This report reflects on an uplifting Sunday Service at the Foursquare Gospel Church, Wuse District Headquarters, Abuja, where the congregation gathered to celebrate God’s mercy under the choir ministration led by Sister Sophia Iyoha and the impactful message delivered by guest minister Evangelist Olusola Olufemi from Calvary Production, (CAPRO).
The service, centered on the theme “Witnessing and Praying for Kingdom Expansion,” emphasized the vital relationship between prayer, witnessing, and the mission of the Church.
On Sunday, October 20, 2024, the Foursquare Gospel Church, Wuse, in Abuja hosted a Spirit-filled service that emphasized both the importance of prayer and the call to witness in expanding God’s Kingdom.
With a spirit of celebration, the congregation engaged in worship, prayer, and spiritual reflection, rejuvenating their commitment to their mission as believers.
The Worship Experience:
The service commenced with an invigorating worship session led by the church choir, under the direction of Sister Sophia Iyoha. This session set a powerful spiritual atmosphere, preparing the hearts of the congregation for the day’s messages. The choir’s melodious praise created a space where members could reflect on God’s mercy and deepen their spiritual resolve.
Message from Evangelist Olusola Olufemi:
Evangelist Olusola Olufemi took the pulpit to deliver a compelling message based on Acts 4:31-34, centered on the theme of “Witnessing and Praying for Kingdom Expansion.” His sermon began by recounting the story of the Apostles, emphasizing their unwavering recognition of Jesus Christ as the cornerstone of their faith and ministry.
Key Points of the Sermon:
1. The Power of Jesus’ Name: The evangelist articulated the significance of the name of Jesus in the life of believers, asserting that no other name offers salvation. He posed critical questions regarding the world’s antagonistic stance against Jesus, highlighting the pervasive “anti-Christ” sentiment present today.
2. Acknowledgment of Divine Sovereignty: The message underscored the Apostles’ understanding that their power to witness was not of their own but derived from their relationship with Jesus Christ. Evangelist Olufemi referenced Psalm 53, emphasizing that in times of fear, prayer was their refuge and source of strength.
3. The Purpose of the Church: He pointed out that the church is fundamentally a house of prayer, as echoed in Matthew 12:13. The evangelist called for a heart that acknowledges God’s sovereignty and purpose, noting the need for the church to be focused on its divine mission rather than becoming a marketplace for merchandise.
4. Prayer as Equipment for Boldness: The evangelist articulated crucial elements of the prayers of the early church:
Acknowledgment of God’s supremacy.
Requests for boldness to fulfill their commission despite threats.
Assurance of God’s confirmation and empowerment for their mission.
5. Requirements for Effective Witnessing: Olufemi outlined practical steps for congregation members:
Dedicate more time to prayer.
Be effective witnesses of Christ.
Embrace the role of a missionary in their neighborhoods.
Engage in collective prayer to fortify shared faith and purpose.
Pray diligently for workers and believers to reap a bountiful harvest.
Prayer Time:
During the prayer session, congregation members were encouraged to seek boldness and empowerment through prayer. Specific petitions included:
Asking the Lord to inspire a great harvest from their efforts in witnessing.
Praying for the church to be filled with quality worshippers who contribute to the growth of the Kingdom.
Seeking God’s guidance and strength to confront challenges in their mission assignments.
In conclusion, the service at the Foursquare Gospel Church served as a powerful reminder of the integral role of prayer and witnessing in the Christian faith.
As believers were inspired by the message of Evangelist Olusola Olufemi, they were reminded of their mission to expand God’s Kingdom through prayer and action.
This gathering strengthened their bond as a community dedicated to serving God and witnessing to the world, ensuring that the name of Jesus continues to be glorified amidst challenges.
This report reflects not only on an uplifting worship service but also on the ongoing commitment of the Church members to engage actively in the Great Commission.
Through fortified prayer lives and witnessing efforts, they seek to fulfill their divine purpose, as they trust in the Lord’s provision and guidance along the way.
Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants, Fellow of the Chronicle Business School, Abuja, a Researcher and resource person at the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja.
