18/01/2025
OPEN EPISTLE TO YOUNG MINISTERS OF THE GOSPEL
Beloved in Christ,
I write to you in love and with a burdened heart concerning a trend that grieves the Spirit and does not edify the Body of Christ. It has become common to see young ministers attempting to gain attention by attacking the integrity and ministry of those who have labored faithfully in God’s vineyard for decades—men like Pastor E.A. Adeboye, Bishop David Oyedepo, Evangelist Mike Bamiloye, and others whose lives and ministries have borne undeniable fruit in the Kingdom.
These revered vessels have not only impacted millions across the globe but have also stood as pillars of faithfulness, teaching sound doctrine, and modeling godly character. Their reach on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter is a testament to the relevance of their work in this generation. But beyond the numbers and followership, their legacy is written in eternity.
**A Caution Against Pride and Presumption**
It is understandable that young ministers may feel inspired by new revelations or a fresh understanding of Christian doctrines. This is good and should be celebrated because the bible say we see in part and we prophesy in part but when perfection comes, we shall all see but that perfection is not here on heart so time to time, there will always be new revelations inspired by the Holy Spirit. However, the Scriptures caution us:
_"Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than themselves" (Philippians 2:3)._
When the tone of your ministry shifts from proclaiming Christ to tearing down those who have gone before you, it reveals a heart more concerned with self-promotion than Kingdom advancement. Such actions are not only harmful to the Church but also dangerous for your spiritual well-being.
The Bible reminds us that pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall (Proverbs 16:18). Even if God has given you a unique assignment or deeper insight into His Word, it must be communicated with humility, love, and respect for those who have labored ahead of you.
**Seek Forgiveness and Restoration**
Beloved, if you have spoken ill of these great men of God, I urge you to return to God in repentance. Go before Him with a contrite heart, for the same God who lifts is the God who humbles the proud. Seek His mercy and ask for His cleansing power.
Beyond this, I implore you to take a step further: publicly acknowledge and apologize to these men of God whom you have spoken against. If possible, seek them personally and ask for their forgiveness. Allow them to lay hands on you, pray for you, and release blessings upon your ministry. Such an act of humility will open doors of grace and favor for you, ensuring that your ministry not only flourishes but also ends well.
**A Call to Unity and Maturity**
The Body of Christ thrives when we work together in unity, not when we tear each other down. As Apostle Paul admonished, _"Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3)._ Your calling is not to compete but to complement, not to criticize but to contribute, not to divide but to disciple.
Beloved, remember this: the ultimate goal of ministry is to glorify Christ and advance His Kingdom. Let your words, actions, and life reflect this truth. By doing so, you will leave a legacy that honors God and blesses generations to come.
In closing, I pray that you will heed this counsel and walk in humility, wisdom, and love. May your ministry be marked by fruitfulness, and may you finish well, having fought the good fight, kept the faith, and finished your race (2 Timothy 4:7).
Yours in His service,
Kayode Idowu
