04/04/2026
EASTER ADDRESS BY REV. DR. JOB AYUBA BAGAT MALLAM, THE PRESIDENT OF THE EVANGELICAL CHURCH WINNING ALL (ECWA)
TO BE READ IN ALL ECWA CHURCHES ON SUNDAY, 5TH APRIL 2026
Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ,
Grace, mercy, and peace be unto you from God our Father and from our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
On behalf of the leadership of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), I bring you warm Easter greetings as we join millions of Christians around the world to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, a historic event that remains the very foundation of our faith.
Easter is not merely a seasonal observance; it is the triumphant declaration of Godās victory over sin, death, and the grave. The resurrection of Jesus Christ assures us that our faith is not in vain, our hope is alive, and our future is secure. As Scripture reminds us, āHe is not here; He has risen!ā (Luke 24:6). This truth continues to inspire courage, renew faith, and strengthen believers across generations.
We give heartfelt thanks to God Almighty for granting us the privilege to witness and celebrate Easter this year, 2026. This celebration comes despite the many challenges facing our nation, Nigeria, and the global community at large. We are deeply aware of the persistent violent attacks, insecurity, and alarming threats to peace and human dignity. Many of our brethren and fellow citizens have endured loss, pain, and uncertainty. Yet, in the midst of these trials, we hold firmly to the assurance that the risen Christ reigns supreme and remains our refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1).
Beloved, the message of Easter does not end at the empty tomb, it points us forward to a glorious hope: the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. As the Scripture declares, āFor the Lord Himself will descend from heavenā¦ and the dead in Christ will rise firstā (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). This blessed hope calls us to live in readiness, faithfulness, and holy expectation.
It is in this light that the ECWA Theme for 2026, āKeep Your Lamps Burningā (Luke 12:35), becomes both timely and profound. Our Lord admonishes us: āLet your waist be girded and your lamps burning.ā This is a call to spiritual alertness, steadfast faith, and unwavering commitment to God. In a world overshadowed by uncertainty and fear, we must not allow our spiritual fire to go out. Rather, we are to remain watchful, prayerful, and fully devoted to the service of our King, awaiting His glorious return.
The resurrection message speaks powerfully into our present realities. It reminds us that darkness does not have the final word; light does. Evil does not triumph; righteousness does. Death is defeated, life prevails. Therefore, as believers, we must not give in to fear, despair, or discouragement. Rather, we are called to live as people of hope, reflecting the light of Christ in a troubled world.
We are also reassured that God is mindful of our needs, even in difficult times. The risen Lord who conquered death is the same God who provides for His children. As it is written, āAnd my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesusā (Philippians 4:19). Therefore, let not your hearts be troubled. Trust in the Lord, for He is our provider, sustainer, and ever-present help.
Furthermore, we hold on to Godās promise for the healing of our land. The Scriptures declare, āIf My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and prayā¦ then I will hear from heavenā¦ and heal their landā (2 Chronicles 7:14). As Godās people, we must rise in unity, repentance, and fervent prayer for Nigeria and the nations of the world. Our hope for restoration is not in human strength alone, but in the sovereign power of God.
I therefore urge all ECWA members and the entire body of Christ to remain steadfast in your commitment to Christian fellowship. Do not neglect the gathering of believers, for it is in fellowship that we are strengthened, encouraged, and built up in faith (Hebrews 10:25). Continue to serve God faithfully, with renewed zeal and dedication. Let your lives reflect the transforming power of the resurrection, and let your lamps continually burn brightly.
In times like these, the Church must rise to its divine calling to be a beacon of hope, a voice of truth, and an instrument of peace. Let us intensify our prayers for our nation, our leaders, and our communities. Let us also show love, compassion, and practical support to those in need, especially victims of violence and insecurity.
As we celebrate Easter, may the power of the risen Christ fill your hearts with peace, strengthen your faith, and empower you to live victoriously. May He keep your lamps burning, your hope alive, and your hearts steadfast as you await His glorious return.
Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!
May the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you
and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." '
Rev. Dr. Job Ayuba Bagat
President, Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA)
