The Founding of Latter Rain Assembly: A Movement with a Mission
In 1989, at the age of 35, Pastor Bakare founded Latter Rain Assembly (LRA), a ministry that quickly became a hub of spiritual vibrancy and influence in Lagos and beyond. From the outset, Bakare made his mission clear. His first message at LRA was unequivocal: “I will reach my goal, and I will fulfil my destiny.” This declaration set the tone for a ministry marked by purpose, conviction, and an uncompromising stance on truth.
LRA was more than just a church; it was a movement. The Jesus Victory Crusades held across southwestern Nigeria in the 1990s were renowned for their powerful spiritual encounters. Bakare boldly confronted witches, wizards, and idol worshippers who sought to disrupt his meetings, but their attempts were continually thwarted by the manifest power of God. These crusades were characterized by notable miracles, with many adversaries of the gospel eventually coming to accept Christ.
Beyond his crusades, Dr. Bakare’s television programme, Moment of Truth, became one of Nigeria’s most popular Christian broadcasts. The programme attracted an audience from all walks of life, including government officials, traditional rulers, and military personnel. Through Moment of Truth, Bakare engaged the socio-political system of Nigeria with fearless candour, often becoming a target of both military and civilian regimes. Despite multiple arrests and persecution, he remained steadfast, undeterred in his mission to speak truth to power. As someone once said, “everyone watches Moment of Truth for different reasons.”
A Spiritual General with Global Influence
From the 1990s to date, Pastor Bakare’s ministry has positioned him among the foremost apostolic voices in Nigeria and beyond. There is hardly any of his contemporaries not influenced by him in some way. Dr. Bakare cuts across and touches many parts of the body of Christ.
On the international scene, his influence extended to many prominent leaders in the global Christian community. One of his most significant relationships was with the late Dr. Lester Sumrall, who visited LRA on his first and only trip to Nigeria. On the night Sumrall passed away, Dr. Bakare and his wife were at his home in South Bend, Indiana, a testament to the closeness of their bond.
A Father of Many Nations: Mentor and Counsellor
It is said that there is hardly anyone among the generations of ministers in their late 40s, 50s, and 60s who has not been influenced, counselled, or ministered to by Pastor Bakare. In one way or another, Dr. Bakare has impacted this generation, and everyone testifies to his boldness and daring nature.
His influence extends far beyond the pulpit. Off the pulpit, he is a father to many—helping resolve conflicts among ministers, families, communities, and even within some states of the federation. As an elder statesman, his wisdom and impeccable integrity make him a sought-after mediator, with his word being as good as his bond. Indeed, Pastor Bakare stands as a father to many, a spiritual and moral guide whose influence on Nigeria’s Christian and socio-political landscape cannot be overstated.
Doctrinal Soundness in an Age of Theological Confusion
In an era of doctrinal gymnastics, where many ministries have veered into extremes, Pastor Bakare stands tall as a bastion of doctrinal soundness. His teachings, deeply rooted in Scripture, are a stabilizing force for his followers. Despite his critics, one area where Pastor Bakare cannot be faulted is his theological clarity. His commitment to the truth of the gospel ensures that his ministry remains anchored in biblical principles, even as many others have succumbed to doctrinal confusion.
Continue on Facebook…