Men of God 003

Revivals broke out across the world in late 19th and early 20th Century. The prominent ones being Azusa (US), Welsh and Scottish revivals. The effects touched Africa and by late 1930s, Nigeria started to respond. We had CAC (Christ Apostolic Church) majoring on repentance and prayers and they quickly grew and littered the spiritual landscape. Another branch that wanted miracles in addition to the repentance and prayers became the white garment churches. These churches grew because they offered solutions to problems in ways in which many could relate to. Even the CAC were renowned for praying over water.

The 70s gave birth to the Holiness movement embodies by CU( Christian Union). They spread through the university campuses. One church that broke away from the CU movement was Deeper life. Deeper Life was first mega Church in Nigeria and operating in about 50 other countries through missions and in depth teaching of the word of God. They were known for some extreme views but this did not dim their membership. They grew and many churches were planted and pastors appointed. Many of these pastors were known to be poorly remunerated but appeared content with their lot. I remember visiting a remote village where one of their pastors was almost dying of hunger. A picture in my mind I will never forget. Around about the same time RCCG (Redeemed Christian Church of God) under the leadership of a unique leader started to grow as well , establishing branches everywhere. The increase in church locations led to logistical problems as many churches were not ready for the growth spurts. They became richer far quicker than they planned for and much of it was retained in the centre and very often distant posts suffered.

After many years of preaching repentance, the next question arose, now that I'm saved what else? This question gave rise to a new crop of leaders starting from America and working its way to Africa. The first individual to carry this torch was Arch Bishop Benson Idahosa. He was anointed, he was eloquent and he was flamboyant. Something we had not really seen much of before. His claims were straight forward , if God owns everything and I'm his child, why should I languish in lack? A hornets nest was disturbed.