Anglican Diocese of Jebba decries rise of liberalism, urges return to biblical truth

The Anglican Diocese of Jebba has raised strong concerns over the growing influence of liberal ideologies within the Church, warning that such trends threaten the integrity of the Christian faith and undermine the truth of the gospel.

This warning was issued at the third session of the sixth synod of the Diocese, held from Friday, July 25 to Sunday, July 27, 2025, at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Jebba. The synod was presided over by the Diocesan Bishop and President of the Synod, the Rt. Revd. Dr. Oluwaseun Adeyinka Aderogba.

With the theme, “Liberalism and Liberty: Little Things That Matter,” drawn from 1 Corinthians 8:8, the Synod described liberal theology and moral laxity as “subtle vipers” infiltrating the Church. It likened the present-day spiritual environment to the biblical era in Israel when “every man did what was right in his own eyes.”

In his synod charge, Bishop Aderogba urged Christians to resist modern reinterpretations of biblical liberty that excuse sinful behavior. “The liberty we have in Christ is not a license for indulgence,” he said, calling for a renewed commitment to apostolic doctrine, holiness, and unwavering faith.

The Synod also addressed national and regional issues, commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his economic reform efforts while expressing deep concern over worsening hardship among Nigerians. It urged the federal government to prioritize tackling poverty and insecurity over political maneuvering.

In the same vein, the Synod applauded Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for ongoing developmental strides but called for more focus on neglected rural areas. Specific appeals included improved electricity in the Elebu–Lanwa corridor and urgent repairs on the Shaare–Patigi Road.

The Synod further urged the state government to act decisively on rising insecurity across both the northern and southern parts of the state.

The four-day synod opened with a Eucharistic service marking the Feast of St. James and was attended by prominent church figures, including the Jebba CAN Chairman, Revd E.O. Olawepo, who witnessed the Bishop’s charge and the official opening ceremony.

A thanksgiving and Holy Communion service on Sunday, July 27, brought the Synod to a close, as the Diocese renewed its call for a spiritually discerning, doctrinally sound, and socially responsive Church—steadfast in truth amidst growing cultural compromise.