Director’s Ministry’s 48th Anniversary Address:
PREAMBLE
Today 9th of September, 2020 marks the 48th Anniversary of the founding of the Ministry of Greater Evangelism World Crusade.
We give glory and honour to God who gave the Vision that birthed the Ministry to our founding father, Apostle G.D. Numbere of blessed memory and have remained faithful to the Vision close to these five decades.
We salute the heroes of this Ministry, those who have transited to glory and those still alive for their undaunted labours and sacrifice which laid the strong foundation for the work of the Ministry.
I also want to thank God for those of us in the present generation who embraced and bought into the Vision and have remained committed to the Spirit and Mission of the Vision. You all will always be remembered as worthy ambassadors and labourers of Christ and the Vision. Anniversary like this affords us the opportunity to reflect and take stock: where we are coming from, where we are presently and where we are heading to. This reflection and stock taking should not only be at the cooperate level as a Ministry but also as individuals, we should ask ourselves “what is my contribution to the fulfilment of the Vision?”
There is no doubt that we have made some progress in different spheres for which we give God glory but it is also clear that we are far from the demands of the Vision and where God expects of us.
A reflection on the history of the Vision as given to our founding father showed that it was at three levels. The higher the level, the greater the crowd of people whose heads were bowed down that needed to be lifted up to live (saved). When our founding father was taken to the second horizon he was frightened by the sight and started running. The Lord stretched forth His right hand and picked him up and placed him by His side because this Vision must be accomplished.
An analysis of this Vision shows that the work of the Vision is massive and could also look very intimidating but the assurance is that the Lord is determined to see to the fulfilment of the Vision if He will find Men and Women who will remain, available and committed to the course and spirit of the Vision.
One thing is clear that we are not there yet but we are not where we started.
THE CHALLENGE OF OUR GENERATION.
Every generation no doubt is faced with peculiar challenges and ours are not different.
In the beginning it was the challenge of contending with a godless and idolatrous generation; a time of spiritual darkness.
They were faced with stiff opposition and persecution but God raised an army of young men and women who gave themselves to PRAYER, LOVE and EVANGELISM: the tripod of the Ministry. With these they overcame and brought down the powers of darkness, idolatrous cultures and light came into the dark religious spheres and revival broke forth with great harvest of souls which have grown and today they are even beyond the bounds of this Ministry.
What is our challenge today?
A religious but still godless society with pseudo Christianity whose pursuit is their belly and self gratification, religion that is self centred; zealous but not for the LORD but for self. Unfortunately the present army of the Vision has become weak in the three things that made the first generation strong: weak in PRAYER, LOVE and EVANGELISM.
Most of our Youths and Teenagers unlike the first generation lack the driving force of the Holy Spirit. Their Christianity have become shallow, weakened by poor discipling manifesting in carnal and fleshly pursuits and consideration. There is this drive to belong and be like others, not minding its consequence on our faith and calling.
Ministers and Ministry was focused on souls and Ministry was carried with great sacrifice in the first generation but today there is so much concern about welfare that many are not willing to go out of their comfort zone, a case of love your life and at the same time loosing it – Matt. 10:39.
TIME IS SHORT.
I COR. 7:29-31 “But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none; And they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not; And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away”.
1. Almost five decades of this Vision have been used up, we don’t know how many more years we have before Jesus Christ returns.
2. Most of us have also used up our service (active) years for God and not much productive time is left.
3. The world is moving with a speed and there is alignment in preparation for the manifestation of the anti-Christ.
4. There is a lot of pressure on our faith in every part of the world. In our country we are facing unprecedented attack on our faith and Christianity that if we don’t rise in our faith and seek divine intervention, we don’t know how long we would be free to practice and propagate our faith.
The end times are upon us, time is not in our favour.
We must redeem the time – Eph.5:16 “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil”.
We must work while it is day – John 9:4 “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work”.
NEW APPROACH
In the last few years we have embarked on a lot of re-strategizing and restructuring aimed at repositioning the Ministry in our pursuit for growth and enlargement.
We have placed so much emphasis on discipleship which is one of the missing links in our generation, but the grass root translation of these growth strategies have been slow and sluggish. For many, it is like the case of putting new wine in an old bottle. If we must make progress in our faith and the Vision, there must be a sincere commitment to change at all levels.
COVID-19 Pandemic has taught us the need to exploit new ways even in the pursuit of our Vision and Mission. We now run online/Satellite Services, Conferences and meetings. We are updating our structures in this direction.
We want to encourage every level of the Ministry, Units and Departments to embrace the use of technology for meetings, programmes and outreaches. Our Youths and Teenagers should take advantage of the Social Media as a tool for outreach.
CHARGE AND PRAYER: REVIVE US AGAIN
Habbakuk 3:2 “O Lord, I have heard thy speech, and was afraid: O Lord, revive thy work in the midst of the years make known; in wrath remember mercy”.
To revive is to flourish anew; to regain life; to cause to recover strength; to renew in the mind. When we live in sin and are unperturbed or give excuses, we need revival. We need revival when we no longer see sinners convicted and broken in our meetings. When we as Christians are unstirred, unmoved and unconcerned about the eternal condition of the souls of men around us, it is an urgent call for revival. When the Church lives in compromise or is indifferent about the matters of the Kingdom, it is a red flag and only revival can change the course. To make Jesus known to this generation is our mandate, and we must be committed to it.
A story was told of a shepherd and the nightingale. The shepherd said to the nightingale, “Sing!” The nightingale replied, “The frogs make too much noise, it takes away the pleasure of singing. Don’t you hear them? The shepherd said, “I surely do, but your silence makes me hear them”. Our silence has amplified the voice of evil all around us. Our indifference has emboldened the wicked.
It has become very clear that our greatest need today if we must fulfil our mandate to make Jesus known to this generation is not money, building, high-tech but revival – souls that are on fire.
As the foundation of the Church is being shaken today and trouble seems to be on every hand, we too need to plead with the Lord to manifest Himself; His mercy and His power anew, in order that life and renewal might come to His people.
