By Adeboye Ado

Rising gospel music minister, Emmanuel Josephine, has opened up about how her journey into gospel music was shaped and deeply influenced by one of Nigeria’s most revered gospel legends, Evangelist Dr. Bola Are.

In an exclusive interview with Friday Extravaganza, Josephine described gospel music as more than just a career path for her; also a divine calling and spiritual assignment.

“Embracing gospel music was my response to God’s call,” she said. “It’s a ministry, not a hobby. It’s about delivering God’s message to hearts that need healing and hope.”

Josephine, a graduate of the Bola Are School of Gospel Music, credited her mentor, not only for teaching her the art of music, but for imparting wisdom that has defined her life and ministry.

“From Mama Bola Are, I learned that the fear of God is rooted in total obedience,” she shared.

“She taught me that the world doesn’t favour only the strong; the weak too can rise, because every great story begins with a chance. God chooses whom He will, often those overlooked by men, to show His glory.”

But the most profound lesson, according to Josephine, is that she learnt communication in ministry goes beyond the spoken word.

“There is something louder than voice it’s the motive behind our actions,” she said.

“Our mindset should reflect in our behaviour. If every message were verbal, the world would be too noisy. Music speaks to the soul and that’s what true gospel music must do.”

Addressing the increasing trend of worldly beats and secular dance styles in gospel ministration, Josephine said, “There is a clear distinction between those who are called and those who are merely entertaining,” she said, referencing Matthew 7:20: ‘By their fruits, you shall know them.’

“Some are gifted but not called; others use the altar as a stage for amusement and personal glory. Gospel music is not just about rhythm it is about reverence. Those truly called by God will not deviate from His instruction.”

She expressed concern that many upcoming gospel musicians now seek human applause instead of divine approval.

“When we rush ahead of God, we tend to borrow inspiration from the world. That’s why there’s confusion today. True gospel music must point people to Christ, not to ourselves,” she said.

Josephine said, “We must stop confusing the world. Let us go back to God so we can win the world for Him. If the influence of the world is growing stronger than the presence of God in your life, it’s time to retreat and seek His face again. It’s not too late to align with His purpose.”

“God nurtures what He gives,” she said, “and the reward for staying faithful is not from men it is from God alone.”