the European missionaries. After seeking God's direction. Among them were Owo. The Birth of the CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH (CAC) in Nigeria The spectacular evangelism by Prophet Joseph Ayo Babalola brought with it a wave of persecution to all who rushed into the new faith. Consequently. we brethren here have been ill-treated by government officers". and dare not trouble their native converts. From CreekTown. he went back to Efon Alaaye. the association between the Philadelphia group and the Faith Tabernacle of Nigeria was terminated following the marital problems of the leader of the American group. The Nigerian government was put on the alert about the activities of the movement. After this event. went to the Gold Coast. a practice which had caused some trouble in Otuo in present BendelState. however. Again. accompanied by Evangelist Timothy Bababusuyi. The missionaries also visited other towns in the present OndoState. Ufon came from CreekTown in Calabar to entreat Babalola to "come over to Macedonia and help. Ogbomoso to assist in the work. Some of the invited white missionaries from Britain were found using quinine and other tablets and this caused a serious controversy among the leading members. The rationale for this can be found in D. the leading members of the movement were advised to invite the American Faith Tabernacle leaders to come to their rescue. Ikare and Oka. but often. Missionaries did come and. The Nigerian group then went into fellowship with the Faith and Truth Temple of Toronto which sent a party of seven missionaries to West Africa. Myers." Ufon had heard about Babalola and his works and wanted him to preach in CreekTown. Pastor Clark. He was arrested for preaching against witches. R. He was sentenced to jail for six months in Benin City in March 1932. the Nigerian Faith Tabernacle still considered it prestigious to seek affiliation with a foreign body. In 1935 he married Dorcas. on their advice. One Mr. As a matter of fact. Williams of the Apostolic Church of Great Britain of March 1931. Archdeacon H. the prophet followed Ufon to CreekTown. news of the revival at Efon spread to other parts of Ekitiland. O Odubanjo's letter to Pastor D. His campaign there was very successful. Babalola visited Duketown and a plantation where a national church existed at the time. he settled down for a while. Solomon Aladejare Agunsoye and Hezekiah Adeoye respectively. Dallimore from Ado- Ekiti and some white pastors from Ogbomoso Baptist Seminary were believed to have come to see for themselves the "wonder-working prophet" at Efon. While he was at Odo-Owa. The following year Babalola. Babalola retreated to his home town in Odo-Owa to fortify himself spiritually. the only surviving missionary. sent his wife to the hospital where she died in childbirth. It was widely rumoured that the revival movement was a lawless and unruly organization. The leaders from America. Andrew's College. As much as I chose to be silent on issues raised on this platform. Perry Martins August 31. This church had to go through many names before May 1943 when its title was finally registered with number 147 under the Nigerian Company Law of 1924.A. including distortions. a teachers' training college. the church has its Missionary and General Headquarters in Lagos and Ibadan respectively.A. One faction of the church made Oke- Oye its base and retained the name the ApostolicChurch. God said No. he wanted to drive it away. the church controls over five thousand assemblies. a seminary. As a prophet. Babalola was a spiritually gifted individual who was genuinely dissatisfied with the increasing materialistic and sinful existence into which he believed. Ivory Coast. The years between 1970 and 1980 saw further expansion of the church to England. We should therefore expect all sorts of unfounded statements. That figure must have doubled by now. and reputedly is one of the most popular Christian organisations in Nigeria and the only indigenous organization with strong faith in divine healing. but the church counselled him on the basis of what people would be saying. The church opened up several primary and grammar schools. he didnt want to marry originally. History Leave a comment 1. Joseph Ayo Babalola slept in the Lord in 1959. Paul and others who were sent out with the authority and in the name of Jesus. God said No. he wanted to kill it.717 Views RE: CHOICE OF WIFE: THE SAD EXPERIENCE OF APOSTLE AYO BABALOLA. but contrary to the Google source. he had spiritual mentors: some of whom were Baba Esinsinade who baptized him.controversy could not be resolved and the movement subsequently split. a tsetse fly bit him continuously. so let us always verify info from Internet. if he did not marry There may be two ladies before him as claimed but he went to the prayer mountain at Odo owa to pray on the issue. Such also exist in Baba’s case. You would agree with me that not all we find on google are historical facts. Sierra Leone and Liberia. The C.C. At present. there are always versions and variation. Today.C believes that the spiritiual power bestowed on Babalola placed him on an equal level with Biblical apostles like Peter. The other larger faction and in which Prophet Joseph Babalola was a leader eventually became the ChristApostolicChurch. There. maternity homes and a training school for prophets. The truth about Apostle Ayo Babalola’s marriage and wife. Baba Odubanjo and Baba Akinyele. Professor John Peel recorded that the membership of the C. 2016 Articles. the Yoruba in particular and Nigeria in general were being plunged as western civilization influence on society grew. Hence my rejoinder. Secondly public figures of the hierarchy of the Apostle are subject to all sorts of perceptions and rumours. in 1968 was well over one hundred thousand. until the tsetse fly was filled with his blood and fell down . I couldn’t on Apostle Ayo Babalola’ s case bc of my personal relationship with him. Apostle Ayo Babalola was great. In historiography. Telemi CHOICE OF WIFE: THE SAD EXPERIENCE OF APOSTLE AYO BABALOLA. While it was true that the wife was a thorn in his flesh as claimed. Her name was Dorcas. Hence. which I wouldn’t want to say here. The palm oil syndrome was never heard from CAC historians. 2ndly. . except that they are rare to find. I decided to know more about Apostle Babalola. isegun ni. for thy strength is made perfect in weakness’.. but two things: the will of God many at times. Another completely erroneous claim is to link his death to his tough wife. “His known mistake was his choice of wife. so he had no regret. This has its own theology.by itself. most of whom I’m familiar with. He must not divorce her and must not harm her. but she could not steal bc Baba provided for his home and several beneficiaries of Baba did same. The wife of the revered Prophet was truly tough. the main reason was contained in his own speech in the 1950s. The ministry of genuine prophets to guide and confirm is still valid. is not easy to know and do. God bless! Written by Femi Adedeji The above was written in response to a post by Rev. See some of what I found on Google. He coped well with her. is in order. He asked the other prophets to pray about it and it was this Dorcas that was confirmed. “There was a time she poured palm oil on the white garment of the man of God on his way to a crusade ground. as God’s ways are always different from ours. Another time after returning from the mountain after long days of prayers and . The advice under the Application. while that may sound as correct. which was attributed to the serious inconveniences the nature of the ministry of Baba gave her and their matrimonial home (so many things there). people must be genuinely born again. God then told him to marry but the one he would marry would be as the tsetse fly. but the elders of CAC considered it an embarasement for their leader to marry a single mother. I’ve written this rejoinder to defend the faith of the CAC fathers and not because I want to enter into any arguments on what’s app platform. It was like Paul who heard three times ‘my grace is sufficient unto thee. Most historians actually claimed that his untimely death was as a result of lack of rest. . History has it that the woman he truly loved was a single mother. Baba himself would say ogi lai ni sugar. it was like that for many fathers of faith in African Pentecostalism. in order to be truly led by God. they misled him to marry the spinster who later became the thorn in his flesh. but we heard of so many other things she did out of pressure. A Christian name is not the same with a Christian at heart. took some tea and had his morning meditation without any disturbance. After prayer. The encounter of his death and his last few words your are about to read was unveil by one of his fellow ministers of the Lord in same ministry. our Lord Jesus Christ. We ensured that nobody was allowed to rush into the bedroom with him. you must by all means. I never knew he was talking of his final sleep. Not the one a prophet. Before his arrival. pastor. Olugbode. Michael and another fellow to me at Ede that I should prepare a place for him to sleep. the wife served him a delicious meal to break his fast. at all cost marry YOUR wife. Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola showed no sign of illness. READ ALSO: The Satanic Programs Against Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola. People can only guide. The death and last day of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola of The Christ Apostolic Church was a unique and most glorious to behold in the life of every genuine Christians. real reason for his wrong choice of wife which sadly and eventually. Apostle Babalola conducted the Morning Prayer for ministers and members living in the residence of Christ Apostolic Church.” APPLICATION: If you want to fulfill purpose and live long. directly or indirectly led to his untimely death. At 4 a. On Friday 24 July. because you should have known by revelation that the chicken in the food was stolen”. took his bath. July. Until his sudden departure to glory on Sunday. I informed him that his meal was ready. priest or parents recommend. he had no mentor. for it was Apostle Babalola’s habit that he never turned away anybody who came to him for prayer and counseling. He woke up three hours later and took some tea and slept off again. On Saturday morning. he returned to Ibadan to attend the general council’s meeting slated for that day. no matter how weary he might be. but the one God recommends. He had only taken about two or three morsels when the wife told him “l thought you are a true prophet. Apostle Ayo Babalola arrived Ede around 6:30 pm in the evening that Saturday and he was gladly received. The ultimate choice must be born out of your personal conviction. on Sunday. The man of God gently left the remaining food and returned to the mountain to ask God for forgiveness. kept the faith and the final drop his warfare praying sword and righteous helmet of great exploit at the feet of his master. I had prepared my bedroom ready for him. He fought the good fight. HOW APOSTLE AYO BABALOLA DIED.fasting. because he had been holding series of meetings since the past nine days with little or no rest. . He declined to take any meal but requested to be allowed to have some sleep. Ibadan and prayed for everybody. The same day. “As anointed as he was. he sent two of his followers. Who was a companion and fellow soldier who stood beside our dear beloved Pa Apostle Joseph Babalola.m. he woke up. July. 1959. I went to him in the bedroom and he began to talk about a great convention which will soon be held at his hometown. He bid everyone farewell and prayed for them. As this was happening.” His breathing was like the rumbling of a rain-storm and there was a great vibration in the bedroom. We began to pray and quickly sent for the church leaders who had gone to church for the evening service. praying for the church. He was speaking in parables. we knelt down for prayer. the leaders and for us too. Nobody suspected through his speech or action that death was lurking in the corners. I took the lead. as he lay on the bed. We left him alone to attend to those who were waiting to see him. READ ALSO: The Ministry Exploits Of Apostle Ayo Babalola.” It did not occur to me that he was speaking of his imminent death. Michael Osabi and Samuel Oluwatusin. His action surprised me and I asked. Odo-Owa. He directed me to call in Prophet Babajide who was in the adjacent room.At 6 o’clock. READ ALSO: The Importance Of Prayer In The Life Of Apostle Babalola. After the special service. Both of us just listened. why are you doing this?” He replied. so I did not suspect that he was talking about his approaching death. The three of us prayed. It was such a sublime experience.m. When it was Apostle Babalola’s turn to pray. Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola breathed heavily three times. “in the name of the Father. Prophet Babajide followed. . and of the Holy Ghost. After this. everybody else had gone to church for the evening service. and of the Son. saying after. we did not utter a single word during the course of his narration. “A man should sleep with his own clothes. he prayed for a very long time. he called me and returned my covering-cloth to me. remained with him as he took a nap. When he woke up. He advised me to go and have some sleep myself. “Baba. By then. his personal attendants (Michael and Samuel) ran to call me to his bedside before he gave up the ghost. Meanwhile. the two young men who used to wait on him. Around 5 p. people came to Apostle Babalola in my bedroom and bid him farewell before leaving for their various destinations with joy and humor. Both of us knelt down beside his bed and he began to narrate to us how he began his ministry. Divine Ministry Encounter Of Apostle Ayo Babalola.We all prayed for his restoration. . The heavenly hosts had come to meet this great prophet and joyfully admitted him into the glory above. Posted by Evang Paulinus Paul on 19 May 2016 . READ ALSO. He had laid down his sword at Jesus’ feet..Your Spiritual Welfare Is Our Concern. the Lord opened my spiritual eyes to see what was happening in the heavenlies..5 .. The church leaders and the elders who were present arranged for Apostle Babalola’s corpse to be taken to Efon-Alaaye that same night. For Questions And Inquires Contact "Evang Paulinus Paul" On Whatsapp @ +2348096567919.. So he could not return to earth again.Rating: 6. But while this prayer was on. and many others. What was important is that the natives did not feed the public with wrong doctrines that can lead to unrest and precipitate mayhem and disorderliness. The key to understanding the history of the CAC lies in the Oke Oye revivals which began in July 1930 and continued unabated till September after which smaller and scattered ones occurred over mainly the western part of the country and went on a few years more. As far as they were concerned they could even be quakers or shakers for all they cared. It metamorphosed into The Apostolic Church in the early 1930s due mainly to the need to call the Apostolic Church of Wales[1] to serve as supervisory body to an Independent African church within a colonial setting. It was not their interest to determine whether CAC. The Christ Apostolic Church became a functional and registered independent church in 1941 due to the ministration of its greatest evangelist Joseph Ayo Babalola. It is amazing though that the earlier independent church. In the early 1930s the colonialists could not understand how Africans could set up their own church and run it without help from outside the continent especially if their practices were controversial and crisis ridden The colonialists were not interested in doctrine or indeed theology. its raison d’être and its functions or indeed structure. This was simply because they were quiet and did not make too much noise since they did not cause revolutionary revivals as the Faith Tabernacle did in 1930.History of Church Let us now turn to the tenets and theology of the Christ Apostolic Church. The revivals were impromptu and unplanned. Faith Tabernacle or indeed TAC were wrong or right. It had however started as a previous homogenous unit in 1918 as Faith Tabernacle whose main doctrine was divine healing. were left alone and not monitored. the Cherubim and Seraphim. highly charged with several miracles happening simultaneously and with a flavour of water she would baffle theologians for . which is the parent body of the Bethel churches for without a good understanding of the CAC no one can understand the uniqueness of Bethel in the mist of CAC. the use of water for Christian ministration. it was estimated that over a million souls attended the revival and were greatly blessed. Babalola used to minister to people all day long and prayed throughout the nights. Dew was falling on people from heaven even during the day time when the sun was brightly shining. This was new. The meeting was put to an abrupt end for ever as God vindicated Himself by miracle and healings. The blinds were made to see. Having settled with this.Oye stream was blessed by Babalola so much so that anyone who drank the water instantly had miracle of healing or sometimes death. The magicians and those who possessed dangerous weapons of black power submitted them freely. Within a week. people were greeting themselves good luck in readiness for Christ’s Second Advent. Those who were in attendance comprised of all the classes of the people one could think of in the society. . Hundreds of people received baptism of the Holy Spirit. People rushed by thousands to Oke Ooye. Number one on the agenda was about whether a Christian should marry more than one wife. All the bushes around were brushed by the feet of the surging crowds who thronged the revival ground day and night. and He immediately came to their rescue. The Yoruba News. that it was not proper. they moved on to the second point on the agenda which was whether a Christian should use medicines for healing or not? This was very controversial. People all over West Africa and European countries came to witness the revival.) [2] The meeting was scheduled to hold on 9-10/7/30 at Ilesha with twenty four items on the agenda. An incident of one death occurred which distracted the attention of the attendants at the meeting. Everybody thought the world was going to an end. depending on if he/she is praying for deliverance or he/she is an unrepentant force trying to gauge the power of God. Western Equitorial Africa Church Magazine and Diocese of Lagos Synod Reports to name a few. Those who came with evil spirits and sorcery powers fell flat before God’s power. which is strange to the Bible or indeed Christian practice over the ages. It was just like a dream as hundreds of people were instantly delivered from their incurable disease. Hundreds of thousands repented of their sins and accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their Saviour. In the words of the present President of the CAC who mentioned a synod meeting of the Faith Tabernacle from where the revivals began (first mentioned by the British Peel who obtained his own sources from magazines and newspapers published at the time including Akede Eko. The spirit of God descended upon Babalola without a measure. The God who sat in heaven saw the love of these dedicated saints who would want the people to know that He is still alive. He prayed in the name of Jesus Christ and the dead was instantly brought back to life! The news of this miraculous event spread around like a panoramo. the deaf heard and evil spirits came out crying. the lames walked. the venue of the meeting and the sight of the incident of the miracle of raising the dead. and it came up with the arguments. The Spirit of God moved Babalola to arrest the situation.years to come. but the water of Oke. for the reinforcement of power. People walked miles on foot to attend the revival from the four corners of the country. If Christ were to come at that time only few people would be left behind as faith was so high and the people repented of their sins and got saved. and after drinking it miracles of healing resulted. and by 1932. Since then it had moved into considerable church planting processes. to judge from the Omofe figures. Its formation and name was done on 13 July 1941. Indeed Peel observed in 1968 . they began to recover again. some of whom. But in the same year the new missionaries of the Apostolic Church came out. had already been attending that church. From 1932 to 1935. But in 1941 after the great schism. Hence the Bethel section of the CAC seems to be secure in the CAC for now for why would it break away from such a body that seems so favoured by God with signs and wonders following. The church leaders could not lay their hands on their members to bring them back. the figures dropped each year. Some took the blessed water to their sick ones at home. Omofe Ilesha. which continued (despite the talk of emptied churches) through the main revival year of 1930 to reach a grand peak in 1931? We read of Babatope wanting to start a new congregation. How else can you explain the outpouring of the Holy Spirit with all its manifestations. with the permission of the Owa and the District Office. with the late thirties. and can be further illustrated from the attendances at Holy Trinity Church. But the Great Revival of Babalola and his associates made a permanent mark on churches of all kinds’[4].’