By Ven. David Nwanekpe
After the management of ACNN approached me for sponsorship to create a program for their TV station, I willingly obliged, recognizing the importance of supporting such a platform. However, not long after, I received a message from someone suggesting that my involvement was a strategy to become a Bishop. They claimed that teaching on social media to inspire the younger generation would give the impression that I am campaigning for the position.
I was disheartened by these accusations. Why must every initiative or effort in ministry be reduced to ambition? Is becoming a Bishop the only measure of success or fulfillment in life? There are countless ways to make an impact, leaving a legacy of goodness and nobility. While I deeply respect the sacred calling of a Bishop, it is not the ultimate achievement for everyone in ministry. Being a Bishop is indeed a divine calling, not a title conferred by human judgment. Only God decides who is called to that role.
The fixation on attributing every action to an ambition for the episcopacy is troubling. Should we not focus on the work of the ministry itself? The Gospel was brought to our Church by men and women who labored tirelessly, some of whom never received earthly recognition like being named a Canon or Bishop. Yet, their reward is eternal. Are we now suggesting that such faithful servants missed out on God’s greater purpose because they did not hold a title? Surely not.
If we reduce ministry to the pursuit of positions, we risk losing sight of the Gospel’s essence. Let us reflect on this and ask ourselves: is our focus on earthly recognition or on fulfilling God’s mission? May God grant us wisdom to prioritize what truly matters.
Being a minister of the gospel is a noble calling, requiring passion, dedication, and focus. Yet, in the Church of Nigeria, many young and hardworking clergy face unnecessary criticism and discouragement from their fellow ministers, including bishops. Instead of being supported, their efforts are often dismissed with comments like, “You’re only doing all this because you want to become a bishop.”
Is Being a Bishop the Only Goal?
While it’s good to aspire to be a bishop—the Bible even says it’s a good desire (1 Timothy 3:1)—it is wrong to think that becoming a bishop is the only way to succeed in ministry. Success is not just about titles but about making a difference. A person’s achievements can be measured by their spiritual growth, academic knowledge, moral character, and how much they have impacted lives and built the Church.
If someone believes that becoming a bishop is the only thing that matters, it shows they still have a lot to learn about life. There is so much more to accomplish in ministry and in life than just holding a title.
How Discouragement Affects Young Clergy
When young clergy are criticized or accused of selfish ambition, it can harm their confidence and passion for ministry. Many of these young ministers are sincerely working to spread the gospel and grow the Church. Instead of receiving encouragement, they are often met with harsh words, especially from senior clergy who may not even be doing much to improve their own churches.
This kind of attitude discourages innovation and growth within the Church. It makes some young ministers lose hope or feel that their hard work is pointless.
Ministry Is More Than Titles
The truth is, being a bishop is not the only way to live a fulfilling life or ministry. There are other ways to make a lasting impact. For example, a clergy member can excel academically, serve their community, mentor others, or leave a strong spiritual legacy. Success is not about having a title but about the lives you’ve touched and the difference you’ve made.
If all someone focuses on is becoming a bishop, they miss the bigger picture. Titles come and go, but the real question is, What have you done to glorify God and help others?
Ambition Is Not a Sin
It’s important to note that wanting to be a bishop is not wrong. The Bible says it is a good desire. The problem only comes when ambition turns into selfishness or pride. A genuine calling to the role of a bishop should come with humility and a heart for service, not just a hunger for recognition.
Encouraging the Next Generation
Senior clergy and bishops have a responsibility to guide and support young ministers. Instead of tearing them down with unnecessary criticism, they should mentor them, offer constructive advice, and create opportunities for them to grow.
The Apostle Paul, for example, encouraged Timothy, a young pastor, to stay strong and not let anyone look down on him because of his age (1 Timothy 4:12). This is the kind of leadership the Church needs today.
A Better Way Forward
The Nigerian Church must stop discouraging young clergy and start building them up. Ministry is not about titles but about service. Whether someone becomes a bishop or not, what matters is how they have used their gifts to glorify God and make a positive impact. Let us focus on celebrating hard work, encouraging growth, and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
In the end, the real question is not about the position you hold but about the legacy you leave behind. Have you helped others? Have you glorified God? Those are the true marks of success in ministry.
Blessings to all on this beautiful Sunday!
Ven. David Nwanekpe
