The atmosphere at CCC First Born Prophetic Cathedral, Benin City, Edo State was saturated with gratitude, colours of celebration and a divine presence, as the Parish marked its 10th Annual Adult Harvest Thanksgiving Service. The joy of the members was visible, but beyond the music, pageantry, and harvest offerings came a profound spiritual message, a message that pierced the heart of every worshipper.
Representing the Pastor Rev EMF Oshoffa, Venerable Superior Evangelist OTUS mounted the pulpit with authority and delivered a sermon that became the spiritual climax of the celebration. His topic was simple yet powerful: “IF GOD MUST SAVE YOU – YOU MUST BE CLOSE TO GOD”
V/S/E OTUS emphasized that divine protection is not automatic, it is a covenant relationship. God protects those who walk closely with Him, not those who remember Him only during crisis. “If you want God to defend you, you must first draw near to Him. Protection is the reward of intimacy. God does not fight for strangers. He fights for His own,” he declared.
He further stressed that recognizing God as your Banner of Victory (Jehovah Nissi) is critical. Just like Moses lifted the staff during the battle against Amalek, believers must lift up the banner of God in their daily lives through prayer, obedience, worship, and holiness.
V/S/E OTUS aligned his sermon with the words of Scripture: James 4:8 “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” Exodus 17:15 – “And Moses built an altar and called it The LORD is my Banner.”
He explained that God’s covering is reserved for those who dwell under His shadow, not visitors who occasionally pass by. According to the preacher, when you remain close to God: His protection surrounds you, His favor speaks for you, His wisdom guides you, His presence follows you everywhere, His banner of victory speaks in battles you never knew existed. “There are battles you don’t even know about but God fights them for you daily. That is why your closeness to Him is not negotiable,” OTUS said.
Venerable Superior Evangelist Otus explained that many Christians want miracles without relationship, and that is where the danger lies. “You cannot use God, you must know God,” he said firmly. “When trouble comes, it is your spiritual position that determines your earthly protection. Those who walk with God enjoy His automatic coverings
As he concluded, V/S/E OTUS challenged the congregation and the entire Celestial Church members worldwide to return to genuine fellowship with God. Not church attendance alone ,but a heart connection.