Like Prophet Habakkuk we must cry and say “O LORD, revive thy work in the midst of the years.”
We must cry on to God “Until the Spirit be poured upon us from on high, and the wilderness be a fruitful field, and the fruitful field be counted for a forest” Isaiah 32:2.
SONG: Lord send down revival, Lord send down revival,
Lord send down revival and let it begin with me.
CONCLUSION.
This anniversary marks the end of 48 years of labours and the beginning of a new Ministry year. My prayer in line with our theme for this year for all of us as a Ministry is as stated in the following scriptures:
Colossian 1:10 “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God”.
Acts 14:17 “Nevertheless He left not himself without witness, in that He did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness”.
God bless you.
Pastor Isaac V. Olori
International Director.
The Challenge of Ministry Amid the Pandemic and Beyond:
A KEYNOTE CHARGE DELIVERED BY THE INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR, GREATER EVANGELISM WORLD CRUSADE TO GEWC MINISTERS FORUM ON FRIDAY JUNE 12, 2020
TOPIC: THE CHALLENGE OF MINISTRY AMID THE PANDEMIC AND BEYOND
PREAMBLE
The COVID-19 pandemic which has plagued us in the last four (4) months in this part of the world had left us with new realities that the Church needs to confront and maintain her Vision.
APPRAISAL OF SOME OF THE NEW REALITIES AND CONSEQUENCES
- The structure of Ministry has changed from crowd to smaller numbers; from personal touch to reaching from a distance.
- Orthodox Ministerial style is not very effective anymore.
THE FALL OUTS OR CONSEQUENCES OF THIS NEW TREND
- Many may likely become cold and may backslide especially those who have not developed a personal devotional life style.
- Many are caught up with fear, panic, anxiety and hopelessness with its attendant consequences on their health, fears of the virus, disruption of social life, financial security, and future goals.
- The Ministry’s Vision of soul winning is being hampered or impeded – no more crusade- in door or out door, revival programme; even witnessing could be affected to some extent because of social distancing. This makes it clear that new methods must be devised.
- Funds will be impacted because a number of our members source of livelihood may be affected; also, gatherings where offerings and tithes are generated may be limited.
- Welfare cases may increase as a result of members impacted means of livelihood coupled with churches restricted income flow.
– The Pastors own welfare is also at stake if the situation persists and if we are not proactive in our strategy and operations. Because it takes a healthy Church and a healthy sheep to supply the needs of the shepherd.
- Our individual ministry as Ministers will be hindered and we may become redundant or unfruitful if we do not brace up and act now.
– The truth is that this is a challenging time to be a leader and a pastor. If we don’t acknowledge this then we don’t have a grip of what we are facing.
HOW TO APPROACH THE CHALLENGE
1. Know that “All things work together for good” – Romans 8:28
– God uses every situation to work out His purpose.
– His strength is made manifest in weakness- 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.
– There is need to depend more on God and the Holy Spirit than the things we are used to.
2. Seek for new open doors – Colossians 4:2-4
– Paul was in prison, in chains, but His Ministry was not in chains- notwithstanding the difficult seasons and conditions, yet it gave birth to the epistles.
– He sought for open doors and new opportunities.
– The gospel grew in time of persecution and adversity- Acts 8
3. Prayers remain a great weapon.
4. Think out of the box- Embrace change and use of Technology
– One of our greatest tools of Ministry today is technology, we must maximize it for our advantage.
– On-line services, Bible study, prayer meetings, etc
– Reaching out to members, new converts, and the unsaved, using social media and the internet resources.
– Meeting virtually and real time using Zoom, Skype and other modes available. Some of the ways these modes can be applied include but not limited to the following:
- Churches should have a group contact through WhatsApp or Telegram applications
- Supervisory Ministers should have group chat with leaders under your rank
- Communication, supervision and short meetings can be held through these media.
- Resident Ministers – group chats with House Fellowship leaders and coordinators for monitoring activities in the house fellowship.
- Unit and Functional Leaders – same approach with leaders under their supervision.
- Pastoring using the media –Phone calls, SMS, WhatsApp, skype, Zoom, etc : – reach out to your members on a regular basis – find out about their welfare and pray with them. Our first target is to uplift the spirit of our members; they need to be assured of God’s promises of protection, deliverance and provisions- God took care of Elijah during drought (1Kings 17)
- Invest in technology and data for the Church – This is the best time to harness the potentials of our youths. There is the necessity of training in media technology for ministry for Pastors, leaders and Youths.
- Ensure that all Churches have the CUTV decoders and Encourage members to have them in their homes, offices (as a business owner).
5. Every Minister must minister. You must be responsible now as a Minister in the local church.
– Discipleship is key and cannot be handled only by the Resident Minister.
– Every Minister should have members under his/her shepherding care and report their status of progress (welfare) to the Resident Minister on a weekly basis.
– We must be proactive in supporting indigent members- their health and needs. This is time to make Ministry very relevant in the present circumstance.
– Those who are strong must be encouraged to support the weak spiritually and materially.
Let us focus more on the Ministry and God will take care of our welfare. It is not a time to be overbearing with our welfare.
Remember you are a Minister because you Minister.
6. Decentralized meetings
– We must strengthen our House Fellowship and family fellowship meetings in terms of frequency and effectiveness.
– Review and update study materials/programmes with coordinators and create a platform for regular feedback and prompt evaluation of the system.
7. Encourage sacrificial giving and faithful tithing among the brethren. Endeavor to deploy the use of electronic platforms for money transfers and other financial transactions as much as possible. Church in areas with banks should have and operate bank account.
OTHER THINGS TO NOTE
- Periodic Reports at different levels should be treated with every sense of responsibility and promptly. Reports must be reviewed by supervisory Ministers as required for necessary prompt actions and improve strategy for growth and expansion.
Note: The pandemic (the new reality of this season) cannot stand on the way of prompt report submission as this can be effectively handled electronically.
