TLDR;
This episode of "Touch The Sky" features Apostle E. Gbagba discussing spiritual authority, its connection to prayer, and how it manifests in practical ways. She emphasises that Christianity is a business that requires trading and transacting in the spirit realm, and that true authority comes from representing and executing on behalf of God. She also shares practical steps for growing in spiritual authority, including consistent prayer, understanding the times and seasons, and engaging with altars.
- Spiritual authority is the right to represent and execute on behalf of God.
- Christianity is a business that requires trading and transacting in the spirit realm.
- True business begins with the ability to trade in the realm of the spirit, negotiating with altars rather than just men.
- Growing in spiritual authority requires consistent prayer, understanding the times and seasons, and engaging with consecration and sacrifice.
Introduction to Apostle E. Gbagba [2:51]
Apostle E. Gbagba introduces herself as a minister of the gospel who runs the People of Influence Network, which encompasses various expressions like the Mantle of Deborah and Children of Influence. She also runs AC Benedicta Institute and speaks in nations and platforms. She ascribes the power of her effectiveness, particularly in international ministry, to prayer, stating that everything we are given by God is nested in the place of prayer. Prayer peels off the layers to expose the depth and truth within gifts and callings.
The Power of Prayer [5:30]
Apostle E. Gbagba explains that true prayer begins when you withdraw into your spirit, recognising it as a spirit-to-spirit engagement. It's not just about praying from the head or lips, but engaging from within your spirit. She emphasises the importance of truth in prayer, using the word of God as a guide to navigate the spiritual realm, which contains both divinity and principalities. Entering God's presence requires entering through a gate with thanksgiving, allowing God to break down His personality, process, and protocol. Prayer becomes an intimate journey of discovering the essence of God within you.
Spiritual Authority and Revelation [8:10]
Prayer brings you into the presence of God and exposes you to His power, but it's crucial to understand that prayer is for revelation. Authority distills into revelation, understanding, strategy, and the capacity to manifest. Spiritual authority is not just a feeling; it manifests in tangible solutions. It is the right to represent and execute on behalf of the author of all things, requiring knowledge of the full counsel of God. It's not just about outward displays like shaking or screaming in prayer, but about the wisdom that enables you to decide on behalf of God.
Christianity as a Business [10:47]
Apostle E. Gbagba shares that Christianity is a business, a holy endeavour where believers are expected to trade, transact, and show results. Jesus is the ultimate businessman who keeps an eye on the profit ledger. The reason business is often demonised is because Christians have not taken dominion over it, allowing darkness to occupy the space. True business begins in the spirit realm, where you negotiate with altars rather than just men. To succeed, one needs a spirit that is on fire and alert to engage with altars.
Spiritual Trade Protocols [13:33]
Effective spiritual trade requires knowing the times and seasons, ensuring you are trading in the right season with the backing of the heavens and angelic hosts. Negotiation is key; believers should act as powerful negotiators on behalf of their generation to acquire wealth that can shift it. Consecration is also vital, as the spirit realm revolves around priesthood and sacrifices. Your power is only as strong as the throne that backs it, which is as strong as the altar that facilitates it. Spiritual intelligence is essential to see the interconnectedness of consecration, sacrifice, and priesthood, enabling the download of blueprints and translation into plans and strategies.
From Talent to Territorial Authority [15:55]
Authority grows from managing talents to gaining territorial authority. God rewards stewardship with cities. Trading with your talent involves exchanging beauty for ashes and praise for heaviness. The circumstances that open up a season of trade often involve pain and grief, which can distract from the opportunity. The devil heightens fleshly and emotional desires to deem the eyes of the spirit. To tame this, consistently remind yourself that you are a spirit being operating in a different realm.
Practical Steps for Growing in Spiritual Authority [23:58]
Apostle E. Gbagba provides practical steps for growing in spiritual authority:
- Do not judge situations by present emotions.
- Never make permanent decisions from temporary situations.
- Be a person that shows up consistently for God, your generation, and yourself.
- Circumcise your soul by controlling your appetite and desires.
- Keep growing spiritually through continuous learning and mentorship.
- Make yourself accountable to a circle of trust for spiritual, financial, social, and psychological guidance.
- Remember that spiritual authority must be seen and felt in the physical realm, pressing God to build your spirit and deliver understanding.
Authority and Purpose [30:54]
Authority is given for a purpose and must have a partner and a place of manifestation. God never gives authority without purpose. The weight of the name of Jesus rides with the weight of the person calling the name, reflecting their sacrifices and dedication. Understanding and reverencing Jesus' authority is crucial to using it effectively. Locations are not just physical spaces but are made up of the gods enthroned there and the priesthood empowering those gods. Breaking into a location means overthrowing long-existing agreements and covenants.
Territories and Altars [33:56]
Locations bear record of altars, agreements, and covenants. To have authority over locations, engage with the God who has lived forever and knows all things. Overturn old agreements and institute a new order by consecration. As you increase in spiritual authority, grow in consecration to avoid violating God's way. Satan may prosper you when you violate God's way to prevent your heart from turning back.
Business and the Kingdom of God [39:12]
The manner in which you trade determines what occupies your spirit man. Trading from selfish ambition shifts your heart away from godly dependence. God has no problem with greatness; the issue with the Tower of Babel was the intention of their hearts. The church must embrace money, greatness, influence, and power to empower the authority of God. Satan is a thief who stole these things from God.
Patterns of Increase [42:35]
God can show you the pattern of His increase through dreams, visions, and revelation. Every institution on earth mirrors a greater institution in the heavens. Get your greatest education and inspiration from Zion. Prosper not by the sweat of your brows but by the intelligence of the spirit and the empowerment of grace to do good works.
Apostle E. Gbagba's Ministries and the Mantle of Deborah [44:50]
Apostle E. Gbagba reflects on her various ministries, highlighting the Mantle of Deborah as the most fascinating due to its speed and divine engine. It has expanded rapidly, reaching numerous nations and impacting thousands of people. The Mantle of Deborah has various expressions, including conferences, a school of influence, and impact projects across Africa.
The Fear and Love of God [49:01]
Apostle E. Gbagba shares that the fear of God has kept her going through tough times. Never uphold God less than any situation. Just because God has made Himself reachable doesn't mean you are on the same level. Just because He has given you power doesn't mean you have the sole right to use it as you please. The love of God also sustains her, preventing her from causing Him the same pain she has experienced. She is committed to staying with Him and doing whatever He needs.