2026 Annual Life Commitment

About this book

Annual Life Commitment is a comprehensive discipleship manual published by the Nigerian Baptist Convention. While contemporary organizational and religious training frequently overemphasizes leadership, this publication restores a critical balance by focusing extensively on the indispensable role of effective, godly followership. It establishes that leadership and followership are highly interdependent, demonstrating that even the most visionary leader relies on the active support, cooperation, and sincerity of their followers to achieve collective success.

Prepared by the Discipleship Training Ministry of the Christian Education Department, the manual is divided into distinct sections to cater to the spiritual development of both adults and children.

Adult Discipleship Curriculum

Authored by Rev. Dr. Kayode Oyedemi, the adult portion of the book is structured into five detailed sessions that explore the dynamics of following with integrity:

• The Concept of Leader-Follower Relationship: Outlines the collaborative nature of this dynamic, defining good followers as individuals who are goal-oriented, open to influence, actively supportive, and capable of constructive engagement.

• Biblical Basis for Sincere Follower-Leader Relationship: Examines scriptural models of successful mentorship and succession, drawing practical leadership and followership lessons from Joshua and Moses, Timothy and Paul, and Jesus and His disciples.

• Necessity for Sincerity in Follower-Leader Relationship: Highlights how vital honesty and transparency are for building trust, utilizing the cautionary account of Gehazi and Elisha to illustrate how deceit and greed can destroy credibility.

• Demonstrating Godly Sincerity by Followers in the Society: Challenges disciples to act as "salt and light" beyond the church walls, applying Christian principles, fairness, and compassion to their daily lives, business transactions, and civic duties.

• Sincere Followership as a Catalyst for Healthy Church Growth: Redefines church growth beyond mere numbers, showing how dedicated followers drive geographical, financial, infrastructural, fellowship, and spiritual expansion.

Children's Curriculum: "The Child Disciple"

Developed by Rev. Dr. Kemi Babarinde, the children's section is tailored to instill foundational values of loyalty and obedience in younger minds. It features five interactive lessons:

• Leader-Follower Relationship: Teaches children the importance of humility, obedience, and service when following their leaders.

• Bible Examples of a Leader-Follower Relationship: Uses engaging stories and games to help children identify and emulate biblical examples like Paul and Timothy.

• Attributes of a Sincere Follower: Focuses on developing core character traits, including the fear of the Lord, boldness, and honesty.

• Dare to be a Sincere Follower: Encourages children to let their light shine consistently across all environments, including their homes, schools, and neighborhoods.

• Benefits of Being a Sincere Follower: Outlines both the earthly rewards and heavenly benefits that await those who faithfully follow Christ and respect earthly authorities.

This manual serves as an essential resource for congregations, small groups, and individuals seeking to cultivate a culture of mutual respect, trust, and shared commitment in their pursuit of organizational health and spiritual maturity. 

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