- Take responsibility of your personal health and wellbeing. Be disciplined in what you eat and drink, do regular exercise, carryout regular medical checks on your body. Ensure you are physically fit at all times.
- Ensure compliance to the protocols aimed at preventing the spread of the Covid 19. This includes hand washing or use of sanitizer, wearing of face mask, social distancing in church sitting arrangement, etc. While we put
Closing Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:1; 4:1-5.
Conclusion:
We must reflect on the following to stimulate our passion to brace up to face these new realities as it affects our work in GEWC.
- i.Creative potential of a crisis.
- ii.Necessity they say is the mother of inventions.
- iii.When the normal or usual cannot work, it turns our attention back to God.
- iv.Revivals break forth as an aftermath of a period of gloom.
It is time to re-examine and re-evaluate our ministry and prayerfully look for ways to remain relevant and fulfill our ministry. It’s possible to be fruitful amid the pandemic.
MAY THE LORD COUNT ON YOU.
Pastor Isaac V. Olori
International Director, GEWC
In Pursuit of the Mission of the Vision:
GREATER EVANGELISM WORLD CRUSADE (GEWC) MINISTRY 47TH ANNIVERSARY MESSAGE
“IN PURSUIT OF THE MISSION OF THE VISION”
I wish to use this medium to felicitate with all the members and friends of the Ministry as we mark the 47th Anniversary of the founding of the Ministry of Greater Evangelism World Crusade.
God is Indeed Faithful, Alleluia!
As we reflect on the journey of these forty-seven (47) years; the challenges, battles and victories, we cannot but celebrate God’s Grace and Faithfulness to us as individuals and as a Ministry. Though we are far from our desired goal, but we have every cause to give Glory and Praises to God for sustaining the course of the Vision for these past forty-seven (47) years.
This no doubt, will continually reassure us that the Vision as received by our founding father of blessed memory, Apostle G. D. Numbere, is a God- given Vision and God will always be committed to that which He births.
Labourers Needed
As we celebrate these 47 years of God’s grace in bearing the torch of the Vision, we must sincerely reflect on how far we have gone in running with the Vision and what’s our individual labours and contributions.
We must also note, as the years count the glaring gap and need for labourers committed to the Vision becomes more obvious and critical. Many are becoming more and more nominal, loosing touch with the Spirit of Evangelism and Missions which is our trademark. We need to re-evaluate ourselves as to what impact (relevance) and value we are contributing to the advancement of the core mandate of the Ministry.
As Churches, Zones, Areas, Districts and Mission Nations (which will now form the structure of the Ministry), Units and Departments, we must begin to realign our programmes and activities to major on our Major- Soul Wining.
I call on the Youths, Young Men and Women, to deplore and invest the strength of their youthful age as vanguards of this Vision; it’s your heritage. For us Ministers, Elders, and the aged our leadership must be counted at this crucial stage of the Vision. May we be available.
“….The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into His harvest.” Luke 10:2
My earnest prayer and desire is that we all should be the answer of Jesus prayer for this Vision.
THE VISION LIVES ON!!!
HAPPY 47TH ANNIVERSARY!!!
Pastor Isaac V. Olori
Int’l Director
Getting the whole Church to Minister:
INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR’S ADDRESS TO THE STATE/ NATIONAL MINISTER’S CONFERENCE.
GETTING THE WHOLE CHURCH TO MINISTER.
EPH. 4:11,12 “And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the Saints for the work of Ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ”. (NKJV)
Once again we are all converged at our different States and Nations for the States/National Ministers’ Conference. This affords the Ministers who are bond by a common geographical boundaries to come together to reflect over their ministries as individuals and the Ministry as an entity.
The theme of GEWC as a Ministry this year from where the theme of this Conference is drawn is “Evangelism: Everyone A Witness.” This theme strikes at the heart of our Vision and mission as a Ministry. It is meant to be our main business. This is why our Name, Motto, Vision and Mission revolve around Evangelism.
Some of the questions we need to address in this Conference include:
- How are we fairing with this business in our different
Churches/Zones?
- Why is the passion and the life style of evangelism gradually weaning?
- Where have we as Ministers failed in raising witnesses for Christ for
- How is our witness for Christ as Ministers?
FISHERMEN WHO ARE NOT FISHING- EXTRACT FROM WHATEVER BECAME OF EVANGELISM? BY DAVID L. DAWSON.
There was a story of a group that called themselves fishermen and lo, there were many fishes in the water all around. In fact the whole area was surrounded by streams and lakes filled with fishes.
Week after week, month after month, and year after year, those who called themselves fishermen met in meetings and talked about their calling to fish, the abundance of fish, and how they might go about fishing. Year after year they carefully defined what fishing means, defended fishing as an occupation and declared that fishing is always to be primary task of fishermen. The plea was that everyone should be a fisherman and every fisherman should fish. One thing they didn’t do, however, they didn’t fish.
- The question is, is one a fisherman if from year to year he never goes
for fishing or catches fish?
- Does this to some extent describe our state or that of a good number
one following if he isn’t fishing?
Providing sincere answers to these questions are critical if we are to make progress in the direction of Church growth and the fulfilment of the Vision.
GETTING THE WHOLE CHURCH TO MINISTER.
This was the direction of the Ministry in the 80s which led to the establishment of Home Churches. The home Churches were to multiply themselves and give birth to other Home Churches. In fact some Churches started from Home Churches.
It also served as an avenue for the building and training of the believers in faith, witnessing, service and leadership. It enhanced real fellowship where love and care was demonstrated. This was the practice of the early Church – Acts 5:42 “And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.”
Ministers must as a matter of necessity pay more attention and ensure a more functional House Fellowships in our Local Churches if we are serious with achieving sustained growth.
EQUIPPING THE SAINTS.
If we must get the whole Church to Minister or do the work of the Ministry, then equipping the saint is key. Equip means to render fit. sound, complete, make one what he ought to be. It also refers to furnish for service or against a need for service. The work of the Ministry can only be accomplished by believers who are equipped. This is one of the primary responsibilities of a Minister. It therefore behoves on every Minister to make himself available to be equipped in Conferences like this.