[3] The years after 1930 saw the gradual organization of the converted from the Oke. but it was to no avail as God’s power moved beyond human control. until. the second of the two big Anglican churches in the town. All the existing churches at Ilesha Township were almost emptied as their members trooped to the revival ground at Oke Ooye all the week days including Sundays to receive blessings from the servant of God.Oye revivals into The Apostolic Church but before then most converts simply joined any church of their choice thereby helping to swell the number of Christians worshipping in Nigeria and beyond. The years before show a steady rise in the Sunday attendance. including the clergy who feels motivated. This started to generate bitterness. miracles and supernaturalism except that God favours the church? Hence no one seems interested in contemplating another schism or break away from the CAC. the CAC exited as a separate entity and fully recognized by the then colonial government as such. People who came from different places went back to herald the good news. but being restrained. Church planting in the CAC is performed by lay and non lay members. they began to organize the new Aladaru converts. in 1931. Most members of the CAC are committed to the church for they feel this is the last church of the last days. Peel said of this number of Christians This is most marked in Ilesha-Ife itself. as the apostolic churches got themselves established. with minimal emphasis on the ability to pray. a title first worn by the very first (or one of the first) leader(s) of the church. At a time. Let us now examine carefully the practices of the CAC Aladuraism The term aladura is derived from Yoruba and simply means one who prays. The Christ Apostolic Church.Moses Orimolade. There is in existence a Pentecostal Union of the Christ Apostolic Church with some others. Some members. Hence the broad term Aladura is simply no longer acceptable for it now signifies any one who wears white garment.000. It was a fast growing church in those years and was responsible mainly in encouraging stubborn fetish Yoruba people in becoming converted to Christianity. for it did not want to let go its ‘grip of the Apostolic truth’. Till today the leader of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church is called Baba Aladura (father of prayers). object to the epithet ‘aladura’ for it has come to signify any kind of small prophet. indeed. with 83.[5]p 113. The very first group to be recognized as prayer people were the Cherubim and Seraphim group which began in 1925 who were known in those early days to spend sometimes up to twelve hours or more praying for the sick. This is why it is more apt to separate . A survey in 1958 concluded that the Christ Apostolic church was the third largest church in Western Nigeria. The General Council decided that reunion would not be sought with any church which was not ‘really Pentecostal inwardly.000 attenders. In 1950 J. largest segment by far of the Aladura movement. There was no connection whatsoever between the revivals of 1930s and the Cherubim and Seraphim Society or organisation which latter became obviously non-evangelical after the death of the revered Baba Aladura Moses Orimolade in 1933. In 1965 this would be over 100. and ‘pentecostal’ is how the Christ Apostolic Church likes to be labeled. who had introduced Faith Tabernacle to Ibadan. the use of the praise Hebrew word ‘Halleluya’ was also the defining character of the ‘Aladura’. Today most neo-pentecostal English speaking groups use ‘halleluyah’ very often to include the occultly Pentecostal within the rank and file of the pure non-pentecostal evangelicals. launched a plan for an Aladura union to mark the 25th anniversary of the movement in Ibadan. There is nothing in the tenets of CAC or indeed practice or doctrine that is radically different from many modern Pentecostal groups in the entire world. rejected the ‘superficial unity’ of ‘a sort of Federal Union of all the Aladuras’.A. It was coined to describe those who engaged in unusually long prayers in the early days of Yoruba Christianity and around the 1920-30s. or reborn totally.’ Steady progress has been made at communicating these doctrines to the church members’ p 148 . Strangely enough the CAC does not even wear white garments and has never done so. Aina. [6] This practice does not exist in the CAC. It is profoundly Pentecostal and also believes in divine healing.’[8] CAC is a pentecostal church par excellence. Our Lord’. to another distinguishing between spirits. Most of these so called Aladura are white garment churches which suggest cultism. the charismatic gifts of the Spirit disappeared and from the church (or so we think)[10] only to emerge in early 1900s. and to still another the interpretation of tongues. sometimes seen. to another faith by the same Spirit. CAC is decidedly evangelical and not a cult. it shall be granted unto you. have much greater prominence. having been man as well as God is much the more appropriate vehicle for prayers. and he gives them to each one. as people actually say their prayers. the all-powerful Oba. as lower than God the Father. The fact that it made itself into an African independent church should not becloud that important point for its parent body is the still The Apostolic Church of Wales which nurtured it in doctrine until the break away of 1939. CAC Pentecostalism[7] On CAC pneumatology according to Peel The Christ apostolic doctrine is much more formally Pentecostal. The Cherubim and Seraphim have profound angelology and very limited demonology and Christology and they must wear white garment for their services.the Aladura into its various groups as Emmanuel Eni first did. Oluwa wa. is to do injustice to the origin and development of the CAC. perhaps. to another prophecy. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. ‘in the name of Jesus Christ. to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit. The pentecostalist appeal to the gifts of the Holy Spirit as enumerated by Paul in his letter to the Corinthians is the proof text. To lump the CAC together with the Cherubim and Seraphim whose doctrines have never been evangelical as Peel did say. to another miraculous powers.1Cor 12:7- 11. and especially Christ. The appeal of the doctrine of Christ’s Sacrifice has been noted. just as he determines. The group that managed this emergence has been labeled Pentecostal because of the similarity of its manifestations of the Holy Spirit to Pentecost. to another speaking in different kinds of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit. Aside from Montanism[9] which came up in the 2nd century after Christ in the church. . To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom. following the injunction ‘Whatsoever ye ask in my name. and all prayers said in the church conclude with the words l’oruko Jesu Kristi. but in practice. to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit. the persons of God the Father.’ Christ. second prophets. Prophecy 7. It is rare to have an Apostle who is also a prophet. Message of knowledge 3. Faith 4. those with gifts of administration. and possibly faith and healing as gifts. Healing 5. Thus for example. Miracles 6. and those speaking in different kinds of tongues’ 1 Cor 12:28. Let us now enumerate the gifts of the Spirit 1. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles. Apostles[12] usually do not posses ability to prophesy (although Joanah had a modicum of this but lost it when she began to exhibit signs of an apostle). Glossolalia[11] (speaking in tongues) 9. third teachers. Interpretation of tongues Then the next section on gifts personalizes the gifts for worker and provides a basis for classification of workers in the church as follows  Apostles  Prophets  Teachers  Miracle workers  Healing  Helpers  Administrators  Speakers of tongues The workers may have more than one of the gifts above. . also those having gifts of healing. then workers of miracles. the apostle should have gifts of miracles. Message of wisdom 2. those able to help others. Distinguishing between spirits 8. and many do not even speak in tongues. Repentance and being born again is a must for all humans without which they will end in eternal damnation of hell. cannot manifest a single fruit of the Sprit. peace. patience. But the fruits come only after repentance which is represented by water baptism (see below) and a conscious turning away from sin. It has no significance unless the individual follows up with consistently seeking the face of God or indeed the Holy Spirit with genuine repentance.’ The qualification for gifts can therefore be garnered to be Baptism by fire (Spirit) but fruit comes from baptism of water (repentance). Today the phenomenonology of slaying in the Spirit first popularized in popular ministry by Kathrine Kulman and other American preachers in the early 20th century is now well known in television ministry in which the preacher simply touches or blows air and the individual falls down. The mechanism of one is different from another. It is also clear that the function of the gifts differ from those of fruits. faithfulness. For example the gifts come after the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and can occur in an unrepentant sinner. This is simply a derivation from the definitions of the words ‘gift’ and ‘fruit. gentleness and self control. This distinction has been a problem in the CAC for years for some believes that once you have received the baptism of the Holy Spirit with outward manifestation of its gifts. kindness. An unrepentant sinner. CAC Doctrines The following is placed on baptismal card for adult baptism. summarized. This is 13 point tenets of the CAC which every CAC member is expected to believe. No one in his right senses can say that such means baptism of Holy Spirit or indeed repentance. Against such things there is no law. goodness. . you have to manifest the fruits. but certainly not in an unbeliever.[13] Such is what happens a lot of times when a tarry prayer meeting for receiving Holy Spirit or laying on of hands for baptism of the Holy Spirit occurs. In the CAC there is no room for paedobaptism. It is a fundamental teaching in both TAC and CAC. While the gifts are given to you without you deserving it (you can ask of course) you normally bear the fruits if you have the Spirit. It is the effect of the first infilling of the Holy Spirit through water baptism that is referred to as being born of water (Jn 3:5). 1. Notice that the church (CAC) teaches nine gifts versus nine fruits of the Spirit. The nine gifts of the spirit in Church doctrine is just as important as the fruits of the Spirit as enumerated by Paul in Gal 5:22-23. The Trinity 2. But the fruit of the Spirit is love. joy. no matter how much gifts he can manifest. The fruits are the symptoms of finding yourself Spirit filled. 11. prophets. death of atonement. The Bible was written by inspiration from God. 6. resurrection. Mk 16:18. 7. victory. evangelists. Any one can fall from grace and be lost eternally. Belief in God Jehovah Jireh to provide for his people in times of need without borrowing and also for believers to give alms and loans without interest (Phil 4:19. Absolute belief in divine healing through the agency of the power of the Holy spirit for the sick during periods of illness. 13. ascension and intercession of Jesus Christ for the believer. 9. 8. Ordo salutis Wayne Grudem the famous systematic theologian from Trinity College. sores. 5. 10. Justification (right legal standing) . Regeneration (being born again) 4. enumerates his ordo salutis in his book The order of salvation 1. sinlessness. Ps 15:5). 1 Tim 6:6-10. Church government involves apostles. 12. 4. Gospel call (proclaiming the message of the gospel 3. Nine gifts of the Spirit for comfort. Rom 13:8. Conversion (faith and repentance) 5. pastors. teaching and growth of the Church which is the body of Christ. Jas 5:14-15). Justification and sanctification of the believer for the finished work of Christ. Virgin birth. His second coming to earth to institute the millennium. Tithing is a must for all Christians. 3. epidemics. Baptism of the Holy Spirit for the believer and signs that follow. teachers and deacons. Election (God’s choice of people to be saved) 2. Baptism by immersion and the Lord’s supper. disease. dangers and sudden harm without the use of medicine or having faith in the physician but faith in God alone for healing (Is 53:5. 6. Adoption (membership in God’s family 7. Sanctification (right conduct of Life) 8. Perseverance (remaining a Christian) 9. Death (going to be with the Lord) 10. Glorification (receiving a resurrection body[14] There is no doubt that the order of salvation in the CAC doctrine is same as most other evangelical groups. It was taken almost verbatim from the Apostolic Church whose church doctrine influenced the theoretical formulation of the tenets of the CAC but differ only in practices. Thus it is expected in the CAC that a person is required to be born again in order to become a converted Christian and expect to go to heaven in a conscientia salutis of a definite assurance of salvation. This is expected to occur before Baptism of the Holy Spirit for which the church is very well known. The CAC even acknowledges the existence of a need for sanctification theoretically but hardly preaches it as a definite post-conversion experience as some Pentecostal groups do, such as the Apostolic faith, but does not expect it to be a definite spiritual experience by the faithful. Sanctification is expected to occur before Baptism of the Holy Spirit and conversion and repentance are synomymous with being born again. But in practice, just as was mentioned for Joanah, the usual method of preaching is to request individuals to receive the Holy Spirit in tarry meetings. The import of the initial conversion seems to be lost in modern CACism. What went wrong? Nothing went wrong except that the system has become hardened as a result of secondary influences which was the same situation in the late 1st century Christianity that prompted only John the Apostle to remember that Jesus had mentioned to the established religious groups of his age that they must be born again in order to enter the kingdom of God (Jon 3:1-4).[15] Despite the importance attached to being born again in modern evangelical Christianity, its import seems to be lost in established church systems. Any discussion on Jn 3:3 ‘I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again’ is simply lost in the routine of church liturgy and homilies. Its okay when the system starts but when converts give birth to their children, at what point do these children become consciously born again? Once an established church gives birth to second generation members, the import of born again becomes muffled or in most cases non existent. Hence the lack of emphasis on it today in the CAC cannot be due to doctrinal poverty but to lack of consciousness on the clergy who should be seen to emphasize it very commonly during services, homilies, prayer meetings and even tarry meeting to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit, but this is not peculiar to the CAC. It is common in most other churches. It is good to mention though that this is not a serious problem in most other established pentecostal churches such as The Apostolic Faith, Four Square etc. For as we mentioned earlier in the last chapter, it is very much possible for an unrepentant sinner to receive the Baptism of Holy Spirit despite ordo salutis, but then the onus is on the person to get himself properly born again by repenting of his sins. We shall discuss this in four main divisions- born again theology, history of born again doctrine in the church, the position of born again in ordo salutis. In chapter 6 we shall talk about its providence and predestination. Born again theology What does it mean to be born again? Jesus said I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.’ Jn 3:5- 8 These words are profound and deep. What does it mean to be born of water? Some have given this various interpretations. This first theory is of course baptism; to be born of water is to be baptized. But does baptism alone give you the ability to make heaven. Baptism on it’s on without its raison d’être is meaningless. It could be the word etc. What does baptism signify in ordo salutis; that is to say what is the soteriology of baptism? Baptism refers to and signifies REPENTANCE. The Baptism of John was the baptism of repentance And so John came, baptizing in the desert region and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins…He (John) went into all the country preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Before the coming of Jesus Christ, John preached repentance and baptism to all the people of Israel…Paul said, ‘John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.’” Mk 1:4, Lk 3:3, Ac 13:24, 19:4) Baptism is an act which suggests and follows repentance. Water is used as a symbol to refer to baptism, while both signify repentance. But baptism also has its ritual significance and so it is wrong doctrine that says baptism is irrelevant or that baptism is not significant on its own. The CAC doctrine attaches importance to adult baptism vis-à-vis repentance. It is only a repentant person that can be baptized and hence baptism is best performed on an adult, for a child or baby cannot repent. Hence when water is used as a symbol of repentance it is correct. But being born again does not end with repentance. There is a need for the second component of born again- that is being born of the Spirit. This pneumatological addition is not without its share of controversy. Is the birth with the Spirit whose symbol also includes fire (Mt 3:11, Lk 3:16) the same as baptism of the Holy Spirit? There is no doubt that those who coined the terminology ‘baptism with Holy Spirit ‘actually meant it to be part of being born again and to represent the Spirit rebirth component of the general born again process or a substantial part of ordo salutis. But is this true for it is true, those who are not baptized in the Holy Spirit are not therefore born again and as Jesus mentioned, they are heading for hell. Most people, even amongst the pentecostalists who believe in the Baptism of the Holy Spirit do not believe you must have the baptism in order to go to heaven. They seem to stop at baptism with water which signifies repentance alone without the second Spirit component- or so it seems. But then what is the truth? Acts 19:1 And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, 2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. 3 And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. 4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. 5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. The above proof text presents the biblical ordo salutis which we must follow. Firstly, it is essential for salvation that you believe on[16] the Lord Jesus Christ in order to go to heaven for the Bible says clearly first you must be baptized unto Christ. That is, it must be with the name of Jesus Christ, but there is of course no harm in presenting the Trinity. ‘Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In may name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.’ Mk 16:15-18. To be saved all you need is to believe and be baptized. The rest is addition that supports you in your journey in life as a believer. The text above says the qualifications of those who will be saved. They must believe and be baptized and the signs must follow them. These signs do not have to be in all individuals, at least some of them will show evidence that you believe. Without these symptoms you cannot say you have believed or you are correctly baptized. It was for this same reason that the adherents of the CAC after the revivals of 1930 and beyond felt proud that they were true believers and have their conscientia salutis. But the next question would then be, do you need to obtain the Holy Spirit baptism in order to receive the signs which suggest you believe. Yes, definitely yes. For it was only at the point of Holy Spirit baptism that those who received it showed the signs of being saved which includes speaking in tongues and prophesying. The next question would then be how do you receive the Holy Ghost baptism? First you can obtain baptism by laying on of hands just as in the example of the Ephesians above. You can also receive it by faith and prayer. But it sometimes essential that a person with apostolic gift prays along with, you to receive it. History of born again doctrine. The import of Jn 3:3 was lost on the church long after John the Apostle had called attention to it amongst the second generation Christian of the 1st century AD for the Gospel according to John was the last of all gospels to be written, while Mark was the very first to be written. John Wesley (1703-91) preaching, in 18th century England discovered the import of the born again activity when he traveled with Moravian Christians to the new world. He later had an experience of conversion which he felt was being born again and began to preach born againism until his death. This came against established norms which taught that infant baptism signifies rebirth but the latter, as Jesus mentioned in Jn 3:3, is just not enough to earn salvation. John Wesley argued that you needed to turn away from sin consciously and ask for forgiveness with the salvation by faith alone being the essence of the whole act of being born again. For the rest of the life of John Wesley he taught this strange new doctrine but kept paedobaptism. Christian theology changed after Wesley. It was never the same again! Wesley died after establishing ‘methodism’ which is another term for the process of being born again even after paedobaptism. Today the methodism of the Methodists seems to be lost in the Methodist churches founded by the apostle of Methodism himself, John Wesley. He was the first to preach that baptism alone cannot lead you to heaven and that you needed justification through faith alone and spawned by repentance and conscious turning away from sin. This methodism was to influence not only rural England - its country side, and changed a whole nation of badly behaved people into a nation of gentlemen who were born again and therefore well behaved. Rural England was one of the most riotous in Europe of the time. You had villains, drunks etc. The revivals of Methodism changed England completely, brought out the best in England and made the country a country of abolition of slave trade, missionaries to Africa and the rest of the world. All can be traced to those revivals of the 18th century, but it was to permanently influence Christendom and affect evangelicalism till today. Most evangelicals believe today that there is a need for a conscious turning away from sin in the process well recognized as being born again- completely separate physically from baptism, but locked with in an eternal union of significance, just like Wesley. Before Wesley, theologians who emphasized justification by faith alone such as Martin Luther (1703-1791), John Calvin (1509-1564) and the rest did mention regeneration which is another name for being born again but they all interpreted it to mean regeneration at baptism, which invariably meant paedobaptism and therefore cannot be inclusive of repentance and conscious turning away from sin. In fact the fundamentalist definition of evangelicalism was those who believe you must be ‘born again’. Today a broader approach has been forced on this definition to include all the fundamentalists who believe that the Bible is the infallible word of God - all of it and not a part. most especially the gifts of prophesy. they shall fail. It is best though. to the bane of the church and to the destruction of the individuals. the individual still needs to edify himself. it profiteth me nothing. And though I have the gift of prophecy. the Holy Spirit overrules you and gives the gift before any other order as was the case with Cornelius and his household. Doth not behave itself unseemly. Charity suffereth long. hopeth all things. seeketh not her own. accept Jesus Christ as His personal Saviour before you begin to talk about Holy Spirit baptism unless of course. You receive the Holy Spirit when God says you receive it. and all knowledge. is not puffed up. to ask a potential convert to first repent of his sins. this unhealthy emphasis on gifts and those who possess them will disappear. and though I give my body to be burned. Nevertheless this is the exception rather than the rule.The position of ‘born again’ in ordo salutis: At what point in the order of salvation does an individual become born again? Do you receive the Holy Ghost baptism before you are born again? There is no order. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor. Then the next question the individual will ask himself would be. as may often happen. But examine this Pauline text which seems like contradiction . but rejoiceth in the truth. and though I have all faith. and have not charity. Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies.why repent if you are useful as a sinner? Part of the problem in the CAC also includes the undue emphasis in some instances on signs and wonders and those who possess them while righteousness is pushed to the background. thinketh no evil.either to preach. Beareth all things. I am become as sounding brass. Gifts of prophesy is to edify the church. minister or counsel. Rejoiceth not in iniquity. and have not charity. endureth all things.when Cornelius and his group received the Holy Spirit during a preaching engagement before they even had the time to repent and confess their sins. is not easily provoked. Any prophet can start a church etc. This is clearly exemplified in the famous Pauline text I1 Corinthians 13:1-8 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels. This practice of putting the Holy Spirit baptism before repentance is quite common in the CAC although it is not available in the official document on tenets of the church. it shall vanish away. charity vaunteth not itself. The proof text had been quoted earlier. or a tinkling cymbal. whether there be tongues. Those who lead are those who have received spectacular gifts. so that I could remove mountains. which often happens. If this situation is reversed so that those who are used to lead are the righteous ones. and is kind. they shall cease. whether there be knowledge. believeth all things. For the unrepentant person sees no further reason to confess his sins since the Spirit of God is telling him clearly that he can still be used even with his sins even if they are unconfessed. The church clergy should at all cost avoid this situation for it makes it easy to loose converts and unrepentant converts to change into cultists. I am nothing. charity envieth not. and understand all mysteries. and have not charity. In most cases water is used as a form of faith medium in revivals not in church service. This method is a little different from that adopted by Babalola at the starting revivals of Oke Oye in Ilesha. occultism and all other magical satanic practices. What Babalola did was to pray on a stream of water at Oke Oye and during the revivals. if you wish to edify yourself speak in tongues at home. adherents would simply go to the stream to collect water. prophesy in the church. and comfort. . With the rise in Satanism. No. That is the typical nonsense we hear daily from scholars who have not done their homework well enough. But the synod group represented by the Supreme or Executive Council always calls attention to these falsehoods from time to time. Water was used as a medium of contact of faith just as the apostles used handkerchief and other materials in the past in the NT (Ac 19:12). For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men. For water to qualify as cult activity it must be absolute. there is no solution except in spiritual gifts for the Christian by which he meets force with force.’ CAC should. which is. Anyone who claims spiritual gifts are useless in this modern age is mistaken. He then prays on the water to the hearing of everyone. those who should be workers are those with love and righteousness so that the church may be edified further. in seeking gifts eschew the position in which those who have the desirable gifts become the leader of the church or workers. similar to what obtained at the pool of Bethesda (Jn 5:3-15) for the benefit of the Jews before the Messiah came. CAC is a cult? Some evangelical scholars have argued that the CAC is a cult because it uses prayer water. the leading preacher or evangelists then invites those who have brought their water to the church to raise them up for prayer. Close to the end of the revival service. That is hardly a cult practice. Or the individual can bring his/her water from home to see the man of God personally who then prays on the water in his/her presence. that the church may receive edifying. You cannot be neutral in this game for according to Ron Kenoly the singer. But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification. in the CAC you are free to take the water or not. Paul seems to be saying here. it must be total part of liturgy and any convert must take it in order to be a convert or to go to heaven. It is therefore not wrong to desire spiritual gifts. I would that ye all spake with tongues.[17] The CAC does not use candles to pray or any other unbiblical items. No. if you wish to edify the church. but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues. and desire spiritual gifts. it does not mean that individual prophets or members cannot be deceived to set up cult groups inadvertently or deliberately. ‘there is no demilitarized zone. and exhortation. but unto God: for no man understandeth him. He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself. howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.[18] Despite the fact that the CAC is decidedly not cultic in doctrine or practice. except he interpret. but rather that ye may prophesy. 1 Corinthians 14:1-5 Follow after charity. CAC Christology This is not different from the main line Christology of the divinity and manhood of Christ. is the focus of Christ Apostolic Church teaching. Jesus Christ is believed to be the second person in the Trinity.’[19] Also “Many of Babajide’s numerous pamphlets on the Holy Spirit emphasizes its Fruits (Gal 5:23). In the end times he will come to rule the world for 1000 years after the rapture of the saints. since then. and asked for the Holy Spirit. and such as existed before Baptism of the Holy Spirit was practiced. According to Peel The Holy Spirit is preached most earnestly and the great majority of pastors and prophet have received it. But ‘the axis round which all other instruments of salvation revolve’. they say it was the most memorable thing in their lives.’[20] Pneumatology in the CAC is very profound and thorough but very biblical. then ‘there was something like a storm and I see that my tongue is changed. they sang hymns. He is our Saviour for he died on the cross to carry away our sins. This is the bane of Pentecostalism generally for it is very easy to change a purely Christian divine healing practice into a demonic one even sometimes overnight. In some cases it may occur as a result of the person with the . as Babajide calls Pentecostal baptism. CAC Pneumatology CAC believes in the baptism of the Holy Spirit which may be performed at any time but with emphasis on repentance. which are the work of a more diffuse indwelling of the Holy Spirit. and he sometimes emphasizes that the gifts may be misused by false prophets. at least as a distinct experience. It does not mean you do not have mistakes or cult groups who have been misled. There is thus a distinction between the clearly recognized phenomenon of pentecostal baptism. ah! (he laughed) –there is a happiness in my life!’ Most Christ Apostolic churches have ‘tarrying meeting’ for the Holy Spirit. all moral qualities. near Ibadan a cousin of Babalola’s: he was fifteen years old and staying with a catechist relative in Ekiti. and the moral changes not always and not necessarily associated with it. prayed. He will rule from Jerusalem after which there would be second resurrection and judgment. Thus the young pastor of Odo Ona. only a minority of members have received it. but some of his methods are considered rather dubious by the central authorities’[24] p 148. “Can a Christian have a demon dwelling inside of him:” I believe scripture clearly shows us that he can. I immediately declined for I can be possessed by simply going for this tourist attraction and I would then have no one to blame except myself. Then they would wake up speaking in tongues and think they had been baptized by the Holy Spirit. Demons cannot just hop into people whenever they want. Once I was asked to go to a shrine of one prominent African god which was kept as a tourist attraction. How do we break a hole in this protective hedge? BY SIN. Angels are known to be agents of God and when they are seen in vision. and adherent may then consult demons or indeed medicine (juju) men for more power. are not worshiped but simply revered. and if so. be defiled. I call such sins that permit the entrance of demons temple defiling sins. us. Rebecca Brown makes it very clear This brings us to the hotly debated question.[21]. Why? Because the bottom line in this issue of demons in Christians is this:” Can the temple of God. Also any one touches in the course of his activities unclean things deliberately may be possessed. This is why it is not held in the CAC that a Christian cannot be possessed by demons. I asked whether the shrine was still actively used for worship of the particular god/goddess and the answer was affirmative. No one prays to angels or strange names or even known names or persons except to Jesus and the Trinity. how does Scripture define the term defilement?[22] And Joyce said “I am horrified now as I look back at the number of Christians I put demons into through that practice! They were so eager and willing to go unconscious that they accepted anything I chose to put into them. whose church and divine healing home is loosely affiliated to the Christ apostolic Church does refer to the help given by ‘powerful angels’. One prophet. We are hedged about so that they cannot get in unless we break a hole in the hedge of protection. I frequently put demons of false tongues into them.spiritual gift fallen into sin. but sometimes it could be deliberate for want of more spiritual power. .”[23] CAC Angelology This is not different from the normal angelology taught in most evangelical churches. Of course a Christian who deliberately deviates from the normal Christian practice in a quest to gain spiritual power will immediately be demon possessed. It was fueled by the Ilesha revivals as mentioned in the early parts of this chapter. it was not appeal to Bible or any proof text in the Bible that led to this practice. intended to separate Apostolic methods from those of miscellaneous faith-healers whose work is purely psychological.CAC Healing doctrines CAC believes in divine healing aided by faith but not faith healing.[25] On healing Odubanjo[26] said ‘What heals when one uses point of contact? Is it the hem of the garment? Laying on of hands? Anointing of oil? Clay used to rub eyes of blind? Is it water prayed on in bottle? It is only the faith released that bring healing…Drinking water for healing is not the best theology…if people are healed in this way it is nothing but an exhibition of His tender mercy.[28] The doctrine of healing is quite profound in the CAC. whether western or juju. following the English apostolics.’ [27] Babalola saw a vision in 1928 before the great revivals of 1930. It theoretically forbids all manner of medicine. draws a distinction between ‘divine healing’ and ‘faith healing. Medicine was to be given up and God alone trusted for healing. In his (Babalola) vision an angel brought him a piece of dry fish in a calabash which gave him an electric shock when he touched it. but God was going to render them useless and powerless’. In the early days it led to the schism between the CAC and TAC in 1939. This must have prepared his mind for the doctrine of divine healing without medicine which was to follow for many years and which was coined in Yoruba as iwosan lai l’ogun. In this particular instance. CAC Demonology . The angel explained that it represented the leaves and herbs used or medicine but ‘there was no power in it at all. INDEED THE Christ Apostolic Church. ’ Nephilim[29] may in actual fact be the Neanderthal man which scientists have recognized as giants that lived on earth as man before modern man. The Lord saw how great man’s wickedness on the earth had become and that every conciliation of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time. 000 years . 000 years ago and existed for some time contemporaneously with Cro magnon man whose fossils appear in strata about 35. angels slept with females. his days will be hundred and twenty years.[34] This species is dated 100. Then the Lord said ‘My Spirit will not contend with man forever. the fallen angels who fell with Satan in the first disobedience (Is 14:12) and the group that fraternized with men in the latter disobedience (2 Pe 2:4. it is impossible to say this was not what the text meant. for that is clearly what the text was meant to convey. for he is mortal. Most Christians laugh at the very thought and say it is impossible. Indeed modern writer and well known anti- Satanist Rebecca Brown said Sex with demons-This is an area that very few people are willing to write about because they are afraid of the ridicule it will bring. Is it really possible for men to have intercourse with spirit beings? Scientifically. we cannot even prove the existence of spirit beings. They are heroes of old. Calvin maintains that the sons of God where descendants of Seth while the daughters of men were from the line of Cain. and they married any of them they chose. The interpretation of angels having intercourse with men was the norm until it was changed by Calvin in the 16th century.[32] But what concerns us here would be the production of the men of renown. How can the same species lead to development of sinful giants? Hence from canonical and extracanonical considerations. just like most Pentecostal groups and evangelical systems. the Nephilim (interpreted as giants)[33] for the fossils records of the oldest giants were the Homo sapiens neanderthalis. It recognizes.The theology of demons in the CAC is quite profound. Scientific evaluation. But the occultist know the reality of it. the sons of God saw that the daughters of men were beautiful. The Nephilim were on the earth in those days-and also afterward-when the sons of God went to the daughters of men and had children by them. Several exegetes have said it is impossible (appealing to the passage which talked that angels in heaven never marry[30] but these exegetes are doing great disservice to the text. and so does the world. Early church fathers had used 2 Peter[31] as interpretative framework. When men began to increase in number on the earth and daughters were born to them. men of renown. Jude 10) as mentioned in Genesis 6:1-3 with the formation of the Nephilim. It is doubtful . land (emere.Although even Jewish literature is full of this theme in demonology. to plague man as another form of species for ever. O LORD. in heart ye work wickedness. he shall take them away as with a whirlwind. and in his wrath. it is easy to see his correspondence with the Nephilim. both living. If these Nephilim were giants. in their mouth: break out the great teeth of the young lions. speaking lies. the first Caucasian missionary working in Africa to believe this ‘myth’ of spirit beings entering and cohabiting with human life. explains this clearly that the spirit beings have the uncanny ability to enter into a pregnant woman. ogbanje). Many have met such in deliverance ministries and have attempted to cast out the spirits in them. Which will not hearken to the voice of charmers. The righteous shall rejoice when he seeth the vengeance: he shall wash his feet in the blood of the wicked. So that a man shall say. after which the spirit goes back to its abode. Lois Fuller. rivers and other corners of the universe. for the Bible clearly states it is appointed unto man once to die and after this judgment. But this is not what concerns us now in demonology but what happened to the Nephilim who were supposed to have been wiped out by Noah’s flood for it was mainly because of them that God decided to wipe out the earth. mountains etc. Emere. they could only use stone tools and this may have been erroneously interpreted stone culture.ago. They will be then today identified as cave-dwellers. O congregation? do ye judge uprightly. let every one of them pass away: like the untimely birth of a woman. Mammy water spirit. would be Ps 58. O God. The evangelical Emmanuel Eni of the Scripture Union (Nigeria) explains this in his discourse. O ye sons of men? Yea. Psalms 58:1-11 Do ye indeed speak righteousness. Heb 9:27. The wicked are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they be born. which may be the sea (marinites). and existed at the time of Noah’s Flood. [36] It is amazing that CAC had had this as part of its theology long before other pentecostal groups practicing in Africa appealing to the nephilim theology of Gen 6:1-3. The Jewish literature continues that it was this Nephilim whose species inhabited the mountains. As a snail which melteth. Their poison is like the poison of a serpent: they are like the deaf adder that stoppeth her ear. Some have even suggested they may be responsible for UFO etc. Let them melt away as waters which run continually: when he bendeth his bow to shoot his arrows. This demonology has become easily accepted in modern Pentecostalism and indeed ecclesiology at least in Africa. which is usually quite early. Before your pots can feel the thorns. ye weigh the violence of your hands in the earth. drive away the spirit of the embryo (or imprison it in its own body) and occupy the body of the individual till death. Since Neanderthal had heavy bony features. Verily there is a reward for the righteous: verily he is a God that judgeth in the earth. the CAC demonology takes care of these populating spirits of the earth. land waters. let them be as cut in pieces. a proof text if any. Abiku (Yoruba) etc. while in the caves.