Welcome to CLASSIIIC

The maiden edition of CLASSIIIC (CHRISTIAN LEADERS ADVANCE STRATEGIC SERVICE INTENSIVE INTERACTIVE INTERDENOMINATIONAL COURSE) held for ten (10 days) in 2006 with the focus on equipping Christian leaders for effective ministry.

The ten-day program covered various topics, including:

• Prayer: emphasized throughout the course with dedicated sessions and woven into other teachings.
• Leadership: explored themes like “Unstoppable Man Impregnable Work,” “Training to Reign,” and “Discipling the Nations.”
• Church and Ministry: addressed topics like “The Lazy Pastor and His Overgrown Field,” “Roadmap to City Invasion,” and “Accurate Pattern for the New Testament Church.”
• Personal Growth: covered themes like “Who is a Double Minded Man?” and “The Role and the Place of the Holy Spirit in Your Life.”

Overall, participants were equipped with knowledge, strategies, and spiritual development for effective ministry and fulfilling the Great Commission.

Guest Speakers:

1. DR. DELRON SHIRLEY (ANNUAL SPEAKER).
2. DR JONATHAN DAVID.
3. DR. VALERIE DEPASTINO.
4. PASTOR BANK AKINMOLA
5. PASTOR AFOLABI OLADELE.

The second edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2007 with main focus on spiritual discernment and leadership development.

The five-day program covered topics like:

• Discernment: emphasized through sessions like “Let Us Separate the Voice from the Noise” and “The Price and the Process of Hearing the Voice of God.”
• Christian life and leadership: explored themes such as “The Gospel and the Marketplace,” “The Letters to the Seven Churches,” and “The Distinguishing Factor in the Marketplace.”
• Personal growth: addressed in sessions like “By Patience Possess Your Souls” and “Be Renewed in the Spirit of Your Mind.”
• Interactive sessions: included discussions on “Destiny” and “Making Right Choices.”

Overall, the course equipped participants with expositions and information on how to enhance their ability to discern God’s voice, navigate the challenges of Christian life and leadership, and experience personal growth in their faith.

GUEST SPEAKERS:

1. PASTOR SIMEON AFOLABI.

2. PASTOR CHARLES OMOLE.

The third edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2008 and with the theme “THE GOOD STEWARDS OF THE MANIFOLD GRACE OF GOD,” and primarily focused on responsible leadership and effective ministry.

The five-day program covered various aspects of Christian leadership, including:

• Stewardship:explored through sessions like “Responsibilities of Stewardship” and “Stewardship and the Culture of Favouritism.”
• Spiritual development:addressed through topics like “The Gifts of the Spirit” and “The Manifold Wisdom in the Mystery of God.”
• Leadership qualities:discussed in sessions like “Love,” “Serving: Being a Servant,” and “Grace to Deliver Difficult Messages.”
• Challenges and solutions:addressed through topics like “Stewardship and Self-Dependence” and “The Simultaneous Grace Equation.”

Overall, the course equipped participants with the understanding and tools to be responsible stewards of their God-given gifts, leading effectively and overcoming ministry challenges through the power of grace.

The fourth edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2009 with the theme “THE PROCLAMATION OF A NEW DAWN,” and primarily focused on the role of the Church in national transformation.

The five-day program covered various topics related to this theme, including:

• National Transformation: explored through sessions like “God’s Template for National Transformation” and “The Truth About the Counsel of Nations.“
• The Church’s Role: addressed in sessions like “Church at the Next Level” and “How the Church Shut Down the Gate of Hell.”
• Individual Impact: emphasized through teachings on “People Who Make a Difference.”
• Spiritual growth: explored in sessions like “Connecting to Heaven” and “God’s Wisdom for Every Domain of Human Society.”

Overall, the course equipped participants with the knowledge and strategies to influence their nations towards positive change through personal transformation, effective church leadership, and engagement in various societal domains.

GUEST SPEAKER

1. DR JONATHAN DAVID

The fifth edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2010 with the theme “THE SECOND COMING OF THE CHURCH,” focused on understanding and preparing the Church for a resurgence.

The five-day program offered in-depth exploration of the theme through a variety of topics, including:

• The Second Coming: extensively discussed throughout the course with sessions like “The Second Coming of the Church” and “Questions that Must be Answered.”
• Related topics: explored through sessions like “Life in the Twenty-First Century,” “The Emergence of the Church,” and “The Image of the Beast.“
• Additional themes: addressed in sessions like “My Full Persuasion” and “Migration.”

Overall, the course equipped participants with knowledge and perspectives regarding the Second Coming of the Church, including its potential implications and the challenges it may present.

GUEST SPEAKERS:   

1. PASTOR SIMEON AFOLABI.
2. BRO DAPO ADELEGAN.
3. PASTOR TONY RAPU.
4. PASTOR SOLA ADESOYE.
5. PASTOR ESTHER IBANGA
6. PASTOR SAM ADEYEMI.
7. REV. TOPE POPOOLA.
8. PASTOR TAIWO DINA.
9. PASTOR CYRIL YERIFOR

The sixth edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2011 with the theme “DISCIPLING THE NATIONS,” primarily focused on fulfilling the Great Commission.

The five-day program emphasized the importance of discipleship in fulfilling the Great Commission, with sessions like:

• “The Great Omission in the Great Commission”: highlighting potential shortcomings in current approaches.
• “Make Discipleship of All Nations”: emphasizing the core message of the course.
• “Great Commission is Doable”: providing practical strategies and perspectives.
• “Discipling the Nations”: exploring various aspects of successful discipleship strategies.

Additionally, interactive sessions fostered discussion and application of course principles.

Overall, the course equipped participants with the knowledge, strategies, and motivation to effectively fulfil the Great Commission through focused discipleship efforts.

GUEST SPEAKERS:

1. PASTOR SIMEON AFOLABI.
2. REV. TOPE POPOOLA

The seventh edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2012 with the theme “THE EMERGING NEW WINESKINS,” focused on adapting and innovating Christian ministry for contemporary times.

The five-day program explored various aspects of this theme through sessions like:

• Openness to new ideas: encouraged through “A Passionate Appeal for an Open Mind Towards Present Truth” and “A New Ecclesiology.”
• Adapting leadership: addressed in sessions like “Territorial Preservation and Generational Conflicts” and “The Real Essence of God’s Sovereignty.”
• Effective ministry: explored through “Discipling Nations” and “Personal Witness.”
• Engaging various spheres: discussed in “The Fullness of God” and “Different Spheres of Kingdom Influence.”

Overall, the course equipped participants with the understanding and tools to adapt their ministries and leadership styles to the evolving landscape, ensuring continued effectiveness in fulfilling their calling.

GUEST SPEAKER:

1. PASTOR SIMEON AFOLABI.

The eighth edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2013 with the theme “EXERCISING DOMINION IN EVERY SPHERE OF HUMAN ENDEAVOUR,” which is focused on empowering Christians to influence and lead in various societal domains.

The five-day program explored various aspects of this theme, including:

• Dominion and influence: emphasized throughout the course with sessions like “Exercising Dominion in Every Domain of Human Endeavour” and “The Secret Code to Dominion.”
• Prayer and leadership: addressed in sessions like “Effective Prayer that Changes a Nation” and “The Life of a Believer.”
• Challenges and solutions: explored in sessions like “The True Enemies of Our Collective Progress” and “Hidden Lamp & Good for Nothing Salt.”
• Interactive sessions: provided an opportunity for discussion and application of course principles.

Overall, the course equipped participants with the knowledge, tools, and spiritual foundation to actively engage in various spheres of life, striving to exert a positive and influential impact in accordance with their faith.

GUEST SPEAKERS:

1. PASTOR AFOLABI OLADELE.
2. PASTOR SIMEON AFOLABI.
3. PASTOR WALE OLULANA

The ninth edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2014, with primary focus on fulfilling the “Kingdom Mandate” – impacting every domain, generation, and nation within a lifetime.

The five-day program explored various aspects of this theme, including:

• The Kingdom Mandate: emphasized throughout with sessions like “The Kingdom Mandate” and “God’s Strategy for World Conquest.”
• Spiritual renewal and empowerment: addressed in sessions like “Renew Hope in the Word of God” and “The Secret Place of David.”
• Leadership and strategy: explored in sessions like “The Key of David” and “Discipleship is the Key to Kingdom Advancement.”
• Challenges and solutions: discussed in sessions like “The Day After the Sunset” and “What Type of Church Are You Pastoring?”

Overall, the course equipped participants with the understanding, practical tools, and spiritual foundation to actively work towards fulfilling the Kingdom Mandate in their lifetime, impacting various spheres of life and future generations.

GUEST SPEAKERS:

1. PASTOR SIMEON AFOLABI.
2. PASTOR WALE OLULANA.
3. PASTOR SOLA ADESOYE

The tenth edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2015 and it focused on the power and importance of the Holy Spirit in Christian life and ministry.

The five-day program explored various aspects of this theme, including:

• The Holy Spirit: emphasized throughout with sessions like “Holy Spirit: The Power of the Highest” and “The Power Within.”
• Empowerment and blessings: addressed in sessions like “Positioned for Blessings and Power” and “Delivered from Power Cuts.”
• Spiritual growth: explored in sessions like “Beauty for Ashes” and “The Mystery of Godliness.”
• Application and commitment: encouraged through sessions like “Let’s Go the Whole Twelve Yards.”

Overall, the course equipped participants with a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit’s role, empowering them to experience personal growth, receive blessings, and effectively fulfil their ministry call through the Holy Spirit’s power.

GUEST SPEAKERS:

1. PASTOR SIMEON AFOLABI.
2. PASTOR WALE OLULANA

The eleventh edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2016 with the theme “THE MOUNTAIN OF THE LORD’S HOUSE,” with focus on leadership principles and spiritual foundations for Christian leaders.

The five-day program explored various aspects of this theme, including:

• Leadership: addressed in sessions like “Of Kings and Prophets” and “Influences and Influenced; The Art of Persuasion.”
• Spiritual foundations: explored in sessions like “The Origin of the Mountain of the Lord’s House” and “Everything is in Your Anointing.”
• Discernment and decision-making: emphasized in sessions like “Be Careful Whose Counsel You Receive” and “Is There Not a Cause?”
• Cultural impact: discussed in “Culture Changing Faith.”
• Interactive sessions: provided opportunities for discussion and application of course principles.