Please note – Not only the Senior Pastor, but everyone who has a calling and ordained into any of the five fold Ministry. Many of us have a burden to justify our calling and ordination.
One is said to be equipped, if he or she is provided with abilities or understanding; something usually for a specific purpose. We must move from preaching and teaching to equipping. Equipping and discipleship requires much more.
Equipping essentials:
- An International relationship
- A living example
- A clear assignment
- An accurate assessment
An equipping process cannot be done without walking beside, living among, doing with and assessing after. This is what ‘Making disciples’ in the Great Commission entails.
JESUS’ MODEL – LK. 10:1-2, 17-21, MK.3:13-15.
Jesus spent time to equip His disciples. His Ministry curriculum revolved around teaching them about the kingdom lifestyle (Christ likeness), mentoring /coaching them to witness and finally empowering them with the Holy Spirit.
Every Christ Centred Ministry must revolve around these. Men cannot be effective witness except you are equipped.
Jer. 3:15 “I will give you pastors according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.”
Total evangelism includes more than reaching the lost. It also involves nurturing; equipping and involving them in the work of the Ministry which soul winning is key- “Go and make disciples.”
The real measure of any Church is not those in the Church register or those who attend activities but those who contribute to the growth (numerical increase); those who are involved in the work of the Ministry. This assignment is for the whole body of Christ and all its members. That is why we as Ministers must take responsibility of equipping the saints.
If we don’t equip and use our members we lose them. Studies have shown that congregation that does not use its members loses them and the congregations with the highest dropout rates were the congregations with the lowest involvement level.
When saints are equipped:
- They see Jesus
- Jesus is seen in them.
- They point people to Jesus
– We must leave this Conference with a commitment to be involved in real ministry, the ministry of equipping the believers, the Church for the work of the Great commission.
NEW POLICY DIRECTION ON MINISTERIAL STRUCTURE.
I wish to conclude my address by sharing with the Council the Ministry’s new policy on Ministerial structure. The essence of creating a new structure is against the back drop of creating a defined space for growth, both for the work and the Ministerial team. It is also aimed at harmonizing our structure globally and ensuring that position is equitably tied to responsibility. Presently we operate the following structure.
Local Church Zone State Nation Region
There are no defined numerical targets or limits, and it is defined by geographical boundaries. The new structure will be as follows:
PROPOSED NOMENCLATURE
| S/N | NOMENCLATURE | DESCRIPTION |
| 1 | Region | 2 Districts (Minimum of 2 Districts, 8 areas, 32 Zones, 128 Churches, 6400 Adult Members) |
| 2 | District | 4 Areas (Minimum of 16 Zones, 64 Churches 3200 Adult Members) |
| 3 | Area | 4 Zones (Minimum of 16 Churches, 800 Adult Members) |
| 4 | Zone | 4 Local Churches (minimum of 200 Adult Members and 2 of her Churches should be on her own property with a parsonage.) |
| 5 | Local Church | A minimum of 50 adult Members |
The features of this new structure include; defined numerical targets for each strata, more room and challenge for growth both for the Minister and the work.
Promotion is to be based on verifiable performance not on length of service. Structure is not based on political, geographical and legislative boundaries but on the impact and status of our work. There will be a redemarcation of our work to fit into the new structure and change of leadership nomenclature. New leadership at different levels will emerge and it will be based on proven capacity and performance. With the new structure, this is likely to be the last State Conferences under the current structure.
The new structure should come into effect from September 2019. It is my hope that every Minister should be open to these changes that is coming into place as they say ‘the only thing that is constant is change’.
Thank you for listening and God bless.
Pastor Isaac V. Olori
International Director.
GEWC At 46 Rekindling The Flame of The Vision:
GREATER EVANGELISM WORLD CRUSADE AT 46
REKINDLING THE FLAME OF THE VISION
“ … O LORD, revive Your work in the midst of the years!
In the midst of the years make known;…” Habakkuk 3:2 (NKJV).
As the Ministry turns 46years on the 9th of September, 2018, as members and friends of the Ministry we have every cause to appreciate and eulogize God, who is the giver and sustainer of the Vision. Keeping our focus and mission alive for these years has been by the grace of God for which we should always remember and be grateful to Him.
It is also a time to reflect on the labours of our heroes; our founding father , Apostle G.D. Numbere of blessed memory, and those who laboured with him with a passion in pursuit of the Vision and how far we have gone in accomplishing it.
We need to remind ourselves, the present generation of the Ministry, the responsibility and challenges we face, not only to keep the Vision on course but also relevant in our time.
The mandates given to our founding father, to go and raise those whose heads are bowed down to look up to Him (God) and live is still as relevant and urgent today as it was 46 years ago.
The world and our society is increasingly sliding to more and more ungodliness; the Church is becoming more and more worldly and the society more and more religious but devoid of the power of the saving grace of our Lord, Jesus Christ .
Our generation desperately needs that flame, the commitment and passion which characterized the Vision in the early years.
As we reminiscent on this great and heavenly mandate of reaching everyone, everywhere with the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ, my charge to us all is to pray passionately for revival like Prophet Habakkuk did : “ O LORD, revive your work in the midst of the years! “. Only a revival that rekindles the flame of the Vision will produce the required energy that will move the Vision to the next level. When this happens, there must be a determination to sustain it and transfer it to the next generation.
Like the slogan of our Teens “The Vision lives because I am available to carry on the Vision “. May we not only make ourselves available but earnestly pray for the fire and passion needed to carry on the Vision in these last days.
God bless you.
REMAIN RAPTURABLE AND HAPPY 46TH ANNIVERSARY .
Pastor Isaac V. Olori
Int’l Director, GEWC.
Between Serving Table and Giving Ourselves to Prayer and to the Ministry of the Word:
KEYNOTE ADDRESS PRESENTED TO THE 4TH STATE/NATIONAL MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE BY THE INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR, PASTOR ISAAC V. OLORI HOLDING MARCH, 9TH -11TH, 2018.