[35] Indeed most fossils of Neanderthal man is found in caves with heavy bones and heavy and thick skulls. that they may not see the sun. What ever be the case. Break their teeth. the problem has always been how to apply the Bible to its understanding. charming never so wisely. Hence it is possible. some whom have been called Ogbanje (Ibo). one would assume that a number of them would attempt to escape the flood by entering into caves and blocking its entrance only to perish in the caves due to the length of period of the said Flood. but it is a profound problem in Africa. Babalola had to deal with it using omi iye in the early days. is part of the CAC demonology. which is quite common in Africa. Foreign missions could never understand it and they did not pretend to do so. which could have been up to a year. They simply waived it away as non existent. She had had this. This lady hails from Calabar but lives in Port Harcourt. They met in their meetings in the sea in their spirit rather than physical body. She later claimed that the members of her group could not accept her exit. The fiery preacher interested in witches ministry in the CAC is the blind preacher called Obadare. especially the days of the revivals. Hence casting out of demons as was practiced in New Testament times is quite common in the CAC. The heat was unbearable. she went to Joanah to tell her about her problem. a problem which had been hitherto attempted to be solved only by the medicine men. as Louis Pasteur in the 18th century proved conclusively using the microscope on microorganisms. this is an African problem. That is certainly not the way to solve a problem of sane people. which cause disease in man. It is not quite clear after Babalola whether any witch actually was delivered in the CAC. Like it is being suggested. Witchcraft[37]: This problem. But the lady said she was stubborn and resolute that she would never go back to the demonic group again. It did. The story was even told that his own wife (Babalola) was plagued with this problem. After the service. She narrated the story of how one day she was in the church and could feel the power of the Holy Ghost coming from Joanah towards her. except that the above is most common. Several of such stories abound in the days of Babalola. So they beat her with sticks spiritually and the marks appeared physically on her body. Other areas of demon attacks are quite common in African theological practice. This was the time Joanah was preaching and as usual was going through her normal marathon homily. The strange part of the witchcraft demonology is that virtually everything claimed to be done by witches is said to be performed non-empirically and hence cannot be determined physically. Rebecca Brown . the members of this demonic group ceased for ever to flog her or persecute or disturb her in any way. The fact that you do not see something does not mean it does not exit. and she was delivered since then without much problems. She had a lasting freedom which she enjoys till today. He also has very little testimony of converted witches. In her characteristic way Joanah rang the prayer bell three times and commanded the marine spirit in her to get out. according to her since she was born and she rose to be the queen of the sea group of the said cohort through the ranks. After a period of time. but these witches are said to do a lot of evil against members of the church for which most of them (he members) seek refuge. But there is another variety of witchcraft which is not present in Africa but is common in Europe and America. extremely pretty young lady.whether this would ever be a problem for biblical hermeneuticians in the western world. Case report: The story is told of how Joanah Ogunranti performed deliverance of a female who claimed she was a queen of one sort of a cohort in the sea. according to her. Do not forget the CAC had shared similar tradition with The Apostolic Church of Wales before the schism. It is so very different to serve a master who will forgive you instead of taking great delight in punishing you for any little thing. But what is most remarkable is the CAC choir itself. prayer. It is so rich it has virtually all known revival hymns. it is flowerily evangelical and liturgically pentecostal having over 800 hymns compiled from various sources. in contradistinction to the African type. Almost all cases of child abuse comes from Satanist who set up churches which they call ‘Church of Satan’ to worship Satan. provided its own translation of these great songs. You are either dealing with demons or the power of God. The demons always bring death. child sexual abuse (paedophilia) and molestation to include child slavery. all physically.[38] CAC Liturgy of worship General The church service in CAC is not too different from what you have in most Pentecostal churches. these witches/wizards are called Satanists because they worship Satan directly. It is much quicker and easier for them to do sacrifice (human). The CAC hymn book is one of the largest in evangelicalism. They begin their day with praise worship of songs and hymns. most commonly at the new moon and other demonic festivities. Jesus gives life. Satanist don’t have the patience and discipline to spend so much time and effort performing meticulous rituals. Satanists are essentially witches and wizards (warlocks) but they have no patience to perform their acts spiritually and so they do them physically. but they are demons just the same no matter what you choose to call them.calls attention to this type which plagues the white man and is physical rather than spiritual. and homily. . It is just that simple. You learn very quickly in witchcraft that there are NO such things as impersonal energies. beginning from Charles Wesley to Sankey etc and including the hymns of revivals in the 19th and 20th centuries and also indigenous ones. They gain the cooperation of more powerful demons that way. The others deal with the less powerful demons. They are also in involved in human sacrifice. So anyone that is controlling an “energy” or “power” of any kind is dealing with demons. This is then followed by the actual beginning of service after which there are no more choruses except hymns in books of hymns. Shout of halleluyah is common anytime during the service. They are all VERY personal. Basically. In North America. making the white appear more primitive than blacks. Dancing and clapping of hands The CAC clap hands and it was the distinguishing marks of the Aladuraism many years ago. Many years ago though. Now all pentecostals clap hands. Also . That is the essence of praise-worship. There are of course proof texts in the Bible. Its problem is that it can easily be used as a medium for transferring demons into genuine Christians. David danced many time before God. All through normal Sunday service these activities were banned. dance. perform praise worship in a liberated manner. the CAC only allowed dancing and clapping of hands or even shouting halleluyah during revivals. Laying of hands is performed in the CAC but not as common as many other Pentecostal churches. But it is not so today! Laying of hands This liturgical activity is common in almost all Pentecostal /evangelical churches. mostly from Psalms advising this kind of practice but I believe what ever is culturally acceptable should be used to worship and praise God. they will still let you do whatever you want. CAC Theology of Prayer As we mentioned under the section of Aladuraism. what is the most profound feature of the aladura was and is still prayer. according to him. Rev 19:1. mountains etc. it was the way of recognizing the aladura but now every one uses it for praise worship it has now become a symbol of the Christian so much so that in 2001 it was used as identifying mark. 117:1. Check Ps 106:1. 111:1. The truth is that we are commanded not to lay hands hastily. not laity. Most of the original group of the aladura still now perform these although those who pray along the beach . It is a Hebrew word and its meaning is simply praise the Lord! At a point in Nigeria. Yes. while it is quite high in most other aladura units. It doesn’t matter if you are a first time visitor in some churches. 112:1. There is another practice in the churches that is so common yet is against scripture. hills. It is the practice whereby anyone from the congregation can come up and lay hands on. Shout Halleluyah[39] Shouting Halleluyah is new in history church liturgy. 135:1. 146:1. especially during service but certainly it did not start with the CAC. it was used to distinguish Christians from muslims who when asked to respond to ‘Praise the Lord’. at bar beach. by God and this procedure has also become rampant in the CAC. I consider it to be very dangerous. 113:1.only certified prophets and preachers/pastors do so. At least abuse is minimal in the CAC. which his highly commendable. During one of the crisis between muslims and Christians in Jos. 10-147:1. Also only elders are allowed to lay hands on anyone as in James 5. Keep yourself pure’ (1 Tim 5:22). it can be clearly misunderstood as cultic and should therefore be used with caution in modern CAC. While it is harmless for the bell is just a call to prayer. Do not let just anyone lay hands on any body. and pray with. It provides a free-for-all for the infiltrating Satanists. would not know ‘Halleluyah’ was the answer! Use of hand bells for prayer The use of bell before or during prayer was instruction given to Babalola. ‘Do not be hasty in laying on of hands. those at the altar.long sessions. 148:1. and do not share in the sins of others. I will never understand why so many Christians think they are automatically protected from Satan and his demons EVEN if they actively sin against God! They completely overlook the scripture in Galatians 6:7-8 which says we WILL reap what we sow. for they love to pray stand in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. Some will say mountains are high places which can be closer to God or heaven than ordinary land as a reason for selecting mountains for prayer but that is just ignorance from the laity. And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter. The proof text for liturgy of mountain prayer is found in Jesus praying at the desert. Is it valid for prayer efficacy or is it a figment of imagination? I think it is the latter. Mt 6:5-6. Then your Father. the best would be the mountains if not populated. because of wife or children. go into your room. Some of these. who is unseen. they have received their reward in full. . Mark 9:2 This text does not say the Jesus prayed in this mountain. not necessarily a mountain. Joanah never entered or prayed in any mountain but she knows and is aware that many pray in the mountains in the CAC. In a place like Nigeria. who sees what is done in secret. The solitary theme is exemplified by Jesus himself who spent so much time praying in the desert (wilderness). and James. do not be like the hypocrites. then select a solitary place. is now so populated it cannot ever be said to be solitary. close the door and pray to your Father. Do not forget that he shares his place of abode with all his twelve disciples and hence a closet that is solitary is unlikely to be found easily. But if you cannot get privacy in your home-e. There is no where in the Bible that says that prayer on the mountains is more efficacious than prayer anywhere else. but not mountain. But when you pray. Some members just simply follow an old practice of Babalola who preferred to pray in the mountains in his ministry days. This is the main procedure for prayer enumerated in a few sentences by Jesus himself You need a solitary place. And when you pray. Probably your own inner closet. While some members of the CAC go to mountains (not beach or other places). There is no evidence that God expects us to pray in the mountains in the Bible.have been disbanded by governmental long time ago. while they have have regrouped and are found in various high and low mountains all over the landscape of the country Nigeria. I tell you the truth.g. it is not part of the liturgy neither is it compulsory or part of the written tenets. the only solitary place he could find in his mission in Judea. will reward you. but not most are from CAC. and leadeth them up into an high mountain apart by themselves: and he was transfigured before them. Unfortunately the modern mountains where most pray especially in Western Nigeria. The principle is solitary prayer where you can concentrate and listen to your God in His still small voice. and John. It is clear in this text that Jesus does not want his disciples or followers to spend too much time on vain repetitions ‘like pagans’.[40] It has nothing to do with the length of time to pray. prayers are said in atmosphere of quietness.’Ps 46:10. left the house and went off to a solitary place. The CAC also appeals to their own proof text –‘Clap your hand. Jesus got up. As we all know Jesus himself prayed for long each time he went into solitary confinement to seek the face of His God. where are the proof texts. Luke 4:1 And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan. Very early in the morning while it was still dark. appealing to the text ‘Be still. all you nations. were known to pray for over 12 hours for a sick person. the Cherubim and Seraphim aladura. This is in contradistinction to what obtains in most non-pentecostal churches where even the lips do not move during praying (as it did with Hannah – 1 Sam 1:13) and is very serene. while praying. In the early days of the movement.’ Ps 47:1 said at the very next psalm. Mk 1:35 . where he prayed. It is still a practice rampant in the use of magical books etc and is used as cover sometimes to simulate prayer. Mt 6:7-8. shout to God with cries of joy. before the death of Orimolade. Prayer is unusually loud in the CAC since everyone opens his mouth to say exactly what he/she wishes God to hear audibly. And when you pray. Do not be like them. In fact in such places. The verse has nothing to do with quietness during multiple prayer. This is making reference to satanic ritualistic words and incantations which need to be repeated sometimes more than thousands of times. and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. for your father knows what you need before you ask him. do not keep on babbling like pagan. and know that I am God. for they think they will be heard because of their many word. Vain babbling and period of prayer: The length of prayer can be unusually long with the Aladura. Matthew 4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. Is this biblical? If so. to invoke demons. ‘Grant me justice against my adversary. and angels attended him. The points we can garner from this parable of the persistent widow is as follows  She persistently demanded for justice from the unjust king  She kept on coming back to talk to the king  She did not give up  She was almost wearing out the king Jesus then added . It is therefore unlikely that he would not have been repeating what he wanted to say. He spent several hours at Gethsemane praying (Mk 14:32-42). Jesus was therefore not talking about repeating yourself in prayer in the text Mt 6:7-8 the way we understand it. But finally he said to himself.’ Mk 1:12. He was talking about vain babbling of incantations for the devil for he mentioned ‘pagan’ which suggests idol or devil worship. I will see that she gets justice. As a matter of fact. being tempted by Satan. In the words of Jesus himself In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared about men. and he was in the desert forty days.Jesus had this habit of waking up early to pray in a solitary place so that when his disciples wake up they would have to go and look for him in the mountains. yet because this widow keeps bothering me.’ For some time he refused. so that she won’t eventually wear me out with her coming. And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea. he repeated himself in Gethsemane Once more he went away and prayed the same thing. He was with the wild animals. ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care about men. Mk 14:39. He even spent 40 days and nights alone in the wilderness praying about his mission (at once the Spirit sent him out into the desert.’ Lk 18:4-5. You can repeat yourself a million times just like the persistent widow who repeated herself demanding justice saying the same thing but not vain demonic babbling. The above technique works.’ Lk 18:7-8. You can stay for 7 days or more. Martin Luther learnt the technique of . which means repeating yourself.Pray without ceasing. when the bridegroom shall be taken from them.  Stay for as long as you feel you need your request and that is limitless. It is also said the The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. In my opinion the many times over should be way outside the range of 100 to qualify as pagan practice or ritual. The aladura will tell you that much. 1 Thess 5:17 How do we do exegesis to the system above? We can conclude with the data available to us as follows  Pray always (1 Thess 5:17. You must also cry day and night. This answers it all. What else can we say? Some reject this method as a way of forcing God’s hand.Phil 4:19. Men should always pray and not give up (Lk 18:1)  Pray more for your ‘wants’ than your ‘needs’. and then shall they fast” Mt 9:15). ‘And Jesus said unto them. You have to be a righteous man and therefore chosen by God before you can be heard by him.sees also other texts[41]) Ask for what your ‘want’ (Ask and you shall receive that your joy may be full-)  Reiterate your request as many times as you wish but do not repeat as if you are making magic formula and incantation by repeating single word or phrase many times over. That is what God asked us to do in the parable of the persistent widow. ‘My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. First Jesus talks of his chosen ones who cry to him day and night. Jas 5:16.  Fast if possible. as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come. and quickly. And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones. He said ‘Men should always pray and not give up (Lk 18:1). So be it. Pray without ceasing. Joanah used it and many other God’s generals used it. who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you. he will see hat they get justice. “Can the children of the bridechamber mourn. then is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven. it might be hijacked by the devil -Our Father in heaven)  Worship and adore Him -hallowed be your name. hallowed be your name. It is the secret behind the success of the CAC today. Give us today our daily bread..  Ask for power to resist devil and be saved from his machinations. that grace may abound? God forbid' Rom 6:1-2. Forgive us our debts. It is the method of all successful Elijahs in God’s vineyard. as we also have forgiven our debtors. your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. sometimes a whole night without sleeping.  Ask for your need gently -Give us today our daily bread  Ask for forgiveness of sin -Forgive us our debts. Technique of prayer And this. it was the method of Babalola and Moses Orimolade. He was always praying either on his knees or pray-walking..galore!  Post-prayer caption -Through Jesus Christ our Lord (until now you have not asked for anything in my name. And lead us not into temptation. your kingdom come.Shall we continue in sin. This is the technique of the aladura par excellence.[42] It details the themes that must be present in any prayer piece as follows  Call upon the name of God who will answer your prayer. THAT IS ALL!  Now is the time you then detail all your ‘wants’ without leaving one out.endless prayer in the monastery. He was the first reformer ever to have survived the onslaught of the papacy for he died of natural illness and not by the gallows. your kingdom come  Ask for His will -your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. The Lord’s prayer teaches us how to pray.but deliver us from evil one THIS IS BECAUSE COMMITTING SIN AND PRAYER ARE TWO INCOMPATIBLES '. Ask and you will receive and your joy will be complete( Jn 16:24f) . as we also have forgiven our debtors  Ask for power to resist temptation And lead us not into temptation.’ Mt 6:9-13. Wants. but deliver us from evil one. If not. If you commit sin while you ask for your want just forget it! If you commit sin after getting your want. James 5:17 Although God answered Elijah’s prayer he did not send leanness to his soul as those who argue using Ps 106:15 which says ‘so he gave them what they asked for. If leanness then comes upon your soul. it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. the want will disappear! STAY AWAY FROM SIN.Effective Elijah prayer Elijah is considered a model of man of effective prayer. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. but sent a wasting disease upon them (leanness to their soul. That was why James said to him Elijah was a man just like us. it is your duty to keep your previous touch with your God. AND ESPECIALLY WHEN PRAYING FOR WANTS! CAC Theology of Fasting . Again he prayed. Christ summed up the power of the prayerful man which was the power of Elijah.AV)’.” Mt 18:18 Sin factor in prayers You will see that all prayers must be followed with holiness. I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for. Hence it does not make sense to say that any one whose prayer is answered is forcing God’s hand and would therefore be punished in the soul. and the heavens gave rain and the earth produced its crops. and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. which is often times. I tell you the truth whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven. It is because you have not heeded the caution you need to exercise since love of money is the root of all evil (1 Ti 6:10). If you prayed hard to receive US $10 million and you received it. Again. ESPECIALLY THE SEXUAL SINS WHICH ARE MOST COMMON AMONGST MOST PEOPLE AND IN THE YOUNG. For where two or three come together in my name. it is not because God has sent the leanness. difficult but not impossible. there am I with them. 00am to 6.00pm. The fast is broken every day at 6. 40 days. It is best however if you have the time to be in seclusion or retreat during your fast. A long fast is dangerous. 7.00a. Usually if you must go without water. Fasting technique The Bible again provides the technique of fasting. or 40 days and nights fast. It could be for a day or more e. . Some people who fast for long in the CAC are looking for spiritual power and gifts to perform miracles because they think it is a formula for obtaining power. You should stay away from food. Fasting can be combined with manual or office work. Only a few have learned to perform their fast for their earthly ‘wants’ and not ‘needs’. 3. It is about your wants.[44] It is not for pleasing God for no fast pleases God since he is not going to derive any pleasure from starving you or eat your abandoned food.m.  