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Blessed day, people of God. It is an honour to contribute to the knowledge of the body of Christ. This study seeks to help believers understand the life of the Christian with and without the Holy Spirit. Fast forward to some occasions, Jesus tells His disciples by reassuring them that He will leave, but after He leaves, there is no circumstance where He will leave them as orphans. John 14:18-20 vividly says, “I will not leave you as orphans. I will come to you. Yet, in a little while, the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you will also live. On that day, you will know that I am in my father, and you in me, and I in you.” This vividly tells us the intentions of Jesus Christ as a people of God who will forever have a father, helper, and comforter. Jesus, before the ascension, assured His disciples of the Holy Spirit after His ascension.

CHARACTERISTICS OF AN ORPHAN

In recent times, the heart of the orphan has certain traits due to their condition. The lack of biological parental care has led to the exhibition and nature of this group of people. Below are some stated characteristics of orphans in our societies:

• THEY ARE CHARACTERISED BY NEGLECT: They tend to be affected by the neglect of their parents, guardians, or loved ones. Hence, they are emotionally affected by the spirit of neglect, which tends to affect the well-being of this group of people. With the absence of their parents, they are taken away by the need to belong and the will to go to great lengths to find acceptance in our communities. This makes them liable to manipulation and abuse, which, gradually, can result in them being affected and having a sense of guilt for not having parents.

• THEY ARE MOSTLY INSECURE AND IRRESPONSIBLE: The nature of an orphan is typically characterised by insecurities and irresponsibility since they do not have biological mentors. They tend to have little or no life experience, lessons, and values of life. They are also insecure in that the absence of the head factor (Father) causes them to have no sense of security at all or very little. They have no one to lean on in times of crisis and no one to boast about in times of need.

The statement of Jesus Christ stating that He will not leave us as orphans highlights His care for the welfare of the believer and assures the Christian of the ordinance of the Holy Spirit. This states the necessity of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. Lessons learned from the life of the orphan depict the nature of the believer without the infilling and dwelling of the Holy Spirit. It further classifies such believers as orphans in this Kingdom business.

THE LIFE OF A CHRISTIAN WITHOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT

• The believer, without the infilling of the Holy Spirit, has zero strength to fight against the world. As stated earlier, the life of the orphan is one characterised by neglect. This vividly depicts the life of the believer without the Holy Spirit as one who feels some sense of neglect. Believers are, therefore, encouraged to seek with humility the infilling of the Holy Spirit in all aspects of their lives.
• The believer, also, without the infilling of the Holy Spirit, is mostly insecure. The Holy Spirit, who is a part of the trinity nature of God, informs the believer of what is ahead and what is at hand. The Holy Spirit controls and directs the believer to secure places according to the will of God. A believer, therefore, without the infilling of the Holy Spirit, lives an unaware life, being ignorant of what is next since the spirit factor is missing.

THE LIFE OF THE CHRISTIAN WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT

The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the life of the believer since it brings unity between the believer and Christ while bringing him into the full body of Christ.

Many verses of the Bible (John 14:26, John 16:17, John 14:16) define the Holy Spirit as a Helper who helps the Christian to run the race to the end. The Holy Spirit becomes the epicentre to help the believer in this modern world of sin by giving out gifts according to His will to believers to sail through this world of sin. Also, the Holy Spirit in a person bears some fruit, which can be found in Galatians 5:22-23. This equips the believer with the necessary values needed to hold on and sail through to the end.

Also, the Holy Spirit serves as a comforter to the believer (John 16:7). Yes, the life of the believer with the Holy Spirit may not be smooth, but there comes our Holy Spirit once again who plays the role of a comforter to the believer and helps the believer to once again step up and keep going. Unlike the orphan who has barely or no one to talk to, the Holy Spirit is the best friend and the personal person for the believer who never leaves the body in times of downfall but rather divinely comforts the believer by any means possible to get back on His feet.

Believers are, therefore, encouraged day to day to yearn for the dwelling and infilling of the Holy Spirit very often since it plays a vital role in unleashing the believer to transform all spheres of their life.

Written by Herbert Obeng Nyarko

In recent years, the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has sparked profound questions and discussions within Christendom. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into various aspects of our lives, including the church, it’s essential for believers to engage in theological reflection to discern its implications for faith and practice.

WHAT IS AI?

Artificial Intelligence refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making. AI algorithms analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and make predictions, enabling machines to perform tasks with remarkable accuracy and efficiency.

HOW CAN THE CHURCH USE AI?

The church can harness the power of AI in numerous ways to enhance its ministries and outreach efforts. AI-powered chatbots can engage with individuals seeking spiritual guidance or information about Christianity, providing personalized responses and resources tailored to their needs. Additionally, AI algorithms can analyze large datasets of scripture, theological texts, and historical documents, offering insights and interpretations that aid in theological study and reflection.