BETWEEN SERVING TABLES AND GIVING OURSELVES TO PRAYER AND TO THE MINISTRY OF THE WORD.
Acts 6:2 “…it is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables” (NASB)
While I convey my warm felicitation to you on the 4th State/National Ministers Conference, in all your various locations, it is important to state that every Minister must understand the need and urgency of having the right priority in Ministry.
As Ministers we are faced on a daily basis with the conflict or temptation of devoting our time to the logistics, strategies, administrative and welfare demands of Ministry or devoting our time and energy to prayers, preaching and teaching of the word of God. While we underscore the critical role of these different ministries to the growth and well-being of a healthy Church, the Scripture above makes it abundantly clear that the Minister has a primary role which should not come second to any other responsibility he discharges.
“IT IS NOT REASON, IT IS NOT RIGHT’’
The King James version of the Bible rendered Acts 6:2 thus: “… it is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables”.
The verdict is true not only for their generation but for every other generation; it is not seemly or desirable or right that we should have to give up or neglect the Ministry of the Word and Prayer to attend to other demands of Ministry.No reason will suffice when the primary becomes secondary and the major becomes minor.
“Then Jethro said, you are not doing this right” Exodus 18:17 (Good News Translation – GNT).
Moses in his zeal to accomplish God’s call upon his life took charge of administration and the judgment of all matters of the children of Israel in the wilderness. He did not learn the art of delegation and grooming others to serve and handle administrative matters (serving tables). Possibly, he thought there were no capable people to handle the issues. That I think is an indictment to the Minister and not right that one failed to raise faithful men who should bear the burden with him.
The timely question and verdict of God through Jethro was thus “….what is all this that you are doing for the people? Why are you doing this all alone, with people standing here from morning till night to consult you?…. You are not doing this right’’. Exodus 18:14, 17 (GNT).
GETTING IT RIGHT
Getting it right will start with the realization ofour primary ministry as declared in these two separate scriptures. Exodus 18:19, 20 (Amp) “Listen now to (me); I will counsel you, and God will be with you. You shall represent the people before God, bringing their cases and causes to Him (prayer and intercession), Teaching them the decrees and laws, showing them the way they must walk and the work they must do (ministry of the word).”
Acts 6:2, 4 (AMP) “… it is not seemly or desirable or right that we should have to give up or neglect (preaching) the word of God in order to attend to serving…But we will continue to devote ourselves steadfastly to prayer and the Ministry of the word”.
Our primary assignment as Ministers remains prayer and the preaching of the word. When we fail to devote ourselves and devote sufficient time to these twin ministry, we would not only be failing God but also the people we are called to lead. We must strategically raise men and practice delegationto free ourselves to enable us focus on our main and high calling.
It is my hope that the fire the LORD lit on our altars during the last International Ministers’ Conference is still burning. It remains a panacea for anyone who wants an impact and would make a difference in his ministry and that of the Vision of Greater Evangelism World Crusade.
E.M. Bounds on the Preacher and Prayer said “The men who have done most for God in this world have been early on their knees. He who fritters away the early morning, its opportunity and freshness, in other pursuits other than seeking God, will make poor headway seeking Him the rest of the day’’.
Paul David Tripp in his book “Dangerous Calling” captured the truth and essence of the Ministers devotional life thus: “I am more convinced that what gives a Ministry its motivations, perseverance, humility, joy, tenderness, passion, and grace is the devotional life of the one doing the Ministry.”
The theme “Giving ourselves to Prayer and to the Ministry of the Word ” should not just end up a Ministry theme but must be personalized and internalized by the Minister so that the oil and fire can flow down to the congregation.
Beloved Servants of God, our Ministry and calling is in dare need of men and women whose ministry, attitude and commitment has been affected and transformed by the Ministry of Prayer and the Word.
May this Conference afford every participant a greater and deepening experience with God in our devotion and service to Him.
Have an impactful and refreshing Conference.
Pastor Isaac V. Olori
Int’l Director
KEYNOTE ADDRESS PRESENTED BY PASTOR ISAAC OLORI, THE INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR, GREATER EVANGELISM WORLD CRUSADE ON THE OCCASION OF THE 45TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE MINISTRY – SEPTEMBER 7-10, 2017
THE BURDEN OF OUR GENERATION.
Preamble: The 9th of September remains a memorial for us as a Ministry, a day a great Vision was born; a burden to go and raise up the heads of numerous men and women who have their heads bowed to sin to look up to God and live. This Vision which was given to our founding father, Apostle G.D. Numbere of blessed memory is 45 years this September (1972-2017).
I want to use this opportunity to congratulate every member of the Ministry and our friends on this special occasion of the 45th anniversary of the Ministry. For those whose labours have contributed to bringing us to where we are today, I say well done.
As we rejoice over the great and mighty things God has done over these years, it is also important we reflect over the burden which rests on us as the present generation of the Ministry.
After 45 years as a Ministry and with the solid foundation laid by our founding father: foundation of uncompromising truth, aggressive evangelism and unquenchable passion for souls, a great legacy and at the same time awesome responsibility lies on our shoulders. It is the burden of sustaining and accomplishing the Vision.
Anniversaries serve as a time of celebrating God’s goodness and faithfulness. It is also a time of reflection. As a Ministry, we need to reflect, on where we are coming from, where we are presently and where we are going. Based on this, I want to highlight the following areas which we must rise up to the challenge at accomplishing the Vision.
1.0 THE BURDEN OF BUILDING ON THE FOUNDATION LAID BY OUR FOUNDING FATHER.
“And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone;” Ephesians 2:20
Every house stands on a foundation, its own foundation. The strength and stability of the building is determined by the integrity of the foundation, the ability and discipline to build in line with the foundation underscores the criticality of this burden (the specification).
As a Ministry we have a heritage of a sound foundation based on the word of God. We have a unique calling structured in line with the Vision.
The challenge before our generation is to ensure that we not only build on the foundation but also in line with the pattern.
