In the journey of life, our conscience acts as a compass, guiding us toward right and wrong, morality, and immorality. It often serves as a reflection of our values, beliefs, and ethical standards. When we stray from these principles, our conscience can become a source of torment, akin to an open wound that festers and causes pain.
This analogy highlights the profound impact that unaddressed guilt or wrongdoing can have on an individual’s psyche and spirit. When we act contrary to our values or commit actions that hurt others, we create a dissonance within ourselves that can lead to suffering.
The healing of this wound requires a commitment to truth— an acknowledgement of our actions, a confrontation with our guilt, and a sincere effort to make amends. In this light, the truth emerges as a powerful force, an antidote that can mend the rift within our conscience. The importance of truth cannot be overstated; it is the foundation upon which trust, integrity, and authenticity are built. When we embrace the truth, we take the first step toward reconciliation with ourselves, others, and the Almighty God.
Recently, we witnessed a remarkable instance of this principle in action through the conduct of Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. His public apology for certain statements about tithing that caused widespread controversy exemplifies not only a rare display of humility but also the transformative power of truth. Pastor Adeboye’s decision to address the public openly and take responsibility for his words is a testament to his understanding of the significance of truth in healing wounds of conscience.
Leadership, particularly in the realm of spiritual guidance, carries immense weight. A head, like Pastor Adeboye, is a religious opinion leader who is often seen as a moral authority, and his words can significantly influence the beliefs and actions of his followers. When a leader falters or miscommunicates, the ramifications can extend far beyond their immediate circle; they can ripple through communities, affecting countless lives. This reality places a heavy burden on leaders, as they must navigate their roles with caution and a profound sense of responsibility.
His apology was not just an admission of error; it was recognition of the impact his words can have. In the face of criticism, he chose to confront the situation directly rather than deflect blame or remain silent. This act of bravery is not common among public figures, especially those in positions of authority. Acknowledging one’s mistakes in the public eye requires courage, vulnerability, and a deep commitment to integrity.
The act of apologising can be incredibly challenging, particularly when one holds a position of power and respect. It requires a willingness to set aside pride and ego for the sake of truth and healing. Pastor Adeboye’s apology can be viewed as a godly act—one rooted in the principles of humility, compassion, and accountability. By addressing the public and expressing remorse, he demonstrated an understanding of the gravity of his role and the importance of maintaining trust with his congregation and the broader Christian community.
This act serves as a reminder that true leadership is not about being infallible; it is about being human. Leaders will inevitably make mistakes, but it is how they respond to these errors that define their character. Apologising for a misstep is not a sign of weakness; rather, it is an affirmation of one’s commitment to authenticity and integrity. In a world where public figures often evade accountability, Pastor Adeboye’s willingness to confront his actions head-on sets a powerful example and it is exhilarating!
Truth is sacred; it is the bedrock upon which relationships and communities are built. When we hide from the truth or attempt to manipulate it, we risk damaging the very foundations of trust and respect. The healing process begins when individuals choose to face the truth, no matter how uncomfortable or painful it may be. This journey often involves self-reflection, humility, and a genuine desire to make amends.
Pastor Adeboye’s public apology illustrates the liberating power of truth. By acknowledging his mistakes, he not only initiates his own healing process but also invites others to engage in similar acts of accountability, thus affirming the doctrines of Dr. Abel Damina and others who have decided to unleash the true Christian doctrines. In doing so, he fosters an environment where honesty and transparency can flourish. When leaders model such behaviour, they inspire their followers to reflect on their actions and the impact they have on others, creating a culture of integrity and compassion.
This perspective aligns with the recent advice to the Lord’s Chosen Christian Charismatic Revival Ministries. The Punch newspaper of 5th October, 2024 reported that the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Lagos State branch, instructed the leadership of the church to review the pattern with which its members present testimonies at gatherings. CAN’s reaction to the Church was sequel to a recent testimony by an unnamed member who said an old man appeared to her in the examination hall and gave her answers to some questions. The report also added that the testisfier admitted sharing the answers with a member of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries in the examination hall. This, the Association described as an utter fabrication and falsehood.
The advice from CAN to the Lord’s Chosen (as it is popularly called), emphasises the need for accountability within the Church. It noted that vetting testimonies ensures that the experiences shared by members are genuine and credible, helping to maintain the integrity of the church’s activities. By reviewing how testimonies are presented, the church can avoid situations where exaggerated or false claims might mislead congregants or the public. This practice helps uphold the church’s reputation and trustworthiness.
The rare display of humility and integrity by Pastor Adeboye prompted the Catholic community to hail his decision. According to the Vanguard newspaper of 6th October 2024, Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu, the Director of Social Communications for the Lagos Catholic Archdiocese, praised Pastor Enoch Adeboye for coming out with the truth. Fr. Godonu acknowledges Adeboye’s willingness to speak the truth, which is often seen as a commendable act in leadership, especially within religious contexts. This recognition emphasises the value of transparency and integrity.
Indeed, Fr. Godonu’s statement highlights the moral responsibility of leaders irrespective of office or position held in society to uphold truth, reinforcing the notion that such actions contribute positively to society and faith communities. In fact, there is no other alternative to truth.
The implications of Pastor Adeboye’s actions extend beyond his immediate community. They resonate with the larger societal narrative regarding accountability and the importance of confronting wrongdoing. In an era marked by division, misinformation, and a lack of accountability, the courage to speak the truth can serve as a beacon of hope. It encourages individuals and communities to engage in honest dialogue and work toward reconciliation, healing, and understanding.
Moreover, Pastor Adeboye’s example challenges us all to examine our own lives and the ways we may have strayed from our values. It urges us to confront our open wounds and seek healing through truth. As we navigate our own complexities and imperfections, we can draw inspiration from his bravery and commitment to accountability. Without mincing words, he has experienced a significant emotional release, as a result of the truth revealed and would be at peace with his maker.
The metaphor of conscience as an open wound serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of truth in our lives. Pastor Enoch Adeboye’s public apology reflects a rare display of bravery and humility, emphasising the transformative power of confronting our mistakes and embracing accountability. Truth is indeed sacrosanct; it is the healing balm that can mend our wounds and restore our sense of integrity. In a world that often struggles with authenticity and accountability, such acts of courage serve as vital reminders of the path toward healing, understanding, and reconciliation.
Now that the renowned man of God has publicly apologised for his mistakes about tithing, I hope that pastors in all the denominations will exercise restraint regarding tithing and de-emphasise prosperity and deceptive doctrines. It is now glaring, that giving a tithe (typically 10% of one’s income) is no longer considered a requirement or prerequisite for gaining entry into heaven or achieving salvation. It implies that the act of tithing is not essential for spiritual fulfillment or afterlife rewards as it is not biblical.
As we reflect on the implications of these actions, let us strive to embody the principles of honesty, humility, and accountability in our own lives. By doing so, we can foster a culture of truth and healing that transcends individual experiences and strengthens the fabric of our society.
Odaro, a columnist, lectures in the Department of Mass Communication, Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, and can be reached via the email: [email protected].
