FINAL MOMENTS:

The death of a saint brings pleasure to God for "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints". Therefore, I do not fear death. – Apostle G. D. Numbere

From the moment Apostle Geoffrey Numbere gave his life to Christ in 1969, he experienced divine healing. He used to say he was never against modern medicine as evidenced in his marrying a medical doctor, Dr. Nonyem Numbere. He believed that God has also provided a means of healing through the doctors but had chosen to work with him in such a manner. So for 40 years, he never took any medicine not even a tablet of paracetamol. Yes, he would fall ill but would get healed in a matter of days and sometimes instantaneously. In the 41st year, he took ill and began several treatments for the next five years, and coming home with a clean bill of health from his doctors. He always said “no sickness can take my life except God permits”.

However, at the beginning of 2014, he had told his wife, Pst. Dr. Nonyem that God had given him 40 years to do the work and had graciously added another 5 years and so his work was done. This explained why for 40 years he hardly took ill and never taken any medications, not even paracetamol tablet but suddenly took ill at the 41st year. Early in August 2014, he also told his elder brother, Elder Humphrey Numbere that he had finished his work on earth.

As Daddy started reiterating the timeline God had given him, he suddenly took ill again but with no pain or discomfort to the amazement of his team of doctors. However, the Church prayed earnestly; men, women, elders, pastors, friends, teenagers including children. Our job as a family was to convince Daddy to stay on and agree with the Church but he never did. Rather, he began to give instructions on what should happen after he was gone. He also named his successor as Pastor Isaac Olori.

After much pressure, he reluctantly agreed to go for treatment but obstacles arose that made it impossible for this to happen. Little did we know that all these obstacles were put in place by God who had decided to call him home. Daddy, being one who listens to God, stood with God; just as he did when God first called him to leave school and carry out the vision, so stood he with God, when God told him it was time to go home.

Two days before he passed on, he said he felt very good and spoke in his native language Kalabari. When translated, this was what he was saying: “I felt like going. Did their car spoil? They have repaired it. Whatever happens to you people, you people should take it that way…” He was referring to the chariots of heaven that had come for him; obviously, the prayers of the saints had slowed them down. On Sunday, 12th October he said to Pst. Dr. Wari Numbere, his son and Dr. Mrs. Mabel Charles-Davies (his daughter in the Lord); “'a mu la té” meaning “I have arrived”. On Tuesday, 14th October 2014, in his semi-conscious state he screamed “I want to die; you people should allow me go!”

On Wednesday, 15th October 2014, he left this earth without a struggle (he simply stopped breathing) with a beautiful smile on his face. We know he woke up on the other side in glory to a rousing welcome by heaven, where he is with Jesus Christ, the Saviour of his soul, whom he loved until death.

Like all great servants of God, he had actually started preparing us ahead of time, but we did not understand.  The celebration of his 45th Spiritual birthday was held from September 8th – 14th 2014. His book to celebrate his 45-year work titled “I Forgive, For My Sake”, he called “The Book of My Life” – it was his last. All his speeches during this celebration seemed like farewell messages. At the concert held in his honour he said, “Youths of Greater Evangelism, the Vision is now in your hands”. At the book presentation, he passionately pleaded, “I beg you, forgive one another, Jesus is coming”.

One of those days, while putting his house in order, he called his wife, Ps. Dr. Nonyem and his daughter, Tammy and instructed them to publish all his manuscripts that that was the means whereby God would restore His Church. We make a promise Daddy that we will do as you said. A foundation known as “The Apostle Geoffrey D. Numbere Foundation” has been inaugurated to sustain and continually promote his vision by publishing and distributing his manuscripts and other books. A memorial library will be built to showcase his works. Join us to immortalize this servant of God of our generation.