Paul’s Admonition
1 Cor. 3:10-12 “According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise master builder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;”
- Build on the already laid foundation…“I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon….”
- “Take heed how you build” – There is a pattern. It is imperative that we build according to the pattern.
- We cannot lay a new or another foundation – “…. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid ….” It is important that we study, understand the Vision, our calling and not seek to lay another foundation.
- Take heed on what you build upon the foundation – gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; ..”
We must resist the attractions of other foundations which either we are not sure of nor do not suit our structure, vision and calling.
Psalm 11:3 states “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?”
2.0 THE BURDEN OF MAINTAINING THE EVANGELICAL SPIRIT – OUR TRADE MARK.
Greater Evangelism is not just a name, but defines our mission, purpose and calling. It is our trade-mark, a distinctive characteristic or attribute of what we are. The Greater Evangelism spirit heralded the birth of this Ministry.
Our founding father, Apostle G.D. Numbere of blessed memory and a few young men and women traversed the old Rivers State which then was in a state of thick spiritual darkness with an unusual aggressive evangelism not minding the difficult terrain and attendant risk. They hazarded their lives amidst persecutions, deprivations to take the gospel to the down trodden everywhere in the present Rivers, Bayelsa and other States in the Country.
Most of us present here today and many others in other States, Nations and even in some other Ministries are the fruit of the labours of this Greater Evangelism which was the hallmark of this Ministry.
As we reflect over these 45 years of Ministry, we need to individually and as a body ask ourselves this question – ARE WE LIVING UP TO OUR NAME AND CALLING?
Greater Evangelism World Crusade is not just a Church but also a movement; a passion and hunger for souls that should drive us out of our comfort zones.
“And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the judge of quick and dead” Acts 10:42.
” For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!…”1Corinthians 9:16-17.
My burden is that we should reflect, not just celebrate the labours of our heroes past but to ask – Where is the mark of my labours?
3.0 THE BURDEN OF SACRIFICE AND SERVICE
This Ministry like every true God given Ministry is built on the foundation of the Spirit of Sacrifice and Service. Our founding father sacrificed his vocation at a time when the opportunity of a University education was rare. The young men and women who joined him to form the nucleus of the work made different levels of sacrifice and commitment to service to get us to where we are today.
It was not about what to get or what the Ministry will do for them but the zeal of service to God, knowing that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. (Hebrew 11:6). Students sacrificed their pocket money and volunteered for mission and evangelical crusades. It was a generation which could speak like Jesus as stated in the Gospel of St. John 2:17 “And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up”.
Today we have grown in number and resources but there is the drought of the spirit of sacrifice and service. There is the dare need of commitment to the spirit of sacrifice and service which defined the hallmark of the Ministry in the beginning. Sacrifice and service are twin virtues which is needed dearly by our generation to fulfill this Vision.
4.0 THE BURDEN OF STANDING UP FOR THE TRUTH OF GOD’S WORD.
There is an adage or saying that “evil thrive because good men keep silent”
Our nation like most other nations of the world is experiencing a severe attack on the true gospel of Jesus Christ. Falsehood and pseudo-gospel is now the accepted norm. There is so much religion but devoid of the genuine salvation that marks out the true disciples of Jesus Christ. The gospel message has been reduced to merely the mundane; serving the physical needs of people, while no attention is paid to the spiritual. Heresy and occult practices are now deep rooted in ‘Pentecostal circles’. There is a great seduction of the Church and luring for this sugar coated poison in the name of Christianity which is a great danger that we must resist vehemently.
We must stand up for the truth of God’s word and flee from compromise.
1 Tim. 4:1 “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;”
1 Tim. 6:3, 5b states “If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness, ….supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.”
2Tim. 4:1-5 “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; 2. Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4. And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 5. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry”.
5.0 THE BURDEN OF SHINNING AS LIGHT IN THESE EVIL DAYS.
2 Tim. 3:1-5 “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3. Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4. Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5. Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away”.
We are in the dark spiritual days when iniquity is abounding. Even believers are under the pressure of compromise and seduction of obliterating the identity of Christ which sets the believer apart from the world.
The world is groping in spiritual darkness with all kinds of vices and evil manifestation. God’s light of the world (the Christian) must trim their lights and shine.
Matt. 5:14-16 “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Our generation must let our light shine to justify the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on our behalf and our mission here on earth.
6.0 Conclusion.
” And this is the charge of their burden, according to all their service…”
(Numbers 4:31).
Every generation and God given ministry have a divine mandate, a burden which they must discharge. For us our burden is reaching out to those numerous souls shown to our founding father by Jesus Christ.
The path to fulfilling this Vision remains the way of discipleship; following and learning to be like Christ in our lifestyle and our passion for souls.
As we enter into another ministry year; we shall not only press forward on the pathway of Discipleship but shall focus more strongly on ‘giving ourselves to prayer and the ministry of the word’ (Acts 6:4).
May God breathe upon our hearts the burden of this Vision in this conference and always in Jesus Christ name, Amen.
Pastor Isaac V. Olori
International Director
KEYNOTE ADDRESS PRESENTED BY THE INT’L DIRECTOR, PASTOR ISAAC V. OLORI. AT THE NATIONAL PRAYER CONFERENCE OF GREATER EVANGELISM WORLD CRUSADE HOLDING 29TH JUNE – 2ND JULY, 2017 AT THE WORLD HEADQUARTERS, PORT HARCOURT.
“LORD TEACH US TO PRAY”
“Luke 11:1 “And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”
This request by one of the disciples of Jesus Christ is a great need for the Church today. The request was not as much as how to pray as it was about the motivation to pray.
The request was an open admission that prayer was not only needed, but was a deficiency in his life and in the lives of his fellow disciples. The request also reveals a humble, child-like quality in which the Lord Jesus Christ was delighted in.
Coming to terms with our shallowness and ineffectiveness in the place of prayer is the beginning of the revival which every disciple needs for him/her, to have an encounter with God.
Apostle Paul, highlighting this weakness and the need for help in the place of prayer stated: “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. “Romans 8: 26, 27.
