RCCG Not too Young to Rule, Not too Old to Reign -Prof Oyedokun.pptx

Being a Paper Presented at RCCG Jesus Fountain Area Headquarters, Oyo Province 22, Ibadan Held on Sunday, October 19, 2025.

1. Overflow Altar: Not Too Young to Rule, Not Too Old to Reign Prof. Godwin Emmanuel Oyedokun Professor of Accounting and Financial Development Department of Management & Accounting Faculty of Management and Social Sciences Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria Principal Partner; Oyedokun Godwin Emmanuel & Co (Accountants, Tax Practitioners & Forensic Auditors) Being a Paper Presented at RCCG Jesus Fountain Area Headquarters, Oyo Province 22, Ibadan Held on Sunday, October 19, 2025.

2. ND (Fin), HND (Acct.), BSc. (Acct. Ed), BSc (Acct & Fin.), LLB., LLM, MBA (Acct. & Fin.), MSc. (Acct.), MSc. (Bus & Econs ), Ph.D. (Acct), Ph.D. (Fin), Ph.D. (Forensic Acct.), CFA, CFE, ACS, ACIS, ACIArb (UK), FBR, MNIM, FCA, FCTI, FCIB, FCNA, FCFIP, FCE, FERP, FFAR, FPD-CR, FNIOAIM, FCCrFA , FCCFI, FICA, FCECFI, FTPL, JP Prof. Godwin Emmanuel Oyedokun Professor of Accounting and Financial Development Department of Management & Accounting Faculty of Management and Social Sciences Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria Principal Partner; Oyedokun Godwin Emmanuel & Co (Accountants, Tax Practitioners & Forensic Auditors)

3. Overflow Altar: Not Too Young to Rule, Not Too Old to Reign

4. Contents

5. Introduction The phrase “Not Too Young to Rule, Not Too Old to Reign” is a powerful statement on the inclusivity of leadership, the timelessness of purpose, and the divine empowerment of individuals regardless of age. Challenging Assumptions In every generation, there are tendencies to underestimate the youth and sometimes sideline the aged. However, God’s word and history show that both the young and the old play vital, complementary roles in advancing His purpose. A Dual Mandate This theme challenges young people to rise in responsibility, vision, and purpose. It also reminds the older generation that leadership influence does not expire with age; wisdom grows with time, making their reign essential.

6. Understanding the Theme: Balancing Age and Purpose The two halves of the statement are not in conflict; rather, they balance each other, recognizing that youth brings innovation, while age brings insight and stability. A. Not Too Young to Rule Age is not the main determinant of leadership potential. Qualifications for leadership are vision, wisdom, discipline, courage, and integrity , not just chronological years. God often calls and equips young people to lead and transform their world with fresh perspective. B. Not Too Old to Reign The experience and wisdom of the aged are immensely valuable assets. Leadership is not only about energy but also about maturity, endurance, and leaving a lasting legacy. Older individuals are called to mentor, guide, and reign in profound wisdom and pervasive influence. Leadership capacity is determined by character and competence, not birthdate.

7. Biblical Young Leaders Who Ruled Spiritual preparation, moral uprightness, and a purpose-driven life eliminate age as a barrier to leadership. The Bible is rich with examples of young individuals chosen for mighty assignments. David: The Shepherd King Chosen by God as a shepherd boy (1 Samuel 16:11–13). His youth did not disqualify him; his heart after God made him fit to rule Israel. Josiah: Righteous Revival Became king at just 8 years old (2 Kings 22:1–2). He led a national revival, showing leadership can start early when guided by godly mentors. Timothy: Example to Believers Paul's admonition: “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example...” (1 Timothy 4:12). Youthfulness is a platform for impact, not an excuse for irresponsibility. Joseph: Prime Minister Rose from slavery to become Egypt's Prime Minister in his early 30s (Genesis 41:39–44). Godly wisdom and character elevated him to power.

8. Not Too Old to Reign: The Power of Enduring Influence No one outgrows relevance in God’s plan. Reign is not about physical rule alone, but about influential presence, seasoned wisdom, and purpose fulfillment. Abraham (Genesis 17:1–6) Called by God at 75 to become the father of nations. Divine assignment and leadership have no age limits when God is directing the plan. Moses (Exodus 7:7) Began his mission to deliver Israel at age 80 . His age did not diminish his effectiveness; he led with power and perseverance. Caleb (Joshua 14:10–12) At 85 years old , he declared, “Give me this mountain!” A symbol that faith and zeal remain strong in old age. Anna and Simeon (Luke 2:25–38) Elderly but spiritually alert to recognize and bless the infant Jesus. Old age is fruitful in spiritual discernment and prophetic influence.

