14/08/2026
Welcome Address By The Ibadanland Command Commander R.S Major H. A Akinbobola – 2026 Ibadanland Command Rally held at C.A.C. Oke Ibukun, Oke Ado, on 14–15 August 2026.
* Welcomes all Royal Shepherds, leaders, command executives, members, and protocol officers.
* Gives thanks to God for His grace and for allowing the command to witness the rally.
* Appreciates the church leadership, chaplaincy, ministers, church committee, patrons, and patronesses for their support and hospitality.
* Introduces the year's theme: “Disciplined to Serve, Committed to the Kingdom,” based on 2 Timothy 2:3.
* Uses Paul and Timothy as examples of disciplined service and commitment to God's kingdom.
* Encourages every Royal Shepherd to follow Christ's example and remain committed even when service becomes difficult.
* Connects the theme with 1 Corinthians 11:1, emphasising the importance of following godly examples.
* Ends with prayers for God's continued protection over the church and the Royal Shepherds.
The address is a call for every Royal Shepherd to develop strong Christian discipline, serve faithfully, endure hardship, follow godly examples, avoid looking back, and remain completely committed to God and His kingdom.
Main Theme: “Disciplined to Serve, Committed to the Kingdom”
The central message is that every member of the Royal Shepherds is called to serve God with discipline, commitment, dedication, and perseverance.
* Christ is the ultimate example of disciplined and committed service.
* Paul demonstrated commitment to the kingdom by faithfully serving Christ despite hardship.
* Timothy was encouraged to endure suffering and remain committed as a good soldier of Christ, based on 2 Timothy 2:3.
* Members are encouraged not to look back after committing themselves to God's work, drawing from Luke 9:62.
* The example of Lot's wife serves as a warning against looking back after beginning the journey of faith.
* Christian discipline involves deliberately bringing our thoughts, desires, habits, bodies, time, and conduct under Christ's authority.
* Members are encouraged to practise spiritual disciplines such as prayer, fasting, giving, and personal Bible study.
* Discipline also involves self-control, particularly over appetite, sexuality, speech, sleep, anger, and other bodily desires.
* Members should be willing to receive correction from God and godly leaders, as referenced in Hebrews 12:6.
* The example of the twelve apostles and Judas reminds members that beginning the journey is not enough; they must remain faithful until the end.