The Lord Jesus revealed to the disciples the motivation for prayer in the lessons on the “Lord’s prayer”. And the Holy Spirit empowers us to pray, and leads us to pray according to the will of God as revealed in the text above. This is only possible when we realise our inadequacy in the
place of prayer. This motivation and help can only come to those whose inner yearning and heart desire is “Lord teach me to pray“.
Coming to this conference with the “prayer warrior” mentality or with our garments of men and women of prayer will only rob us of the help needed to pray real prayers; prayers that produce results.
“He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.” Luke1:53.
As a Ministry, if there is any time we need to pray, it is now. We are in a critical time in the fulfilment of the Vision and prayer remains an essential key.
To drive this prayer crusade in the Ministry, a prayer chain network have been put in place for the entire Ministry. This is aimed at mobilising every member of the Ministry to prayer. Every member of the prayer circle therefore, should be a vanguard in mobilising an Army of Prayer for the Ministry.
We need to follow the example of Jesus, whose prayer life induced a desire to pray in His disciples. Let our prayer life speak and ignite the fire of prayer in the life of those who watch or follow us.
May the LORD pour the Spirit of Prayer and Supplication upon the conference such that we shall not only pray but give ourselves continually unto prayer in our different congregations.
Have a fruitful conference.
Pastor Isaac V. Olori
International Director.
Keynote Address Presented By The International Director To The 3RD Greater Men’s Fellowship International Leadership Training Conference HOLDING June 8TH – 11TH, 2017.
WANTED: ZEALEOUS MEN
Psalm 69:9; For the Zeal of thine house hath eaten me up; and the reproaches of them that reproached thee are fallen upon me.”
Zeal speaks of the favor or tireless devotion for a person, cause, or ideal and determination in its furtherance. It is being diligent, enthusiastic; showing powerful interest.
We have a vision which our Founding Father of Blessed memory, Apostle Geoffrey Dabibi Numbere zealously pursued until his glorious transition. We have a legacy which was born by zeal, sustained by zeal and can only be furthered by zeal hence Zealous men are wanted.
Zeal and Jealousy have some traits in common: They are both possessive, wanting to keep what they have; they eat up like cancer; they are compelling; they provoke, confront and resist anything that negates what they stand for. It can be forgiven if a man has no money, not highly places, not educated, not talented but no man will excused if he has no zeal.
Zeal is an ingredient required in men who will make impact and affect others positively; as can be seen in the following scriptures.
1. David: 1 Samuel 17:29’’….Is there not a cause’’-Jealousy (zeal) boiled within him when he saw the uncircumcised Philistines defying God’s army.
2. Phinehas: Num.25:6-13- He was moved by zeal to confront ungodliness and through his action, God’s wrath was turned away from the children of Israel.
3. Rom.12:11, Prov. 23:17, we are admonished never to be lacking in Zeal and that we should be zealous for the fear of the Lord.
When Zeal is Lacking.
1 Kings 19:18”…yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal…”
How come their impact was not felt at a time when Elijah felt he was standing alone?. They could not stand up in defence of the course of God and their faith. What was their problem- They were lacking in zeal.
What is your own testimony
1.Jesus: Psalm 69:9, John2: 17-“The zeal of thine house has eaten me up…”What is eating you up?. What is consuming you?
2. Elijah: 1Kings 19:10,14” I have been very jealous (zealous) for the LORD GOD of hosts…”
Is there anything to show of your zeal for the Lord and His work? Can you affirm to your zeal for the God and this Vision?
May the Lord Raise Zealous men who will push this second phase of the work of the Ministry to the next level.
Making Disciple: Bearing And Nurturing Spiritual Children:
KEYNOTE ADDRESS BY THE INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR TO THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN CONFERENCE OF GREATER EVANGELISM WORLD CRUSADE WOMEN FELLOWSHIP HOLDING AT THE WORLD HEADQUARTERS.
28TH APRIL TO 2ND MAY, 2016.
MAKING DISCIPLE: BEARING AND NURTURING SPIRITUAL CHILDREN
“….Give me children or else i die” Gen 30:1
“….My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ is formed in
- ” Gal. 4:19.
The two scriptures above capture what is involved in Disciple Making.
The command of our Lord Jesus Christ to all true belivers is “to go in all the world and make disciples” Matt. 28:20. This involves soul winning – bearing children and nuturing the children to maturity – discipleship.
Women are familiar with bearing and nuturing children. Naturally, God put this special capacity in every woman to bear children, unless any issue(s) arise which makes it difficult or impossible.
Generally, any woman who is of a marriageble age and is married gets concerned if they don’t have natural children or if they have failed to ensure the proper growth of their children.
For many of you in this conference, God has blessed you with physical children and we praise God for that. For some of you, you are believing God for a visitation and I will continue to join you in that prayer until your visitation comes.
In this conference, I want to draw your attention to the issue of bearing and nuturing spiritual children which is at the heart of God and the theme in this Conference and Ministry this year.
Do you have Spiritual child or children? Can you point to anyone as your child in the Lord (Having preached to him or her and won to the Lord).?
We express deep concern and frustration when we don’t bear children (natural) but we seem not to have same level of concern when we are spiritually barren. Rachael was so desirious of children that she told her husband to give her children or she will die.
I want you to seek the face of the Lord in this conference being deeply desirious of spiritual children like Rachael was for physcial children.
In Gal. 4:19 Paul raised another travail. That of nuturing and maturing our spiritual children. It is one thing to bear children and is another to nuture them to maturity, which is the heart of discipleship. It is my desire and prayer that in this Conference, God will burden you with this Kingdom mandate and make you spiritual mothers.
Go, win and disciple your biological children.
Go, disciple younger believers in your Church.
Go, win and disciple your neigbourhood and community for the Lord.
May the LORD bless you richly.