HOW IS THE CHURCH ALREADY USING AI?

Already, we see AI being integrated into various aspects of church life. Facial recognition technology is used for security and attendance tracking in some congregations, while AI-powered translation tools facilitate multilingual communication during worship services and mission trips. Additionally, churches utilize data analytics platforms to analyze member engagement and tailor ministry programs to better meet the needs of the church.

Opportunities and Challenges of AI to the Church

The opportunities presented by AI for the church are vast. AI can help streamline administrative tasks, improve communication and engagement with congregants, and enhance the effectiveness of evangelistic efforts. Through AI-powered tools, the church can reach new audiences, foster deeper connections with existing members, and adapt to the evolving needs of society in the digital age.

However, along with these opportunities come challenges and potential threats. Ethical concerns surrounding data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the dehumanization of interpersonal interactions must be carefully addressed. Moreover, there is a risk of AI technology being misused or manipulated for malicious purposes, posing threats to the integrity of Christian values and beliefs.

THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION OF AI

As Christians, our response to AI must be grounded in theological reflection and ethical discernment. While AI offers exciting possibilities for enhancing ministry and outreach, it also raises profound questions about the nature of humanity, the role of technology in God’s plan, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence.

At its core, AI is a human creation—a product of human ingenuity and innovation. As such, it reflects the inherent creativity and intelligence endowed by God to humanity, who was made in His image (Genesis 1:27).

However, AI also poses challenges to traditional theological concepts such as free will, moral responsibility, and the nature of consciousness. Can AI possess genuine autonomy and moral agency? Can it exhibit qualities such as empathy, compassion, and spiritual discernment? These questions invite theological reflection on the unique attributes of humanity and the limitations of artificial intelligence.

Ethical considerations are also central to theological reflection on AI. As Christians, we are called to uphold values of justice, compassion, and human dignity in all areas of life, including the development and deployment of AI technologies. The use of AI in surveillance, predictive policing, and social profiling raises concerns about privacy, discrimination, and social justice—issues that demand careful theological scrutiny.

Moreover, theological reflection on AI ethics must grapple with questions of power, control, and accountability. Who determines the ethical standards governing AI systems? How do we ensure that AI technologies serve the common good and promote human flourishing rather than reinforcing existing inequalities and power dynamics? These are complex ethical dilemmas that require theological wisdom and discernment.

Beyond ethical considerations, AI also has implications for Christian ministry and worship. The use of AI-powered chatbots, virtual assistants, and digital platforms opens new avenues for evangelism, discipleship, and pastoral care. AI algorithms can analyze scripture, theological texts, and historical documents, providing insights and interpretations that aid in theological study and reflection.

However, theological reflection on AI in ministry must also grapple with questions of authenticity, relationality, and spiritual formation. Can AI-mediated interactions truly nurture deep, meaningful relationships and foster spiritual growth? How do we ensure that technology enhances rather than detracts from the embodied, communal nature of Christian worship and fellowship? These are theological questions that demand careful consideration in the age of AI.

One of the central theological questions surrounding AI is its relationship to divine revelation. Can AI truly discern the will of God or deliver inspired insights into scripture? While AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data and identify patterns, they cannot replace the spiritual discernment and wisdom that comes from a personal relationship with God. As Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

The Response of the Church

In light of these theological considerations, how should the church respond to the rise of AI? First and foremost, the church must recognize that AI is a tool—an enabler, not a substitute for the work of the Holy Spirit. While AI can assist in data analysis, multimedia production, and research, it cannot replace the role of prayer, sermon preparation, spiritual discernment, the will of God, and reliance on God’s guidance in the life of the believer.

However, this does not mean that the church should shy away from embracing AI. On the contrary, the church can and should leverage AI to enhance its mission and ministry efforts. As Romans 12:2 exhorts us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

AI, when used wisely and ethically, can serve as a powerful tool for advancing the Kingdom of God. It can help churches reach new audiences, engage with congregants more effectively, and adapt to the changing needs of society. However, it’s essential to maintain a critical perspective and guard against the potential pitfalls of AI.

Already, we see AI being utilized in practical ways within the church. Data analytics platforms help churches understand their members’ preferences and needs better, enabling them to tailor their ministries accordingly. AI-powered multimedia tools enhance worship experiences, while automated communication systems streamline administrative tasks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rise of AI presents both opportunities and challenges for the church. By engaging in theological reflection and ethical discernment, the church can harness the potential of AI to advance the Kingdom of God while safeguarding its core values and beliefs. As Ephesians 5:15-16 urges us, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”

Let us, therefore, prayerfully consider how AI can be used to glorify God and further His Kingdom, trusting in His guidance and wisdom every step of the way.