We celebrate a great man, a trail blazer, a lover of God, a man who feared no man except God, a man who was dogged in preaching one thing, “The Old Rugged Cross”. We celebrate a man who loved his wife, his children and grandchildren. We celebrate a man who loved the poor and the rich without discrimination; we celebrate a man who loved God passionately. Daddy, your words will forever echo in our hearts. The world will continue to hear your voice through your messages and your books. The path you have shown us, we shall forever follow.

Indeed Daddy, you have fought a good fight, you have finished your course, you have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for you a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give you at that day: and not to you only, but unto all them also that love His appearing. (2 Timothy 4:7)

Blessed be the Name of the Lord!

Editor's Note

Four (4) of Apostle Numbere's books have been published since his passing: The Butterfly Christian, Look Up, Selected Sermons and Speeches by Ap. Numbere (Vol 2) and Vain Shows vs Practical Holiness.

Visit our bookshop to purchase your copy.

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14) This is the case of Kono community, who decided to seek God’s face for forgiveness and deliverance.

Kono is a town in Khana local Government Area. Apostle G. D. Numbere, our founding father, had visited Kono to perform the internment of the mother of his first convert from Kono, late Eld Matilda Edoo. In the course of discharging his duties, a misunderstanding ensued which led to Apostle Numbere being dragged and pushed out of the compound by the brother of the deceased, Chief Gbeneteegure and his cohorts. The man of God in anger left the land of Kono and since then, the community witnessed several calamities. Not just that, they have persecuted many ministers over the years. 

Identifying “where the axe head fell”, the Kono community decided to seek God’s face for mercy and called on Pastor Isaac Olori (International Director, GEWC) to pray for the land and rededicate the community back to God.

On the 24th September 2016, Pastor Isaac Olori and a team of ministers visited Kono community. His message for that day was, "The Healing of the Land" (2 Kings 2:19-22). Here he likened Kono to the city of Jericho. Both lands were pleasant but there was a "But" in their lives. They did not have the living God and it profits them nothing because their souls would be lost. 

In his message, he reminded the people of Kono about the teaching of our founder, Apostle G. D. Numbere on The Butterfly Christian, that baptizing a caterpillar does not make it a butterfly. The caterpillar has to pass through the cocoon stage, meaning that only people that be in Christ, people that are born again, will be saved. He stressed that God would heal the land of Kono but that would only happen if the people of Kono accept Jesus Christ, as their Lord and personal Savior.

Opportunity was given to the people to accept Christ and over hundred persons came out to give their lives to Christ. After which, a prayer of dedication and healing was said for the land of Kono.

The National youth fellowship of GEWC had a variety day on the 1st of October, 2016 to commemorate Nigeria’s Independence Day.

The program began with praise and worship and then the National anthem and our Ministry’s anthem were sung.The Youth National President, Evang. Okwuchukwu Okpala gave an opening charge. In this charge, he encouraged the youths to believe the Lord for our Nation. After his charge, another round of powerful praise session began.

Thereafter, it was an enlightening talk show session on how youths can maximize their talents, become entrepreneurs and develop their careers. The youths learnt that how they put their talents to work is important. They also came to understand that a career is said to be something done over time which brings joy/pleasure to you. If you are struggling in a particular area, it is alright to quit regardless of the time spent.

The speakers for the talk show were: Bro Mee-ebari Ndee-ue, Evang Eunice Opara and Pst. C.S. Ejimadu. This session was anchored by the National President himself. Evang Mike Ojie, the Youth minister was also present in this program.  The day ended with a quiz session between Bayelsa and Rivers states. Questions ranging from the Bible, the Ministry and Nigeria were asked. Rivers State emerged as the winner of the quiz with just a single point.

It was indeed a great day mixed with fun, education and spiritual packages; and of course there was enough popcorn for everyone.

Long live the National Youth Fellowship, More grace!

The International Director, Pastor Isaac Olori paid an unscheduled visit to GEWC GRA church on the 2nd of October, 2016. GEWC GRA Church is located at No 3 Greater Evangelism Close, Off Ezimbu Crescent, GRA Phase 4, Port Harcourt.