Overall, the course equipped participants with the knowledge, spiritual grounding, and practical skills to navigate leadership challenges, make wise decisions, and influence their spheres of influence for positive cultural change.

GUEST SPEAKERS:

1.  PASTOR SIMEON AFOLABI.
2. PASTOR SOLA ADESOYE. 
3. PASTOR ESTHER IBANGA

The twelfth edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2017 with the theme “CRAFTSMEN & WISE MASTER BUILDERS,” with primary focus on equipping leaders to build effectively and create positive societal impact.

The five-day program explored various aspects of this theme, including:

• Leadership development: emphasized through sessions like “Craftsmen and Wise Master Builders” and “Walking in the Revelation of Your Call.”
• Kingdom impact: addressed in sessions like “Maximum Impact” and “Raising Sons to Manifest God’s Kingdom on Earth.”
• Addressing societal challenges: explored in sessions like “How the Church Underdeveloped the Nation” and “God’s Antidote to Corruption.”
• Interactive sessions: provided opportunities for discussion and application of course principles.

Overall, the course equipped participants with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual foundation to act as effective “craftsmen” and “wise master builders” who can contribute significantly to building a better future and addressing societal issues.

GUEST SPEAKERS:

1. PROF. VINCENT ANIGBOGU.
2. REV. NIMS OBUNGE.
3. PASTOR SIMEON AFOLABI.
4. PASTOR ESTHER IBANGA.

The thirteenth edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2018 with the theme “TRAINING FOR REIGNING” based on Romans 5:17, focused on equipping Christian leaders for positions of influence and impact.

The five-day program explored various aspects of this theme through:

• Leadership development: emphasized through sessions like “Training for Reigning” and “Quest for Authentic Manhood.”
• Biblical examples: studied through sessions like “The Testament of Joseph” and “Journey to [City Name].” These journeys likely explored the leadership journeys of prominent biblical figures within these locations.
• Spiritual foundation: potentially addressed in sessions like “A New Dawn Rises,” which might have focused on themes like renewal and empowerment.

Overall, the course equipped participants with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual grounding necessary to effectively lead and make a positive impact in their spheres of influence.

GUEST SPEAKERS:

1. REV. ROBERT AMPIAH-KWOFI.
2. PROF. VINCENT ANIGBOGU

The fourteenth edition of CLASSIIIC held in September 2019 and it focused on the importance of the Holy Spirit in Christian life and ministry, with the theme “THE PERSON, THE POWER AND THE PURPOSE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.”

The five-day program explored various aspects of this theme, including:

• The Holy Spirit’s significance: emphasized through sessions like “The Person, the Power and the Purpose of the Holy Spirit” and “Empty Vessels Have Nuisance Values.”
• Empowerment and dependence: addressed in sessions like “Don’t Leave Home Without It” and “The Essence of the Holy Spirit in the Believer’s Prayer Life.”
• Applications: covered in sessions like “Learning to Flow in the Gifts of the Holy Spirit” and “Business at the Speed of Christ.”

Overall, the course equipped participants with a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit’s role in their lives and ministries, empowering them to rely on and utilize the Holy Spirit’s guidance, power, and gifts for effective Christian living and service.

GUEST SPEAKERS:

1. PASTOR I.S JAMES.
2. PASTOR SOLA ADESOYE.
3. PASTOR ESTHER IBANGA.
4. PASTOR SOLA ADESOYE

Day 1 – The Triumphant Rebirth of Hope

Speaker: Pastor Tunde Bakare
Sub-Topic / Theme: Despondency, Decision, and Divine Direction

Central Insight:
Setting the tone for the theme, “The Triumphant Rebirth of Hope,” The story of Elimelech’s family in Ruth 1 is examined as a mirror for the human soul in seasons of crisis. Through this lens, weighty, reflective questions are posed:

• What happened to Elimelech’s dreams and hope before he relocated to Moab?
• Did he seek God before making that decision?
• Could he have anticipated that both he and his sons would die in a foreign land—without legacy or fruit?

In seasons of crisis, despondency can lead to decisions that drift from divine instruction. Elimelech’s tragic relocation to Moab highlights how misplaced hope and a lack of divine seeking can have generational consequences. Yet, God remains faithful, even in famine.

Key Themes & Lessons:

• Elimelech’s story (Ruth 1) teaches us that desperation must never override divine consultation.
• In crisis (famine), our default should be spiritual discernment, not relocation by pressure.
• Even at our strongest, we are vapor unless rooted in God (Psalm 39:5).
• Naomi’s return at “the scent of bread” shows that God always visits His people.
• True hope is living with the end in mind—seeking God’s direction from the start.

Scriptural Anchors:

• Ruth 1:1; Judges 17:6
• Psalm 39:5
• Jeremiah 29:11
• Comparative references: Isaac (Genesis 26), Elijah (1 Kings 17)

Charges / Exhortations:

• Don’t let desperation define your direction—wait for divine instruction.
• Even in famine, trust God’s faithfulness.
• Operate with the end in mind; begin your journey with the Author’s leading.

Day 2 – The Triumphant Rebirth of Hope

Speaker: Pastor Tunde Bakare
Sub-Topic / Theme: The Test of location & obedience

Central Insight:
Where you are is less important than why you are there. Elimelech fled Bethlehem, but Isaac stayed in Gerar and prospered. The difference is obedience. Security lies in divine instruction, not in relocation.

Key Themes & Lessons:

• People often move out of pressure, not revelation.
• Elijah’s provision shifted with divine timing—not circumstance.
• Staying in hard places is scriptural when God says, “Stay.”

Scriptural Anchors:

• Psalm 37:3–6
• Genesis 26:1–6
• 1 Kings 17:2–9

Three Divine Steps (Psalm 37):

1. Trust in the Lord and do good – Be faithful despite hardship.
2. Dwell in the land and feed on His faithfulness – Anchor your sustenance in God, not the environment.
3. Delight yourself in the Lord and commit your way to Him – Align your desires with His will.

Key Truths Revealed:

1. Not all losses are inevitable.
2. Obedience, not location, secures blessing.
3. Famine is a faith test—not a death sentence.
4. Divine clarity cancels fear.
5. What God appoints; He preserves.

Day 2 – Session 3: Hope Reborn in Worship and the Word

Speaker: Dr. Delron Shirley
Sub-Topic / Theme: Hope Reborn in Worship & Word

Central Insight:

Dr. Delron Shirley offered a historical and prophetic lens into Israel’s kingship narrative, tracing how hope was consistently reborn at Israel’s lowest points, particularly when worship was restored. Hope in Israel was revived every time worship was restored. God often raised righteous kings like Hezekiah and Josiah after seasons of national decline. Worship is the womb of renewed hope.

Key Themes & Lessons:

• David set the benchmark for a life of worship.
• Hope disappears when worship disappears.
• Revival is always accompanied by a return to God’s presence.
• Psalms are the blueprint of hope through worship.

Scriptural Anchors:

• Psalm 38:15
• Psalm 119:49, Psalm 130:5
• Psalm 19:9–13, Psalm 13:5, Psalm 23:6
• Lamentations 3:21–26; Ezekiel 19:5; Psalm 126
• Job’s endurance in trials (Job 14:7)

Four Keys to Releasing a Triumphant Rebirth of Hope:

1. Remember the mercies of God
2. Cling to God’s prophetic word
3. Refuse to give up (like Job)
4. Worship God in all seasons

Charge:
There is no such thing as hopelessness when worship rises. Hope is reborn when the Word is remembered.

Day 3 – The Ripple Effects of Hope Reborn

Speaker: Pastor Simeon Afolabi
Sub-Topic / Theme: Joseph: Hope Carried Through Process

Central Insight:
Hope, when preserved through trials, creates ripples far beyond the individual. Joseph’s unwavering hope through betrayal, delay, and injustice led to the preservation of Israel, Egypt, and the covenant.

Key Themes & Lessons:

• God’s dual agenda: Christlikeness and revealing His glory.
• Joseph’s trials formed the nature of Christ in him.
• He served faithfully, used his gifts, feared God, and didn’t grow bitter.

Scriptural Anchors:

• Genesis 37–50; Genesis 41:16
• Romans 8:18

Ripple Effects of Joseph’s Hope:

1. Jacob’s hope was restored.
2. Family reconciliation occurred.
3. Egypt was preserved by divine wisdom.
4. Nations were sustained through obedience.

Charge:
Your hope is not just for you. It’s for families, nations, and the unfolding of God’s glory.

Day 4 – Faith, Hope, and Love: Anchors for the Rebirth of Hope

Speaker: Dr. Delron Shirley
Sub-Topic / Theme: The Three That Remain (1 Corinthians 13:13)

Central Insight:
The rebirth of hope is anchored by enduring virtues—faith, hope, and love—each an active force that shapes how we respond to trials.

Creative Acronyms:

F.A.I.T.H:

• Follow Me
• Alternate Direction
• Increased Thinking
• Trust the Word
• Hard is Optional (trust simplifies the journey)

H.O.P.E:

• Hallelujah in Hell
• Outcome of Mercy
• Persistence
• Evidence Becomes Substance

L.O.V.E:

• Lay Down Your Life
• Overcome Fear
• Victory Over Sin
• Evidence of God in Us

Scriptural Anchors:

• 1 Corinthians 13:13
• John 13:35
• Psalm 42:5
• Mark 4:35–41

Charge:
Faith moves you forward, hope keeps you standing, and love roots you deep. These three will always lead you into a triumphant rebirth.

Day 5 – Hope Against the Odds: Nothing is Irredeemable

Speaker: Pastor ’Deolu Akinyemi
Sub-Topic / Theme: From Interrupted to Resurrected Hope

Central Insight:
Hope may be delayed, interrupted, or seemingly dead—but with God, nothing is beyond redemption. His power is not bound by human timelines.

