The Holy Scriptures vividly illustrate the powerful bond between Elijah and Elisha, a profound example of a mentor disciple relationship rooted in divine purpose. Their connection was marked by unwavering loyalty, selfless companionship, obedience, and a clear heavenly mandate for prophetic succession. This sacred journey culminated in Elisha inheriting Elijah’s spiritual mantle, receiving a double portion of his spirit to continue God’s work in Israel. What began as a master, student relationship evolved into a covenantal partnership, affirming that faith journeys flourish where guidance, submission, and shared purpose are honored.
This same biblical pattern finds a striking parallel in the relationship between the Pastor Founder Rev. Pastor Samuel Bilewu Joseph Oshoffa and his trusted second lieutenant, Late Rev. Alexander Abiodun Bada. These were not ordinary collaborators; they were two soldiers divinely commissioned, fully conscious of the gravity and responsibility of their heavenly assignment.
Their journey together began in 1950, at the very dawn of the Church’s establishment in Nigeria. The Pastor Founder met his Asiwaju, Rev. A.A. Bada, through Late Superior Evangelist Ajelekoko, who already had knowledge of the Church. From that divine connection, a sacred partnership was birthed, one that would define the formative years of Celestial Church of Christ.
For thirty-four (34) years, their working relationship was governed strictly by divine instruction. There was no struggle for prominence, no clash of egos, and no deviation from purpose. Their mission was singular and clear: To expand the salvation mandate of God, To uphold and promote the doctrinal purity of the Church, To establish parishes and plant the banner of the Celestial Church of Christ across nations.
History stands as a faithful witness: there is no written or documented record of any public dispute between Rev. Pastor S.B.J. Oshoffa, Late Rev. A.A. Bada, and Late Superior Evangelist Ajelekoko. Their bond was sustained by love, trust, and absolute submission to God’s will. Their value system was anchored in heavenly assignment, and their visible unity served as a living example to humanity.
Regrettably, following the transition of these founding fathers into glory, the Church once firmly guided by divine order began to experience persistent turbulence. The boat of the Church has since witnessed attacks on unity, privacy, order, and spiritual discipline, echoing the early challenges faced during its infancy.
Yet, history teaches us an enduring truth: when the original pattern is abandoned, confusion prevails; but when the original mandate is restored, glory returns.
The legacy of these two soldiers calls today’s leaders and faithful to return to the altar of unity, obedience, humility, and total dependence on divine instruction. For the same God who worked mightily through Elijah and Elisha, and through Oshoffa and Bada, still seeks men and women who understand not just leadership, but the divine assignment.