He did an inspection of the work on the structure of the church building that is on-going after which he joined the vibrant GRA Church for service.

Pastor Isaac Olori encouraged the church from the scriptures, Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”.

He said that, one of the graces we receive as Christians is the grace that God empowers us to do what ordinarily we cannot do on our own. Unfortunately today, people are not interested in God strengthening them, they are not committed to receive strength from God. A lot of persons do not read their bibles again, they do not spend time to pray neither are they ready to live in obedience to the word of God.

He challenged them as individuals to learn to draw strength from God by having a personal relationship and communion with Him. If that is done, there would be nothing they cannot do; no mountain would be difficult to climb and no height that cannot be reached because they have been equipped and strengthened by God.

Speaking on, Pastor Isaac Olori encouraged them not to be discouraged by the present economic situation because God can still strengthen them during this economic recession; but then this can only be done if they allow God to strengthen their spirits first.

He told them that, the starting point to being strengthened by God is to first surrender their lives to Jesus Christ; after that the heavens will be open to them and the strength of God can enter their lives.

Finally, the International Director led 2 persons to Christ while he also prayed that, as the Lord strengthens the GRA Church, He would also enable them finish the construction of the Church building and bring more people to enjoy Gods strength and blessings.

Greater Evangelism World Crusade is a “Rescue Boat”, set up by God to lift up the faces of people who are bowed down to look to him and once again, it was a “rescue boat” for Bera Community in Gokana, Rivers State.

Bera, Gokana had been terrorized by a cult group. The threat on lives and properties was indeed terrible such that people fled the community. Cultists would terrorize the community and run into the bush which was their hideout. Pastor Ifeanyi Ozurumgba, the GEWC Bera Church pastor was determined to reach out to these cultists for Christ. He consciously targeted them for Christ and prayed earnestly, for their conversion. Here’s how God answered his prayers:

“Sometime in June 2016, while visiting a member of my Church, I lost my way in the bush and stumbled on the hideout of these cultists. The “Leader” and “elder” of the gang (Fellowship Monday and Dumdusi Isaac), as they were called, caught me and tried to rob me. They charged at me with their guns and knives shouting “What are you doing here? You are in our territory.” I told them I was a Pastor and with Greater Evangelism World Crusade. That was the beginning of my contact with them. Since I now knew their hideout, I would visit them, give them materials, preach and pray with them.”

To the glory of God, these two young men became converted, renounced cultism and no longer take cocaine/Indian hem. They are currently living in the Church premises with the Pastor and are doing well in Christ. Both of them were at the September 2016 Healing Service to testify of their conversion.

Their testimonies are below:

Brother Fellowship Monday

I, Bro. Fellowship Monday, joined cultism as a result of polygamous crisis in my family. Upon the death of my mother in 1997, there was a major disagreement between my mother’s family and her co-wife’s. In order to defeat them, I joined a cult group in 2004. I became the head of the cult group afterwards and recruited a lot of people in my community - Bera in Gokana. My gang and I terrorized members of that community, we burnt down people’s houses, stole their properties and caused so much unrest. The trouble we caused in the community made us relocate to the forest as we were sought after by officers of the law. Nevertheless we continued terrorizing people.

On one of such occasions, we accosted a man who identified himself to be a Pastor of Greater Evangelism World Crusade. I immediately told my gang to let him go upon hearing his identity. Soon afterwards, he spoke God’s word to us and we became acquainted. He was generous to give us food items and finance whenever we asked him but not without him first preaching the Word of God to us. Unknown to him, we used the money he gave us on drugs. Later on, when the Word began to make way into my heart, I spent most of my time in the church with the Pastor.

One of the days I slept in the church premises, I had no idea members of the community had come to kill me. It was the next day, when I went home to have a change of clothes that I realized my house and properties had been burnt down while the Federal Anti-robbery squad had taken my siblings to Bori. 