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8 (NIV)

INTRODUCTION

For years, the Evangelism Ministry of The Church of Pentecost has been a beacon of hope, leading the charge in soul-winning for the Church. They employ a variety of methods to spread the gospel and save souls from eternal damnation. From park rallies and street evangelism to dawn broadcasts and public transport propagation, they’ve made it their mission to bring the gospel into every aspect of life.

Recently, the ministry introduced Social Media evangelism, a strategy that has been widely adopted by the Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA) International. This innovative approach has enabled them to win more souls in various countries that are physically unreachable. This strategy significantly contributed to The Church of Pentecost’s expansion into nineteen nations by the end of 2023.

Under the leadership of Apostle Dr. Amos Jimmy Markin, the Ministry has made a tremendous impact both locally and internationally. Recognizing the need to win more souls in Ghana’s hinterlands, the Ministry adopted a bimonthly outreach service, always codenamed “For Christ”, followed by the name of the town they visit.

Since its inception, these crusades have helped win tens of thousands of souls for Christ. Their strategy is straightforward. A week or two before the start of the crusade, they deploy “The Advance Team”, a group of young, vibrant Christians eager to spread the gospel, regardless of where they are sent or the conditions they live in. This team’s dedication and commitment are a testament to the Church’s mission to spread the gospel far and wide.

THE ADVANCE TEAM

Meet the “Advance Team” – a group of young men and women who are committed to expanding the Kingdom of God. This team was established in 2021 during the Afram Plains Crusade when the need for such a team became evident. The Advance Team is composed of various squads including Film Evangelism operations, Gospel Heralds, Sports, Prayer warriors, and Media. They are often the first to arrive at the locations of major events or crusades organized by the church.

Their journey begins in Accra, the capital city, where they engage in intensive prayer sessions and receive orientations from the Crusade coordinator, the Evangelism Ministry Director, and the Secretary. The team is then divided into pairs and deployed to the area of the crusade. Upon arrival, they are welcomed and accommodated by the host district pastors, with each pair assigned to a specific town or district of the church.

Their mission is to navigate the town, spreading the gospel of Christ to all. This requires a lot of walking and is one of the most challenging aspects of their work. They preach the gospel to anyone they encounter, regardless of the time or place. At times, led by the Holy Spirit and guided by the Team Commander, they embark on prayer walks, drawing inspiration from Joshua 1:3. These walks often take place late at night when everyone is asleep. In addition to this, they also engage in Film Evangelism, Sports Evangelism, and Schools Outreach.

The team members often have to adapt their eating habits to match the local cuisine, which can sometimes be unfamiliar to them. They work throughout the entire catchment area to establish new churches where needed and revive assemblies due to the increase in the number of souls won during crusades.

During the main crusade, this dedicated team works relentlessly. They strategically navigate through the crowd, reaching out to as many individuals as possible who may wish to accept Christ during the altar call. They gather data on these souls, compile it, and organize the newly converted for baptism. They assist in the administration of the Holy Spirit Baptism and initiate follow-up calls. Furthermore, they commence new convert care classes with the souls won during the crusade. Their tireless efforts contribute significantly to the success of the crusade.

Following the crusade, the same “Advance Team” forms a follow-up squad. This squad either remains on-site for several weeks post-crusade or returns to the area at a chosen date. Their mission is to assist in the follow-up of the souls won during the crusade. In the process, they often succeed in winning additional souls. Their dedication extends beyond the duration of the crusade, ensuring the continuity of their mission.

The next Crusade of which they have been deployed is the “Tarkwa For Christ” crusade, which is scheduled to take place from April 9 to 13, 2024, at Tarkwa in the Western Region of Ghana.

Written by Elder Justice Kusi and Joseph Attoh

INTRODUCTION

The advent of Christianity into Ghana brought many significant landmarks into the land. From the colonial to the post independence era up till now, it is clear that one of the blessings God gave to our land was the coming of Christianity. Through Christianity, many lives have been transformed, aspects of our culture shaped, civilization enhanced, great infrastructural development including schools, hospitals and centres of vocation.

The latest figures from the population and housing census indicates that more than 70% of Ghanaians are Christians – this being a very refreshing outcome.

The above, notwithstanding, some concerning observations have been made with our Christianity in contemporary times.

In this article, I attempt to shed light on some of these  concerns, which I find worrying and risk putting our walk of faith in jeopardy.

One day whiles admonishing and teaching the crowd, Jesus prophetically warned his listeners and disciples to make sure that the light they think they have is not actually darkness – Lk 11:35 (NLT).

