We are Rooted in Faith: The Origin Behind Our Values and Purpose
Abraham Our Father
Legacy is important to all people. As Israel’s legacy has its root from Abraham so does the legacy of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. Abraham’s unwavering belief in God’s promises, his obedience to God’s call, and his dedication to living out a life of faith and purpose set a timeless example for us.
We, as members of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, are called to emulate Abraham’s commitment to faith, obedience, and purpose. Our legacy is built on these principles, and they continue to guide and inspire us as we seek to impact our communities, nations, and the world.
A Legacy Is Born
Jacob’s life was intricately woven into the tapestry of a divine legacy, passed down from his forefathers, Abraham and Isaac. This legacy was one of unwavering faith and divine promises. The moment Jacob renamed the place of his divine encounter as “Bethel” signified his recognition of this rich spiritual inheritance.
Throughout Jacob’s tumultuous journey, his faith remained unwavering. His experiences, including wrestling with God and serving Laban, were tests of his commitment to the legacy entrusted to him. His life bore witness to the enduring promises of God as they unfolded before him, fulfilling the prophecies given to Abraham and Isaac.
The legacy Jacob enjoyed didn’t end with him but continued to shape the destiny of Israel. Moses, appointed by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, was a testament to this legacy. God’s declaration as “the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob” underscored His unchanging commitment to the legacy of faith, covenant, and deliverance.
Jacob’s life serves as a reminder that the promises of God are dynamic, passing from one generation to the next. His faith ensured he enjoyed the legacy of his fathers, inspiring us to hold fast to our own legacy of faith, passed down through generations. As we journey in faith, may we continue to pass on this torch to those who follow.
References
Jacob enjoyed the legacy of his fathers
“And Jacob called the name of the place where God spoke with him, Bethel.” –Genesis 35: 12-15
Israel continued to enjoy the legacy when God raised Moses to lead Israel out of Egypt
The spoken word over the children of Israel could not be kept bound by the Egyptians
“I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob”
“I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry…for I know their sorrows”
One Generation To Another
The Covenant of Abraham: A Foundation of Faith
The covenant God made with Abraham was foundational to the narrative of faith in the Bible. In Genesis, God promised to bless Abraham and make his descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky. Through this covenant, the land of Canaan was designated as their inheritance. This promise was not based on human merit but on faith in God’s word.
Faith in Christ Jesus: The Bridge to Israel’s Legacy
Fast forward to the New Testament, where the Apostle Paul elaborates on the significance of faith in Christ Jesus. In Galatians 3:7, Paul underscores the idea that those who are of faith are sons and daughters of Abraham. Through our faith in Christ, we are grafted into the spiritual lineage of Abraham, becoming part of the Abrahamic covenant.
The Legacy of Israel and Its Impact
Israel’s legacy encompasses not only the promises of land and descendants but also the promise of salvation through faith in God. The journey of the Israelites, marked by trials and redemption, mirrors the Christian experience. The Exodus from Egypt, the crossing of the Red Sea, and the entry into the Promised Land foreshadow the redemption, baptism, and inheritance that believers in Christ experience.
Our Role in This Legacy
As beneficiaries of the Abrahamic covenant through faith in Christ, we are entrusted with a responsibility. Just as Israel was called to be a blessing to all nations, we too are called to carry the message of salvation to the ends of the earth. The legacy of Israel is not just a historical account but a living testimony to God’s faithfulness and the power of faith.
References
Galatians 3:7 (NIV)
“Those with faith are children of Abraham.”
Galatians 3:29 (NIV)
“In Christ, you are heirs of Abraham’s promise.”
Romans 4:13 (NIV)
“Abraham’s heirs received the promise through faith, not the law.”
Romans 9:6-8 (NIV)
“Not all of Israel are Abraham’s children; it’s the children of the promise who are.”
Romans 11:17 (NIV)
“Grafted in, you share in the nourishing sap from Israel’s root.”
Ephesians 2:12-13 (NIV)
“In Christ, you’re brought near to the covenants of promise, once far away.”
History of RCCG
God was the foundation as He called out a man. RCCG started in Nigeria in 1952 by a man of God Reverend Josiah Akindayomi.
Though an illiterate he was mighty in the word “And God has chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty”
– Reverend Josiah Akindayomi “Papa”
Papa’s Legacy
As Israel is enjoying the covenant of Abraham today, so is RCCG enjoying God’s covenant with late Pa Akindayomi
RCCG has always been blessed with continuity in Leadership. This has helped to stabilize the Mission
Papa was ably assisted by his wife (also late, known as Mama Akindayomi). Papa’s early team was made up of Aaron’s and Ur’s among whom are:
- The General Overseer a.k.a “Daddy G.O” and his wife
- Deputy General Overseer Governing council member Served alongside Papa
- Assistant General Overseer
- Pastor P.O. Ojo
- Assistant General Overseer
- Pastor Michael Ojo
- Assistant General Overseer
- Pastor D.A. Otegbade
- Assistant General Overseer
- Pastor A.A. Aderibigbe
- Assistant General Overseer
- Pastor D.A. Ilori
- Assistant General Overseer
- Pastor J.A. Akindele
Papa Handed Over
To the present General Overseer:
Pastor Enoch. A Adeboye A.k.a. “Daddy G.O”
There were 40 parishes in all when Pastor Adeboye took over the leadership. God began to fulfill the covenant He made with the founder through Pastor Adeboye.
RCCG since the 80’s Phenomenal growth started:
- 1990: Model parishes were planted.
- First English service started at the headquarter church in Ebute Metta, Lagos state in Nigeria
- RCCG Engaged in various outreach programs including:
- Christ the Redeemer’s Friends Universal (CRFU)
- Christ Redeemer’s Welfare (CRW)
- Jesus in the Market Places (JIM)
- Redeemed Christian fellowships on College campuses
- Missions established in foreign countries in the 90’s
- Over 6000 parishes worldwide to date In Africa, Europe, Asia, middle-east and North and South America
- About over 300 churches in North America
Popular Church Programs
The Holy Ghost Service: A monthly all night miracle service.
First Friday @ the Redemption camp in Lagos Nigeria: Millions in attendance from around the world. Now held in London quarterly. And in some cities in North America including Washington DC, Toronto ON, etc.
A more complete audio visual DVD will be produced during the Legacy Week includes :
- Voice recordings of Pa Akindayomi
- Detailed Bio of the General Overseer
- Detailed Bio of the AGO’s
- Video clips from various ministrations and events
- Historical buildings and new sanctuaries worldwide and in North America in particular