This time around I decided to drop all of my weapons. I was invited to the healing service in the month of June, where I was prayed for and I surrendered my life to Christ.

Bro Dumdusi Isaac’s Testimony:

I was initiated into the cult “Dey Gbam” while I was in Rivers State University of Science and Technology. We terrorized the whole of Diobu area in Port Harcourt. All those who carried out this act with me died. When I realized Port Harcourt was no longer safe for me, I ran to my home community, Bera in Gokana to take shelter but continued my terror there.

I belonged to another gang of which I became an elder. We took people’s properties, burnt down their houses, intimidated people and so many other wicked practices. Being chased out by the community when our evil practices increased, we made the forest our new home, but continued our evil acts.

One day, as a result of hunger, I decided to strip anyone I came across of their possession so I could afford to buy some food. Luckily, I met a man who asked me to show him the way out, as he had lost his way. He had a bag which caught my interest as it was very heavy - I thought it was full of money. I threatened him and took the bag from him. I called out to my gang with the excitement that we had made so much money that day. As they approached, I quickly opened the bag to hide some of the money, but to my amazement and disappointment, the bag only contained bibles.

I decided to read the bible with my gang – we read the scripture Isaiah 59:1, 2:  “Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.”

This scripture was the beginning of a change in our lives. Having read that scripture, we decided that peace will reign in our land and as a result invited some Pastors who had been pleading with us to accept Christ, to come preach to us in the forest. The first pastor who came to us was Pastor Ifeanyi Ozurumgba who is a pastor of this Ministry. I then surrendered my life to God and was prayed for during the June healing service which I attended. Praise the Lord I am saved.”

Conclusion

Today, peace has returned to Bera Community. When the leaders of the cult surrendered to Christ, the other members also gave up cultism and many are born again and worshiping in other Christian Churches.

The International Director, Pastor Isaac Olori, was in Freetown, Sierra Leone for an administrative visit following the promise he made on his earlier visit in March. His visit was from Wednesday 31st August to Tuesday 5th September 2016.

The essence of the director's visit was for the appointment and inauguration of Evang. Idris Samura Wright Joshua as the National Minister of Sierra Leone, and three members of the Board of Trustees. The office of the National Minister of Sierra Leone has been vacant since 2014 and had been occupied by the deputy National Minister. Evangelist Idris Samura is a Sierra Leone National and also the National Minister of Liberia.

During the course of this visit, Evang. Victor Ejimadu, head of the Missions team, taught about Partnership in missions, and Evang. Idris Samura Wright Joshua taught on the power of cooperation.

On Sunday, 4th September, all the churches in Sierra Leone held a combined service where the International Director preached and also presented the newly appointed National Minister to the church of Sierra Leone. Both the newly appointed National Minister and the newly appointed members of the Board of Trustees recited their pledge and were prayed for by the International Director. 

A new chapter began in Lagos State as Greater Evangelism World Crusade opened another branch in Lagos. This time, in the heart of the metropolitan city of Lagos, located at No. 10b Ajayi Aina Street, Gbagada. The International Director, Pastor Isaac Olori was there personally to inaugurate the GEWC Gbagada Church.

Admonishing Pastor Isaac Olori said, every good thing starts small and he believes in identifying with small beginnings so that one can be qualified to identify when it gets big. For the new GEWC Gbagada Church, the important thing is that God is here, and not the size of the Church. He iterated that it had always been our desire as a Ministry to get into Lagos city and to God’s glory, it was now a reality. Significantly, this was happening as the Ministry celebrates 44 years of serving God. He highlighted his 44th Anniversary Message: The Vision Lives On (read here), saying God was reminding us that even though we are 44 years, there is still more land to be possessed.

Speaking on, he said the multitudes that our founding father, Apostle G. D. Numbere saw is still possible to be accomplished, and as a true vision, it will outlive its visioner. He therefore, advised everyone to own the vision, which is a heavenly heritage.