In other words, there is always the potential of us drifting and thinking we are in the light when in actual fact, we are engrossed in darkness.

In the light of the foregoing, some of the reeling concerns are herein listed

1. The Thirst for “Divine Revelation” Syndrome

One of the concerning observations of Ghanaian Christianity today is a certain supposed thirst and hunger for some kind of “divine revelation.” Without disregarding the need to dig deep in order to draw from the wells of insight as Christians, there seem to be an insatiable desire of congregants to hear words and some kind of rhema which are considered “out of the world”, which tickles their emotions and blow their minds. In order to meet this desire, some preachers are compelled to package their sermons in a way to sound “deep”, unveil revelations and wow their audience. As a result, some pulpits are now becoming avenues for churning out  punchlines and not heartlines. Messages of conviction are making way for messages of admiration. Listeners are no longer desirous of what will command repentance but  sermons, which will sweep them off their feet and not those that will circumcise their hearts. But the power of the gospel does not dwell in oratory or exceptional articulation, but it is in its simplicity. Indeed, what is the point in offering “deep revelations” and yet raising shallow believers who cannot stand by their convictions to see Him more clearly, love Him more dearly and follow Him more nearly.

2. The Prayer Movement Wave

The second concerning observation I have made with our contemporary Christianity is what I term as the Wave of the Prayer Movements. The Prayer Movement Wave relates to sudden upsurge of prayer groups which have been escalated through social media. Although these movements have come with great positives including a new sense of prayer awakening, an enhanced revival, a renewed hunger for God and a deepened form of spirituality among others, there is also the other side of the coin where these movements seem to be replacing the personal spiritual development of the individual adherents like personal quiet times and Bible study but rather culturing adherents along a certain kind of imbalance spirituality. It is important to underscore that Jesus remains our perfect example and time and time again, His template was to look for a solitary place to commune with God. Knowing God for ourselves has always been the Father’s heartbeat.

3. Prophetism and Prophesitisation

The subject of prophetism and its operation and management has been an aged long issue. Without belabouring the truth of prophecy as a tool for edification, exhortation and comfort, it is becoming a growing concern how the gift of prophecy is being carried and exercised in contemporary times. Is it not worrying how modern day prophets come on social media to drop names and telephone numbers of those to whom a prophecy is directed at? This is what I call prophesitisation which refers to the act of creating a deliberate platform for the exercise of the prophetic gifts and functions without recognition of God’s sovereignty in the operationalisation of the gift. In fact some prophets even come live on social media for followers to come live in order to be prophesied to? This immediately creates a prophetic marketplace for seekers and prophesiers to converge for prophetic transactions. The danger here is that the quest to seek to know Christ and become like him become subservient to the here and now reality of gaining what life here offers. The writing does not seek to make light the substance of the prophetic but it is obvious that some things do not really add up in the prevailing excesses, hence this raging concern.

4. The Theology of Some Contemporary Gospel music

Another rising concern is the doctrinal basis of some of the contemporary gospel music being churned out for the Christian community. Beyond the melodic structure and solfa progressions, the lyrical content of some contemporary gospel songs lack spiritual depth, do not deepen faith and weaken convictions whiles fueling our carnalities and materialistic tendencies. This is against the ancient hymns and songs of the early 70s to 90s which were Christocentric in outlook, drove holy living, promoted righteousness and frowned on iniquity and yet were scripturally balanced, deepened faith and Christian endurance whiles drawing our hearts to Christ. No wonder they have stood the test of time while many of contemporary tunes have only phased out with time.

5. Cross Religious Marriages

Even though, religious tolerance and faith diversity has chalked great successes in Ghana, it is of grave concern witnessing in contemporary times, the upsurge in cross religious marriages. With the understanding that the scripture is our rule, it becomes difficult to reconcile such inter faith marriages bearing in mind Apostle Paul’s admonition in 2 Cor. 6:14-17. The concern with this practice is an emerging generation with a lost spiritual identity, syncretic outlook and behavior leading to the creation of a liberalized society of permissiveness. With the intention of establishing the kingdom of God, there is the need to state the lines clearly so there is no controversy over opinions – either the Lord is God or none other.

6. The Struggle of Staying Relevant Vs The Will of God

The last concern as I reflect on contemporary Ghanaian Christianity is what I describe as the struggle of staying revelant vis-a-vis the will of God. It is important to underscore that as Christians, we have no aim, no will and no purpose except that of Christ. The narrative, however, is not the case considering the nature of the times where staying relevant is our fixation. Herein lies the concern since the call for kingdom come is to see God’s will done. What that means is that what may be the accepted will of God for us may not fit the earthly standard of recognition, relevance and influence. It is this struggle that has led some of the saints into compromise and spiritual shipwreck forgetting that staying in God’s will is the perfect way to go.