Case Studies in Progressive Decline & Divine Reversal:

1. Jairus’ Daughter – Hope Interrupted (Mark 5:21–43)
   → Even when news worsens, faith should remain.
2. Widow of Nain – Hope Buried (Luke 7:11–17)
   → Jesus intercepts funeral—He was always en route to intervene.
3. Lazarus – Hope Long Gone (John 11:1–44)
   → Jesus delayed, but still came—God’s timing redeems dead seasons.

Scriptural Anchors:

• Job 14:7
• John 11:25–26
• Mark 5:36

Charge:
God is never late. The rebirth of hope often happens when you’ve run out of options—but not out of faith.

Day 5 – Final Session: Gleanings and Prayers from Elimelech’s Life

Speaker: Pastor Shola Adesoye
Sub-Topic / Theme: A Generation Without Anchors

Central Insight:
In the days when the Judges ruled… everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” — Ruth 1:1, Judges 17:6

• The spirit of the age was disorder and direction lessness. Even Levites—those called to order worship—left Bethlehem, the “House of Bread”, seeking greener pastures.
• Elimelech and the Levite of Judges 17 reflect the same spiritual atmosphere: abandoning divine assignment under societal pressure.
• Elimelech’s story reveals how pressure without direction can lead to dislocation. But even in failure, God extends mercy and restores through truth, identity, and worship.

Key Themes & Lessons:

1. Pressure is real, but divine direction must prevail.
   → Don’t act out of fear or necessity—seek God’s intentional leading.
2. What you are looking for is not lost—it is hidden.
   → Hiddenness is not absence. Intimacy with God reveals the better alternative.
3. Shortcuts can lead to long-term sorrow.
   → Elimelech’s name (“God is King”) contradicts his actions. He left the land of promise and lost everything.
4. Your identity is prophetic—live up to it.
   → Elimelech (My God is King), Naomi (Pleasant), Ephrathites (Fruitful) — yet they dwelled in bitterness and barrenness.
   → Don’t let circumstances rewrite your God-given identity.

Scriptural Anchors:

• Ruth 1:1
• Judges 17:6
• 2 Corinthians 1:8–10
• Psalm 37:23–25

Prayer Points:

1. Lord, preserve us from pressures that provoke poor decisions.
2. Help us avoid fear-led shortcuts.
3. Vindicate us—rescue us from shame and hopelessness.
4. Fill our lives with visible signs of hope and fruitfulness.

Charge:
Let your life reflect your God-given name. Be fruitful in famine. Stay anchored in worship and aligned with hope.

Find below the list of all the sessions and message title for future references and use.

S1- THE TRIUMPHANT REBIRTH OF HOPE – PASTOR ‘TUNDE BAKARE

S2- THE TRIUMPHANT REBIRTH OF HOPE II – PASTOR ‘TUNDE BAKARE

S3- THE GOOD KINGS AND BAD KINGS – DR. DELRON SHIRLEY

S4- HOPE AND JOB – DR. DELRON SHIRLEY

S5- THE TRIUMPHANT REBIRTH OF HOPE III – PASTOR ‘TUNDE BAKARE

S6- THE SPIRIT AND THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MOAB CHURCH – PASTOR ‘TUNDE BAKARE

S7- HOPE AND FAITH – DR. DELRON SHIRLEY

S8- THE TRIUMPHANT REBIRTH OF HOPE – REV. SIMEON AFOLABI

S9- THE SIGN, THE SEAL AND THE SIGNATURE OF THE APOSTOLIC – PASTOR ‘TUNDE BAKARE

S10- MY HOUSE SHALL BE CALLED THE HOUSE OF PRAYER – PASTOR ‘TUNDE BAKARE

S11- MY HOUSE SHALL BE CALLED THE HOUSE OF PRAYER II – PASTOR ‘TUNDE BAKARE

S12- FAITH, HOPE AND LOVE – DR. DELRON SHIRLEY

S13- GOD’S WEAVE IN THE TRIUMPHANT REBIRTH OF HOPE – PASTOR COMFORT ADESOYE

S14- UNDERSTANDING THE SPIRIT AND THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MOAB CHURCH – PASTOR ‘TUNDE BAKARE

S15- THE REBIRTH OF HOPE AFTER APOSTASY – DR. DELRON SHIRLEY

S16- THE TRIUMPHANT REBIRTH OF HOPE – PASTOR DEOLU AKINYEMI

S17- GLEANINGS FROM RUTH AND POSSIBLE PRAYERS – PASTOR SHOLA ADESOYE

S18- INTERACTIVE SESSION; DIFFERENT DIMENSIONS OF EXPRESSION – PASTOR ‘TUNDE BAKARE

S19- THE SPIRIT AND THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MOAB CHURCH II – PASTOR ‘TUNDE BAKARE.

Session 1: The Mustard Seed School of Faith (Part 1)

Speaker: Pastor Tunde Bakare

Theme: Faith Foundations and Kingdom Principles

Executive Overview

In this foundational opening session, Dr. Tunde Bakare establishes the “Mustard Seed” as the ultimate spiritual catalyst for Kingdom transformation. Moving beyond a transactional view of faith—often limited to personal gain—the session redefines faith as a potent, organic force that starts small but possesses the inherent power to dismantle obstacles and influence every sphere of human endeavor.

Key Theological Pillars

• The Mustard Seed Catalyst: Drawing from Matthew 17:20-21, the session emphasizes that even minimal faith, when aligned with Kingdom principles, can achieve the “impossible.” The mustard seed’s journey—from invisible beginnings to the largest of herbs—serves as a blueprint for spiritual and institutional growth.
• Kingdom Consciousness vs. Religious Tradition: Bakare challenges believers to move beyond passive church attendance. He advocates for a “Kingdom Mindset,” where faith is lived out through one’s profession and daily life to extend God’s rule in society.
• The Social Responsibility of Faith: A core characteristic of the mustard seed’s growth is the provision of shelter for “the birds of the air.” This symbolizes the Kingdom’s call to care for the vulnerable and marginalized, countering modern “sowing and reaping” narratives that often ignore the weak.

Practical Insights and Case Studies

• The Power of Process: Using the biblical examples of Isaac’s obedience in famine and the 30-year development of his own ministry, Dr. Bakare warns against the “Jonah complex”—seeking overnight success without the maturity gained through process.
• Visionary Alignment (The Citadel Project): The session provides a real-world application of faith-driven leadership through the account of the Citadel project. It illustrates how spiritual agreement and divine revelation can bypass conventional professional logic to achieve multibillion-naira milestones debt-free.
• The Cornerstone Principle: Referencing Isaiah 28:16, the speaker underscores that Kingdom progress requires a “sure foundation.” Preparation and endurance are framed not as delays, but as essential safeguards for lasting impact.

The Mustard Seed School of Faith Curriculum

The session introduces a structured 16-course spiritual journey designed to transition abstract faith into practical Kingdom authority.

• Focus: Training believers for “The Master’s Use.”
• Methodology: Studying biblical faith heroes to extract strategic lessons for modern application.
• Outcome: Developing the spiritual “staying power” to endure trials and sustain long-term societal influence.

Conclusion

Session 1 serves as a call to spiritual maturity. It invites participants to embrace the “small beginning” with the conviction that consistent, foundation-based growth will eventually result in a legacy that provides shelter, solutions, and spiritual authority to their generation.

Session 2: Parables and Stewardship

Speaker: Dr. Delron Shirley

Theme: Ability, Faithfulness, and Overcoming Fear

Executive Overview

In this highly interactive session, Dr. Delron Shirley utilizes the Parables of the Talents and the Pounds to explore the dynamics of Kingdom stewardship. The session moves beyond mere financial management, framing stewardship as a test of relationship, initiative, and the courageous rejection of fear. Through dramatic reenactments and personal testimonies, participants are challenged to expand their “ability” through consistent faithfulness.

Key Theological Pillars

• Fluidity of Ability: Shirley defines ability not as a fixed initial endowment, but as a dynamic quality that increases with results. In the Kingdom, proven faithfulness with small resources leads to greater authority and increased capacity.
• The Root of Stewardship (Relationship): The success of the “good and faithful” stewards was rooted in their love for and relationship with the Master. Conversely, the “wicked” steward’s failure stemmed from a distorted view of the Master as harsh and demanding, leading to paralysis.
• Joy as Intimacy: The “joy of the Lord” is reinterpreted not as material prosperity, but as the reward of deep intimacy with God. Stewardship is successful when it leads to a closer walk with the Master, regardless of the numerical return.
• Reverence vs. Terror: The session distinguishes between “reverential fear” (respect and love) and “destructive fear” (anxiety and doubt). Mature faith is characterized by the absence of paralyzing terror.

Practical Insights and Case Studies

• Dramatic Reenactments: Using Lego bricks and play money, the session brought the parables to life. This methodology illustrated the real-world consequences of investment versus self-preservation, making the spiritual accountability of the stewards tangible.
• The “More” Call: Speaker Peggy shared a moving testimony of overcoming personal inadequacy and fear. This case study served as a bridge for participants to move from their comfort zones into new, influential assignments, proving that God equips those He calls regardless of their background.
• The Principle of Multiplication: Addressing the “extra talent” given to the most successful steward, the session clarified a core Kingdom law: resources flow toward those who demonstrate the highest level of faithful investment.

Call to Action and Spiritual Commitment

The session concluded with a significant moment of personal and corporate commitment:

• Self-Assessment: Attendees were invited to acknowledge a call to “do more,” standing publicly to symbolize their readiness for growth.
• Breaking the Spirit of Fear: Targeted prayer focused on removing the barriers of fear and inadequacy that prevent believers from embracing their talents.
• Partnership with God: Participants were reminded that they are “everything God needs,” shifting the focus from their own limited strength to God’s unlimited provision.

Conclusion

Session 2 establishes that the greatest barrier to Kingdom growth is not a lack of resources, but a spirit of fear that hides potential. By aligning their hearts with the Master’s true character, believers are empowered to step out in faith, knowing that their faithfulness today is the seed for their authority tomorrow.

Session 3: Faith As of Old

Speaker: Dr. Babajide Olowodola

Theme: The Substance, Mystery, and Sources of Authentic Faith

Executive Overview

In this session, Dr. Babajide Olowodola anchors the concept of faith in its “original” biblical context—positioning it not as a future hope, but as a present-tense reality. By bridging ancient messianic prophecies with modern-day testimonies of healing and provision, the session defines faith as a “real-time receipt” of God’s promises. Participants are urged to move beyond intellectual assent into a “mystery-activated” lifestyle that transforms crises into platforms for divine intervention.

