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Olabode Opeseitan
Pastor Enoch Edejare Adeboye of Redeemed Christian Church of God has maintained a long-standing posture of intercession, and counsel behind the scenes regarding Nigerian leaders.
Adeboye is guided by the biblical mandates of 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV). “I urge then, foremost, that prayers, petitions, intercessions and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and for those in authority so that we can live peaceful, quiet, godly lives.”
Adeboye’s method highlights the principle in the Bible that a leader’s office must be respected, no matter what the person’s faith or performance. He has always chosen spiritual guidance and quiet mediation over loud public speeches when navigating through national turmoil. Adeboye, for example, has stated that he had “relate with all presidents in my quiet manner” when dealing with severe security issues. You can advise, but not command, the commander-in-chief.
The Oyedepo Contrast : Politics and the Pulpit
Bishop David Oyedepo, of the Living Faith Church Worldwide – Winners’ Chapel – has taken an entirely different approach. Oyedepo is vocal in his political views.
He openly supported Peter Obi, the Labour Party candidate for the 2023 Presidential Election.
Oyedepo, in a memorable sermon, questioned the direction of the government, asking his audience, “Is the current administration doing well?” To which, the congregation responded with an overwhelming “No.” (perhaps out of respect to a man who they consider as their spiritual guide).
This public animosity reveals a surprising spiritual irony. The APC won both Ado?Odo/Ota LGA where his church is located and Irepodun LGA (his native LGA) despite his disdain for the party and his endorsements in his pulpit. The dichotomy is a perfect echo of the Proverb “In their heart, humans plan their courses, but God establishes their footsteps.” (Proverbs 16.9, NIV). This is a good reminder that God’s geopolitical will often overrides the politics, grievances or endorsements of the world’s most influential spiritual leaders.
The Lessons of Submitting to God’s Will
Submission to God’s will is the most important factor in determining a leader who can truly be called a “man of God”.
Leaders should ask themselves an introspective, sharpening question: Does the opposition against a government reflect divine revelation or biblical principles? Or is it a manifestation of their own political preferences and will? A man of God who positions himself on the basis of personal preferences for a particular political outcome, rather than the peaceful and prayerful pursuit God’s sovereign plans for the country, risks working outside of divine timing.
Find the balance: Praying over Partisanship
Christian leadership is a story that requires an intricate balance.
It must address societal problems while still remaining completely submissive of God’s sovereignty. Romans 13:1 tells believers that they must submit to the governing authorities as God has established them.
Leaders are called to be truthful and to advocate for oppressed people, but they also need to do it with the guidance, wisdom and temperance of the Holy Ghost. The model of Pastor Adeboye teaches genuine spiritual influence can be gained through sincere intercession, respecting established authorities, and quiet diplomatic pursuits of justice rather than emotionally entangled political battles.
It is obvious that Bishop Oyedepo and the wider Christian community are being taught a lesson: the spiritual authority of the church is undermined when it is used to promote partisan politics. True men of God will ensure their voice is governed by the Holy Spirit, and that it’s based on the truth of God who ultimately determines the leaders and kings of earth. Oyedepo is not the right man.
Adeboye is not Oyedepo.
It is the task of church to not predict God’s Will by political preferences, but rather to discern it with prayer, humility and obedience.
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