CONCLUSION

The purpose of this article is the outcome of a pastoral burden drawn from my heart based on some observations from our Ghanaian contemporary Christianity. Without being judgemental, I have sought to highlight some of these observations to trigger a discourse aimed at enabling the Church to separate the wheat from the tares.

Maranatha, Lord please come

Written by Pastor Kwasi Asante Annor (General Manager, PENT TV)

MAIN TEXT: ISAIAH 37:14-20 & COLOSSIANS 1:14-15

INTRODUCTION

In anticipation, there was a divine and supernatural shift in ordinance when the formal handwriting of sin and its reproach was negated by the latter, which was written by the blood of Jesus Christ, not with ink, disqualifying the antique written code, unpaid debt, ancient decrees, the law of ordinance, and the commandment of death and sin against all human race being unequivocally blotted out, wiped away, and erased through the vicarious death of Christ who conquered death and sin on the cross.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

WHAT IS AN ORDINANCE?

An ordinance is a Christian rite associated with tangible elements (water, bread, and wine) that is celebrated by the church of Jesus Christ. The term is closely associated with the word sacrament, which is an outward and visible sign of an inward and invisible grace.

WHAT IS THE HANDWRITING OF THE ORDINANCE?

The handwriting of ordinances mentioned in Colossians 2:14 does not refer to the Law of Moses. They claim that since the word ordinances in Colossians 2:14 comes from the Greek word dogma (dog’-mah) it cannot refer to the Law of Moses.

The handwriting of the ordinance, therefore, is simply the written code of sin that was inked against all humanity from the time man fell in the Garden of Eden through disobedience, which was the punishment of death and a lake of fire.

THE CRUX MAIN TEXT – ISAIAH 37: 14-20

DETAILED EXPLANATION OF KING HEZEKIAH’S ACTION

a) Hezekiah departed to the temple of God and in the house of the LORD, and spread the letter before God.

Hezekiah did exactly what any child of God should do with such a letter. In fact, anyone struggling with an ordinance of sin in his life is just to turn to the maker of life who is able to transform and save as well. He took it to the house of the LORD (to the outer courts, not the holy place), and he spread it before the LORD. In this, Hezekiah boldly and effectively fulfilled the later command of 1 Peter 5:7.

b) The LORD of host:

The almighty God is the chief army commander of his people, and so when crises of such sought arose, he was consulted. This title for our God essentially means “LORD of armies.” Hezekiah was in a crisis that was primarily military in nature, so it made sense for him to address the LORD first according to the aspect of God’s nature that was most needful for him.

c) “LORD of armies, send some troops to help us!” God of Israel:

This title was actually used by the King to re-echo to God that the people of Israel were his people.

This title for God also reminded Hezekiah, in our human way of understanding, that the LORD God was the covenant God of Israel and that He should not forsake His people.

c) The One who dwells between the cherubim:

At this point, Hezekiah views God’s greatness in the context of Him dwelling between cherubim who is strong and majestic would not allow Rabshakeh to overcome his people.

d) “You are God, you alone”:

God is a simple title for our LORD, but perhaps the most powerful. If He is God, then what can He do? If He is God, then what is beyond His control? Hezekiah realizes the most fundamental fact of all theology: God is God, and we are not! God is God, and Rabshakeh or the Assyrians are not!

e) “You have made heaven and earth”:

In recognizing the LORD God as Creator, Hezekiah saw that the LORD had all power and all rights over every created thing. We can almost feel Hezekiah’s faith rising as he prayed this.

f) “Incline Your ear, O LORD, and hear; open Your eyes, O LORD, and see”:

In this verse, let me explain with how in Exodus 3:3-4 the crying of the people of God, the Israelites when they were in captivity went up to the Lord and God said I have heard about the cry of my people and I have come down to deliver them.

Hezekiah knew very well that the LORD did in fact hear and see the blasphemies of Rabshakeh. This is a poetic way of asking God to act upon what He has seen and heard, assuming that if God has seen such things, He will certainly act.

HUMANITY AND THE WRITTEN CONTEXT FROM THE BACKDROP OF HEZEKIAH’S KINGSHIP

Humankind had also received a letter of death and destruction from the camp of Satan when from the day Adam sinned against God and have obey the devil. Man was destined to hell and the lake of fire forever and ever but when he took the people of Israel as his nation and they cried unto him which was in alignment of God’s plan for humanity he sent forth his son to remove the handwriting of inscription that was against us and to change the verdict from death to life and hope in everlasting life and power.