Key Theological Pillars

• Faith as Immediacy (Hebrews 11:1): The session distinguishes faith from hope. While hope looks toward the future, faith is defined as the “substance” and “evidence” that activates God’s promises in the now. It is the spiritual currency for current challenges, not just an expectation for the afterlife.
• Prophetic Validation: Olowodola validates the relevance of faith today by pointing to fulfilled messianic prophecies (Micah 5:2, Isaiah 53). These historical anchors prove God’s faithfulness, providing a secure foundation for personal trust.
• The Mystery of Divine Faith: A critical distinction is made between human logic (mental constructs) and divine faith. The latter is described as a “mystery” that allows believers to access heaven’s power to make the impossible possible through spiritual alignment.

The Four Sources of Faith Development

To sustain a lifelong walk of faith, the session outlines four critical streams:

1. The Word of God: The primary, objective source (Romans 10:17) for solving life’s problems.
2. Direct Hearing: Developing a personal, experiential relationship where one hears God’s voice for specific guidance.
3. Spiritual Mentorship: Drawing from the visions and insights of other preachers and prophets to fuel personal growth.
4. Supplementary Literature: Using books and stories of “Faith Heroes” to equip the mind and spirit for higher service.

Practical Insights and Testimonies

• Active Planting (The Mustard Seed): The parable of the mustard seed is used to teach that faith must be “planted,” not merely possessed. Passive faith is likened to dust, while active faith moves mountains.
• Correction in Ministry: Using the disciples’ failure to heal a possessed child as a case study, the speaker emphasizes that humility and a willingness to receive correction are essential for effective faith ministry.
• Real-World Fruitfulness: The session is punctuated by powerful testimonies, including:
  • Financial Multiplication: Starting a business with 1,500 Naira and growing it into a thriving enterprise.
  • Crisis Endurance: Navigating terminal illness and chronic health struggles in family life through persistent, long-term trust in God’s provision.

Call to Action and Strategic Vision

• Contending for Authenticity: Believers are called to “contend for the faith once delivered,” making false teachings irrelevant through lives that visibly demonstrate God’s power.
• The Lifelong School: Faith is presented as a school “without graduation.” This mindset encourages perpetual learning and spiritual resilience.
• Vision for Expansion: Anchored in the mustard seed’s potential, the session closes with a vision for the City Gate Church (CGCC) to become a shelter for the needy and a hub for exponential Kingdom impact.

Conclusion

Session 3 reminds the believer that faith is an ancient path that requires modern, personal customization. It is a fight, a school, and a relationship that, when properly sourced from the Word and direct revelation, creates a foundation for both spiritual authority and practical success.

Session 4: Waiting Upon the Lord

Speaker:  Peggy Shirley

Theme: Nurturing Faith through Rest, Patience, and Perseverance

Executive Overview

In this session, Peggy Shirley explores the delicate process of sustaining faith after the “seed” has been planted. The core message shifts from the initial act of believing to the active, daily care required to prevent faith from shriveling. By defining the spiritual disciplines of resting, waiting, and patience, the session provides a roadmap for navigating the “silence of God” and the reality of spiritual opposition.

The Disciplines of the “Wait”

The session breaks down the waiting period into three distinct spiritual practices:

• Rest: Defined as the act of letting go and trusting God to move, rather than attempting to force outcomes through human effort.
• Waiting: Described as a courageous act of hope (Psalm 27:13-14) that sustains the believer when results are not yet visible.
• Patience: Characterized as calm, persistent endurance that prevents the believer from abandoning their post during long-term trials.

Spiritual Warfare and Prayer Delays

A significant portion of the session addresses why prayers often seem delayed.

• Unseen Opposition: Referencing Daniel 10, the speaker explains that spiritual conflict can cause delays in the manifestation of answers. Prayer is framed not just as a request, but as a battle requiring humility and persistence.
• The “Satanic Ear”: The session warns that spiritual adversaries often target those in the “waiting room” of faith, using discouragement to make them stop “watering” their seeds.
• The Power of Praise: Praise is presented as a primary weapon of warfare (2 Chronicles) that shifts the atmosphere and focus from the problem to the Provider.

Testimonies of Resilience and Vindication

The teaching is grounded in several high-stakes personal accounts that illustrate faith’s endurance:

• Rescue from Suicide: A powerful testimony of how a single gospel tract and prayer rescued the speaker from suicidal thoughts, illustrating God’s power to restore hope in dire moments.
• Family Restoration: The account of leading her father to salvation shortly before his death highlights that “waiting” for loved ones is never in vain, regardless of how long the division has lasted.
• Ministry Attacks and Forgiveness: The story of being falsely accused and fired from a 14-year jail ministry—and her subsequent reinstatement—serves as a masterclass in fighting spiritual attacks through prayer and the “weapon” of forgiveness.

Strategic Tools for Nurturing Faith

• Memory as a Shield: The speaker advocates for keeping a “victory list” of past answered prayers to encourage oneself during current struggles.
• Self-Encouragement: Following the example of David, believers are urged to encourage themselves in the Lord when external support is absent.
• Biblical Precedent: The session lists the long waits of Joseph (14 years), David (13 years), and Sarah (until age 90) to remind participants that God’s timing is rarely human timing.

Conclusion: Faithfulness Beyond Outcomes

Session 4 concludes with a call to “sovereign trust.” Using the examples of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, Peggy Shirley emphasizes that true spiritual maturity is being faithful to God even when the answer is “no” or the deliverance is not immediate. The goal is a resilient faith that survives miscarriages, ministry losses, and delays, ultimately finding peace in God’s perfect knowledge of the end from the beginning.

Session 5: The Mustard Seed School of Faith (Part 2)

Speaker: Dr. Tunde Bakare

Theme: Kingdom Allegiance, Authority, and Global Influence

Executive Overview

In this concluding segment of the Mustard Seed series, Dr. Tunde Bakare shifts the focus from the nature of the seed to the inevitable expansion of the Kingdom. He redefines the Kingdom of God as a pervasive force—likened to both the mustard seed and leaven—that requires total internal transformation and undivided loyalty. The session serves as a mandate for “Kingdom Sons and Daughters” to move beyond religious observance into strategic positions of global influence and governance.

Key Theological Pillars

• The Inevitability of Kingdom Growth: Likening the Kingdom to leaven in dough, Dr. Bakare emphasizes that its influence is pervasive and unstoppable. While worldly powers (Egypt, Babylon) are vast but temporary, the Kingdom of God operates on a higher, eternal authority that eventually overshadows all human systems.
• The Internal Shift (Regeneration): Referencing the story of Nicodemus, the session highlights that entering the Kingdom requires being “born of the spirit.” This is not an external membership but a full internal change that progresses from curiosity to public, uncompromising commitment.
• Singular Allegiance: A central theme is the requirement for “undivided loyalty.” Dr. Bakare warns against shifting identities or half-hearted commitment, stating that Kingdom authority is directly proportional to a believer’s yieldedness to God’s will.
• The Blueprint of Sonship: Jesus’ sacrifice is presented as the ultimate model of Kingdom sonship. True authority on earth is found only when personal will is completely yielded to divine purpose.

Kingdom Influence in Worldly Systems

The teaching uses historical and biblical archetypes to illustrate how Kingdom values disrupt and lead within hostile environments:

• The Joseph Strategy: Joseph’s leadership in Egypt demonstrates how a Kingdom-minded individual can stabilize and guide global economies through divine empowerment and prophetic insight.
• The Daniel Standard: Daniel’s refusal to compromise under legal and political threats shows that personal faithfulness can lead to national decrees that acknowledge God’s sovereignty.
• The Resilient Trio: The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego provides a template for unwavering loyalty under extreme pressure, showing that Kingdom sons do not “bow” to worldly idols.

Spiritual Maturity and the “Schools of Testing”

Dr. Bakare introduces a strategic framework for spiritual development:

• The 16 Schools: A comprehensive educational approach centered on biblical “schools” (e.g., the School of Joseph). These represent stages of testing, endurance, and refinement required before a believer can be used effectively on a global stage.
• The Parable of the Soils: Fruitfulness is tied to the understanding of the Kingdom word. Growth occurs in stages—-fold, -fold, and -fold—but God’s desire is for maximum maturity where the believer becomes a “strong tree” providing refuge for others.
• Resilience Against “Tares”: Acknowledging the parable of the wheat and tares, the speaker notes that while the enemy tries to sow setbacks, the Kingdom is rooted and cannot be uprooted.

Conclusion: A Vision for Global Impact

Session 5 closes with a hopeful outlook on the strategic placement of believers in the “mountains” of culture. Dr. Bakare envisions a future where Kingdom members serve as pillars of integrity, providing shade and protection for the vulnerable while subverting corrupt systems through spiritual authority. The call is clear: to graduate from the “school” of testing into a lifestyle of world-changing influence.

Session 6: Kingdom Ambassadors: Role and Responsibilities

Speaker: Pastor Simeon Afolabi

Theme: Representation, Authority, and Restoring Kingdom Momentum

Executive Overview

In this pivotal session, Pastor Simeon Afolabi explores the identity of the believer as a “Kingdom Ambassador”—a position of divine appointment assigned by grace rather than merit. The session provides a comprehensive look at the functions of an ambassador, the dual requirements of spiritual power and authority, and a sobering analysis of the internal obstacles (greed, apathy, and pride) that currently hinder the church’s effectiveness in the modern world.

The Identity and Functions of an Ambassador

Believers are called to be personal representatives of Christ, acting with His backing in every environment. The role is defined by three core functions:

• Representation: Standing in Christ’s place and speaking on His behalf with total divine backing.
• Protection: Actively promoting and guarding Kingdom interests (righteousness) as the primary priority (Matthew 6:33).
• Reporting: Operating as spiritual “intelligence agents” who report back to the “home office” (heaven) to enable timely Kingdom responses.