9. The Generational Mindset Shift The core message of the theme is the divine truth about generational relevance and leadership continuity . Every stage of life is a platform for purpose. True leadership is defined by spiritual maturity, vision, and obedience. Historical View Divine View Include by maturity Character defines service Exclude by generation Age defines worth Jesus taught: “The Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve.” and “Whoever wants to become great must be your servant.” True leadership transcends age; it is fundamentally marked by humility, vision, and sacrificial love.

10. Mutual Respect Across Generations Leadership flourishes when generations honor and learn from each other. Unity maximizes impact and ensures a strong legacy. Young - Humility and Grace The Bible states: “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Younger leaders should submit with humility, while older leaders must encourage with grace and respect. Younger leaders benefit from the stability of experience . Older leaders benefit from the energy of innovation. Old - The Strength of Age: Wisdom & Honor Proverbs 20:29 : “The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.” Older leaders bring essential wisdom, experience, and perspective. Scripture calls for respect and double honor for elders (1 Timothy 5:17 ), affirming their continued value in reigning well.

11. Leadership Qualities for the Young (“Not Too Young to Rule”) Youth must see themselves as change agents, not spectators . Rule begins with mastering oneself and cultivating godly traits. 1 Develop Godly Character Leadership without integrity leads to destruction. Proverbs 16:32 : “He who rules his spirit is better than he who takes a city.” 2 Build Competence and Capacity Rule through knowledge, skills, and innovation. Proverbs 22:29 : “Do you see a man diligent in his work? He shall stand before kings.” 3 Cultivate Responsibility Leadership starts by being faithful in small things. Luke 16:10 : “He that is faithful in little is faithful in much.” 4 Be Courageous and Vision-Driven Great leadership requires boldness. Joshua 1:9 : “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you.” 5 Value Mentorship Submission to mentorship helps you grow safely. Proverbs 13:20 : “He who walks with wise men will be wise.”

12. Leadership Relevance for the Elderly (“Not Too Old to Reign”) The elderly reign through guidance, example, and wisdom . Their reign is influential, securing the future of the next generation. Reign through Wisdom Positional power may fade, but influence through seasoned counsel endures. Job 12:12 : “Wisdom is with the aged, and understanding in length of days.” Mentorship and Legacy The older generation’s highest calling is to raise successors. To reign is to replicate leadership virtues in others (2 Timothy 2:2). Continuous Fruitfulness Old age should be a redirection toward purpose, intercession, and influence. Psalm 92:14 : “They shall still bear fruit in old age.” Vision Transfer Ensure generational continuity by handing over the baton of righteousness and integrity properly, as Moses did to Joshua (Deuteronomy 34:9).

13. Practical Insights for Youths and Young Adults Your future influence is determined by your preparation today. Embrace these principles to rule effectively in your sphere of influence. Cultivate Vision Early Develop a strong sense of direction and purpose. Proverbs 29:18 : “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” Build Capacity and Excellence Leadership requires preparation—education, discipline, and skill-building. Daniel and his friends were distinguished through knowledge and excellence (Daniel 1:17–20). Maintain Integrity and Godliness Only those with clean hands and pure hearts can truly ascend the hill of lasting leadership (Psalm 24:3–4). Seek Mentorship Find seasoned mentors to provide counsel and guidance, helping you avoid common pitfalls. Proverbs 11:14 : “Where there is no counsel, the people fall.” Be Bold and Courageous Fear and timidity have no place in God-ordained leadership. Step out in faith, knowing the Lord is with you (Joshua 1:9).

14. Biblical Principles: God's Intergenerational Plan Divine Calling Has No Age Restriction God's empowerment is not bound by years. He anoints both the young and the old to influence and lead in different seasons, ensuring continuity. Joel 2:28: "Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.” Leadership is About Purpose, Not Position Leadership is defined by influence, service, and impact, not formal authority. We are called to "rule" and "reign" through godly influence in every sphere of life. Matthew 5:14–16: “You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others.” God Honors Every Season of Life Every stage—from youth to old age—carries a unique assignment and expectation of fruitfulness. No season is wasted in God's economy. Ecclesiastes 3:1: “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.”