LET’S ALSO DEAL WITH THE SECOND TEXT COLOSSIANS 2:13-15

a) “And took it out of the way”:

In Galatians 3:13 we read, “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, cursed is every one that hanged on a tree.”

When Christ was impaled or crucified on the cross or “tree,” He was made a curse by taking our sins. The Law was not a curse. But sin due to breaking of God’s Law put a note of debt on our heads. This note of sinful guilt due to following Ways contrary to God’s Law was against us until Christ lifted the curse from us.

The Law was not nailed to the stake or cross Christ was (John 19:17, 18). The record of our sins was nailed to the stake in His body (I Peter 2:24).

Now we all can better understand Colossians 2:14. Notice this verse again as it stands in the King James Version. “Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to use, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross.”

b) “Sins Blotted Out”:

Let’s now see how the context of Colossians proves how this “handwriting of ordinances” refers to the record of our sins. Colossians 2 explains: “In whom [Christ] also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ” (verse 11). Paul elsewhere reveals we are to be circumcised “in the heart.”

c) “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it”:

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12.

What are these principalities, powers, and rulers of the darkness?

But revelation points out that spiritual beings often carry out God’s purpose in the natural world, and not only as messengers. (Exodus 12:23, 2 Samuel 24:16, Ps 91:11, Ps 34:7, Ex 23:20).

Principalities and powers simply describe angelic powers, those invisible, whether they be good or bad. But, in this context, the verse turns dark with the mention of the rulers and the spiritual wickedness in the heavenly places.

But the prince of the kingdom of Persia was withstanding me for twenty-one days; then behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left there with the kings of Persia. Daniel 10:10-21.

This passage in the whole of scriptures might be the one that speaks most clearly about the invisible powers which rule and influence nations. It speaks about “patron” angels that preside over the destinies of particular nations: a prince of Persia, a prince of Greece, and Michael, a chief prince of Israel.

Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. Revelation 12:7.

So, Israel has a spiritual champion (Dan. 10:21) and there are powers opposed to Israel. These “princes” of the heathen powers will face God and be judged in the future for their deeds as any other created being.

d) “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it.”

Jesus Christ went to hell on the day he was crucified and made public spectacle of them all and triumphed over them. He destroyed the works he took Satan off his throne and made a showdown of all demons in hell and took away the keys of life and death and resurrected hallelujah.

CONCLUSION

Colossians 2:14 explains that even more. It says that Jesus “canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, and which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.” The debt of our sins has been paid by Jesus’ death on the cross.

Written by Overseer Emmanuel Owusu (Mpasaso District – Tepa Area)

Inspired by the touching narrative of “A Taste of Sin,” a new Christian movie trending, this article aims to underscore the significance of adhering to church principles, particularly concerning the suspension of church members from activities.

The film portrays the journey of a pastor suspended from the church due to an affair with a choir member, resulting in her tragic death from an abortion. However, through genuine repentance during his suspension, both God and the church restored him.

While the movie primarily serves as a cautionary tale for men of God and Christians to remain vigilant against temptation, it prompts a deeper examination of a vital church practice: SUSPENSIONS.

In the realm of religious communities, the decision to suspend church members from activities and gatherings is often met with mixed reactions. While some view it as a harsh measure, others see it as essential for maintaining the integrity of the church’s principles and doctrines. Often a contentious topic due to misunderstandings, suspensions play a crucial role in maintaining integrity and accountability within the church community.

This article delves into the significance of such actions, drawing insights from both biblical references and practical everyday life events.

Firstly, it’s crucial to understand that the concept of discipline within the church has its roots in biblical teachings. In Matthew 18:15-17, Jesus lays out a clear process for handling disputes within the church community, which includes steps for addressing wrongdoing and, if necessary, eventual exclusion from the fellowship: “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.”

This passage underscores the importance of accountability and discipline within the church body. By suspending members from activities and gatherings, church leadership demonstrates a commitment to upholding biblical standards and addressing behavior that deviates from those standards.

Moreover, the decision to suspend members serves as a form of protection for the broader church community. Just as leaven can leaven the whole lump (1 Corinthians 5:6), allowing unrepentant sin to go unchecked within the congregation can have detrimental effects on the spiritual health and unity of the body. Suspending members sends a clear message that certain behaviors are incompatible with the values and beliefs of the church, thereby safeguarding its integrity and witness to the world.

In practical everyday life, we encounter numerous situations where accountability and discipline are necessary for the well-being of a community. In a workplace setting, for example, employees who consistently violate company policies may face suspension or termination to maintain productivity and morale. Similarly, in sports teams, players who engage in unsportsmanlike conduct or violate team rules may be benched or suspended from games to uphold the integrity of the sport and the team’s reputation.