Pastor I.V. Olori
International Director
The Priest And Filthy Garment: The need to watch:
KEYNOTE ADDRESS PRESENTED TO THE STATE/NATIONAL MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE BY THE INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR, PASTOR ISAAC V. OLORI HOLDING MARCH 11TH – 13TH, 2016.
THE PRIEST AND FILTHY GARMENT: THE NEED TO WATCH!
ZEC. 3:1-3 “And he shewed me Joshua the high Priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. And the LORD said unto Satan, The LORD rebuke thee, O Satan; even the LORD that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire? Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and stood before the angel.”
One of the greatest challenges and anomaly of ministry is for the Minister to be filthily dressed – “Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments and stood before the angel”. Though standing before the angel of the LORD, though a fire-brand, Satan was standing at his right hand. Though occupying this holy priestly office as a Minister but at his right hand was Satan. He (Satan) has something to contest – “his filthy garment.” When we minister with defiled garments, we shall either be unfruitful or will not produce lasting fruits.
AREAS TO WATCH THAT OUR GARMENTS BE NOT DEFILED.
- Lust and immorality – When we defile the flock we are meant to preserve or live in any form of immorality, we are no more instruments of God but have given ourselves to Satan.
- Sacrilege – When we convert things that belong to God to our personal use, it is abominable. Let me state once again that the only offering approved by the Ministry for the minister is the Pastor’s welfare offering.
- Tampering with any other offering (thanksgiving, first fruit, Baby dedication, etc) or tithes is sacrilege; they defile our garment.
- Rebellion – When we resist authority or official instructions; stir up murmuring and resistance against constituted authority, our garments cannot be clean.
- Hypocrisy: When the pictures we portray about our life and work and what it really is are not in alignment, it is not only falsehood but hypocrisy. When the figures we project about our work don’t add up with the reality, we are adding filth to our ministerial garment.
- Pride – Humility is the mark of God’s servants, not pride in whatever ramification.
- Unforgiveness: The last testament of our founding Father, Apostle G.D. Numbere of blessed memory was on forgiveness. Don’t be caught up with unforgiveness, no matter what.
Our mandate this year is to make disciples not just converts. This requires total consecration.
Our responsibility as disciplers (disciple makers) will be scuffled if our lives are compromised or dented with filth. Then we would not truly be following the Master (Jesus). We may have our followers but we are not pointing them to CHRIST.
CONCLUSION
Ecl. 9:8 “Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no ointment”.
My desire and prayer for every Minister is that we keep our garments pure. If for any reason any have been over taken, I charge you to repent and make amends and as you do may the LORD rebuke Satan standing on your right hand in Jesus Name.
Have a fruitful Conference.
Pastors Isaac V. Olori
International Director.
The Task of Sustaining the Legacy of our Founding Father:
The International Director’s Keynote Address at
State/National Ministers Conference 2015
The Task of Sustaining the Legacy of Our Founding Father, Apostle G.D. Numbere.
2 Tim. 2:2 “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also”.
With the translation to glory of our father and founding international Director, Apostle G.D. Numbere, the burden of sustaining the vision which is his greatest legacy rest squarely on our shoulders as Ministers. This has ushered us into a new era; an era of those who have bought into the vision and visionary; an era of those who will show in words and deeds that they believe in the vision and the visioner. It is a generation that have this consciousness dawned on them that our service and work in this vision is unto the LORD and not unto man.
It is obvious that the challenge and task ahead is enormous and demanding but it is surmountable as we forge ahead in one Spirit, resolve and determination.
THE ESSENTIALS OF THIS NEW GENERATION
This new dispensation requires an entirely new attitude and approach to ensure that the labours of our father and even our own labours (including the labours of others who had staked their lives for this vision) would not be wasted. We need to note the following essentials as crucial in this new dispensation.
- Ownership of the Vision – Ruth 1:16-17
We must take ownership of the vision (buying into the vision). If you had hitherto seen it as Apostle Numbere’s vision, you need a new mind set if you will be relevant in this era. God is looking for those who see themselves as stakeholders and not hireling who don’t see themselves as having a stake in the work.
- Selfless Spirit – Matt. 20:20-21
A mental shift and change in our attitude is required. It is not those who focus on themselves but on others and the work. Phil. 2:7 “Jesus emptied Himself, by taking on the form of a servant”. When we empty ourselves, then someone else can benefit. Those who are self-serving: serving to attract attention to themselves to be admired or to achieve their own goal are only manipulators and not Ministers.
- Team Spirit – 1 Cor 3:6
The work now requires team builders, not local champions. We would achieve more if we harness the potentials of all for the progress of the work.
- Ministering with your “gift” – Eph. 4:11-12
Every Minister called of God is a gift to His Church. We can possess other spiritual gifts and use it to serve, but we are gifts ourselves. As gifts are we meeting the needs of those (the body) we are designed for. This we should strive to achieve.
- The Spirit of Diligence – Prov.22:29; 12:24
We need the energetic pursuit of the vision which can only come through diligence. It is only the diligent that can make things happen and reach out for what he wants.
- Enthusiasm – Rom. 12:11b
Fervent in Spirit: serving the Lord” Our success in Ministry is to some extent tied to our ability to set goals and stay excited over our goals. Enthusiasm gives you the ability to inspire yourself even when there are discouragements around us. Are you enthusiastic about this vision and your calling as a Minister?
- Spirit of Excellence – Dan. 6:3
Excellence is not a skill. It is an attitude that touches every area of our life. We are called to be excellent in everything we do, not accepting half measure. True excellence means dedicating oneself fully to everything you do, as working for the Lord. (Col. 3:23).
CONCLUSSION
I want to conclude this keynote address by posing a few questions for our reflection:
- Are you operating like one having a stake in the Vision or as a hireling?
- Are you selfless or self-serving or self-promoter?
- Are you a team builder or a loner ranger?
- Are you a gift to your congregation or a burden, a boss or a shepherd?
- Are you diligent and enthusiastic with your work as a minister?
- Are you striving for excellence or satisfied with half measures?
May the LORD burden each and everyone for the sustenance of this vision and the passion for souls which our father lived for.
God bless you.
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