Spiritual Dynamics: Power vs. Authority

A key highlight of the session is the theological distinction between the two drivers of effective ministry:

• Power (Ability): Sourced through the Holy Spirit, providing the “might” required to execute the mission.
• Authority (Legitimacy): Exercised through the Name of Jesus, providing the “legal right” to act.
• Integrity Guardrail: Pastor Afolabi warns that power without the legitimacy of Jesus’ name leads to presumption, while authority without power leads to ineffectiveness.

The “Newtonian” Analysis of Church Momentum

Using Newton’s Law of Motion as a metaphor, the speaker addresses why the modern church—despite having more resources than the first-century church—seems to have lost its dynamic motion.

• Greed (The Gehazi Effect): Using the story of Gehazi (2 Kings 5), the session illustrates how a corrupted heart nullifies spiritual gifts.
• Apathy (The Ephraim Syndrome): The history of Ephraim is used to warn against missing one’s destiny through spiritual complacency and picking the wrong battles.
• Pride and Toxic Associations: Pride is identified as a barrier to the cooperation needed for Kingdom growth. Ambassadors are urged to shed “dead weights” and toxic relationships that stall spiritual momentum.

Strategic Vision: From Servants to Fathers

Pastor Afolabi presents a long-term vision for institutional legacy and organic growth:

• Raising Fathers: The goal of leadership is to raise “fathers,” not just servants, ensuring generational continuity (exemplified by the partnership of Kenneth Copeland and Jerry Savelle).
• Organic Maturity vs. Cancerous Expansion: The speaker cautions against superficial multiplication, advocating for “growing up” in maturity rather than just “growing out” in numbers.
• Institutional Legacy: A shift in focus from personal fame to the creation of an “institution” whose teachings and resources continue to instruct future generations long after the individual has passed.

Conclusion: A Call to Self-Examination

The session concludes with a mandate to “remove the Amasa from the road”—referencing the biblical account of a body blocking progress. Ambassadors are called to an honest heart-check, stripping away greed and pride to restore the church’s initial dynamic motion. The ultimate goal is to stand firm against spiritual opposition (as exemplified by Archbishop Benson Idahosa) and faithfully execute the Great Commission with integrity and divine favor.

Session 7: Parables and Spiritual Teachings

Speaker: Dr. Delron Shirley

Theme: Stewardship, True Riches, and Ministry Integrity

Executive Overview

In this deep-dive session, Dr. Delron Shirley re-examines the parables of the talents, the pounds, and the sower to provide a biblical correction to modern stewardship practices. The session moves beyond financial transactions to address the “heart-attitude” behind giving, the distinction between material wealth and “true riches,” and the urgent need for financial integrity in global ministry.

Key Theological Pillars

• The “Word” as the Primary Seed: Shirley provides a vital clarification on the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13). He emphasizes that the “seed” sowed is the Word of God, not money. Spiritual productivity (30, 60, or 100-fold) is therefore measured by the comprehension and living out of the Word, not by material increase.
• Ability vs. Faithfulness: While the talents were distributed according to ability, the reward was based on faithfulness and relationship. The session highlights that fear and a lack of trust—rather than a lack of skill—disqualified the third steward.
• True Riches vs. Mammon: Drawing from Revelation’s letters to Smyrna (materially poor but spiritually rich) and Laodicea (materially rich but spiritually blind), the speaker defines “true riches” as joy, fellowship with God, and spiritual sight. Money is framed as “mammon”—a neutral tool that becomes deceitful only when it captures the heart’s trust.
• Reverence vs. Cowardice: A distinction is made between “Fear of the Lord” (humility and reverence) which produces life, and the “fear” exhibited by the unfaithful steward, which leads to paralysis and loss.

Financial Stewardship and Ministry Integrity

The session offers a candid critique of current church fundraising and financial management:

• The “Needs-Based” Trap: Shirley critiques popular phrases like “plant a seed for your need,” arguing that they focus the believer on their own lack rather than on God’s sufficiency. This mindset fosters greed and transactional worship.
• Ministry Transparency: Using an account of financial crisis and restoration (the Creflo Dollar anecdote), the speaker underscores the necessity of transparency, accountability, and spiritual vigilance in handling church resources.
• The “Samuel and Paul” Model: Leadership is called to emulate biblical figures who did not covet others’ wealth but trusted God for provision. The goal is to raise “resourceful people” within the ministry who grow together rather than targeting wealthy outside donors.

Missions and Global Impact

The session highlights the “fruit” of faithful stewardship through practical mission work:

• The Liberia Clinic Project: A graduate’s journey to build a school and clinic in Liberia demonstrates how faith and limited resources can produce massive community impact (serving 1,452 patients in 18 days).
• Project CURE: The founder’s story of giving away $16 million to start a global medical supply organization serves as a model for “True Riches”—finding happiness in giving rather than accumulation.

Strategic Vision: Correcting Prosperity Excesses

Dr. Shirley advocates for a healthier, more honest church culture:

• Addressing Skepticism: The speaker acknowledges that “prosperity” excesses have bred distrust in the church. Restoring faith requires educating the congregation on biblical sowing (sowing thoughts, actions, and the Word) rather than financial gimmicks.
• Leadership Diversity: To sustain high-quality spiritual impact, the vision includes growing a diverse leadership team (pastors and elders) capable of providing fresh, integrity-driven teaching across multiple services.

Conclusion

Session 7 serves as a call to “chase God, not gold.” By returning to the foundational truth that relationship with God is the ultimate treasure, the ministry positions itself to handle material resources with integrity. The session concludes with the reminder that the “unsearchable riches of Christ” are the only true source of supply that can accomplish the impossible

Session 8: Spiritual Alignment and Faith Foundations

Speaker: Pastor Shola Adesoye

Theme: Recalibration, Ethical Vigilance, and the “Yet” of Faith

Executive Overview

In this profound session, Pastor Shola Adesoye addresses the necessity of spiritual and ethical recalibration during times of national and societal upheaval. Drawing extensively from the journey of the prophet Habakkuk, the session explores how a believer moves from “wrestling” with God about injustice to “embracing” His sovereign plan. The teaching provides a critical framework for leadership discernment, emphasizing that true faith is not a one-time event but a continuous process of alignment with divine timing and internal peace.

Key Theological Pillars

• The Habakkuk Paradigm: The session explores the tension between faith and societal decay. Habakkuk’s name (meaning “one who embraces” and “one who wrestles”) symbolizes the dual nature of faith: the struggle to understand chaos and the eventual embrace of God’s higher purpose.
• Standing the Watch (Habakkuk 2:1-4): This is framed as a state of active spiritual vigilance. Leadership requires the humility to be corrected and the patience to wait for a “plain” vision that remains valid even when delayed.
• The Theology of “Yet”: Based on Habakkuk 3, the session defines the ultimate alignment of faith: the ability to rejoice in God as a source of strength even when external resources (vines, stalls, and fields) fail. This is symbolized by “feet like deer”—the agility and confidence to navigate high-altitude hardships.
• Personal Faith Responsibility: The mandate that “the just shall live by faith” is presented as a call to personal accountability and ongoing dependence on God rather than external systems.

Ethical Integrity and the “Five Woes”

Pastor Adesoye provides a sobering analysis of moral challenges within both society and the church, using the “Five Woes” of Habakkuk 2 as a warning:

1. Against Greed: Condemning the unjust accumulation of wealth and security built on possessions.
2. Against Violence: Cautioning against “building empires” through the exploitation of others.
3. Against Debasement: Addressing the exploitation of neighbors for control or pleasure.
4. Against Idolatry: Warning against trusting in “lifeless things” rather than the living God.
5. Internal Church Ethics: The speaker specifically addresses “idea theft,” selfish ambition, and rivalry among ministers, stating that true church wealth is measured by how the poor are lifted, not by the presence of billionaires.

Leadership Discernment: Peace as a Compass

The session provides practical tools for leaders to discern “open doors” and divine assignments:

• The Peace Test: Using a personal testimony of declining a presidential invitation, the speaker illustrates that internal peace is a more reliable indicator of God’s will than external opportunity.
• Adversaries and Open Doors: Referencing Paul’s experience, the teaching notes that a “great and effective door” often comes with adversaries, but it must be accompanied by “inner rest.”
• Tested Obedience: Leadership is portrayed as a balance of being a “person of one’s word” and being responsive enough to cancel plans if divine direction changes.

National Reflection and Strategy

Pastor Adesoye connects Habakkuk’s lament to the contemporary Nigerian context:

• Reframing Chaos: Just as Babylon was used as a tool for alignment in Habakkuk’s day, believers are encouraged to look beyond immediate injustice to see God’s larger, strategic interventions.
• Sober Hope: Leadership requires a balance of high-level hope and a sober awareness of systemic corruption and broken judicial processes.
• Phased Growth: Using the Abrahamic narrative, the speaker demonstrates that spiritual growth occurs in phases, requiring constant “audits” of one’s alignment with God’s covenant.

Conclusion: The King of the Mountain

Session 8 concludes with a call to “rejoice yet.” Faith is presented as a long-term strategy that refuses to be conditional on immediate success. By seeking ethical recalibration and waiting on the “watchtower” of prayer, the believer is empowered to move with the agility of a deer, standing victorious on the “high places” of their generation regardless of the surrounding circumstances.

Session 9: Mustard Seed School of Faith (Part 3)

Speaker: Dr. Tunde Bakare

Theme: Spiritual Dependence, Holistic Well-being, and Kingdom Integrity

Executive Overview

In this final installment of the Mustard Seed series, Dr. Tunde Bakare reinforces the central tenet of Kingdom success: absolute reliance on the Holy Spirit rather than human prowess. Moving beyond theological abstraction, the session integrates a vital discussion on physical health and well-being, framing holistic care as a prerequisite for long-term ministry impact. The teaching concludes with a call to “Kingdom Integrity,” warning against the deceptive allure of modern religious commercialism and “flashy” ministry trends.