Likewise, in the context of the church, suspending members from activities is not an act of condemnation but rather an opportunity for repentance and restoration. Galatians 6:1 reminds believers to restore those who have fallen away in a spirit of gentleness, emphasizing the ultimate goal of reconciliation and healing within the body.

What is rather troubling is the hypocrisy within some circles in the church community enforcing this practice of suspension in a biased way. Sometimes, church members face the full rigor of the suspension, while other church leaders who fall prey are handled in a rather favored manner. This sometimes causes disaffection among the church populace. If the law can be implemented in an impartial, fair, and firm manner no matter who falls victim, then the intent and purposes of suspensions in the Church can be achieved. This underscores the importance of consistency and integrity in the application of disciplinary measures, ensuring that all members are held accountable to the same standards regardless of their position or status within the church hierarchy.

In conclusion, the significance of suspending church members from activities and gatherings cannot be understated. It reflects a commitment to biblical principles, protects the integrity of the church community, and provides an opportunity for repentance and restoration. By upholding accountability and discipline, the church maintains its witness to the world and fosters a community marked by grace, love, and holiness.

Written by Daniel Kwabena Mantey (Pent TV Anchor, Social Media: @dkwabenamantey, himantey@gmail.com)

The Great Commission Charge is a helping mandate to the ‘least’ among us. It is refreshing and inspiring to know that man has always been on the agenda of God right from the beginning. As an approved and certified representative of Him on earth, to continuously live the life of God without fail, God chose man as His own rightful human ambassador, formed to function as planned, equipped to reflect His image and likeness, taking rulership and dominion over every creature on earth – Genesis 1:26-30.

Contrary to God’s plan and vision for man, the act of sin through Adam’s disobedience watered down the supposed glorious image of man, by separating man from his source of life and sufficiency, creating in man a gap of insufficiency. The soul of man, which was once filled and satisfied with all spiritual blessings in the presence of God, has now become contaminated: thirsty, hungry, naked, ill, and imprisoned. Man was shortchanged as a result of sin, falling short of the glory of God as mentioned in Romans 3:23. Like sheep without a shepherd, the soul of man had no water to quench his thirst, no food to fill his hunger, no cloth to cover his nakedness, no balm to heal himself, and above all, no authority to free him from the shackles of slavery and imprisonment. In essence, man became hopeless.

To the glory of God, like the days of old, in the Garden of Eden, where God was in search of man after disobedience, God through His son Jesus Christ demonstrated greater love to the world. But glory be to God, who through His son Jesus Christ, has demonstrated great love to the world. That while we were still sinners, Christ was sent to die for us – Romans 5:8.

In John 3:16, the Bible says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life,” Amen. An escape plan was made available through the blood of the Lamb of God, a sacrifice that took care of our lost glory in the beginning, serving as the answer to the lack and insufficiency created by sin in us. Through His death and resurrection, a greater opportunity was made available to mankind, that, “to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God. Children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.” – John 1:12-13. To become a child of God is for one to cross from death to life, the past nature of thirst, hunger, nakedness, illness, and imprisonment is filled with the gospel of Christ that one receives and accepts.

In John 8:12, Jesus testified about Himself when He said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” You will have the authentic light that ends the darkness of thirst with everlasting water – Isaiah 55:1, the darkness of hunger with food from the very mouth of God – Ezekiel 34:14, John 6:50-51, the darkness of nakedness with the cloth of glory – 2 Corinthians 5:2-3, the darkness of illness with the balm of Gilead – Isaiah 53:5, the darkness of imprisonment with the truth that gives perpetual freedom – John 8:32.

It is against this backdrop of truth that God, through His son Jesus, is charging us as Christians and believers to go out into the world and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. We are being charged with the mandate to be helpers to the many out there who are thirsty, hungry, naked, ill, and in the bondage of prison as a result of being in the darkness of sin.

In Matthew 25: 31-46, Jesus gives an account of His epic Judgement to take place when He returns as King with His angels and takes His place on the throne. In His narration, He described a group of people who needed different kinds of help as “least brothers and sisters of His” (emphasis mine), emphasizing how important it is to Him that His ‘least brethren’ will be helped by His servants while He was away and how rewarding it will be to them (servants) for the help rendered.

 ³¹ “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. ³² All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. ³³ He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.³⁴ “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. ³⁵ For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, ³⁶ I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ ³⁷ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? ³⁸ When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? ³⁹ When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ ⁴⁰ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ ⁴¹ “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. ⁴² For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, ⁴³ I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’ ⁴⁴ “They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ ⁴⁵ “He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’ ⁴⁶ “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”

From the passage, the phrase ‘least of these brothers and sisters of mine’ is not to say that some humans are less valuable than others, as if there were a hierarchy of worth in being human, with some, such as the wealthy and self-sufficient, at the top while others, such as the poor or the materially and financially dependent, at the bottom. Not at all!

