Lagos – Young members of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Dunamis Assembly, Badagry, gathered on Sunday for a youth service themed “Do Not Forsake Your First Love,” emphasizing the importance of sustaining a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
The sermon, delivered by Miss Esther Olise, focused on Revelation 2:4-5 and 1 John 2:19, stressing that Jesus remains the believer’s first love.
According to Miss Olise, “Even when we were sinners, He loved us, and because of that love God sent His Son to die for us on the cross of Calvary.”
She warned that many believers have drifted from their first love and encouraged them to return. “If we have forgotten our first love, we should go back to Him,” she said, pointing to lessons illustrated in the day’s youth drama.
Miss Olise outlined practical steps for reconnecting with God, noting that pride, ambitions, guilt, and deception often lead believers astray. “Acknowledge that you have departed from God: your relationship with Him has changed. Ask for mercy with a genuine and repentant heart. Pray often and share all your troubles with Him. Read the Bible regularly; the devil deceives most when we do not know His Word. Fellowship with fellow believers and testify to God’s goodness in your life.” She referenced Hebrews 13:15, Jeremiah 29:12, Joshua 1:8, and Hebrews 10:24-25 to reinforce his message.
Earlier, a drama presented by the youth mirrored the sermon’s theme. It told the story of a devoted Christian who abandoned spiritual activities for worldly pursuits, including social media and material gains. Her friends, also committed Christians, urged her to return to God. Through reflection and guidance from the Holy Spirit, she recognized her backsliding and rededicated her life, symbolizing a return to her first love.
The service also included spirited praise and worship, as well as youth thanksgiving, marking another vibrant gathering in the church’s calendar.
