By Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon
Date: August 4, 2024
Location: Foursquare Gospel Church, Wuse District Headquarters, Abuja
Minister: Rev. Dr. Babatunde A. Idowu, Senior Pastor and Wuse District Overseer.
On this auspicious Sunday, the Foursquare Gospel Church in Wuse, Abuja, reverberated with the melodies of divine worship as the choir delivered a spirit-filled ministration. Following this uplifting experience, Rev. Dr. Babatunde A. Idowu approached the pulpit, exuding a profound sense of urgency and passion.
He began his sermon with a resounding declaration: “Divine Assistance by Grace!” This proclamation set the tone for a powerful exploration of the relationship between grace and faith, anchored in the biblical text of Ruth 2:1-3, 10.
Sermon Highlights:
The Necessity of Faith in Action
Rev. Idowu emphasized the essential role of faith in the believer’s life. “You need faith to work,” he affirmed, drawing from the compelling narrative of Ruth, who exemplified unwavering faith in her journey. Ruth’s actions illustrated that faith is not passive but requires individuals to make conscious decisions, thereby urging the congregation to adopt a proactive stance in their faith journey.
Defining Grace and Its Impact:
Grace, defined by Rev. Idowu as God’s unmerited favour, is a critical theme that intertwines with faith. The minister articulated that while grace is freely bestowed upon believers, it is faith that directs its application in their lives.
This relationship between grace and faith was articulated through the assertion that “God rewards faith in you.” The concept of faith was further elaborated upon, with Rev. Idowu portraying it as personal, proactive, purposeful, and intentional.
The Role of Knowledge in Faith:
A significant point made by Rev. Idowu was that “faith works in you by the knowledge of God in you.” This suggests that a deep understanding of God’s nature and His promises enhances one’s faith, propelling believers to act accordingly. He urged the congregation to commit to a steadfast mind-set based on God’s Word, advocating for consistency in their belief and trust in God.
The Importance of Guidance:
In a swift reminder of communal wisdom, Rev. Idowu encouraged congregants to consult elders for counsel to thrive in life. He emphasized that spiritual guidance is vital in passing through the structures of faith and life, illustrating how community plays a role in individual journeys.
Faith in Action:
The minister asserted, “Faith must be put to work,” and encouraged the assembly to remain steadfast, declaring that working by faith means not worrying about when the Lord will act. He reminded them that “the just shall live by faith,” thereby underscoring faith as an essential foundation for Christian living.
Conclusion: A Call to Prayer:
In conclusion, Rev. Idowu skillfully interwove the significance of faith into the daily experience of believers. He compelled the congregation to recognize that faith is not only a personal endeavour but a communal journey enriched by mutual encouragement and guidance.
Wrapping up the sermon, he led the congregants in fervent prayers, asking for the strength to embody faith in their daily lives, and for grace to manifest God’s favour abundantly.
This impactful service at the Foursquare Gospel Church stands as a sure fact to the profound connection between grace and faith, urging believers to actively participate in their faith as they seek God’s unmerited favour in their lives.
The message resounded deeply within the hearts of those present, echoing a timeless truth reflected in Scripture and experienced in the life of Ruth, whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants, a Researcher and resource person at the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja.