Declaring the Church open, he spoke on Christ being the builder of the Church (Matthew 16:13 – 15). Some excerpts below:

“The way you see Jesus, will determine how you will relate with Him and the grace that will be released on your life. That is why answering the question “Who is Jesus?” is important and it requires a personal answer. That is why it is important to for everyone to desire a personal revelation of Jesus that can keep you.

Every Church is meant to be built on truth which is the Word of God and any Church not built on the truth will not take you to heaven. That’s why we say in GEWC, we do not teach people how to make money but how to make heaven. Unfortunately, today, all we hear from the pulpit are motivation, business seminars and not how they will reconcile their soul to God. By the grace of God, we will show you the path to heaven.

The Church is a Church with authority, a Church that will declare the mandate of heaven. I pray you join that Church today and when you make yourself available, God will build you. The Church is a workshop where men are prepared by God. God’s workshop has been opened in this vicinity and if you want God to transform your life, then come. God is here and He is the builder."

Brethren from other GEWC Lagos State branches were present including Pastor Festus Ediae (Vice Chairman, GEWC Board of Trustees) and Pastor & Pastor Mrs. Manga (State Minister, Lagos State).

It was a glorious moment, as this landmark event came to an end with prayers of thanksgiving to God.

Describing service this month might be a bit difficult because it was unique in its own way  such that even those who were in service lacked words to properly explain how they felt. It was like a well prepared three course meal with desserts and appetizers duly served; In fact we can describe it thus “...HE prepared a table before us…” It was indeed a blessed table. The anniversary celebration in combo with the monthly healing service was awesome. We had a perfect blend of traditional old school songs expertly delivered by the Jubilee Voices. These songs appealed not only to the older generation but was appreciated by the younger generation. Their ministration in songs took the older generation down memory lane as they reminisced on God’s faithfulness at the inception of the Ministry while it also stirred the hearts of the younger generation for the task ahead.

In commemoration with the 44th Anniversary celebration, testimonies of God’s faithfulness upon the Ministry were heard, specifically how the Ministry had impacted the lives of her brethren. Amongst others, we heard the testimony of Bro. Otense Okon who was bound by the spirit of drunkenness and fornication. He was also known for heavy smoking and fighting with dangerous weapons. But God led him to a branch of the Ministry where he heard the word and was convicted of his sins. Another striking one was the testimony of Bro. Monday who was the head of a major cult group in the State but was miraculously delivered through the preaching of a Pastor in the Ministry. He narrated how he terrorized the community where he dwelt and even conscripted members of that community into the cult group (See website for a detailed account). 

God’s word was brought to us by the International Director, Pst. Isaac Olori. “Give me this mountain” (Joshua 14: 6 - 13). While describing a mountain, he made it clear that some mountains can be a barrier to us nevertheless anything put on a mountain is solid and can withstand difficult situations. Also, a man who is on a mountain is set high above others and would see farther than one who is on a plain ground or valley. He was keen to point out that, whereas the valley and plain ground are always on the receiving end, the mountain usually gives out – it is what flows out from the mountain that reaches the valley and plain ground.

From his analysis, Caleb understood that God’s inheritance for him was the mountain and he went for it not minding the challenge, hence we must realize that, in difficult times as this, it is impossible to serve God with ease but we must stir up our spirit to take up challenges. It is important to note also that even though it took 45 years for God’s promise to be fulfilled in Caleb’s life, he did not lose hope. This shows that time cannot invalidate God’s word.

