By Chinelo Okeke
The Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger and Lord Bishop of the Diocese of Awka, Rt. Rev. Alexander Ibezim, has emphasized that discipline should not be seen as a restriction but as a process of refinement aimed at fulfilling God’s purpose in the lives of believers.
Bishop Ibezim made the remark on Sunday during the Pentecost and Uniformed Organisations Sunday celebration held in Awka.
Delivering a sermon titled “Ready to Serve,” the cleric urged Christians, especially those engaged in church service, to remain steadfast in times of hardship, describing them as soldiers of Christ who must endure challenges with faith and commitment. He noted that the Church’s responsibility goes beyond coordinating activities, stressing that it is primarily entrusted with the formation of lives.
According to him, effective Christian formation requires intentional guidance, discipline, and mentorship, especially for young people growing up in an increasingly challenging society. He called on parents, church leaders, patrons, and patronesses of church organisations to be deliberate in nurturing children in the ways of God through consistent monitoring, teaching, and discipline.
Bishop Ibezim reminded leaders that their service is sacrificial and that while human beings may not fully appreciate their efforts, God rewards faithful service.
”A generation properly trained under your watch today will be better positioned to lead tomorrow,” he said.
The Archbishop stressed the need for continuity and excellence in youth training, noting that a church that invests in its young people secures its future, just as families and society benefit from well-trained children.
He described discipline as a pathway to service, explaining that mature Christians must exercise self-control, think before acting, and remain grounded in unwavering faith. “Discipline is not restriction but refinement for a purpose,” he stated, adding that true discipline helps individuals overcome negative attitudes and become better representatives of God’s will.
Bishop Ibezim also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the church and families in raising godly children. He clarified that church programmes are meant to complement, not replace, parental responsibilities.
He urged parents to take full responsibility for the spiritual and moral upbringing of their children, stressing that child training is a duty shared by both father and mother.
Chinelo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
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