By Afolabi Olajuwon
On April 27, 2025, the Foursquare Gospel Church, Wuse District Headquarters in Abuja, became a vibrant hub of spiritual rejuvenation as believers gathered to reflect on the profound theme, “At The Cross: Condemnation Turned To Conquest.” Central to this gathering was an inspiring message delivered by Bro. Tito Balosibina, visiting from Gwarimpa Zone, who illuminated the concept of “Fruitfulness” within the Christian journey.
Understanding “Fruitfulness” Through Scripture
Anchored in John 15:1-5, Bro. Balosibina exhorted the congregants on the necessity of staying rooted in Christ to achieve true fruitfulness. This passage, often described as the allegory of the vine and the branches, emphasizes an unbroken communion with Jesus as a prerequisite for bearing fruit.
“Remain in me, as I also remain in you,” Jesus declares, offering assurance that through divine connection, believers will experience a transformation of character and purpose.
Key Aspects of Fruitfulness
Rooted Strongly in God: To be fruitful, believers must maintain a steadfast connection with God. This involves a daily commitment to nurturing one’s faith and values under the guidance and teaching of Jesus. Bro. Balosibina highlighted Genesis 6:8 to exemplify the favour found in closely walking with God, as seen in the life of Noah.
Nurturing Spiritual Growth: Believers are encouraged to cultivate their spiritual lives actively. This growth, Bro. Balosibina explained, results in bearing fruit not just for personal fulfillment but for generations to come. Matthew 7:17-20 supports this by illustrating that good trees naturally bear good fruit, reflecting inner transformation and outward actions.
Peace and Patience in Christ: Remaining in Christ brings about a deep-seated peace, regardless of life’s circumstances. Bro. Balosibina pointed out that this peace is a byproduct of divine direction, not human experience alone. Through stories such as those found in 2 Samuel 12 and 13:14, he illustrated the importance of patience and reliance on God’s timeline over human impulses.
Beyond Experience: The Role of Divine Direction
A significant pillar of the sermon was the notion that “The Things of the Spirit is not by Experience but by Divine Direction.” Bro. Balosibina emphasized that spiritual achievements and insights come not through mere personal experience but through God’s direction and timing. Quoting diverse scriptures, he underscored the importance of abiding in Christ to truly comprehend His will and purpose.
Practical Reflections
Be Patient: Followers of Christ are urged to exhibit patience, allowing God’s work to unfold in His perfect time.
Maintain Unwavering Relationship: Constant communion and reliance on Christ are vital for sustained spiritual growth.
Bear Visible Fruits: Just as a vine produces visible fruits, so should believers manifest the characteristics of their faith in daily life.
The sermon was enriched by a Goodwill Message from Rev. Gbenga Olowe, National Director, Youth & Next Gen., read aloud to the congregation, reinforcing the essence of youth and generational impact in achieving spiritual fruitfulness.
In conclusion, Bro. Tito Balosibina deftly articulated an invigorating message of faith, emphasizing the centrality of divine direction in the spiritual journey. His words remind believers that true fruitfulness is a collaborative effort between divine grace and human devotion, best cultivated through an unwavering commitment to God’s teachings and guidance.
As the church community reflects on these insights, they are encouraged to carry forward the transformative message of the cross, turning condemnation into conquest and inaction into impactful fruitfulness.
Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon is Fellow, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Institute of Management Consultants, Chronicle Business School, Abuja, Researcher and resource person at the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja.