Key Theological Pillars

• The Spirit over Skill (Zechariah 4:6): The session anchors all achievement in the mandate, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit.” While education and skills are valuable tools, they are not the root of success. True leadership is defined by a partnership with God where the Holy Spirit is the primary agent of miracles and growth.
• Ecclesia vs. Institution: Bakare distinguishes between the “Ecclesia” (a relational community of ambassadors) and the “Institution” (centralized power structures). He challenges the church to return to the original model of spiritual authority that empowers individual believers to function independently through their intimacy with the Spirit.
• The Consistency of the Message: From John the Baptist to the Apostles, the message of the Kingdom has remained unchanged: Repentance. The speaker cautions against “innovating” the gospel, urging preachers to deliver what people need to hear rather than what they want to hear.
• Miracles vs. Magic: Drawing from Philip’s ministry in Samaria, the session clarifies that Kingdom power is distinct from “sorcery” or false signs. Authentic spiritual transformation is a present reality that requires genuine belief and baptism into Christ’s representative authority.

Holistic Integration: The Health Journey

A unique and transparent highlight of the session is Dr. Bakare’s personal narrative regarding prostate health, offering a bridge between faith and medical wisdom:

• The Prostate Challenge: The speaker recounts a high-stakes health crisis (PSA levels of ) that led to international consultations.
• Holistic Solutions: Rejecting invasive surgery with life-altering side effects, he found resolution through holistic “oxyphyte” therapy and cellular revitalization, resulting in a PSA drop to .
• The “Temple” Strategy: This account serves as a call for leaders to take physical health seriously, exploring diverse medical opinions and prioritizing “quality of life” to sustain their Kingdom assignments.

The School of Life and Preparation

The “Mustard Seed School” is described not just as a place of learning, but as a “formation ground”:

• Toughening Spiritual Muscles: Referencing 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, the speaker emphasizes the discipline and self-control required for spiritual endurance.
• Tested Vessels: God grooms leaders through hardship and refinement. The session reminds participants that spiritual authority grows through preparation (the “carpenter years” of Jesus), not instant power.
• Cleanse for Honor: Based on 2 Timothy, students are urged to cleanse themselves of “ungodly chatter” and dishonor to remain “fit for the Master’s use.”

Warning Against Deception

Dr. Bakare issues a stern warning against “False Prosperity”:

• The Trap of the “Flashy”: Red carpets, exotic cars, and flashy displays are identified as potential deviations from true Kingdom values.
• Integrity over Image: True prosperity must be coupled with righteousness. In an age of deception, spiritual discernment is the only safeguard against the “hidden powers” that seek to manipulate earthly leaders and institutions.

Conclusion: Completing the Foundation

Session 9 concludes with a reaffirmation of Zechariah 4:10—do not despise the day of small beginnings. The foundation laid by Zerubbabel was completed by the Spirit, just as the “Mustard Seed” of faith eventually dominates worldly empires. The ultimate call is for a generation of preachers and leaders who are bold, healthy, and entirely dependent on the Spirit of God to fulfill their generation’s mandate.

Session 10: Faith as of Old (Part 2)

Speaker: Dr. Babajide Olowodola

Theme: Character, Consistency, and the “Come” Command

Executive Overview

Building upon the foundations of the previous session, Dr. Babajide Olowodola explores the depth of a lifelong faith walk. This session shifts from the definition of faith to its practical application in the face of societal corruption and personal limitations. By examining the lives of Enoch and Jephthah, the teaching illustrates that faith is not a one-time miracle but a “300-year walk” of consecration and a refusal to allow one’s background to dictate their destiny.

Key Theological Pillars

• Assurance over Blind Hope: Faith is defined as confident trust grounded in God’s Word rather than emotional wishful thinking. It is the “evidence” that allows a believer to act with certainty before the physical manifestation appears.
• Quality vs. Quantity (The Peter Principle): Using Peter’s walk on the water, Dr. Olowodola notes that “little faith” is often a matter of focus rather than size. Doubts arise when the believer looks at the “wind” (circumstances) instead of the “Word” (Jesus).
• The “Come” Command: Authentic faith is triggered by hearing a specific instruction from God. The session emphasizes that believers should not “leave home” without first hearing God’s direction, as hearing the “Come” command is what enables one to walk on life’s “water.”

Identifying Hindrances to Faith

The session identifies seven critical obstacles that block the flow of spiritual authority:

1. Identity Crisis: A lack of understanding of one’s position as a “New Creation” seated with Christ.
2. Unresolved Guilt: Misunderstanding righteousness and failing to believe that God “forgets” confessed sins.
3. Passive Listening: Treating the Word as information rather than an invitation to action.
4. The “Grumbling” Virus: Recognizing that murmuring and negative thoughts disrupt God’s power and were the very things Enoch prophesied against.

Character Case Studies

• Enoch: The Walk of Consecration: Enoch serves as the ideal for a “lifelong school of faith.” His 300-year daily walk with God in a corrupt generation proves that consistency is the highest form of spiritual dedication. His life was defined by “zero tolerance” for the murmuring and arrogance of his time.
• Jephthah: Destiny over Background: As the son of a prostitute and a social outcast, Jephthah’s rise to become a captain of Israel demonstrates that background does not limit destiny. His story teaches the importance of training in “exile” and the high cost of integrity in honoring one’s vows to God.

Practical Lessons for the Modern Believer

• Discerning Presence: Effective ministry requires discerning whether faith is present in the recipient. Miracles are often a “handshake” between the spoken Word and the listener’s internal faith.
• The Discipline of Silence: To walk like Enoch, believers must reject the “grumbling” culture of their generation, focusing instead on gratitude and the prophetic Word.
• Repositioning for Authority: Understanding one’s authority in Jesus’ Name is not about volume or “shouting” but about a deep, settled knowledge of one’s legal right to command circumstances.

Conclusion: A Record of Pleasing God

Session 10 concludes with a call to persistence. Whether through 300 years of quiet walking like Enoch or a dramatic rise from rejection like Jephthah, the goal of the “Faith as of Old” is to leave a testimony that one “pleased God.” The session closes with a mandate for daily listening, positive confession, and a firm hold on one’s identity in Christ as the only path to a successful spiritual journey.

Session 11: Count the Cost

Speaker: Pastor Ade Adeshina

Theme: The Price of Discipleship and the Weight of Ministry

Executive Overview

In this sobering and deeply personal session, Pastor Ade Adeshina explores the profound sacrifices required to truly follow Christ. Moving beyond “safe” and convenient versions of Christianity, the session provides a realistic blueprint for ministry that includes suffering, loneliness, and the potential loss of reputation. Participants are challenged to move from a “half-hearted” commitment to a state of total surrender, where the mission of the Kingdom takes precedence over family ties, personal comfort, and worldly approval.

Key Theological Pillars

• The High Cost of Discipleship (Luke 14:25-32): Discipleship is presented as an intentional, calculated decision. True followers must be prepared to “forsake all”—including family comforts and personal safety—to align with the Master’s use.
• The Reality of Suffering: Ministry is defined not by ease or status, but by the readiness to endure insults, opposition, and misunderstanding. Pastor Adeshina emphasizes that authentic ministry is neither “easy” nor “safe,” but it carries a reward proportional to the sacrifice.
• Reliance on Divine Provision (Luke 9:2-4): Using Jesus’ instruction to travel without provisions, the speaker advocates for a mindset of radical trust. Contentment in all circumstances, as modeled by the Apostle Paul, is framed as a critical spiritual discipline for those serving in remote or difficult fields.
• Undivided Loyalty: The command to “let the dead bury their dead” is used as a metaphor for singular focus. Ministry requires the removal of worldly distractions and “divided hearts” that hinder total service to the Gospel.

Spiritual Integrity and the “Uncomfortable” Truth

The session calls for a return to authentic, hard-hitting preaching:

• Rejecting “Safe Messages”: The speaker critiques the modern demand for messages that avoid offense. He argues that “sanitized” preaching fails to produce change and that true ministers must have the courage to speak uncomfortable truths despite the risk of losing support.
• The Burden of Reputation: A unique highlight of the session is the discussion on “stripped reputation.” Through personal stories of false scandal and public accusation, Pastor Adeshina illustrates that God sometimes allows a minister’s reputation to be attacked to deepen their reliance on Him alone.
• The “Weight” of Assignment: Different ministry roles carry unique burdens. Acceptance of a call involves embracing these specific weights—whether they be family trials or ministry isolation—without retreating under pressure.

Personal Testimonies of Sacrifice

Pastor Adeshina grounds his message in powerful, lived experiences:

• Conversion and Rejection (1974): The account of his salvation and the subsequent rejection by his Muslim family highlights the immediate social cost of faith. His journey from homelessness to seeing his family transformed by the Gospel serves as a testament to the fruit of perseverance.
• The Lonely Path of Destiny: The speaker candidly acknowledges the “loneliness” of ministry, describing it as a path that requires the emotional and spiritual strength to “stand the heat” when others walk away.
• Legacy Building (The Heritage House): The project in Abeokuta is presented as a “Legacy Project,” emphasizing investment in lasting spiritual and cultural institutions rather than the accumulation of personal wealth.

National Reflection: Nigeria’s Spiritual Gap

The session concludes with a challenge regarding the current state of the nation:

• Numbers vs. Impact: Pastor Adeshina questions why Nigeria has not seen proportional moral or societal improvement despite the abundance of churches.
• “Our Own Brand of Christianity”: He identifies “customized Christianity”—a version of faith that avoids sacrifice—as the root cause of the nation’s low righteousness. National transformation is tied directly to the willingness of spiritual leaders to pay the “true price.”

Conclusion: The Gain of Surrender

Session 11 serves as a rigorous audit of the believer’s heart. It concludes with the encouragement that the knowledge of Christ surpasses any loss or hardship endured. By counting the cost and choosing to stay on the “watchtower” despite isolation, the minister moves from a superficial religious career to a transformational, legacy-building life of faith.

Session 12: The Principles of the Mustard Seed Growth

Speaker: Pastor Esther Ibanga

Theme: The Lifecycle of Transformation: From Manger to Manifestation

Executive Overview

In this insightful session, Pastor Esther Ibanga deconstructs the growth of the mustard seed as a multi-stage journey of transformation. Rather than a linear path to success, growth is presented as a process marked by “iceberg” depths, humble “manger” beginnings, and mandatory “seasons of silence.” By tracing the parallel between the seed’s development and the life of Jesus Christ, the session provides a framework for enduring the “death sentences” of ministry and life with the assurance of resurrection and legacy.