15. Avoiding Extremes: The Need for Balance If the young are silenced, innovation dies. If the old are ignored, wisdom perishes. Both must be productive for holistic progress and balanced decision-making. 1 Empowerment God often uses young, courageous leaders (like the 232 young commanders in 1 Kings 20:13-15) to achieve decisive victories. 2 Encouragement Elders are called to mentor and support, ensuring younger leaders, like Timothy, lead confidently despite their youth (1 Timothy 4:12). 3 Collaboration Leadership is a shared, intergenerational journey. We must actively bridge the age gap rather than deepening the divide.

16. The Power of Intergenerational Connection Youthful Strengths Energy and passion Creative problem-solving Digital fluency and innovation Mature Strengths Insight and long-term perspective Experience and stability Moral compass and institutional memory This dynamic cooperation seen in mentorships like Joshua/Moses and Timothy/Paul ensures a balanced and sustainable leadership structure for true community thriving.

17. Wisdom and Strength: Reigning Together When youth and elders lead together, communities experience stability, strategic depth, and accelerated growth. Unity Harmony between generations is foundational. Guidance The old provide seasoned direction. Innovation The young bring fresh energy and ideas. Victory Collective counsel leads to success. Proverbs 11:14: “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is victory.”

18. Spheres of Influence: Application The principle of intergenerational leadership applies across all aspects of life. Everyone has a role to play in their current sphere. Governance & Civics Youth must engage in responsible civic leadership; elders should mentor and support their ascent rather than suppressing them. Church & Ministry Youth should be empowered to lead active ministry roles and service, while elders ensure sound doctrine and spiritual stability. Family & Organizations Young adults drive innovation and new strategies; the mature provide necessary structure, discipline, and institutional memory. Personal Calling Understand your current season and operate with purpose—never retiring from relevance too soon, nor delaying responsibility.

19. Overcoming Age Barriers in Leadership Youth Underestimated Young individuals often face skepticism regarding their capability. The call is to lead with character and conviction, not age. 1 Timothy 4:12 Elders Sidelined Mature leaders sometimes feel irrelevant in a fast-changing world, but their accumulated wisdom is critical for stability and foundation. Proverbs 16:31 God Breaks Stereotypes The Bible showcases God using leaders across the entire age spectrum (Joseph, Moses, David, Anna) for His specific purposes. Psalm 92:14 We must break societal stereotypes and understand that God empowers leaders of all ages to step forward boldly and fulfill their divine mandates.

20. Action Points: How to Lead Your Season For the Young (Rule) Take initiative early; don’t wait for permission to make an impact. Remain humble and teachable ; wisdom is greater than raw energy. Lead by example in speech, purity, faith, and service (1 Tim 4:12). Develop spiritual and intellectual capacity simultaneously. For the Elderly (Reign) Reinvest your wisdom ; do not retire from relevance or influence. Mentor the next generation intentionally, sharing accumulated knowledge. Be open to new ideas and evolving methods from the youth. Model integrity , humility, and endurance for those coming behind.

21. Not Too Young to Rule, Not Too Old to Reign E mbracing divine calling and leadership at every stage of life. Key Bible Verses for Meditation 1 Timothy 4:12 – "Let no one despise your youth." Proverbs 16:31 – "Gray hair is a crown of glory." Psalm 71:17–18 – "O God, from my youth you have taught me… even to old age, do not forsake me."

22. Conclusion: Attitude, Preparedness, Purpose Age is not the barrier; attitude, preparedness, and purpose are the keys to effective leadership. 1 Not Too Young to Rule God has equipped you to lead with faith and courage in your current sphere. 2 Not Too Old to Reign Your wisdom and experience are invaluable assets that the world still desperately needs. 3 Embrace Your Role Step forward with humility, service, and boldness, fulfilling your divine mandate. Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous... for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

23. Closing Charge: Continuous Relevance We Rule by Purpose, We Reign by Wisdom. Leadership is a journey of continuous relevance, not a race limited by years. If you are young , rise up with courage and integrity; your time to rule is now. If you are old , rise up with purpose and grace; your time to reign continues. Both generations must walk together in mutual respect, cooperation, and shared purpose , building a legacy that glorifies God and transforms the world.

24. Prof. Godwin Emmanuel Oyedokun Professor of Accounting & Financial Development Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria Principal Partner; Oyedokun Godwin Emmanuel & Co (Accountants, Tax Practitioners & Forensic Auditors) [email protected]; [email protected] [phone] & 2348055863944