It may be more than one day –e.00pm while praying in a prostate position and sometimes in the open. or 2 days 2 nights or 3. no matter how big you think that thing is. After then the muscles of your body begin to break down to provide energy. Joanah was the best example of this and this will be discussed in the subsequent chapters. twice a week.g.g. one day one night which breaks at 6.g.00pm.  In the next 10 days you loose the fat in the body in long fast. Only the fast of Esther banned both food and water for all Jews living in Persia.Babalola taught the CAC how to fast. Talk of repetition! Today we do not do this but a person fasting should try to find the time to pray. 7. but may not necessarily stay without water. not your needs. He taught the CAC that without fasting there can be no spiritual power. 21. He did 40 days and nights fast like Jesus before he began his ministry. every Friday or Sunday etc. try not to do it with anything beyond 7 days and nights unless there is a definite instruction from above to the contrary. Select the method you wish to pursue. 21. 14. God will decide himself what size to give you if it is too big. unless God himself ordains it! The normal Jewish technique of a day’s fast is to keep the head down from 6.. Methods of fasting include  One day fast which breaks at 6.  It may be a day fast routinely e. Fast for what you want. 1. There are so many proof texts which suggest that a Christian ought to fast regularly.[43] Again fasting is not about being holy. Of course it is not! God gives gifts as freely as he is able to do and does not give gifts for greedy purposes but to advance his own kingdom. 14. Almost all fasts in the Bible is done with abstinence from food but not water including the 40 days fast of Jesus (Mk 1:12). it has to be broken gradually. And Benjamin went forth against them out of Gibeah the second day. But the children of Israel said. And the children of Israel arose. And the children of Benjamin were numbered at that time out of the cities twenty and six thousand men that drew sword. there is a long text in the Bible which proves this in the Book of Judges Judges 20:14-36 But the children of Benjamin gathered themselves together out of the cities unto Gibeah. They are smitten down before us.[45] It is not medically advisable to starve your self voluntarily and it must therefore be for a good reason. as at other times. and said. which were numbered seven hundred chosen men. which the Holy Spirit will attest to.) And the children of Israel came near against the children of Benjamin the second day. long fasting is used to break the yoke of curses as a result of satanic or black magic attacks and sometimes may be the only hope. Do not go and take solid food at the end of the fat. And the people the men of Israel encouraged themselves. And Israel set liers in wait round about Gibeah. (And the children of Israel went up and wept before the LORD until even. and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD. as at other times. then fruit or fruit juice. And the children of Israel went up against the children of Benjamin on the third day. and they began to smite of the people.) saying. and fasted that day until even. beside the inhabitants of Gibeah. stood before it in those days. Among all this people there were seven hundred chosen men lefthanded. and were drawn away from the city. As a matter of fact. And the children of Benjamin went out against the people. and came unto the house of God. for to morrow I will deliver them into thine hand. and went up to the house of God. the son of Eleazar. and put themselves in array against Gibeah. And the men of Israel. and sat there before the LORD. and asked counsel of the LORD. Shall I go up again to battle against the children of Benjamin my brother? And the LORD said. and destroyed down to the ground of the Israelites that day twenty and two thousand men. and kill. and not miss. and encamped against Gibeah. and the men of Israel put themselves in array to fight against them at Gibeah. If a fast is more than one day. went up. For medical reasons do not engage in fast in order to get power for your greed will let the process kill you. Generally speaking. And the children of Israel enquired of the LORD. And the children of Benjamin said. beside Benjamin. (for the ark of the covenant of God was there in those days. Go up against him. And the children of Israel rose up in the morning. Go up. And the children of Benjamin came forth out of Gibeah. and the other to Gibeah in the field. of which one goeth up to the house of God. And Phinehas. and all the people. as at the first. in the highways. and draw them from the city unto the highways. were numbered four hundred thousand men that drew sword: all these were men of war. Let us flee. and wept. And all the men of Israel . the son of Aaron. and destroyed down to the ground of the children of Israel again eighteen thousand men. and set their battle again in array in the place where they put themselves in array the first day. saying. If it is longer than 3 days (and nights) you may need to begin solid food the next day or later in the evening. about thirty men of Israel. Then all the children of Israel. every one could sling stones at an hair breadth. or shall I cease? And the LORD said. (not milk!) and then about an hour later follow with pap or cereal without milk and then later solid food depending on the length of the marathon or long fast. to go out to battle against the children of Israel. all these drew the sword. Judah shall go up first. And the men of Israel went out to battle against Benjamin. For example a person who is doing long fasting because he/she has been put in prison on false charges is quite justified or a woman fasting for her child who is to be hanged or ill or is dying. Which of us shall go up first to the battle against the children of Benjamin? And the LORD said. and asked counsel of God. Take water first. Shall I yet again go out to battle against the children of Benjamin my brother. and put themselves in array at Baaltamar: and the liers in wait of Israel came forth out of their places.[46] If you must cast out demons. As a matter of fact most other evangelical and pentecostal groups rarely engage in fasting. Those who have the experience will tell you that without fasting. The story of Judges above is the best proof text since textual critics do not have any problem with that text. because they trusted unto the liers in wait which they had set beside Gibeah. And the LORD smote Benjamin before Israel: and the children of Israel destroyed of the Benjamites that day twenty and five thousand and an hundred men: all these drew the sword. It is therefore almost a peculiarity of CAC in Nigeria at least! . do not bother to take on powers of darkness as in black magic or Satanists. even out of the meadows of Gibeah.g. they have gone to idols or black magic which was helping them to defeat Israel. some demons will not take your command which you make in the name of Jesus.Wescott-Hort critical text). the CAC seems to have the best and longest experience in this regard. rose up out of their place. And there came against Gibeah ten thousand chosen men out of all Israel. they had followed after the devil and become degenerate. What Jesus is saying in that text is simple. according to textual critics. Many with such experience in Africa will say so and in Nigeria specifically. This is a strange story. Some have had this experience many times when they are unable to cast out demons and they then invited senior members who did then did it with ease. it is best to do so while fasting! Long fast (to include day and night) is a strong feature of CAC practices most of who learnt it from Babalola who engaged in long periods of fasting and praying. There is only one explanation for this. How can the Benjamites defeat the whole of Israel when God had told them they would defeat Benjamin? What has made Benjamin so strong. But textual critics are not always right and even while they make their scientific rules some of such rules may be exceptions. which is what many would consider the problem with Mt 17:21 which has disappeared in modern texts (e. it was not founding the earliest version of the Gospel according to St Matthew. If you read what created this problem in Judges 19 you will see that Benjamites had gone apostate. So the children of Benjamin saw that they were smitten: for the men of Israel gave place to the Benjamites. Mt 17:21 This sentence has been removed from the NIV because. and the battle was sore: but they knew not that evil was near them. if you have not fasted. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting. Only a good fast could have conquered them! But Jesus had made it clear when he explained to his disciples that some demons cannot be cast out without fasting. Some have interpreted and given alternate name such as Daniel’s fast to simulate Daniel’s denial where he modified his diet in order not to defile himself with royal food and wine. This is best called Daniel’s denial and not fast and may be useful for concentration on one’s work. Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food…At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food. Please test your servants for ten days. Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. I ate no pleasant bread. It may be this last theme that was in the mind of Daniel. Dan 10:3 says In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks. neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth. neither did I anoint myself at all. White fast is quite common in some of the non CAC aladura churches. Long fasting don’ts Long fast refers to those that include nights in addition to days.g. e. but not fast. but it is certainly not fast. sauce to take bread etc.White fast This supposed to be fasting in which you take anything white -usually carbohydrate.15. till three whole weeks were fulfilled The theme in the last text is the closest to the fasting we are referring to above in the Bible and could be called Daniel’s fast and also white or denial fast. . meditation or in removing any association with unclean things in offered food or wine. Dan 1:12. It is NOT a normal CAC fast and it is only mentioned here as comparison. for after this fast he saw a vision of the future (Dan 10:4-21). but avoid the oily or soupy foods which you normally use to take the white. It may be useful for spiritual insight and not warfare as Daniel himself found. The Didache. if fervent need not be accompanied by fasting unless the Spirit says so and this is only for those in deliverance ministry. Generally intercessory prayer. For many years the conditions were not understood by the foreign missions who denied their existence. emere. Confess your sins and repent and you will see your God provide for your daily needs.  Do not engage in long fast to gain the loving attention of someone you wish to marry who does not want you. But you can fast for your wants! Fasting is God’s providence for his children’s wants. If you do not get your need quite automatically then you are living in sin. eat and be merry! Do not fast for sin. The fruits come naturally unless you have not repented of your sins or you have not confessed them or some of them. Abiku etc or marine spirits. . but only one day of atonement which is a compulsory fast (Lev 16:30). Confess your sins and repent.  Do not fast for other people you do not know or who have not requested for your aid unless the Spirit of God leads you. This practice is commoner with females than males.  Do not fast to praise God. There are many days of feast in the Bible for the Jews.[49] Deliverance in CAC and exorcism This is not as common as it is in some of the new Pentecostal churches but only the CAC was the first to pray for deliverance from such conditions as Ogbanje. Repentance means conscious turning away from sin.  Do not engage in long fast for your needs.[47]  Do not engage in long fasting to get closer to God.that is all. Fasting in the early church It is clear from the New Testament that almost all New Testament apostles fasted. shows clearly that members of the church fasted two days a week routinely and even picked days they were to fast and the days they were not to fast. Most who had the problem then had no choice but to go to the native doctors or juju men.  Do not engage in long fast to gain spiritual power. It may be dangerous and you may die in your greed. You do not need fast to grow in the fruits of the spirit.[48] God does not force you to fast. When you praise God. which represented the practices of the earliest church recorded in the 1st-2nd century most especially at the Churches of Asia recorded by John the Apostle in Revelation (Rev 1:4) just at the end of the apostolic era. It is absolutely useless. it should be that of your inner self. Your beauty should not come from outward adornment. the issue of ‘fine clothes’ in the text functions as the hermeneutic key. For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful. such as hand bells for worship etc may be eliminated with continued education and synod. Instead. The point being made here is quite clear. Soteriological apologetics I believe that the practices of the CAC towards salvation of the individual are adequate. Women know when they dress to please themselves and look decent and when they dress to attract men. The opposite of ‘fine clothes’ is ‘ugly clothes’. This is strictly forbidden in service or indeed the church in main line CAC. hydrotherapy. people run haywire and the body of Christ can be misunderstood. It has very little to do with what you make up. Again this was learnt from Babalola who had considerable experience in dealing with these problems. Many other evangelical and pentecostal churches have similar rules. Other practices No earrings. Should a Christian female wear ‘ugly’ or ‘poor clothes’ simply because fine clothes are condemned by Peter? I personally do not think that it is necessary not make such laws but sometimes they are useful. . the unfading beauty of gentle and quiet spirit. such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. glossolalia and baptism of the Holy Spirit. Many witches were said to have repented in his time and those who didn’t and took the prayer water and were said to have died. because without regulations. There is room of course for improvement especially in the field of ordo salutis.Traditional CAC worship does not allow women to wear any form of gold or indeed earrings. in keeping with the admonition to women by Peter in1 Pt 3:3. Also certain practices need to be protected from abuse so that it would not be easy to allow people form cults from genuine biblical practices such as laying of hands. which is of great worth in God’s sight. Some other practices which are not necessarily important and which may be misunderstood. Let us now examine the Bible to see if it is true that God still speaks to his people today. In any case. . This phenomenon is common in very many pagan rituals and worship. dying. he may have been misunderstood on this. in which the individual speaks in languages foreign to him/her or in language not understood at all. 2 ‘A designation first used widely in the 16th century to refer to the earliest Christian writers not included in the NT canon but closest to them in time. some to be prophets. to another distinguishing between spirits. committed the Virgin Mary to John’s care… (Died. John the Evangelist. 8 th-6th century. to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit.’ See p. central Asia Minor (now central Turkey). Hagner. to another the interpretation of tongues. 6 ‘Phrygia. and Rome. so that Montanus was only exercising authority in his own church and showing that prophetic gifts qualify to apostolic or pastoral duties in the church.C. With Peter.’ I Cor 12:7-10. attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.) the area from the Balkans. 40. Jesus called them Boanerges. the widest being all ‘who had seen the risen Lord and received his command to be missionaries. entered (c. He and St James the Greater were sons of Zebedee.’ The Concise Columbia Encyclopedia. or Sons of Thunder. and some to be pastors and teachers.ancient region. Since Montanus did not add new doctrine which could not easily be disproved by appeal to the canon. Phrygia was later dominated in turn by Lydia. The kingdom of Phrygia (fl.C. ranging in date from 95 to about 150. He is variously known as St.’ The Concise Columbia Encyclopedia. Electronic.D. See Yap. . to prepare God’s people for works of service. A.) is associated in Greek legend with Midas and Gordius. they were closest to Jesus. 1200B. and the Beloved Disciple. to another prophecy. 40.’ Eph 4:11-13.END NOTES FOR MONTANISM [1] Here we prefer the definition of I. three epistles. to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit.c. 4 ‘It was he (Christ) who gave some to be apostles. apparently Indo- Europeans. 7 A culture-bound medical condition associated with some psychic or psychiatric manifestations. 10It is very possible that the Bishops had already taken the power of forgiveness in the Roman Catholic church by ignoring such passages as Mt 9:6. the Gauls. and were at Gethsemane. p. 3 ‘Saint John one of the twelve Apostles. 1999. witnessed the Transfiguration. To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom. pp. St John the Divine. and the Revelation. 1987. D. so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature. to another miraculous powers. 8 It is difficult determine this historiographically. traditional author of the fourth gospel. some to be evangelists.100). B. Marshall of Apostles in which four categories are defined. The Phrygians. H. 77-115 on historiography of NT. 1951. 5 ‘Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. Pergamun. Electronic. to another faith by the same Spirit. Jesus. See David Aune. including absolution. their interpretation of the prophecy must be at fault.’ p. renunciation and merit’ R. Hoekema.W.The technique of ascent had two aspects. ‘But the appointed time had passed. And there are many. Ward. 502-505. As a matter of fact. Electronic. [1]8 Merkabah mystics trace there origins to the chariot seen by Ezekiel (Ez 1) after his ascent to heaven. but made no noise unless by groans. I trust. others may deviate from it only because of ignorance.neo-Pentecostal Christians whose worship emphasizes the gifts of the Spirit (charismata) listed by St. while significantly foreshadowing the Latin Church’s preoccupation with power and stressing such legal themes as confession. or ideas. The Braide movement of 1916 appeared quite prophetic but lacked the charismatic leanings of the Aladura pentecostal movements of the 1930s. [1]5 ‘Charismatics.’ p.’ The Concise Columbia Encyclopedia. [1]4 John Wesley himself reported in 1739 “no sooner had he (George Whitfield) begun (in the application of his sermon) to invite all sinners to believe in Christ. Ellen White (1827- 1915) was considered by the newly formed church to be a prophetess of some sort. 637) was founded only after its prophet William Miller (1782-1849) predicted that Jesus was to come to earth on 22 October 1844 and failed. One of them lay without either sense or motion. 1999. especially healing and speaking in tongues (glossolalia). and the Lord had not appeared. (2) Merkabah hymns. we shall all suffer God to carry on His own work in the way that pleaseth Him. almost in the same moment. or indeed illiteracy. equally convulsed. [1]6 J. [1]7 In Nigeria we have the older Aladura churches which were established along prophetic lines in the early parts of the last century with the Cherubim and Seraphim Society taking the lead in 1925. preparation: For some days prior to the ascent the adept made himself ready by fasting . The third had strong convulsions all over his body. and invocations have one thing in common: they all involve the rhythmic repetition of certain words. This was effected by the recitation of (1) Merkabah hymns or prayers (2) magic formulae. [1]2 Modern charismatics have made similar errors like Montanus made. since he preserves in his work a compendium of mainstream Christianity. or sounds. While many desire to stick to the Bible in matters of doctrine. called upon God with strong cries and tears. 347. Contemporary charismatics are distinguished from other Pentecostals by their origins in neo-Pentecostal (especially mainline Protestant and Roman Catholic) churches during the “charismatic renewal” movements of the 1960s. a big denomination was founded on an eschatological error. From this time. Paul in Corinthians. Given the rigorous preparations for the ascent. The fourth. and (3) speculation of the Si’ur Qomah type…. Its efficacy would have . the sense of anticipation and the aura of mystery and awe with which the act was surrounded. Kearsley. The Seventh Day Adventist movement which began officially in 1863 (see A.[1]1 This continues to be a problem in modern day charismatic circles. pp. Those with apparent ‘spiritual gifts’ hold positions of authority and are very influential in ordering church activities. But the neo-pentecostals and the Aladura do not claim there are only three canonical prophets. there was the ascent itself. penance. A second trembled exceedingly. pp. 76. this repetition would have been potent enough to have sent the adepts into trance. than four persons sank down close to him. or bathing …. Those who deviate from Biblical teachings deliberately cannot be classified as Christian at all.Secondly. eating special food. p. The believers knew that God’s Word could not fail. or (3) invocations of God or of the archangels by magical formulae.” Both descriptions are appropriate. [1]3 Tertullian ‘has been characterized both as the “last of the Greek fathers” and as “the first of the Latin fathers. followed by the Apostolic Church in1930. 