Hello, I’m Dr. Charles Apoki. As we approach the close of 2024, I want to share the greatest lesson I believe the body of Christ has learned this year. It’s a lesson about facing reality—something that many of us, especially in the Christian community, have been avoiding for far too long.
At the beginning of this year, I sensed in my spirit that 2024 would be a year of facing reality. I didn’t have all the details at that time, but as the year unfolded, it became clearer. From the state of leadership in Nigeria to the culture within the church, many of the things we believed to be unshakable were exposed for what they really were. And this has been a painful but necessary awakening.
1. Leadership: A Wake-Up Call for the Church
One of the early signs of facing reality was the realization that the current leadership in Nigeria lacks the will and capacity to drive the changes needed for true development. Similarly, in the church, we’ve seen a disturbing shift in how we view spiritual leaders.
There was a time when the phrase “Touch not the Lord’s anointed” was used to protect pastors and leaders from criticism, but this year we have witnessed the rise of the idolization of men of God. People began to worship leaders more than the God they professed to serve. Images of pastors adorned clothes and accessories, and we even prayed in the names of men of God rather than focusing on Jesus Christ. This is idolatry, and it must end.
The reality is that these leaders are human, just like anyone else. They are imperfect vessels, and we cannot elevate them to the place where God alone should be. In 2024, we saw the fallout of this idolization. Some of these leaders fell—both in health and in ministry—and many began to question the legitimacy of the miracles and claims associated with them.
2. The Mirage of Superficial Success
Another area where reality hit hard was the façade of success within the church. Many ministries that appeared to be thriving with grand church buildings, large congregations, and a reputation for miracles were found to be living under deep financial and ethical strains.
The truth is, many pastors and leaders in these large ministries were struggling to make ends meet. Some were running up debts with banks, and others were involved in financial mismanagement. Church accountants were embezzling funds, and the truth behind “miracles” was being exposed. People began to question the authenticity of the so-called wonders that had become central to church culture. What was once a vibrant ministry became a hollow shell built on self-promotion and false projections.
3. The Realness of Human Vulnerability
One of the most humbling lessons of 2024 was seeing that no matter how powerful we think we are, we are all just human. We are fragile beings, and God is the only one who deserves the glory. I have had to personally wrestle with the idea of humility—learning to accept that my role as a public figure does not make me any better than the next person. Even my own struggles with family life and ministry have made me realize how essential it is to stay grounded in the truth that we are all part of the same body, and none of us is exempt from difficulties.
This year, we saw prominent figures in ministry who were once exalted fall from their pedestals. Some died unexpectedly, others faced marital crises, and many revealed the struggles behind their public personas. In fact, it became evident that many of the couples and families we admired in public were dealing with issues behind closed doors. Some of the most prominent leaders we saw on billboards and in the media had lives that were far from perfect.
4. The Rise of Reality and Authentic Faith
The greatest breakthrough of 2024 for the Church is that we are beginning to face reality. The facade of perfection is crumbling. God has used this year to remind us that He is still God, and we are simply His vessels. Our human systems, our grand buildings, and our self-made success are all temporary. What remains is our relationship with God and the authenticity of our faith.
As I reflect on this, I am reminded of the lessons from the Bible—how the Ark of the Covenant was supposed to be carried by priests, not placed on a cart or handled by those who didn’t respect its sanctity. Similarly, in the church today, we must remember that anything that does not honor God will eventually be brought low. God will not share His glory with any man.
5. Moving Forward: A Call for Humility and Integrity
As we move into 2025, the greatest thing we need is humility. We need to return to the basics of faith—integrity, sincerity, and spiritual growth. It is not about grand programs or striving for positions. It is about knowing Christ, seeking Him, and serving Him in spirit and truth. We must stop idolizing men and instead elevate Christ in our lives.
In the coming year, I believe there will be even more shaking in the Church—things that seem stable will be tested. But let us stand firm in our faith and remember that only God will never fail us. Let us seek Him, know Him, and follow Him with all our hearts.
6. A Personal Reflection
On a personal note, I have also been humbled this year. I have always tried to stay true to the calling God has placed on my life, but I, too, have had moments of struggle and reflection. I have learned that it’s not about the public persona, but about being authentic before God and man. The truth is, we are all works in progress.
Let us not be deceived by the appearances around us. Whether it’s in church, business, or personal life, the glory of God is what truly matters. This year has shown us that when we take our eyes off human leaders and focus on Christ, we find true fulfillment.
In closing, I urge you to not be distracted by the grandeur of human achievements but to fix your eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. As 2024 comes to a close and we look ahead to 2025, let’s embrace humility, seek integrity, and focus on building our personal relationship with God.
I remember the words of Jesus: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” He is the only one we can rely on in every circumstance. Seek Him today.
God bless you.
Dr. Charles Apoki.
