Anglican Diocese of Zaria, Ecclesiastical Province of Kaduna.
Theme: “The Victorious Christian Living”
Date: Friday, 8th November 2024
Venue: St. Michael Anglican Church, Muchia, Zaria, Kaduna State.
Preacher: The Rt. Rev. Dr. Nixon A. Enekeme
Diocesan Bishop: The Rt. Rev. Ishaya G. Baba
The Anglican Diocese of Zaria opened the 3rd Session of its 5th Synod today at St. Michael Anglican Church, Muchia, Zaria, under the theme, The Victorious Christian Living, inspired by Colossians 3:1-17 and Ephesians 4:17-32. The Synod, which runs from November 8th to 10th, serves as a significant occasion for deep reflection on Christian values, the responsibilities of believers, and the nature of Christian identity.
In his sermon, the Synod Preacher, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Nixon A. Enekeme engaged the congregation with a thought-provoking message on what it truly means to be a Christian. “Who is a Christian?” he asked. “Is it possible for someone to bear the name Christian yet not truly be one?” Addressing the heart of Christian identity, Bishop Enekeme reminded worshippers that being Christian goes beyond labels; it requires living a life reflective of Christ’s teachings and values.
Basing his message on Romans 8:37, Bishop Enekeme emphasized that Christians are “more than conquerors,” called to live victoriously by embodying discipline, truthfulness, and forgiveness daily. Drawing on passages such as 1 Corinthians 15 and 2 Corinthians 2:14, he highlighted the power and responsibility of faith, saying, “To live a victorious Christian life, you must always be a winner, as Moses was when God used him to part the Red Sea.”
The preacher also underscored the public scrutiny Christians face, noting that the wider community is constantly watching to see if Christians live up to their calling. Illustrating a familiar scenario, he observed, “If someone damages your car, people will urge you, as a Christian, to forgive; yet if the tables are turned, you are expected to pay for the damages.” This, he pointed out, speaks to the higher expectations placed on Christians to show mercy and integrity in all interactions.
Bishop Enekeme also addressed issues of rivalry within the Christian community, urging believers to remember their collective responsibility to embody Christ’s teachings. Reflecting on recent national events, he lamented that “it was fellow Christians who betrayed President Goodluck Jonathan,” highlighting the need for unity and truthfulness among Christians.
In closing, he challenged parents and leaders within the church to instil Christian values in the younger generation, posing the question, “What kind of things are you teaching your children—truth or lies?” A victorious Christian life, he concluded, is one marked by discipline, honesty, and a commitment to truth, both within and outside the church.
The Synod continues through the weekend, with more sessions dedicated to discussing the practical aspects of victorious Christian living in today’s world.
As the Synod proceeds through the weekend, attendees can expect further teachings and discussions focused on strengthening the church’s role in community building, family life, and individual spiritual growth. The Diocesan Bishop, The Rt. Rev. Ishaya G. Baba, is expected to address the congregation, reinforcing the Synod’s theme and providing guidance on how believers can align their lives with the teachings of Christ in today’s world.
The Synod provides an essential platform for Christians to reflect on their faith, renew their commitment to victorious living, and foster unity within the church body. It is a time of spiritual renewal for the Diocese of Zaria, an opportunity to deepen the understanding of Christian duty and to reaffirm the call to embody Christ’s values amid society’s challenges. The sessions, which include sermons, workshops, and communal prayers, aim to equip believers with practical tools for living a life that reflects Christ’s victory over sin and exemplifies love, discipline, and integrity.
The Diocese extends its welcome to all attendees and encourages community members to participate in the remaining Synod activities, which promise to inspire and empower individuals to live a life of faith that stands as a witness to the transformative power of God.
✍?
Dr. S.I.R Okoduwa,
Zaria Diocesan Media Desk
For Further Information,
Contact: Zaria Diocesan Media Team
Phone: 0805-584-3993
Email: zariadiocese@gmail.com
Website: https://www.zariadiocese.org.ng