675-676. First. She said in 1888. ‘Merkabah mysticism in the talmudic period contained the following three elements: (1) an idea of mystical ascent to heaven. J H. 40-42. 1. Caballa magic (The Concise Columbia Encyclopedia). pp. Grant. In The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha. Charlesworth ed. 1987. p 17. Seventh Day Adventism. Ferguson and David F. 1987. 1986. Eni. Jos: CAPRO.A. for his utterances were taken to be revelations of what was happening in the heavenly world. Knibb). 1994. 1982. A. Delivered from the Powers of Darkness. In New Dictionary of Theology. [1]9 Paul had mentioned that they would cease but the context of his talk makes it likely he is referring to the era of eschatology. Ferguson and David F. M -The Rise of the Greeks: Phoenix. 2 (Slavonic Apocalypse of ) Enoch (Late First Century AD). Sinclair B. 1 (Ethiopic Apocalypse of ) Enoch (2nd Century BC to 1st Century AD) In The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha. Isaac. Wright eds. Leicester: IVP. Andersen F. 1982. Systematic Theology. Grudem W. pp. 1988 p. as Hai Gaon asserts. 1982. Vol.Bogomil heresy (M. it is possible that some of the angelic names and magical formulae are glossolalia. J H. Vol. 223- 316. 1994. Leicester: IVP. 91-222.231-234. P.According to Hekalot Rabbati the adept was expected to speak during the trance and scribes were placed to write down what he said. Leicester: IVP. pp. 1. J H. ie at the end times. See I Cor 13:8-11.been magnified if. Sinclair B. pp. Hagner. BIBLIOGRAPHY Alexander. Calendologia (E Isaacs) and Hirsidism (The Concise Columbia Encyclopedia) but are not as serious as the above. Wright eds. New York: Doubleday. in the manner of Elijah on Mount Carmel (cf I Kgs 18:42). New York: Doubleday.’ P Alexander. Vol. 5-90. 1988 p. Aune. The New Testament in its Literary Environment. Lois. Charlesworth ed. thus constricting their breathing….In The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha. D. Hoekema. 3 (Hebrew Apocalypse of) Enoch (Fifth to Sixth Century AD). New York: Doubleday. Fuller. It is not clear whether any of these utterances have been incorporated directly into the Merkabah texts. Ibadan: Scripture Union. Charlesworth ed. In New Dictionary of Theology. 1982. David E. . Apostolic Fathers. the mystics recited the hymns with their heads between their knees. An introduction to Biblical Doctrine. Nigeria Evangelical Missionary. A Missionary Handbook on African Traditional Religion. Emmanuel. Philadelphia: The Westminster Press. E. 1. Other forms of spirit mysticism are found in Jewish and Christian circles . 637. 675-677. J. Leicester: IVP. Pentecostalist Theology. 1888. P. 1988 p. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone. 37th ed. KJB-1440. The Concise Columbia Encyclopedia. Knibbs M. Phoenix: Inspiration Books. White. In The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha. Williams Peter L. Peel. Leicester: IVP. Ryken Leland. Dictorinary of Biblical Imagery. 1983. R. Apostle. An encyclopedic exploration of the images.H. Martyrdom and Ascension of Isaiah (Second Century BC. 143-176. Olusheye. The Great Controversy. 1988 p. Degree Anatomy. Reprinted 1967.O. 1989.Kearsley. Yap. n..Fourth Century AD). a textbook of pure and applied anatomy for degree students. Chicago: Moody Press. Ferguson and David F. Mental diseases peculiar to certain cultures: a survey of comparative psychiatry. New York: Doubleday. pp. BookMan II Model. motifs. Charlesworth ed. E. Wright eds. J H. Sinclair B. Ferguson and David F. Burlington: Franklin Co. Journal of Mental Science 97:313-327. 1982. Gray’s Anatomy. 502-506. Sinclair B. Wilhoit James C Longman III Trempe.A. Vol. metaphors. John.W. 1999. Wright eds. . Saint Joseph Ayo Babalola 1904-1959. 1968. Sinclair B. symbols. Ferguson and David F. In New Dictionary of Theology. I. J. The Journal of John Wesley. Ellen G. figures of speech and literary patterns of the Bible. 1983. In New Dictionary of Theology. Warwick Roger Dyson Mary and Bannister Lawrence H. Marshall. Wright eds.d.L. The African Foremost Religious Revolutionary leader ever lived. Akure: Christian Overcomers Publishers. 1988 p. In New Dictionary of Theology.Y. 40. Wesley. Aladura: A religious movement among the Yoruba. Port Harcourt: University of Port Harcourt Press.H.M. Ward.D. 2. Leicester: IVP. Tertullian. International African Institute/Oxford University Press. Ogunranti J. 1951. Leicester: IVP. The details of what occurred after he had once more told the story of his call. Wales. Oke Oye. But by the week-end there were hundreds of people at the hill. Saint Joseph Ayo Babalola 1904-1959. Oxford University Press: International African Institute pg 105. and was most impressive when the people raised the water-vessels on their heads for Babalola to bless them. p. Before this vast concourse.D.’ Ibid. emphasis is laid on the visionary guidance of the prophetic ministry’. of course. Akure: Christian Overcomers Publishers. which is outpoured in the last days. mostly in large towns. A District Officer who attended a meeting noted its purely religious and inoffensive character. strongly fundamentalist’ Peel J. [4]Peel J. and differs from similar churches in its government. [5] Ibid. for God was powerful enough to answer all their needs. just within the walls of Ilesha town. p. 91 [3] E. It believes in the Baptism of the Holy Ghost. Olusheye. Oxford University Press: International African Institute p 102-3. as had been revealed to him. Akinyele and Odubanjo.Y 1968 Aladura: A religious movement among the Yoruba. which is based on the orders of apostles. The African Foremost Religious Revolutionary leader ever lived. The meeting was attended by Sadare. the worst confusion was on the roads leading to Ilesha from Ife and Ijebu.particularly the insistence on monogamy and the complete opposition to all medicine. Joseph Babalola. Ijebu or even across the Niger. prophets. and it has a missionary headquarters at Bradford. and bring out for burning all their idols and juju . 1983.L. and in those days quite open ground. at which preachers stormed the towns and valleys and thousands of people declared for Christ. and caused serious disruption of transport and food supplies. Its headquarters is at Penygroes in Glamorgan. and concentrated in Scotland. and. with the Bible and hand bell.D. Joseph Babalola came too. Further more.Y 1968 Aladura: A religious movement among the Yoruba. He took no money and the crowds were orderly. preached to the people to renounce evil practices and witchcraft. It has a few hundred branches in the British Isles. 113 . pp 33-35. which brought it to the notice of the authorities. in the Church’s language. [2]Peel said of the revivals-‘In July 1930 a meeting took place at Ilesha of Faith Tabernacle delegates to discuss certain matters over which there had been disagreement between Babatope and some others. what became a standard practice. as well as other delegates. and divine healing is preached and practices. were filled with the Holy Ghost.[1]The Apostolic Church is a pentecostalist group which grew out of the great Welsh revivals of the first decade of the twentieth century. and to cure them. clad in white shorts and shirt. separated from the rest of the town by a stream. as omi iye.the healing which burgeoned into the largest mass movement of Yorubaland has seen – are not entirely clear. and pastors of the New Testament. evangelists.H. The revival attracted huge numbers of people from as far away as Ilorin. the water of life. he sanctified the near-by stream by prayer.. it was not dramatic or exciting. several times a day. It is. and northern England. These sacrifices are for us to continue and help cure the man. (a) He will agree to DONATE TO US ONE OR TWO SOULS EVERY YEAR (a) At a certain level of office in the church the person would be INITIATED TO OUR SOCIETY and (c) NO member would be allowed to come into the prayer house with SHOES ON When he accepts these conditions he would be given something like a WHITE GRAVEL. He would be instructed to BURY THIS POT WITH ALL THE CONTENTS IN FRONT OF THE CHURCH AND BURY THE CROSS ON ITS TOP. THIS WATER IS WHAT YOU HEAR THEM CALL “HOLY WATER”. By this act the person invites us into his/her house. namely. Many people when disturbed by evil spirits go to these ‘prophets’ to cast them out. Ibadan: Scripture Union. upon the gifts of the Spirit listed in 1 Cor 12:8-10. HUMAN BONES. It is cery surprising that this kind of information can be published by a pure evangelical group like the Scripture Union. BLOOD and CHARMS. Delivered from the Powers of Darkness. and an enduement of power by some . Ward explains Pentecostalist theology as follows-‘ Pentecostalism is one stream within Arminian evangelicalism with distinctive emphases upon a further experience after conversion. ALL IN A NATIVE POT.’ Emmanuel Eni. p 25. If the Scripture Union can publish this then it is very likely to be true. he will pray for the member and then give him/her a red cloth to put in his/her house. sometimes called the baptism of the Spirit. He would be advised to BUILD A POOL OR KEEP A BASIN WHERE SPIRITS WOULD CONTINUE TO SUPPLY SPECIAL WATER. ONLY THE CROSS SHOULD BE SEEN. Please note the difference between the ‘holy water’ here and the type used in CAC which is not called holy water but ‘living water’ and is provided by the individual himself and prayed upon by the clergy or prophet. AFTER THE BURIAL. Pentecostal theology has its roots in various aspects of 19th century fundamentalism in American holiness groups which taught that one could receive after conversion an experience of entire sanctification. and then would advise him/her to always pray with candles and incenses.W. The prophet has no power to cure or heal. [7]J. the baptism in the Holy Spirit and an enduement of power signified but speaking in tongues (glossolalia). What the prophet would do is. Sometimes the member would be advised to bring goat etc for sacrifice. The truth is THEY ONLY ADD MORE DEMONS TO THEM.[6] Emmanuel Eni was one of the first Christian in Nigeria to expose the importance of white garments in worship and therefore opening up new systematics in Aladuraism in Nigeria and indeed Pentecostalism when he made the following confessions of his own practice when he was in the occult OPENING OF WHITE GARMENT CHURCHES ‘When a man comes to us for an assistance to build a prayer house and help him perform healings etc he would be given some conditions. A DEVIL CANNOT CAST OUT DEVIL. e. 2. he claimed he was now given the prophetic ability just like the Apostles of old. He was later joined by two women who abandoned their husbands to take part in the new prophetic movement. present day Central Anatolian Turkey) and also in the first letter recorded to the Corinthians (I Cor 12)5.N. These streams all contributed to the ‘four-square’ emphases of Pentecostal preaching: Christ the Saviour. Henceforth. Gordon (1836-95) and others that divine healing was to be received by faith. where there was a ready response to its message among some affected by recent spiritual awakenings in Wales and elsewhere. Leiceser: IVP. Within a few years. Topeka. Charles Fox Parham (1873-1929).B. This is considered to be the gateway to vivid experience of God. spoke in tongues after the principal. Montanus was a convert into the Christian church and in AD 156 he began the movement which now bears his name. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Torrey (1856-1928) and others who claimed that the baptism of he Spirit was a post-conversion enduement of power primarily for witness and service.key leaders such as Charles Finney. eds S. the last being John the Gospel writer who may have died about 100 AD3. the teaching of A. Europe and North Africa. p 147 [9] MONTANISM This discourse seeks to identify historical factor which may be important in modern understanding of Church history for which lessons can be learnt. laid hands on her and prayed for her to receive the power of the Spirit.2 and it lasted for 400 years till 550 AD.A. the supreme sign of being baptized in the Spirit would be speaking in tongues. The Apostles had all died. Darby. Christ the baptizer in the Holy Spirit. Christ the healer and Christ the coming King. the gifts of the Spirit. A pagan priest from Phrygia was known to be able to fast. He claimed he was a prophet imbued with gifts of the Holy Spirit as clearly enunciated earlier by Paul in his letter to the Ephesians4 who also inhabited the same Asia Minor of Montanus (i. MOVEMENT Montanism was a movement which began in the 2nd Century AD (156) in the Christian Church that had just been deprived of the presence of the Apostles1 and even the Apostolic fathers. It soon reached Europe. the teaching of R. when Miss Agnes Ozman. Wright. see visions. dance. and the premillenialism and the need to live in expectation of the imminent return of Christ taught by J. Scofield (1843-1921) and many others. [8] Peel. Pentecostalism had spread widely in the USA. Montanus was a former pagan priest of the city of Phrygia6 which was very well known for all sorts of pagan spiritist phenomenology. In this case. They were Maximilla and Priscilla. What was said to be normative in the practice of the new church was . pp 502-3. C. a student at Bethel Bible College. especially divine healing.’ Acts 2:3-4. Ferguson and D.F. suffer a lot of torture and even prophesy. New Dictionary of Theology. and power for Christian witness and service. including prophesying.I. Kansas. ecstasy etc. not sanctification. Origins and spread The origins of Pentecostalism may be dated to 1 January 1901. especially through the influence of the Azusa Street Apostolic Faith Mission in Los Angeles. Simpson (1843-1919) and A.B. for Pentecostals. Palmer (1807-87). lively worship. After the conversion of Montanus. Later the trio formed a new church which spread rapidly all over Asia Minor. Asa Mahan (1800-89) and Phoebe W. we speak of the Spirit movements of the 20th century which have their epistemology or basis grounded in the experience of Pentecost in which ‘tongues of fire…separated and came to rest on each of them.J. Pentecostalism gained a strong foothold in Scandinavia and subsequently spread world-wide’ Pentecostalist Theology. then many dispensationalists today will be also false. If the highly ‘spiritual’ people could forgive sins. It encouraged faithfuls to desire martyrdom for to do otherwise was sinful. and single marriage (no remarriage). EVALUATION OF MONTANISM But was Montanism actually evil? Church leaders believed Montanus to be demon-possessed but can we really verify this? If we appeal to scripture. But the movement also emphasised the need for spiritual gifts in the church and a constant need to fast. faithfuls were advised to proceed to Pepuza in order to await the coming of Jesus Christ. and he will tell you what is yet to come. it was usurpation of authority.D. There is no doubt that his prophecy of the imminence of the New Jerusalem came out to be false. But Montanus argues eloquently from John 16:12f to defend himself I have much more to say to you. it was very easy to brand the group as false and demon inspired! In order to safeguard the church against such occurrences in the future. Hence. 3. The church ruled quickly that it was no longer possible after the age of the Apostles for anyone to receive a new canonical revelation from the Holy Spirit.prophesying in a state of convulsive frenzy.2 will soon descend and enter the city of Pepuza. was converted through the ministration of the group.). the group developed a hamartiology of forgiveness of sin. He will not speak on his on. SPIRITUALISM AFTER MONTANUS . they will not follow a group that will lead them to their death. The Scriptures says the Spirit will guide to all truth and reveal what is to come (i. when the New Jerusalem did not descend into Pepuza. Montanus was saying he was given the power of interpretation and eschatological predictions. eschatology). is it possible to actually come to a conclusion that Montanus was not correctly following the path of the Master albeit with some errors which have been repeated by others in modern times?11 If Montanus was a false prophet could his organization have been so prolonged long after his death? If he was still a priest of the pagan worship of Phrygia. if the members found nothing good in him. The age was done and the New Jerusalem clearly predicted to come forth into the earth in Rev 21. what becomes of the bishops who did not manifest any apparent spiritual gifts? 10 And of course. more than you can now bear. At least one very good thing came out of the Montanist movement. he will guide you into all truth.the three founding members could forgive sins and also other members who had developed ‘high spirituality’ and women could hold office in church. Montanism brought sharply to focus the church’s need to control what the scriptures says and how to interpret and guard against future abuse of scripture or indeed revelation. 6. For one. one of the greatest of the Church fathers. THEOLOGY Montanus and his two disciples taught that the world had already come to an end.’ 12-13. Indeed. the Church leaders declared a closure of the New Testament canon although there were still controversies as to the genuineness of some of the books of the potential canon. keep a disciplined life. 5. the Spirit of truth. It is not known whether this was accompanied by speaking in tongues (glossolalia)7 or not. he will speak only what he hears. But when he. It led to the closure of the canon and the disbandment of prophecy from the church. 4. Finally. but does that make him a fake person or indeed a pagan in Christian clothing? If so. Tertullian12 (fl c.e. comes. EFFECT ON CHURCH Wile the laity took seriously most of the teachings of Montanus and his groups and this could have led to the rapid spread of the organisation.[9] The eschatology of this group was highly profound. The movement did not disagree with the essential doctrines of the church (eg Christological or soteriological) but held that they could provide new revelation through the three founding prophets (Montanus himself and his two female aids)8. 196-212 A. He later formed his own group and had considerable influence on the development of early church history. it is very doubtful if he would insist that his members present themselves for Christian martyrdom. the church hierarchy frowned at it. It just happened spontaneously and its history is as follows. lively worship. Despite its very great systematics and classification. This particular movement was not ascribed to anyone.’ Such have a large propensity to become corrupted just like the root spirit movement in Judaism called Merkabah mysticism17 dating back to several decades before Christ.16 More importantly. This was why even Eli himself was not too sure who was calling Samuel. The origins of pentecostalism may be dated to 1 January 1901. When God spoke to Samuel. for Pentecostals. But the main spiritual reawakening came in the form of pentecostalism14 at the turn of the 20th century. But one thing is sure. See End notes on Montanism [10] There isconsiderable evidence to suggest that these gifts did not disappear from the church but were found in different ages within different groups rather than the main line. and having the flavour of Old Testament prophets like Jeremiah who calls on his people to repent or be doomed and that of John the Baptist (including his charisma) pleading with the people ‘to repent for the kingdom of God is at hand. a theme which in most cases is absent in orthodoxy and which leads them invariably into deep Arminianism. Even some of these gifts were reported in Wesley’s Methodism in his (Wesley’s) days. One is the gift of prophecy. To the psychiatrist though. when Miss Agnes Ozman. messianic. So many people claim to be prophets today and trace their ability to the gift of the Holy Spirit. all speaking in tongues represent some psychiatric ailment which may be treated as psychoses or mental derangement. While the new spiritual churches are very similar in theology to those of the Montanist. they still have not lasted that long. all seem to emphasize the power of prayer to change life situations. a student at Bethel Bible College. Some are clearly satanic. Abiku or Emere (see below). its . there were not many visions. laid hands on her and prayed for her to receive the power of the Spirit.15 This modern wonder. We can therefore not say what could become of them. spoke in tongues after the principal. the gifts of the Spirit. can it have any bearing with Montanist movement of the early church? What is its significance today if it is real as it claims? 7. I Sam 3:1. Topeka. the supreme sign of being baptized in the Spirit would be speaking in tongues. P.M. Sporadic cases were reported in the medieval ages and later in the revivals of John Wesley13 of the 18th century and those of the 19th century awakening in Europe and the Americas. Mental diseases peculiar to certain cultures: a survey of comparative psychiatry. Kansas. 8. We should always be careful not to condemn what we cannot understand. The Bible says In those days the word of the Lord was rare. This is considered to be the gateway to vivid experience of God. Hence it is clear that it is not all speaking in tongues that is from God.18 But we can determine violation of the Scriptures for the Scripture alone can provide any meaningful revelation of the mind of God for this age and indeed all ages. Journal of Mental Science 97:313-327.Spiritualism and prophetism did not completely die out in the church after Montanus. Henceforth. Charles Fox Parham (1873- 1929). especially divine healing. MODERN SPIRITUALISM AND MONTANISM COMPARED It appears the modern spiritualism enterprises and the older montanism seem to have many things in correspondence. 