Spiritual Power vs Worldly Wealth: Apostle Ayo Babalola, Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, Reverend Esiri and CAC News in Impact Debate
The Nigerian Christian community has been stirred into a heated debate following comments made by Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, Senior Pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), about the late Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, the first General Evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC).
In a sermon that has since gone viral on social media, Pastor Fatoyinbo remarked: “He was anointed but had no money. All the grace just went like that. Where are his children today? I am sure they are angry with God.”The statement quickly drew sharp criticism from church leaders, members of the CAC, and respected clergymen such as Reverend Esiri, who described the comment as an unnecessary attempt to demean a man who laboured for Christ simply to promote a prosperity-driven message. CAC News Responds In a strongly worded open letter, CAC News addressed Pastor Fatoyinbo’s remarks, stating that while they typically avoid engaging in social media controversies, this issue warranted a public response for three key reasons:
1:Scriptural Justification – Proverbs 26:5 encourages believers to respond to folly to prevent arrogance.
2:Clarification of Truth – To correct the misleading narrative equating ministry success with wealth.
3:Defense of Legacy – To protect the memory of Apostle Babalola from misrepresentation.
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CAC News condemned the assertion that material wealth is the measure of a minister’s anointing, citing Luke 12:15 and 1 Timothy 6:10 to stress that life does not consist in the abundance of possessions and that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.
Setting the Record Straight on Apostle Babalola
The statement went on to outline key facts about Apostle Babalola’s life
A Divine Calling – Called by God on October 10, 1928, at the age of 24, his ministry was marked by miracles and signs across Nigeria and Ghana.
Blessed but Humble He owned lands, gave generously to the Church, supported education, and lived sacrificially.
Recognition and Respect – He was among the dignitaries who welcomed Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Nigeria in 1956 — a clear indication of his respected social standing.
Adequate Provision – Despite not exploiting the pulpit for fundraising, his diaries recorded divine provisions in significant sums, such as £100 and £50 at different times.
Family Legacy – His children, Mama Eunice Wuraola Ogini and Apeke Adeniyi, are alive, blessed, and faithfully serving the Lord.
Enduring Impact – Over 66 years after his passing, his life continues to inspire millions.
Reverend Esiri’s Reaction
Reverend Esiri accused Pastor Fatoyinbo of degenerating the image of a man who laboured for Christ simply to reinforce prosperity teachings “at all cost.”
“He should not rubbish a man’s legacy because he wants to preach false prosperity,” Esiri said.
A Question of True Impact
In their response, CAC News posed a rhetorical challenge to Pastor Fatoyinbo:
“When Peter said in Acts 3:6, ‘Silver and gold I do not have…’ — was he still anointed or not?”
The letter concluded by emphasising that the Kingdom of God is defined by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit — not material possessions (Romans 14:17).
A Broader Debate in the Church
This controversy has reignited the long-standing discussion within the Nigerian church about spiritual power versus worldly wealth, and whether prosperity should ever be a benchmark for judging the effectiveness of ministry.
While Pastor Fatoyinbo’s comment has sparked outrage, it has also prompted renewed appreciation for the humility, sacrifice, and far-reaching legacy of Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola.
Content Credit: Blessing Dada, C.A.C News
Image Credit: Google Search. Com
