Reverend Samuel Bilewu Joseph Oshoffa

Reverend Samuel Bilewu Joseph Oshoffa, often referred to as SBJ Oshoffa, is a pastor, prophet, and the founder of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), one of the largest indigenous African churches. His life story is a blend of divine calling, spiritual leadership, and the challenges of establishing a new religious movement in the complex socio-political landscape of 20th-century Nigeria.

Early Life and Background

SBJ Oshoffa was born on May 18, 1909, in Porto-Novo, the capital of the French colony of Dahomey (now Benin Republic). He was the only son in a family of carpenters and was named Samuel by his father, Joseph Oshoffa, a devout Methodist. His mother, Alake Iyaode Oshoffa, was also a Christian, and young Samuel was brought up in the Christian faith, receiving his early education in the Methodist school in Porto-Novo.

Oshoffa’s early years were marked by a deep religious inclination. Although he trained as a carpenter, following his family’s trade, he was known for his piety and keen interest in spiritual matters. However, there was little indication during his early years that he would later become the founder of a major religious movement.

The Divine Calling

The turning point in SBJ Oshoffa’s life came in 1947. According to Oshoffa, he received a divine call while deep in the forest during a period of retreat. He claimed that he was led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness, where he spent three months in seclusion, fasting, and praying. During this time, he said he received several visions and revelations that would shape the foundation of the Celestial Church of Christ.

One of the most significant of these visions was that of a great light, which he interpreted as a divine sign. In the vision, Oshoffa claimed that he was instructed by God to establish a church that would bring spiritual salvation to humanity and serve as a refuge for those seeking divine intervention. The church was to be named the “Celestial Church of Christ,” a name that symbolized its heavenly origin and mission.

Founding the Celestial Church of Christ

Upon his return from the forest, SBJ Oshoffa began preaching and performing miracles, which quickly attracted followers. The first congregation of the Celestial Church of Christ was established in Porto-Novo in September 1947. The church’s growth was rapid, and its reputation spread across the region, drawing people from various religious backgrounds who were seeking spiritual healing, miracles, and deliverance from evil spirits.

Oshoffa’s teachings were rooted in Christian doctrine but also incorporated elements of African spirituality, which resonated with many people in West Africa. The church emphasized spiritual healing, prophecy, and the power of the Holy Spirit, with rituals that included the use of water, candles, and incense. These practices, along with Oshoffa’s reputation as a healer and prophet, played a significant role in the church’s expansion.

Expansion and Challenges

By the early 1950s, the Celestial Church of Christ had spread beyond the borders of Dahomey, establishing branches in Nigeria, Ghana, and other West African countries. The church’s rapid growth brought both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, the church’s expansion into Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, provided a vast field for evangelism. On the other hand, it also brought the church into competition with established Christian denominations, as well as traditional African religions.

SBJ Oshoffa faced opposition from both religious and political authorities. Some Christian leaders accused him of heresy, while others criticized the church’s syncretic practices, which blended Christian and African religious elements. Additionally, the colonial authorities in West Africa were wary of new religious movements, viewing them as potential sources of social unrest.

Despite these challenges, Oshoffa continued to lead the church with unwavering faith. His leadership style was charismatic, and he was known for his humility, compassion, and dedication to his followers. He was also a visionary leader, and under his guidance, the church established schools, hospitals, and other social services, which contributed to its appeal.

The Tragedy of 1985

SBJ Oshoffa’s life was marked by a significant tragedy in 1985. On September 1, 1985, he was involved in a serious car accident near Ibadan, Nigeria. The accident claimed the lives of several of his companions, including one of his sons. Oshoffa survived but was severely injured. The accident had a profound impact on him, and although he continued to lead the church, his health began to deteriorate.

Legacy

Reverend Samuel Bilewu Joseph Oshoffa transitioned to glory on September 10, 1985, just nine days after the car accident, at the age of 76. His death was a significant event in the history of the Celestial Church of Christ, and it marked the end of an era. His earthly was buried in Imeko, Ogun State, Nigeria, where the church’s international headquarters was later established.

Today, SBJ Oshoffa is remembered as a spiritual leader and visionary who founded one of Africa’s most prominent religious movements. The Celestial Church of Christ continues to thrive, with millions of members worldwide, particularly in West Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Oshoffa’s teachings and legacy continue to influence the church’s doctrine and practices, and he is revered by many as a prophet and a saint.

The story of SBJ Oshoffa is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and divine calling. His life and work have left an indelible mark on the religious landscape of West Africa, and his legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of his followers.

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