1951) in Nigeria is Ogbanje. We cannot determine for God when He wishes to pour out His gifts to the church. also we cannot determine when they are to cease. [11] Glossolalia is actually a medical condition which is considered by most psychiatrist to be amongst the so called culture –bound syndrome to which most Pentecostal will refer to as demon possession. chialistic. He had been silent for about a period of possibly 400 years. CONCLUSION. and power for Christian witness and service. psychiatry still remains a world of mystery which is hardly scientific. An example of culture-bound syndrome (Yap. They are all apocalyptic. all of which are definite experiences. but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit) on the Baptism of Holy Spirit by Jesus before John the Baptist is sanctification. Grudem believes what is being referred to in Mk 1:8 (I baptize you with water. use it to cook food. pisteuo translated as believe in English.1st conversion. [16] The word ‘on’ here has a definite significance which only an appeal to Geek religious system can capture its true meaning. do not bother to ask this question. purification anointing etc. Most people. while some of the Cherubim and Seraphim. You must also make him your personal deity and hence the modern version of conversion which talks of accepting Jesus as personal saviour. of those who do. I give you so that you shall give me’ p 17. such as hydropathy’p 142. Conversion in some pentecostal churches is said to be first blessing while baptism of Holy Spirit is referred to as second blessing. -there should be a place for baptism of the Holy Spirit in it. Biological psychiatry is beginning to change this posture. But in this age. or may make scientific comparisons. this was an anxiety-appeasing religion of formal reciprocity. . (Heb 1:9). But several scholars differ in this regard. 3rd. and a medium which make contact with any item. See note no 20 [14]Only one thing is wrong with this ordo salutis. M Grant -The Rise of the Greeks: Phoenix. This was done in the 1st century church after the exit of the original apostles who saw Jesus. Thus you can sprinkle water on any item. Peel says ‘Turning to sources other than Protestant Bible interpretation is a consequence of asking what is source of the spiritual power they have witnessed. At the Didache says this much. Slaying in spirit as this practice is called has now become the easiest to mimic in satanic [13] worship. when everyone questions everything. It is not just enough to believe Jesus is the son of God . as merely an aid to the pure operation of faith in God. Firstly it was freely available. In that regard.system of treatment non-empirical or not always efficacious by any standard. talents and gifts in the modern church. p 17. do ut des. of course. But the Apostolic faith insists there are three blessings as follows. [17] On water or hydrotherapy one can not but explain that nothing can be smarter than the use of water in the years when the revivals started in Western Nigeria.baptism of Holy Spirit with speaking in tongues. It was a smart article of faith no matter what any one says. the more self-conscious Christ Apostolic pastors explain omi iye. Grant says of the old Greek deities’ But these deities could be savagely dangerous if men and women did not acknowledge them (that is what the Greek term nomizein means – not ‘believe in’) and if they were not placated. means. [15] The Gospel of John was the last to be written. explain it by a more traditional symbolism. cheap. I prefer to use oil which is well established in the New Testament in order to avoid being misunderstood. [12] There is nothing wrong in providing office of apostleship to worthy candidates when they demonstrate unusual skills. This is of course not in the Bible but captures the essence of believing ‘on’ Jesus closely.that is what the Greek word. including clothing. for example. its function is higher than oil which cannot be used for all items for sanctification. drink it etc. 2nd –sanctification. not so affected by European Protestant mental habits. and people (including sex) which/who are demon infested can pass the demons to non infested people and these could be Christians. And so he did. ‘Mary understood that when people knelt before us. The difference is that the Christian has authority and can ask the demons to live but they may not go if materials that attracted them are still around you. they were actively submitting themselves to us and accepting whatever we wanted to give them. The Bible clearly states. Touch no unclean thing and I will receive you. says the Lord. Mary showed me the proper incantations to do and how to have the people hold their hands up like this. When I awoke. They also directly opened the door for it by allowing their minds to go blank without testing the spirit knocking them out. pp 147-9. I guess I was out for five minutes or so. then on their forehead. But Paul continues ‘Since we have these promises. It says purify yourself from any contamination of body and spirit. or even bowed their heads before us. Materials.Springdale: Whitaker House. But the sinful Christian can of course have demons in both body and spirit. This text in fact answers those Christians who say you cannot be possessed in the spirit if you are a Christian. I will be a Father to you. dear friends. p 231. ‘Out they would go.[18] See 1 above [19] Peel.’ 2 Cor 7:1. and I will be their God. let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminate body and spirit.Also Rebecca Brown narrates a story of how Christians can become deceived while seeking deliverance and then be demonized. Of course they thought we were praying for them. perfecting holiness out of reverence for God. and you will be my sons and daughters. [22]R Brown (1990). I’m sure .” “Therefore come out from them and be separate. and the Christians miss the import of this great text- ‘Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. and they will be my people. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them. I found that I had acquired a new demon. ‘Then she would tap them first on one hand then on the other. She then did it to me and I fell over unconscious. making the sign of an upside down cross. every time. says the Lord Almighty. p 147 [21]Some handle the vexed question in evangelical Christianity whether a real Christian can be demon possessed or not by saying Christians cannot be demon possessed in the spirit but the body can become demon infested in certain sicknesses which are of demonic origin or in wearing accursed things or in touching something unclean. p 146. Mary told me this special demon would put demons into the people I prayed for. [20] Peel.’ 2 Cor 6:14-18. Becoming A vessel of Honor In The Master’s Service. but their submission to us gave us the legal right to put demons into them. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. ’ Lk 24:34-36. But those who are considered worthy of taking part in that age and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage.’ Job 1:6. So when it said ‘sons of God’ went into ‘daughter of men’. RSV. [26]Odubanjo was the first General Secretary of the CAC. First it provides answer as to who are referred to as sons of God in the Gen 6 account. This text more than explains itself.’ Jude 10 ‘For if God did not spare the angels when they sinned. p 143. They are angels. [27] Peel. p 138.that isn’t the only way people put demons into people by having them hold their hands like that. They could not have persisted to any modern age. ASV. pp 46-7. In any case. but sent them to hell. The Jewish tradition holds that their spirits were liberated as demons after their death since they were supposed to be partially immortal and are the small or large demons that now populate the sea. putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment. [23] Ibid. [30] ‘The people of this age marry and are given in marriage. [24] Peel. “giant” seems to capture the translation well. a post he had held in the old days of Faith Tabernacle. not the abnormal. and Satan came also among them.’ II Pe 2:4. [28] Peel. but that is how we did it. this then is function in the Jewish literature which believes that angels came to sleep with daughters of men who gave birth to the Nephilim. dry land. p 131 [29]Nephilim called and translated “Nephilim” in NIV. bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day. and not men as claimed by many. it simply means angels went into humans. and they can no longer die. He therefore remains one of the theoretical pillars of CACism today. He died in1959. pp 45-6. Secondly it talks about the normal. ‘Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD. [25] Peel. Ibid. They are God’s children. since they are children of the resurrection. but giants in KJV and NKJ. Angels do not marry. Also the correct translation son of God in the OT is angel. NAS. air etc which plague man. In Islamic tradition and literature they are the jinns’ (Surah 46:29-30). . See the following texts. In view of the ideas derived from Judaic literature. p 148. does not mean angels cannot marry. for they are like the angels. Angels do not disobey God does not mean angels cannot disobey God and many did in the past and will suffer the consequences in the future when according to Peter and Jude ‘And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their own home-these he had kept in darkness. The giant Nephilim were wiped out at the time of Noah’s flood. since only Noah and his descendants survived the flood. His skill as artisan shows that his abilities were not those of a low order.9:2). After Its Kind (Mineapolis. And finally. We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes. Anakim were tall pre-Israelite inhabitants of Canaan (Deut 2:10-11.’ Ryken. 1998. Rephaim were likewise pre-Israelite inhabitants of Canaan (Deut 2:11. the authors of Dictionary of Biblical Imagery said ‘The sway that giants have held over the human imagination is in excess of the number of their appearances in the Bible. 3:11-13). all of the biblical giants are oversized humans whose superior size made them feared on the battlefield.’ Jude 10. where a great deal of mystery surrounds the references. Becoming A vessel of Honor In The Master’s Service. Four Hebrew words are translated as “giant” in various English translations. and Satan came also among them to present himself before the LORD. 328.’ In describing biblical giants. Therefore there is nothing in the text to suggest they were giants and if so. then that one of their associations is that of mystery-something beyond our ability to fully comprehend. not necessarily of gigantic proportions. interpreted by Jude 6 ‘And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their own home-these he had kept in darkness.‘Again there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD. who remain shrouded in mystery. putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment. He buried his dead. ‘All the people we saw there are of great size. With all the Jewish traditions known. He had a distinct and highly evolved form of culture. p 231. [34]‘Sir Arthur Keith says of Neanderthal man “In size of brain Neanderthal was not a low form. it is clear that Nephilim were regarded as giants of some sort and were even compared with the sons of Anak in Num13:32-33. Nelson. 1 Chron 20:4-8). though it is uncertain whether they were gigantic in height and weight. 21. who in the report of the spies are said to be descendants of the Nephilim (Num 13:33). The military province of the biblical giant is attested by the way references to them cluster in battle contexts (2 Sam 21:16-22. p 231. and we looked the same to them.’ 2 Pe 2:4. Nephilim are mysterious preflood beings (Gen 6:4). gibbor is a term used to designate a military hero or strong man. With the possible exception of the Nephilim. and all the sons of God shouted for joy? Job 38:7 [31]‘For if God did not spare the angels when they sinned. bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day. Neanderthal was certainly not a dawn form of humanity. R Brown (1990). Classical Neanderthal features include a large brain size of . but sent them to hell. developing modern features from the ancient ones of the upper pleistocene man. ‘Job 2:1 When the morning stars sang together. [33] This interpretation (or indeed translation) is rooted in Jewish apocalyptic literature for the ordinary meaning of Nephilim is “fallen ones”. We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). Wilhoit and Longman III. We might note at the outset. Augsburg Publishing House. sapiens neanderthalis apeared from H erectus and is generally recognized as ancient version of modern man. 1927). rendered unforgettable in the evocative statement that “there were giants in the land” (KJV). 153.’ Byron C. ‘At the upper pleistocene H. He had fire at his command. what proportions they were.Springdale: [32] Whitaker House. In fact modern man did evolve from neanderthal man. The next day while passing also I saw her still at the same spot. small jaws. and would not come a minute earlier or later! In some of her visits I would take her to the Lagos Barbeach. dolichocephalic skulls with projecting occipitals. The Natural History of the Primates. straight and fully extensive knees and lips. absence of sagittal crest or prognathism. the mysterious lady! I welcomed her (in my mind. 1967). I heard a knock on my door after a week of that meeting at the bus stop. All these while . brutish and short. Napier and P. [36] ‘One evening I decided to have a walk. Mood Press. forward looking foramen magnum. their hands were powerful. small dentition. large anterior condyle of the femur. Along Ebute Metta Bus stop. A Case for Creation. The third day I saw her still at the same spot and while passing she called me. Hence the features of Neanderthal man is similar to those of modern apes. In my mind I said “that was impossible. scanty hair on the body. there are no scientific evidences to prove this for most of his skeleton have been obtained from his skull and the long bones have not been well studied. who were indisputably human. I never spoke a word to her. deep notch between the condyles of the femur. she said she would visit me one day. and they. Ogunranti.’ J. Some of these adaptations include such features as a squat body and knobbly joints which facilitated blood flow for the extremities.185.about 1. he was nasty. (Port Harcourt University Press. Classic Neanderthalim were a form of European Eskimo. [35] ‘The Neanderthals were responsible for the so-called Mousterian chipped stone culture . I saw a young beautiful lady standing. Napier. When I was about leaving. 234-236. parabolic dental arcade. I did not tell her my house number how then could she come. highly opposable thumb with adaptations for precision and writing grips. Anatomically he is well known for the many existing skeleton. It is believed that modern man evolved from the central Eurasian mass and moved to the periphery.R. disappeared about 30. They also had large brow ridges. 1985). her visits became regular without any relationships. 1985). She asked me mine and I told her the street ONLY.’ J. erect. rough and heavy. Neanderthal man was as erect as any modern man today. After this first visit.” But true to her words.O. There she was. and did she know she was threading on dangerous grounds?) I entertained her and she left. Their fate is uncertain though the general consensus is that they were genetically absorbed into the population of Cro-Magnon people. I wondered who this beautiful lady was. He presents today as mainly brachycephalic. much as the genes of the Sabines were absorbed in the genetic pool of their Roman conquerors.a culture that was shared by some Cro -Magnoids. There is little doubt in most scientists minds that Neanderthal man is a race of Homo sapiens specifically adapted to the ecological conditions of his environment during the period of the last glaciation. Cambridge University Press: British Museum of Natural History. 125. a feature that easily captures the picture of a caveman. ‘Neanderthal Man is everybody’s idea of our caveman ancestors dresses in animal skin. Degree Anatomy. true Homo sapiens. He was mainly a hunter-gather and he utilized primitive stone tools like the mousterian culture. rounded occipital and frontal bones. I asked her name and address but she only laughed.000 years ago.600 cc larger than that of modern men. Some of the features listed above are present on fetal apes. (Chicago. I stopped and introduced myself to her as Emmanuel Amos but she refused introducing herself.’ Wayne Frair and Percival Davis.H. But the features of modern man resemble closely those of fetal or new born ape. Although a number of scientist believe Neanderthal man was short. the last of the line. carrying angle for the femur. I noticed that in her visits she kept to a particular time. or to Paramount Hotel or Ambassador Hotel etc. I asked her “where are we going?” She said.’ H. Leicester: IVP. Hos 4:2). pp 16-17. Necromancy (Lev 19:31.m. There are several witchcraft practices recorded in the Bible and to summarize they are as follows -Astrology (Is 47:13. We moved into a city with a lot of people all very busy…. suggests that it had become a standardized call to praise in the post-exilic Temple worship…From the NT (‘Alleluia’. There she sat me down and told me: “I am the QUEEN OF THE COAST and would like very much to work with you.’ Delivered from the Powers of Darkness. Liturgical call hall lu-yah=’praise ye Yah’. I saw young beautiful girls and handsome young men. She introduced me to them and I was welcomed. Is 8:19. Ellison. She pressed a button and a tray came out with human flesh (in pieces) in it and we ate it together.” She took me to a corner of the bar beach. Rev 19:1.6) the call has been taken over into Christian worship. 135:3) it is always found at the beginning or end of psalms. and these are all anonymous and so presumably among the later ones. She took me to a place called ‘darkroom’ and a ‘drying room. I could not. Hepatoscopy (Ez 21:21). As we stopped. [39]‘This is a transliteration of the Heb. its theme is very profound in the Bible. Deu 18:11. We joined a bus and she told the driver to stop us at the beach. Jer 10:2. 19:3). p 39. I saw laboratories like science lab. Familiar spirit (speaking with dead. Suddenly she changed the day visits to nights.’ and a ‘packing room’ She then took me to a main factory and warehouse and then came back to her own private mansion. these happened in my physical form! At a point we sank into the seabed and to my surprise I saw us walking along an express way. I had already been instructed never to touch a woman. used something like a belt and tied around us and immediately a force came from behind and pushed us into the sea.” We stayed together that night and at 8. life and an ‘angel’ to guide you”. protection and all that go with it. The following day we took off. I decided not to worry since I knew the relationship would not develop more than that.1 Sam 28:7-11) [38] Rebecca Brown. how could I swallow a life boa. Rhabdomancy (Ez 21:21. it was said ‘Do not allow a sorceress to live’ Ex 22:18. New Bible Dictionary. These three covenants: The HUMAN FLESH.1996 p 441. the BOA and the DEMONIC ANGEL were always there to make sure no secret was revealed. I promise to give you wealth and all that go with it. Zech 10:12). She then used her powers and I swallowed it. Teraphim (Ez 21:21. 3rd ed. designing lab. the shortened form of Yahweh…which occurs 24 times in the Psalter. and BLOOD. In fact in the days of Moses. During one of the visits she told me – “now it is time for you to visit me. But the ‘angel’ was given power to discipline me if I went astray and also to bring me food from the sea anytime I was here on earth. At the back of the city. I promised to obey her always. She commanded a boa to appear and asked me to swallow it.00a. Ibadan: Scripture Union Press. She insisted but I could not. “don’t worry you are going to know my house. Dear reader.L. [37] For those who refuse to believe in witchcraft. the fact that with one exception (Ps. Though it is merely one variant of several calls to praise. No old people. We started flying on the surface of the water and straight to the ocean. 3-4.she still did not tell me her name. and a theatre. . and even in solitary places just as you do with real prayers. Psalms 147:1 Praise ye the LORD: for it is good to sing praises unto our God. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD that delighteth greatly in his commandments. O Zion. and your heavenly father knows that you need them.m. O ye servants of the LORD. and glory. go to the farm or wayside where you can secludedly pray at 5.Phil 4:19 WANT Matthew 21:22 And all things. and power. Alleluia. in the assembly of the upright. p 121. Psalms 117:1 O praise the LORD.____ for 38 and _________for 39. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. unto all generations. whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer. and all these things will be given to you as well. Salvation.Psalms 106:1 Praise ye the LORD (Halleluyah). Yet I tell you that not even Solomon was dressed like one of these. [41] There isa clear distinction in the New Testament about what you ‘need’ which God says he will supply you even without you asking. O give thanks unto the LORD. and in the congregation. O you of little faith? So do not worry. Praise. or about your body. Praise ye the LORD. praise him. they do not sow or reap or store away in barns.’ Peel. Praise ye the LORD from the heavens: praise him in the heights. for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. So beware of imitation. do not worry about your life. The proof texts are as follows NEED. all ye nations: praise him. Psalms 113:1 Praise ye the LORD.’Mt 6:25-34. for tomorrow will worry about itself. O ye servants of the LORD. Psalms 112:1 Praise ye the LORD. ye shall receive. and those things you want. which you must use your mouth to ask for. and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. saying.‘Therefore I tell you. unto the Lord our God. for it is pleasant. believing. Psalms 111:1 Praise ye the LORD. will he not much more clothe you.The method which is decidedly magical is performed amazingly with fasting. Pronounce the following Holy names as you are reading it. [40] If an elder or superior man is angry with you and wants to do you evil. and praise is comely. O my soul. and you will know that there is God. and honour. Fast through the day. all ye people. before sunrise. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow. But seek first the kingdom of God and is righteousness. and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air. .30 o’clock a. what you will wear. which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire. Praise ye the name of the LORD. Read Psalm 38 seven times with Psalm 39. even thy God. Psalms 148:1 Praise ye the LORD. what you will eat or drink. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Revelation 19:1 And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven. Is not life more important than food. praise the name of the LORD. Psalms 146:10 The LORD shall reign for ever. I will praise the LORD with my whole heart. This is the Pauline rendering of the above doctrine from Jesus ‘My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus’. They do not labor or spin. Psalms 146:1 Praise ye the LORD. Psalms 135:1 Praise ye the LORD. saying ‘what shall we eat?’ or ‘what shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear? For the pagans run after these things. Praise the LORD. if you force God’s hand.John 16:24 Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask. and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. someone else will also sleep with yours or you will get a punishment commensurate with your sin. THEY ARE STILL PUNISHED CRIMINOLOGICALLY!! Hence even if you are forgiven so that you can be washed thoroughly clean with the blood of the Lamb. 1 John 3:22 says 'And whatsoever we ask. If you sin after you have received your wants it will surely disappear. Do not be greedy about what you ask and be patient. because we keep his commandments. But the text is not talking about soul but the body and therefore cannot have a cause and effect relationship. SIN FACTOR IN WANTS It is a complete WRONG to sin when you ask for your wants. we receive of him.’ This anti-want argument is based on the soul factor. You ask for what you want. James 4:3 Ye ask. Thus the punishment for killing somebody is not the same with the punishment for a simple lie which does not hurt anyone. IS IT EVIL TO ASK FOR WANTS? NO! Some insist it is wrong to ask for your wants but you rather ask for God’s will using. The major reason for his is as follows. because ye ask amiss. EVEN WHEN SINS ARE FORGIVEN SOTERIOLOGICALLY. they are not the same. but sent leanness into their soul’ Ps 106. That is to say. All sins are of equal soteriological weight before God but not all sins are of equal weight in the level of severity. you will still receive the punishment of your sin here on earth commensurate with its criminological .15. Thus murder cannot be equated with a simple lie. But it is not wrong to ask for your wants. we receive of him.' STAY AWAY FROM SIN IN ORDER TO RECEIVE YOUR WANTS. We all have to answer for our sins because whatever a man sows. be holy and believe you will receive and you will receive them. that ye may consume it upon your lusts. because we keep his commandments. What the Bible is silent about is the length of time for asking but it deals with this and the number of times to ask in the parable of the persistent widow. In the forgiveness of sin for eternal life a sin is a sin . but sent a wasting disease upon them. then your soul will be lean. which means you will be unable to come as close as possible to God.(AV) Now compare with the rendering in NIV ‘So he gave them what they asked for. and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. 1 John 3:22 And whatsoever we ask. the following text as their proof text ‘And he gave them their request. It goes like this. nephesh is translated in AV versions as soul. there can be no relationship between praying to get what you want from God and punishment. The rules of engagement have been spelt out. he will reap. but in the law of karma which is whatever a man sows he shall reap (GAL 6:7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. and receive not. that your joy may be full. A man reaps what he sows).sin brings automatically punishment. whereas in the present context it should not be translated into a physical thing like body or flesh but soul and hence the rendering of NIV is closer to the meaning of the text than that of AV. So if you sleep with someone else's wife. and ye shall receive. while it was alive. and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. What thing is this that thou hast done? thou didst fast and weep for the child. 1 Kings 21:9 And she wrote in the letters. and lay all night upon the earth. and for our little ones. . 2 Samuel 12:21 Then said his servants unto him. and went in. 2 Chronicles 20:3 And Jehoshaphat feared. but when the child was dead. that we might afflict ourselves before our God. to seek of him a right way for us. wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him. 2 Samuel 12:23 But now he is dead. thou didst rise and eat bread. and set Naboth on high among the people: 1 Kings 21:12 They proclaimed a fast. [42] The Didache tells us that the earliest of Christians after the apostolic era were told to recite the Lord’s prayer three times a day. and set Naboth on high among the people. saying. at the river of Ahava. and David fasted. [43] These texts are derived from the Old and New Testaments on fasting 2 Samuel 12:16 David therefore besought God for the child. Proclaim a fast. and for all our substance.weight! The best example of this is in the Bible is the case of David and his punishment after committing adultery with Uriah's wife (2 Sam 12:15-18). and set himself to seek the LORD. Ezra 8:21 Then I proclaimed a fast there. but he shall not return to me. Joel 2:15 Blow the trumpet in Zion. and so will I go in unto the king. gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land into the house of the LORD your God. I will not accept them: but I will consume them by the sword. and when they offer burnt offering and an oblation. and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast. and fast ye for me. call a solemn assembly. and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day. and to let the oppressed go free. I will not hear their cry. and by the famine. Isaiah 58:3 Wherefore have we fasted. Isaiah 58:5 Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush. and cry unto the LORD. gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan. and exact all your labours. and by the pestilence. in the day of your fast ye find pleasure. and to all the people that came from the cities of Judah unto Jerusalem. Isaiah 58:4 Behold.Esther 4:16 Go. call a solemn assembly: . which is not according to the law: and if I perish. and that ye break every yoke? Jeremiah 14:12 When they fast. Jeremiah 36:9 And it came to pass in the fifth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah. sanctify a fast. to undo the heavy burdens. that they proclaimed a fast before the LORD to all the people in Jerusalem. I perish. night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise. in the ninth month. to make your voice to be heard on high. and an acceptable day to the LORD? Isaiah 58:6 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness. Joel 1:14 Sanctify ye a fast. and neither eat nor drink three days. say they. ye fast for strife and debate. and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul. and thou takest no knowledge? Behold. Zechariah 7:5 Speak unto all the people of the land. even those seventy years.Jonah 3:5 So the people of Nineveh believed God. as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come. shall be to the house of Judah joy and gladness. Can the children of the bridechamber fast. Matthew 9:14 Then came to him the disciples of John. The fast of the fourth month. Matthew 6:18 That thou appear not unto men to fast. did ye at all fast unto me. but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father. saying. from the greatest of them even to the least of them. saying. therefore love the truth and peace. Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft. that they may appear unto men to fast. and the fast of the fifth. When ye fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh month. and then shall they fast. shall reward thee openly. be not. and put on sackcloth. but thy disciples fast not? Matthew 9:15 And Jesus said unto them. but thy disciples fast not? . Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast. and to the priests. when the bridegroom shall be taken from them. and the fast of the seventh. which seeth in secret. even to me? Zechariah 8:19 Thus saith the LORD of hosts. Verily I say unto you. and the fast of the tenth. and proclaimed a fast. Mark 2:18 And the disciples of John and of the Pharisees used to fast: and they come and say unto him. as the hypocrites. Matthew 6:16 Moreover when ye fast. of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces. and cheerful feasts. They have their reward. while the bridegroom is with them? Luke 5:35 But the days will come. Don’t forget the original manner of eating was hunter-gathering. Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast. when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them. Luke 5:33 And they said unto him. but thine eat and drink? Luke 5:34 And he said unto them. Mark 2:20 But the days will come. I give tithes of all that I possess. Note however that fasting is a natural process of getting rid of accumulated poisons which we invariably take up while we eat which the liver cleanses. when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them. starch. But everything must be done in moderation. the body will need more energy to break down complex molecules like protein. Luke 18:12 I fast twice in the week.Mark 2:19 And Jesus said unto them. and make prayers. Why do the disciples of John fast often. such as glucose to provide strength. But too much food over labours the liver. [44] [45] What normally kills in a fast medically is the loss of vital and important nutrients which we use daily to give ourselves energy for even the simplest process of the body such as respiration. while the bridegroom is with them? as long as they have the bridegroom with them. and then shall they fast in those days. just like most carnivorous animals before they see their prey. Can the children of the bridechamber fast. Such simple molecules are needed in starvation or else. To therefore say that fasting causes madness or sickness is not true. Abstinence from food gives it a respite very much needed. fat. Hence these latter nutrients are best avoided when breaking a long fast for the energy required to digest the food can kill the individual. and then shall they fast in those days. Energy is stored in complex molecules like starch and glycogen but broken down to simple molecules. and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees. they cannot fast. . A hunter may go without food for days. 3). When they came down from the hill.1). unless you have a specific disease day-only fast can never kill anyone although it may make you loose weight. “On getting to the mountain. But after long discussion with the people of Erio.[46] The story istold of Joanah casting out a demon in less than two seconds of command “You demon get out of this child’ while two exorcists had engaged this demon for well over 5 hours without success. 2009 with the theme “A new Heaven and a new Earth. ‘I had finally answered your prayer’. people are required to fast before baptism.” Since the inception the revival has witnessed a lot of miracles and wonders with profuse testimonies. Pa Simon who had been visiting Oke-Aanu took it upon himself to lead the apostle and his entourage to Oke Aanu. Erio. but the place was not suitable. Christians are required to pray the Lord’s prayer three times a day (8.2)’ p 67. food offered to idols is forbidden (6. chief host of the revival. fasting is required on Wednesdays and Fridays but prohibited on Mondays and Thursdays (8. …Christians are told to let alms sweat in their hands until they know to whom they are giving (1. That way no one will know you have been on fast for long. Grudem W. Prophet Hezekiah said his first visit to this mountain was in 1998 when he was looking unto the Lord for a child after six years of marriage. The last one was mountain of mercy. Apostle Babalola visited Erio to inform the people that God had instructed him to find a praying ground on a hill. An introduction to Biblical Doctrine. [49] The Didache ‘was discovered in 1875 at a library in Constantinople but probably dates from the first or second century A. Systemic Theology. Prophet Hezekiah Oladeji. and prayers unknown in the New Testament are given as a pattern for celebrating the Lord’ supper (9. his wife gave birth to a bouncing baby girl. [47] Whilelong night-day fast may be dangerous. the apostle was pleased to see the environment.” The following year. I heard a voice saying. and baptism must be done in running water (7. He said it is the . Leicester: IVP. unbaptized persons are excluded from the Lord’s Supper. To avoid losing weight you can take two meals a day during the long day fast – one at 6.” Continuing. THE seventh edition of the Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola Power Explosion holds at the Ori Oke Aanu Praying Ground. apostles are prohibited from staying in a city more than two days (11. “To comply with this instruction. Osun State.6).D. But again you must consider the Holy Spirit leading (Lk 2:37).5… prophets who speak in the Spirit cannot be tested or examined (11. said he is only trying to follow the footsteps Apostle Babalola.1-4). he said: “I had already climbed two mountains out of the three mountains that God directed me to climb. between June 22 and 26.7)…salvation requires perfection at the last time (16. p 67.00pm and the other before midnight. He was in a trance one day “when God spoke to me that I should climb three mountains in a day of which mountain of mercy Erio- Ekiti was included. Apostle Babalola had to visit Olosunta Hill at Ikere-Ekiti. [48] The isof course no more need to fast for atonement or sin since Jesus has finished that work on the cross. adding “one day. he decided to seek approval to use the hill as a praying ground which was granted by the chiefs.3). As I started climbing the mountain.1-5). Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola. develop and commemorate Apostle Ayo Babalola’s place of call. viz: 1. A chronicle of healing and deliverance testimonies wrought by God through this consecrated stream. Ikeji-Arakeji (which now converges the products of the call and mission of the Apostle). epoch-making destinies. land-marker. “In the vision. its history and development. he said God spoke to him. From chapter one.com/2009/06/babalola-power-explosion-holds-june-22/ JOSEPH AYO BABALOLA MIRACLE CENTRE HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE Name of Author: Abiodun Olowe Name of Reviewer: Pastor Joe Jacobs (Youth Officer. the subject matter of this first-hand research and study effort majority revolves round three (3) land- marks. the first edition of the revival on June 27. especially. who became the divine tool. Human memory however. 2. Through this highly informed. Read more at: http://www. whose tap-root is in the heavenlies. over time. was birthed. This concise history is compressed in the introductory part of this Christian literary work. we begin to read about the very visionary and focused structural. On the 7th day of the first fasting season. but consecrated. the fast growing and now worldwide mission Christ Apostolic Church. unreliable in the instance of man’s morality. and 3. is subject to distortions and factual inaccuracy. at a specific place. “Joseph Ayo Babalola Miracle Centre: Historical Perspective”. The very spot where an individual encounters God in an unusual way ceases to be ordinary. I woke up I ordered my prayer warriors to organise a committee in collaboration with the authority of CAC Erio District to commence the crusade in obedience to God’s message and it was granted. The Ikeji-Arakeji Joseph Ayo Babalola Miracle Centre attained this status from the very moment this great Apostle heard the call of God on it. 2003 with ‘Power as of old’ as its theme. has been found to be fallible due to the state of depravity of man right from the Garden of Eden. Facts therefore committed to merely human memory. Hence.” Hezekiah explained “it was revealed further that the revival should be an annual event and it should be tagged ‘Joseph Ayo Babalola Power Explosion’. We will also read much about the very consecrated “Sinai” of the Missionary’s (Apostle Ayo Babalola) place of call. informative and historical missive. and divinely appointed to secure. The life and call of the very revered Apostolic Missioner and outstanding “setman”. “Immediately. through whose specific call. received miraculous unction for the healing and deliverance of many by the power of God. who has helped to trap down factual history of the background of this our great and formidable mission. Dr. oral transmission.same mountain that God directed him to for his annual 21-day fasting and prayer in the month of January.vanguardngr. and is moreover. Abi Olowe becomes another icon in the history of Christ Apostolic Church. when it is proved that the spot is noted for miraculous events that are life-turning in the lives of different people at different times. and the Ariran stream at the blessing of the man of God. that he should organise a crusade at the mountain in commemoration and continuation of the missionary evangelism work of Apostle Babalola. Pastor Isaiah Olufayobi Ogunbomehin. Summarily. as researched and written by . that he should make Him known to the whole world through the call of Apostle Babalola on the mountain (Oke- Aanu). CAC Worldwide) Memory is one of the innumerable endowments and priceless gifts of God to mankind meant to facilitate recollection and transmission of knowledge. and at a specific time in history. in a manner to finally defeat distortions of undocumented. for first-hand accessibility to our posterity. Dr. The book is volume-effective. miraculous deliverance and conversion. distributed over 7 chapters. is laced with pictorial. of divine intention to have the holy ground commemorated to converge the people of God for holy assemblies. H. Pastor Ogunbomehin’s humble background. easy to understand diction. for the Author. was thus a divine tool in the hand of God to fulfill his destiny and mission thus. L. Orogun for he laid the foundation stone of the Power House when he was the General Superintendent. who caught the vision and rose to spear- head the development and commemoration. and the very generous gesture of the Ikeji-Arakeji Community. our current President of CAC in developing this Camp and n establishing the Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) is also specially recognized. Thank you very much and may the God of Joseph Ayo Babalola bless you really good in Jesus’ name (Amen). graphical and numerical statistics which evidence the factuality of the recordings in the book. has adopted simple. This book gives great tributes also to the late Pastor J. affirm him as a man of destiny. Ayo Babalola himself). is found in the fourth chapter. B. Abi Olowe in this book. as well as his destined call as a Christ Crusader and Evangelist. The language as well is quite accessible to all levels of literate readership. and not too voluminous as to bore the reader into abandoning it without reading through. whose life. (right from our great Christ Apostolic patriarch. “Joseph Ayo Babalola Miracle Centre: Historical Perspective” is a “must-read” and a “must-have” for all Christians. though an erudite Doctor of Philosophy. many of whom are still present and alive at the time of the Author’s research. First-hand information contained over the pages ascertain verifiability of the history related. . This 114-paged research effort. as first-hand information has been handed over from the very witnesses who were present during the life-time of the major godly characters and events talked about in the book. and opened it in 1984 when he was the President of CAC.” cannot be consumed by the several fiery storms of life that have come his way. especially Christ Apostolics who will be well informed about the background of this our great Mission. were not initiated through an individual’s unguided zeal. In all. Olusheye. and who will preserve the knowledge for our posterity. not too brief as to offer insufficient information that leaves a lot of questions in the mind of the reader. like Moses’ “burning bush. It arose from several prophecies and reveloations given through different great men of God. and the keen interest shown by other people in developing the spot of the call of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola were not left out. The philanthropic role of the Akeji of Ikeji-Arakeji. Pastor Isaiah Ogunbomehin. The development and commemoration of Ikeji-Arakeji therefore. The leading role played by Pastor E. This message is clearly depicted over the pages of this revealing book.