Key Theological Pillars

• The Four Stages of Growth: Drawing from the biblical progression of “blade, head, full head, and grain,” the session emphasizes that growth is a natural yet mysterious process of divine orchestration. Each phase must be fully experienced; skipping stages leads to shallow results.
• The Iceberg Principle: This principle explores the unseen forces shaping behavior. Just as most of an iceberg (or a seed’s initial roots) is submerged, a leader’s visible conduct is governed by underlying values, past experiences, and even healed traumas.
• The Sower and the Assignment: A critical distinction is made: the seed does not plant itself. Accountability is rooted in the “Sower” (God) who chooses the environment. Pastor Ibanga warns against “self-planting,” noting that failure often occurs when individuals ignore the Sower’s strategic placement.
• The Manger Principle: Every great kingdom work begins in insignificance. Symbolized by the manger in which Jesus was born, this principle teaches that starting small is not a sign of failure but a prerequisite for the natural growth process.

The Seasons of the Seed: Silence and Death

The journey to impact involves two counter-intuitive phases that often challenge the believer’s patience:

• The Death Sentence: For a seed to grow, it must first die. This represents the transformation that occurs through loss, rejection, or opposition. Without this “death” to self-will and ambition, the seed remains alone and unfruitful.
• Seasons of Silence: Using the gap in Jesus’ life between ages 12 and 30, the speaker highlights the “quiet years.” These are periods where growth is entirely internal and unseen, building the character and readiness required for the coming public assignment.

Testing and the “Power Era”

True manifestation only follows a period of rigorous refinement:

• Wilderness Testing: The wilderness is designed to expose and overcome the temptations of pride, lust, and the desire for immediate, shallow success. This phase strengthens the “muscles” of the soul before the “Power Era” begins.
• The Power Era: This stage marks the visible fruition of growth, characterized by authority, miracles, and impact. However, the session notes that even the Power Era is a bridge to the final sacrifice—the Cross—which leads to the ultimate resurrection.

Conclusion: From Resurrection to Legacy

Session 12 concludes by framing the fully grown mustard tree as a source of refuge and blessing for others. The mandate to “disciple all nations” emerges from this mature, post-resurrection stage. By reframing current struggles as the “carrying of the dying” (2 Corinthians), Pastor Ibanga encourages leaders to maintain hope during their quiet seasons, knowing that the ultimate goal is a legacy that provides shade and life to the next generation.

Session 13: The Mustard Seed School of Faith (Part 4)

Speaker: Dr. Tunde Bakare

Theme: Foundations, Formation, and the Last Adam

Executive Overview

In this intensive fourth session, Dr. Tunde Bakare addresses the structural integrity of a believer’s faith. Using the metaphor of the “Tested Cornerstone,” he explains that a “cracked house” in the spirit is the result of an improper foundation. The session moves through the stages of human creation, the fall of the first Adam, and the restoration provided by the Last Adam, providing a curriculum for transitioning from a “babe in Christ” to a mature believer capable of exercising spiritual authority.

Key Theological Pillars

• The Tested Cornerstone: Faith must be built upon the Lord Jesus Christ—a tried and tested stone. Dr. Bakare stresses that the church must prioritize deep discipleship over superficial conversion to ensure believers can withstand the storms of life and adversity.
• The Threefold Process of Man: The session outlines a specific framework for human design:
  1. Creation: Accomplished by the Father (male and female simultaneously).
  2. Formation: Carried out by the Son.
  3. Life-Giving: Completed by the Holy Spirit, making man a “living soul.”
• The Anatomy of Sin and Rebellion: A critical distinction is made between three spiritual states:
  • Sin: Falling short of God’s glory.
  • Trespass: Acting ahead of or outside of God’s timing.
  • Iniquity: A direct conflict of wills and willful rebellion (the root of Lucifer’s fall).
• First Adam vs. Last Adam: While the first Adam introduced mortality and a conflict of wills, Jesus Christ (the Last Adam) reversed the fall through total obedience. Restoration involves the active process of “putting off the old nature” and “putting on the new.”

Jesus Christ as the Model of Preparation

The session deconstructs the early life of Jesus to show that spiritual authority is earned through submission:

• The Submission Phase: At age 12, Jesus submitted to His parents and began learning the trade of carpentry.
• Skill Acquisition: His reputation as a skilled craftsman earned Him the earthly credibility that later translated into ministerial authority. Preparation and a strong work ethic are presented as prerequisites for any public mission.
• Testing as Activation: The baptism and subsequent wilderness testing were the processes that transformed Jesus’ “potential energy” into “kinetic power” for ministry.

Discipleship and Curriculum Vision

• Rigorous Training: Bakare advocates for a brand of Christianity that is not easily broken by pressure. Discipleship is framed as a cooperation with God’s will to maintain a “holy and sanctified” life.
• Generational Strategy: The session introduces a structured children’s ministry syllabus (ages 1–12) designed to build foundational truths early. This prevents the “confusion and offense” that often plague adult believers who lack a solid grounding.
• The Temple Metaphor: Believers are challenged to view their bodies as the Temple of the Holy Spirit, actively rejecting sickness, sin, and spiritual attacks through the authority of the Last Adam.

Conclusion: From Seed to Maximal Influence

Session 13 concludes with the vision of the Mustard Seed reaching its “maximal influence.” By grooming disciples according to the life stages of the Messiah—wisdom, stature, and favor—the school aims to produce believers who are not just saved, but are “fit for the Master’s use” in transforming their world. The ultimate goal is to move from a state of “iniquity” (willful rebellion) to a state of “sonship” (perfect alignment with God’s will).

Session 14: The Mustard Seed School of Faith (Part 5)

Speaker: Dr. Tunde Bakare

Theme: Ministerial Longevity, Spiritual Formation, and the “Begotten” Identity

Executive Overview

In this concluding session of the Mustard Seed series, Dr. Tunde Bakare addresses the intersection of ministerial sustainability and deep spiritual formation. He advocates for a health-conscious teaching methodology based on biblical precedents and explores the high-level theology of the “Begotten Son.” The session provides a clear pathway for the believer to move from initial regeneration to a state where Christ is fully formed within, unlocking the true inheritance of the Kingdom.

Leadership Sustainability: The Authoritative Seat

A significant portion of the session is dedicated to the health and longevity of the minister:

• The “Sitting” Posture: Bakare advocates for pastors to sit while teaching, citing the Jewish tradition where sitting signifies authority (Exodus 18:13, Matthew 5:1).
• The Physical Cost of Preaching: Referencing Billy Graham’s observation that one hour of preaching is equivalent to eight hours of manual labor, the speaker urges leaders to manage fatigue to avoid early burnout and ensure long-term effectiveness.
• Cultural Shift: The session calls for a change in organizational mindset, moving away from the “standing norm” to a more sustainable, health-conscious ministry model that prioritizes the wisdom and longevity of senior leaders.

Key Theological Pillars: The “Begotten” Son

The session delves into the specific spiritual status required to inherit the nations:

• Defining “Begotten”: Unique sonship is not merely about birth but about the total submission of the personal will to the Father’s will. Only the “begotten” receive the nations as an inheritance (Psalm 2:7-8).
• The Test of Yieldedness: Using Abraham and Isaac as archetypes, Dr. Bakare illustrates that the “begotten” status is unlocked through the willingness to lay down what is most precious in obedience to God.
• The Dual Nature of Christ: Jesus is presented as the Only Begotten because He inherited mortality from Mary but divine authority from God, voluntarily laying down His life to fulfill the Father’s mission.

The Three-Phase Spiritual Formation

Believers are guided through a progressive journey of maturity, exemplified by the transformation of Jacob:

1. Jacob (Creation): The initial stage of the “supplanter” or the natural man.
2. Israel (Formation): The stage of struggle and transformation where the character is refined.
3. Jeshurun (The Upright One): The final stage of spiritual maturity and uprightness, fit for Kingdom inheritance.

• The Goal: Bakare emphasizes that regeneration affects the spirit, but “formation” is a lifelong process of renewing the mind and character until Christ is visible in the believer’s lifestyle.

Practical Discipleship and Governance

• Plurality of Eldership: The session reaffirms teamwork and shared burdens over single-leader models, encouraging leaders to be transparent about their weaknesses to build authentic trust.
• Gospel with a “Human Face”: Discipleship is defined by modeling a lifestyle rather than just transmitting information. Leaders are urged to show their disciples their own struggles and growth stages.
• Spiritual Kinship: True family membership in the Kingdom is defined by shared mission and obedience to God’s will, which supersedes biological ties.

Conclusion: The Empty Vessel

Session 14 concludes with a powerful personal testimony of “loss and renewal,” where the speaker describes transitioning from wealth to near poverty to learn total reliance on God. The final exhortation reminds participants that God “fills only an empty vessel.” By passing the tests of yieldedness and embracing the process of formation, the believer graduates from academic knowledge to a lived reality where the “hope of glory” (Christ in us) becomes a transformative force for the nation.

Session 15: The Mustard Seed School of Faith (Part 6)

Speaker: Dr. Tunde Bakare

Theme: Yieldedness, The New Man Character, and the Four Dimensions of Faith

Executive Overview

In this penultimate session of the Mustard Seed series, Dr. Tunde Bakare establishes yieldedness to God’s will as the absolute prerequisite for spiritual promotion. By contrasting the self-will of the first Adam with the sacrificial obedience of Isaac and Jesus, the session provides a roadmap for the “Begotten Church” to rise in global stature. The teaching moves from high-level theology to the practical ethics of the “New Man,” concluding with a multi-dimensional framework for developing a lifestyle of faith.

Key Theological Pillars: The Power of Yieldedness

• Models of Submission: The session uses Isaac and Jesus as the ultimate examples of yieldedness. Isaac, despite his strength, submitted to his father’s will; Jesus, as the Only Begotten, exemplified a life where personal will was entirely consumed by the Father’s mission.
• First Adam vs. Last Adam: Bakare clarifies the spiritual stakes: the first Adam’s self-will led to mortality and loss, while the last Adam’s obedience brought exaltation and authority far above all powers.
• Transparent Stewardship: Integrity is framed as the “currency” of leadership. Using a personal testimony of a high-risk financial project (moving resources from the US to Nigeria), the speaker illustrates how faith-led decisions, coupled with institutional accountability, validate trust in God’s direction.

