Pastor E. A. Adeboye: The Man Who Walks with God

Introduction

Among the numerous men and women of God I have encountered, Pastor E. A. Adeboye stands out as a figure embodying the essence of Old Testament prophets, Jesus Christ, and the Apostles. They preached and taught the word of God with evidence of healings, signs, and wonders. Pastor Adeboye’s ministry mirrors that of Jesus Christ, fulfilling the scripture that promises greater works to those who believe in Him.

Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye

Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye is the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), having succeeded the church’s founder. His journey to Christ began with a family tragedy that drove him to seek solutions within the church. Initially a university professor, he became a pastor and translated the founder’s sermons into English.

This essay aims to unveil some profound lessons from his life and ministry that others might learn from as well.

1. Deep-Seated Belief in the Bible

Pastor Adeboye’s sermons are thoroughly Bible-based, starting with a main text and supported by numerous scriptural references. He often repeats each scripture at least twice to ensure his listeners remember it.

During a Holy Ghost Service in 2023, preceded by RCCG pitastors, he emphasised the importance of repeating scriptures. This practice underscores his firm belief in the power of God’s word rather than his commentary. He trusts that it is God’s word that accomplishes the work.

2. Reliance on the Holy Spirit

Pastor Adeboye stated during a Church Growth Conference that his ministry and life partner is the Holy Spirit. He depends on the Holy Spirit to guide his ministry.

He teaches that trusting and walking with the Holy Spirit enables preachers to deliver messages with power and achieve results. For instance, he credits the Holy Spirit with teaching him to understand and preach the scriptures.

Charles Haddon Spurgeon, the Prince of Preachers, similarly relied on the Holy Spirit, often saying, “I believe in the Holy Spirit” before preaching. This reliance is crucial for an impactful ministry.

3. The Power of Testimonies

Pastor Adeboye’s preaching is rich with testimonies of God’s miraculous works. He believes that sharing these testimonies can inspire faith in his listeners. If God performed miracles in the Bible and through people in his ministry, He can do the same for anyone.

Many people today hesitate to share their testimonies for fear of jealousy or losing their blessings. However, testimonies can ignite faith in others. The Bible itself is a compilation of testimonies demonstrating God’s wonders.

4. Living Pure Lives

Pastor Adeboye frequently emphasises the need for Christians to live holy and righteous lives. In a time when messages about blessings and breakthroughs are popular, he reminds believers of Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”

It takes a pure life to advocate purity and holiness. One of the greatest weapons for a believer is purity of heart, hands, and head. This virtue reflects the nature of our Father in heaven.

5. Soul Winning

Evangelising the lost is often neglected in the modern church, but it is a core aspect of Pastor Adeboye’s ministry. He ends every sermon with an altar call, inviting sinners to receive eternal life through Jesus Christ.

He organises crusades in various communities, including universities, and travels internationally to preach. At 82, like John Wesley, he continues to spread the message of Christ.

6. The Work of Missions

RCCG is one of the largest Pentecostal churches globally, with over 50,000 parishes in more than 170 countries. This growth reflects Pastor Adeboye’s vision of having a church in every 5 minutes drive.

Supporting missionary work is crucial, whether through personal involvement or financial support. God gives us the power to create wealth not just for our comfort, but to also advance His kingdom.

7. Hearing from God

Affectionately known as Daddy GO, Pastor Adeboye frequently hears from God and shares these revelations during his sermons. He often interjects with prophecies and words of wisdom, saying, “Thank you, my Father,” before delivering God’s message.

While some Christians believe God only speaks through His written word, Pastor Adeboye’s experience aligns with the biblical teaching that God speaks in diverse ways, including directly to His children.

8. Life of Humility

Pastor Adeboye’s humility stems from a divine warning. God told him that if he ever became proud, He would erase his legacy. This lesson, illustrated by drawing and erasing something in the sand, instilled in him a deep sense of humility.

The scriptures teach that God promotes the humble but resists the proud. Even with his global influence, Pastor Adeboye remains humble, demonstrating that humility is essential for sustaining God’s favour.

9. Walk of Faith

In his sermon on ‘Living Above the Natural,’ Pastor Adeboye shared his journey of walking by faith. Inspired by the exploits of people of faith, he prayed for God to use him mightily.

One result of his faith is the construction of the 3 kilometres by 3 kilometres Old Auditorium and millions-seat capacity New Auditorium all located in Redemption City, Nigeria, with other camps built on other continents. Faith, even as small as a mustard seed, can achieve great things for God.

10. Simplicity of Preaching

Pastor Adeboye’s preaching is characterised by simplicity and power. His calm voice and simple words, backed by intense intercession, make a profound impact.

Paul wrote to the Corinthians that preaching should not rely on human wisdom but on the power of God. Effective preaching combines simplicity with the power of the Holy Spirit.

11. Demonstration of Healing, Miracles, Signs, and Wonders

Pastor Adeboye’s ministry is marked by miracles, healings, and signs, demonstrating that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

In his book ‘The Overflowing Christian,’ he teaches that Christians can access and demonstrate these power gifts to deliver people from demonic oppression. The gospel of Christ is validated by both preaching and demonstrations of power.

12. Lifestyle of Praise and Worship

Pastor Adeboye embodies a lifestyle of praise and worship. He begins every sermon or talk by kneeling to sing and pray, often using a tambourine to express his gratitude to God.

This habit underscores the importance of incorporating praise and worship into daily life, constantly acknowledging God’s presence and help.

13. Prayer and Fasting Life

Pastor Adeboye’s ministry is deeply rooted in prayer and fasting. Inspired by figures like Praying Hyde, who prayed so fervently his heart shifted position, Pastor Adeboye emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer.

He often takes long walks to thank God and present his needs, demonstrating that effective ministry is built on a foundation of consistent communication with God. RCCG is known for extended periods of fasting and prayer, reflecting a commitment to spiritual discipline.

Conclusion

Pastor E. A. Adeboye exemplifies a man who walks with God. His ministry, characterised by biblical preaching, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and demonstrations of God’s power, challenges the notion that spiritual gifts have ceased. His life and ministry inspire believers to pursue a deeper relationship with God.

What have you learnt from the life and ministry of Pastor Adeboye? Share with us in the comment section below.

Eric Otchere is committed to declaring the whole counsel of God through systematic preaching and writing of the word of God. Connect with him via info@livingourbible.com.