By David Fidelis
The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Iwalewa Assembly, Akure, on Sunday held its 2025 Christmas Carol Service amid hymns of praise, scriptural reflections and exhortations on the true meaning of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Delivering the sermon at the colourful service, the Isolo District Apostle, Pastor Taiwo Adedire, described the birth of Jesus Christ as a divine mystery that underscores God’s love for humanity and the humility of Christ as the King of kings.
Pastor Adedire declared that the coming of Jesus into the world marked a unique and historic moment, noting that Christ was born a king, yet chose a path of simplicity and accessibility for all mankind.
“The King is born. The birth of Jesus Christ was different from every other birth. He came as the King of beings, yet He did not come with earthly splendour or royal fanfare,” he said.
He explained that from conception to delivery, the birth of Christ was surrounded by divine mystery, stressing that it was a fulfillment of God’s eternal plan for the redemption of mankind.
Quoting from the Gospel of Luke, Pastor Adedire referenced the angelic proclamation to Mary, saying:
“According to Luke 1:31, the angel said, ‘You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.’ This conception was not ordinary; it was a divine intervention meant to change the course of human history.”
The cleric further noted that Jesus was deliberately born in a place accessible to all, regardless of status, class or background, symbolising God’s openness and invitation to humanity.
“He was born where everybody has access. He did not restrict Himself to palaces or exclusive places. His coming was for all — the rich, the poor, the learned and the unlearned,” Pastor Adedire said.
According to him, the essence of Christ’s birth was to bring freedom and salvation to mankind, freeing humanity from the bondage of sin and fear.
“He came to give you freedom — freedom from sin, freedom from oppression and freedom to live a fulfilled life in God,” he added.
Pastor Adedire emphasised that the birth of Jesus Christ represents humility, urging Christians to emulate Christ’s meekness, love and sacrificial lifestyle in their daily lives.
“The birth of Jesus represents humility. Though He was God, He humbled Himself and took the form of man. As believers, we must reflect this humility in our conduct and relationship with others,” he admonished.
Earlier in her address, the Youth President of the church, Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, welcomed members and guests to the carol service, describing Christmas as a season of joy, reflection and renewed commitment to Christian values.
She said the annual carol service was organised to remind members, especially the youths, of the true meaning of Christmas beyond celebration and festivities.
According to her, Christmas is not just about merriment; it is about remembering the sacrifice, love and purpose behind the birth of Jesus Christ.
Mrs. Odunlami-Omisanya appreciated the church leadership for its continuous spiritual guidance and support for youth-focused programmes, while encouraging young people to remain steadfast in faith and service to God.
The service featured soul-lifting carol renditions, scripture readings and prayers for peace, unity and progress in the nation.
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