The Identity and Walk of the Begotten Church

The church is presented as a continuation of Christ’s yielded life through the Holy Spirit. Dr. Bakare outlines a “Fourfold Walk” that defines the culture of the Begotten Church:

1. Unity: The foundational requirement; division is viewed as a strike against the church’s calling.
2. Love: A sacrificial commitment mirroring Christ’s offering.
3. Light: Living transparently and exposing the works of darkness.
4. Wisdom: Redeeming time and maintaining a standard “ten times better” than worldly systems (the Daniel Example).

Personal Transformation: The Character of the “New Man”

The session provides a rigorous checklist for the believer’s daily conduct, emphasizing that spiritual renewal must begin in the mind:

• Mental Renewal: Replacing old, harmful mental patterns with the Word of God through scripture memorization and worship.
• Ethical Mandates: Drawing from Ephesians and Colossians, the “New Man” is characterized by:
  • Honesty: No lying; community trust is built on integrity.
  • Managed Emotion: Anger must be controlled to prevent giving the enemy a foothold.
  • Industry: No stealing; working honestly to have enough to share with the vulnerable.
  • Gracious Speech: Words must be used to build up rather than corrupt.

The Four Dimensions of Faith

To empower the “New Man,” Dr. Bakare outlines faith as a multi-dimensional force:

1. Hearing: Faith that comes from understanding the spoken Word.
2. Gift: A supernatural impartation by the Holy Spirit for extraordinary works.
3. Character: A trait developed through daily obedience and trust.
4. Spirit: A state of boldness and confident spiritual authority (The Spirit of Faith).

Strategic Vision: Rooted for Multiplication

The session concludes with a vision for the future of the ministry and the upcoming leadership transition:

• Succession and Sabbatical: Bakare shares plans to raise new pastors and elders, ensuring the work is institutionalized and sustainable beyond his personal leadership.
• “Rooted and Grounded”: The announcement of a new Bible study series aimed at building independent, spiritually resilient believers who can stand against the enemy without constant supervision.
• Global Multiplication: A goal for a “thousandfold increase” where the knowledge of God’s glory fills the earth, emphasizing that spiritual growth is not dependent on geographic location but on consistent alignment with Kingdom values.

Conclusion: From Assent to Embodiment

Session 15 is a call to move beyond “intellectual assent” to a “lived reality.” By internalizing the four dimensions of faith and putting on the character of the New Man, the believer is positioned to handle the weapons of spiritual warfare (as David did against Goliath). The ultimate goal is for the church to function as an empowered, begotten institution that fills the earth with the light of Christ.

Session 16: Missionary Engagement and Kingdom Stewardship

Speaker: Dr. Delron Shirley

Theme: Global Impact, Economic Wisdom, and Lifelong Calling

Executive Overview

In this comprehensive concluding session, Dr. Delron Shirley synthesizes the spiritual principles of the “Mustard Seed” with the practical realities of global missionary engagement. The session explores how ordinary individuals can achieve extraordinary impact by surrendering fear and embracing the Great Commission. Dr. Shirley provides a unique analysis of “Joseph’s Model” of stewardship, offering a biblical framework for economic sustainability, and concludes with a call to lifelong ministry, proving that Kingdom potential is not limited by age or background.

Key Theological Pillars

• Stewardship as Relationship: Building on previous teachings, Dr. Shirley emphasizes that the reward for the “good and faithful steward” is not merely material, but the “joy of the Lord”—a deeper intimacy with the Master. Success is defined by respect, diligence, and a lack of detachment from the Master’s interests.
• The Sower and the Heart-Soil: The session revisits the Parable of the Sower, identifying internal barriers—persecution, temptation, and superficiality—that prevent the Word from taking root. Deep spiritual grounding is presented as the only defense against the “wayside” lack of understanding.
• Fear of the Lord as True Capital: True riches are reframed as spiritual and intellectual capital. Using Proverbs and Psalms, the speaker defines the “fear of the Lord” as the humility and respect necessary to manage wealth and pass on a generational inheritance.

Economic Stewardship: The Joseph Model

A major highlight of the session is the exploration of biblical financial wisdom through the life of Joseph:

• The 20% Reserve Strategy: Shirley explains Joseph’s wisdom in saving one-fifth of the harvest during years of plenty. He notes that a 50% tax would have destroyed motivation; the 20% model maintained the farmers’ incentive while building a national surplus.
• Incentives and Productivity: The session illustrates how wise economic policies aligned with biblical principles can promote national prosperity. By keeping 80% of their yield, the people remained productive, eventually feeding not only Egypt but surrounding nations.
• The Warning of Slavery: The narrative of the famine serves as a warning against neglecting preparation. Those who failed to save eventually lost their land and freedom, highlighting stewardship as a vital protection against future crisis.

Global Ministry and Resilience

The session provides a transparent look at the “frontlines” of modern missions:

• Infrastructure and Education: Updates on projects such as the Nepal Bible College dormitory expansion and the establishment of church-based libraries in India and Nepal show a commitment to long-term educational stability.
• Crisis Response: The ministry’s agility is demonstrated through its support for partners facing abductions in Niger and earthquake recovery in Myanmar. These accounts illustrate that the “Begotten Church” is resilient in the face of adversity.
• Digital Outreach: The distribution of QR codes linking to Scripture in over 1,800 languages (via Faith Comes By Hearing) illustrates how technology is being leveraged to fulfill the Great Commission.

Legacy and Lifelong Potential

• Late-Stage Vitality: Shirley challenges the concept of “retirement” in the Kingdom. Citing Dr. Lester Sumrall and Andrew Wommack—both of whom launched major global initiatives after age 75—he inspires participants to view their senior years as seasons of high-impact manifestation.
• The Power of the Seed: The session reaffirms that while a mustard seed is small when sown, its “Kingdom potential” is vast and expansive, far exceeding material measures of multiplication.

Conclusion: A Call to Active Participation

Session 16 concludes with a heartfelt recognition of the “Classic community’s” generosity and a mandate for every believer to identify as a Kingdom ambassador. By combining spiritual depth with practical economic wisdom and a heart for global missions, the believer moves from being a “convert” to a “mature tree” that provides shade, healing, and the Word of God to the nations.

Session 17: The Mustard Seed School of Faith (Part 7)

Speaker: Dr. Tunde Bakare

Theme: True Riches, Integrity, and the Unsearchable Wealth of Christ

Executive Overview

In this concluding session, Dr. Tunde Bakare provides a definitive theological framework for “True Riches,” distinguishing them sharply from material wealth or “Mammon.” Drawing from Paul’s revelation of the “unsearchable riches of Christ,” the session explores the seven categories of spiritual wealth that empower believers with boldness, confidence, and authority. Through a series of personal testimonies on financial integrity, the speaker illustrates that access to these divine treasures is contingent upon a life of honesty, contentment, and singular loyalty to God.

Key Theological Pillars: Defining True Riches

• The Mammon Contrast (Luke 16:10-13): The session establishes that one cannot serve both God and Mammon. True riches are spiritual and eternal, while money is a tool (“unrighteous mammon”) that tests a believer’s faithfulness. Chasing material gain at the expense of spiritual values is framed as a path to spiritual failure.
• The Seven Categories of Spiritual Wealth: Bakare identifies the core components of God’s “unsearchable riches” through scriptural analysis:
  1. Riches of Glory: Inner spiritual power and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit.
  2. Riches of Mercy: Deliverance from deserved judgment.
  3. Riches of Grace: Undeserved favor and the power for good works.
  4. Riches of Goodness: Divine kindness that leads to repentance.
  5. Riches of Wisdom: The manifold wisdom of God revealed to the church.
  6. Riches of Knowledge: Deep spiritual insight into the mysteries of Christ.
  7. Riches of Understanding: The full assurance and clarity that unlock all other treasures.

Integrity and the Practical Cost of Wealth

The session is grounded in Dr. Bakare’s personal “integrity audit,” providing real-world examples of spiritual wealth in action:

• The Bribe Test: The speaker recounts refusing a Naira bribe offered in the early hours of the morning, choosing instead to protect his integrity and his client’s case. This story underscores that faithfulness in “little” (or even large) earthly sums is a prerequisite for receiving “True Riches.”
• The Simple Beginning: A reflection on his wedding—costing less than Naira—highlights the principle of contentment. Dr. Bakare critiques the societal pressure for flashy, debt-funded appearances, advocating instead for quality, longevity, and spiritual priorities.
• The Honesty Pivot: The account of canceling a deceptive foreign exchange license scheme after a conviction about lying demonstrates that moral choices are the foundation of spiritual blessing.

The Role of Understanding (Colossians 2:1-3)

• Unlocking the Treasury: Bakare argues that lack of understanding—not lack of intellect—is the primary barrier to accessing divine riches. When a believer’s heart is “knit in love” and possesses the “full assurance of understanding,” they gain confident access to the hidden treasures of wisdom and knowledge in Christ.
• The Search for the Unsearchable: Using Proverbs 25:2, the session encourages believers to embrace their identity as “kings” whose glory is to search out the mysteries concealed by God.

Strategic Vision: Mustard Seed 2.0 and Project 16

Looking toward the future, Dr. Bakare outlines the ministry’s roadmap for continued growth:

• Mustard Seed 2.0: The announcement of the next phase of the school, which will focus on the “Heroes of Faith” and their specific “Spiritual Schools.”
• Project 16: A strategic initiative for “Classic 2026,” aimed at teaching 16 distinct curricula tied to biblical principles and national development. This project aims to produce leaders equipped with the resources and vision to execute God’s agenda in society.
• Legacy of Authority: The ultimate goal of these teachings is to raise a “Begotten Church” that manifests spiritual authority and overcomes financial harassment through the unsearchable riches of Christ.

Conclusion: Boldness through Riches

Session 17 concludes with a call for believers to “re-evaluate their portfolio.” By trading the pursuit of Mammon for the pursuit of the Seven Riches, the believer gains a boldness and confidence that material wealth can never provide. The session closes with a prayer for all teachers and ministers to manifest this spiritual wealth, ensuring the Kingdom’s frontiers are extended through a lifestyle of integrity and divine wisdom.