Obedience and Humility: Pastor Chris Okafor Steps Aside from Preaching Following Instruction from Spiritual Fathers
In a profound demonstration of spiritual submission and leadership maturity, Pastor Chris Okafor, founder of Grace Nation Bible Ministry, has announced that he will step away from the pulpit for the entire month of January 2026.
Acting on the counsel of his spiritual mentors, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo and Bishop David Abioye, Okafor described the period as a time of personal retreat, prayer, and rest, aimed at returning spiritually renewed and strengthened for the year ahead.
Submission to Spiritual Authority
Pastor Chris Okafor emphasized that his decision to step aside is rooted in obedience and humility. He explicitly credited Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo and Bishop David Abioye for the guidance. "So we step in aside to pray. We step in aside to have retreats and to rest for this January to return back better and stronger from the presence of the Lord," he told his congregation.
Addressing recent controversies and "lies," the clergyman urged his followers to keep their heads high. He noted that while he is resting, God is working behind the scenes. "Our God is turning around what they meant for evil... You will later understand what God is up to. You will later understand the truth from lie," he declared, reaffirming that Grace Nation was built on divine encounters and revelation.
A Season of Personal Rest
Beyond the spiritual mandate, Pastor Okafor admitted that physical exhaustion played a role. He revealed that since his recent wedding, he and his wife have had no time to themselves. "It will be time for me and my wife to rest. Recall, since our wedding, we have not rested. We have not had time. We have not even done honeymoon," he shared, asking for the church's support during this private season.
Prophetic Sundays: The January Lineup
To ensure the spiritual fire continues, Pastor Okafor has appointed four ministers to handle the four Sundays of January. He promised the congregation "Prophetic Sundays" filled with anointing:
- Sunday 1: Pastor Sylvester
- Sunday 2: Pastor Kelvin
- Sunday 3: Pastor Oliver
- Sunday 4: Pastor Shedrack
The lead pastor assured members he would still be "joining them" and doing his best behind the scenes while maintaining his retreat boundaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. He is only taking a sabbatical for the month of January 2026 for rest and spiritual retreat. He is scheduled to return in February.
He identified his spiritual fathers, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo and Bishop David Abioye, as the authorities who gave him the instruction.
Yes. Services will continue every Sunday under the leadership of Pastors Sylvester, Kelvin, Oliver, and Shedrack, whom Pastor Chris has authorized to minister and anoint members.
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