LAGOS SYNOD 2024: A CALL FOR AUTHENTICITY-LIVE THE WORD || REV. JAMES BAMIDELE OLAYANJU

  • Adesewa Orioye
  • May 8, 2024
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The 3rd session of the 35th Synod of the Diocese of Lagos unfolded with intense dialogue on the theme “Living the Word – The True Identity of a Child of God,” drawing inspiration from James 1:22. In a blazing continuation of spiritual enlightenment, the morning session speaker; the Rev. James Bamidele Olayanju, during the Eucharist celebration adorned with wisdom and grace, illuminated the sanctuary of Our Saviour’s Church TBS Lagos with profound insights into the essence of divine identity and spiritual authenticity.

Rooted in the timeless wisdom of James 1:22, the congregation was beckoned to transcend mere proclamation and delve into the sacred realm of action, embodying the very essence of their divine lineage. With fervent exhortation, the speaker kindled a fire within the hearts of both clergy and laity, urging them to not only preach the Word but to live it with unwavering conviction. “Our lives must be a sermon to others”.

The sermon highlighted three key elements that, if missing, can lead to spiritual darkness:

  • True God: A foundation built on a true understanding of God is essential.
  • Teaching Priest: The presence of a leader who faithfully instructs based on scripture is vital.
  • Law of Jesus Christ Based on Love: Love must be the cornerstone of Christian practice and the guiding principle for interpreting scripture.

The importance of these elements was underscored by references to Matthew 4:4 (“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God”) and 2 Corinthians 3:2 (“You are our letter, written in our hearts, known and read by all men”).

In a world veiled by shadows of doubt and uncertainty, the speaker cautioned against the perilous descent into spiritual obscurity, emphasizing that the absence of these three pillars would plunge humanity into the abyss of spiritual darkness.” The absence of a teaching priest will give room for a false prophet to deceive the people with wrong doctrines,” he said.

As the morning session concluded, the congregation departed with hearts ablaze with divine favor, ready to embark upon the journey of living the Word with authenticity and purpose. In the sacred covenant of divine identity, may they find solace, strength, and unwavering guidance, now and for all eternity.

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