In receiving this promise, Caleb exhibited these seven attributes;

1. He knew what God said about him (Verse 6). Even though the mountain was owned by giants he chose to believe God’s word.
2. He wholly followed the Lord (Verse 7, 8): As he totally followed the Lord, he possessed another Spirit.
3. He relied on God’s faithfulness (Verse 10)
4. He was strong for war: Despite his age Caleb was strong because he enjoyed health as God promised in Exodus 15:26, Deuteronomy 7:15, Proverbs 4:20,22. Caleb was spiritually strong because he had a healthy relationship with God.
5. He was a man of faith and courage.
6. He depended on the power of God’s presence: We must depend on God in this challenging times (Zechariah 4:6).
7. He obtained a blessing (Verse 13). Blessing means supernatural aid/ability as well as a divine empowerment. Caleb did not consider the fact that he might have been in the same age grade or older than Joshua, who was the leader of the Israelites at the time, rather he submitted himself to his leadership and received a blessing of him.

In conclusion, it is expedient we know that our Christian life should make us work and not remain at ease. We should, as well, seek out our responsibility in fulfilling the vision of GEWC. 

Once again, we give thanks to God Almighty who has kept us for 44 years.

Next Healing service holds October 23rd, 2016. Join us live via our livestream channel or audio link .

It was indeed exciting to see the Town Church 2 branch of GEWC, lay its foundation to a massive edifice on the 24th of August, 2016.

The International Director, Pastor Isaac V. Olori who laid the foundation expressed great joy. He said he has been part of this great dream which has been on for about 14 years now, as he was once a Resident Pastor of Town Church 2. He thanked God that the work has finally begun after a long wait and trusts Him that it will be completed.

Pastor Isaac Olori, admonished that they shouldn’t be afraid of finances by encouraging them that no matter the economy of the nation, the Church would be built. He further shared with them from the scriptures Matthew 16:18 stressing that God is interested in the spiritual and physical building of the church and that’s why He promised to build His church and the gates of hell will not stop it. Also reading from 1 Corinthians 3:9, he added that we are all labourers and encouraged everyone to be part of the work.

Finally, he declared that the building will open doors to those who will sincerely get committed to the work; and as they strengthen their hands to do this good work.

The International Director, Pastor Isaac Olori, paid an official visit to GEWC Edo and Delta States, visiting the Churches and strengthening the brethren.

Together with his team, comprising of Evangelist Cletus Okpu (Supervising Minister, Delta and Edo States), Evangelist Victor Ejimadu (Chief Missions Coordinator) and others, the team began their visit from Edo State.

Arriving Benin, Edo State on Wednesday, 3rd August 2016, the team had a rousing reception and spent quality time with the brethren, before leaving on Thursday, 4th August 2016.

Moving on to Delta State, the brethren very joyously welcomed the International Director and his team on Thursday, 4th August 2016. The work in Delta State began in Warri in 1983 and has since spread to four other centers. Led by the Delta State Minister, Pastor Sunday Epelle, they visited the Churches in the State beginning from Asaba Church (State Headquarters), then on to Ugheli Worship Centre, Ekpan, Warri and Ughotton Churches.

Pastor Isaac Olori while in Delta State, paid a courtesy call to ArchBishop Goddowell O. Avwomakpa who is the South South Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). He took over the office of Chairman from our Founding Father, Apostle G. D. Numbere and was a great friend of the latter and of the Ministry of Greater Evangelism World Crusade.

The team also visited the family of Late Pastor Meshach Ogunuku, our Minister in charge of Warri branch who died in a ghastly industrial accident. Pastor Isaac Olori comforted the family and prayed with them, trusting God to strengthen and give the family the grace to go on.

Ministering at on Sunday, Pastor Isaac Olori encouraged them from 1 Peter 1:1 - 15 speaking on the topic “The Riches of His Grace”. He said, Grace is divine empowerment God releases on humans, giving an ability to do what you could not do before. It means God sending help to a situation. One of the areas God sent grace was help was that man was bound in sin and God sent His Son, Jesus to set us free. Other graces he highlighted include God’s grace on electing us, God’s grace that keeps us amongst others.

The Church is matching on and we believe God that by the next visit the work in Delta and Edo will experience tremendous increase.