The tag ‘least’ is akin to the metaphoric description of anyone in sin (darkness), who is insufficient due to their lost glory, and are found to be spiritually thirsty, hungry, naked, ill, and imprisoned. Such people have not come to the knowledge of Christ yet and His saving power. They do not know Him (Jesus), let alone accept Him as their Lord and personal savior. Despite the fact that they find themselves in the ‘least’ category, does not negate the truth about their association with Christ. They are His (Christ), “through Him they were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made” – John 1:3.

On the strength of the fact that they belong to Him despite their state of ‘least,’ God is expecting all His servants to extend a hand of help to these people (least brothers and sisters) out there in the world. Like the passage, the king in the position of God was counting on His faithful servants to extend a hand of help to the least brethren with whatever needs they had; be it water to quench their thirst, food to fill their hunger, cloth to cover their nakedness, balm to heal them and authority to set them free from prison.

Now to the church, our unleashed mandate after coming to the saving knowledge of Christ is a responsibility to carry the gospel to the world of least brethren in our sphere of influence. To go back into the world with the unleashed gospel of truth. The gospel is the help the world needs in this life. It has the power to fill all forms of insufficiency and gap created by sin. It mends the heart of the broken-hearted, to the thirsty and hungry man out there, who is desperately in need of help for the salvation of his soul, the gospel is your water and food. The gospel to the blinded soul is the light that brings vision and life. The gospel is the glory that covers the ‘nakedness’ of a depraved man, restoring him back to his original status in God. In the same way, the gospel is the authentic authority to set the imprisoned free from the perpetual bondage of sin slavery.

We can’t afford to sit on the fence aloof, doing nothing, pretending not to care about the dying souls out there. If we claim to love God, then we are to step out there and help others into the safe haven provided in Christ, lest we risk being thrown into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.

Through the saving knowledge of God, we have become disciples of Jesus, crossing from darkness to light, from a place of insufficiency to a place of sufficiency. Being charged to go into the world; a place where people are considered ‘least’ due to the fact that they have no Christ in them. To bring them to a place of light, freedom, joy, covering, satisfaction, etc., according to their needs in Christ Jesus.

David said in Psalm 119:105, ‘Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path,’ drawing our attention to the fact that the word of God, which is the unleashed message of God (Gospel), is everything we need in life. To David, it was a lamp for his feet, meaning a help in decision-making, and a light on my path; thus an insight and knowledge reference when a step is taken. If we believe in the gospel as the good news for the world, then we need to preach it, for the gospel not preached is no gospel. But a preached gospel has the divine power to meet anyone and everybody according to their needs both physically and spiritually in accordance with God’s riches in Christ Jesus – Philippians 4:19. Whatever the unbelievers need is, the word of God has the solution to that.

To the Samaritan woman in John 4:1-42, the gospel to her became a living water that quenched her thirst from many years. Hitherto, she could not live with one man, let alone her own husband, now a satisfied soul, a firebrand evangelist who cared less about her past but rather the brightness of her future through the Messiah. Many of such least people like the Samaritan woman are out there, who need help from the unleashed church. Our task is therefore to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Teaching them to obey everything Christ has commanded and to assure them of His very presence to the very end of the age – Matthew 28:19-20 (emphasis mine).

God’s focus is on the ‘least’ among us, His delight is to see them saved through our unleashing agenda, that they may also come to the place of light, a place of salvation and eternal life, that none shall be lost. For this reason, He is counting on us to help these ones, by going to them (helping them) with the gospel of truth, that quenches, feeds, clothes, heals, and sets free – ‘truly I tell you whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ – Matthew 25:40.

In conclusion, do not think of what to say, as you go out there to preach Christ. With faith, boldly declare the saving knowledge of Christ unto the world of ‘least’ and see how the Spirit of God provides answers through your message to the multitude who listens to you in Jesus’ name. Be rest assured faithful unleashed arrow (servant), as you wholeheartedly champion the heartbeat agenda of God, your labor will never go unrewarded. An inheritance prepared for you since the creation of the world awaits you, for truly you have done good to the Lord through your HELP to the ‘least’ in your sphere of influence. AMEN.

God bless you!

Written by Elder Owusu Sampah (Odikoman District)

The death, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus undoubtedly are central tenets of the Christian faith. They form the foundation of Christianity, providing the reason for the hope, assurance, and confidence in what Christians believe. 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 clearly states that “Christ died for our sins, that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” Atheists, in an attempt to water down this celebration, have proposed numerous false theories over the years to explain the events surrounding Jesus’ resurrection. These theories vary in their complexity and plausibility, but all seek to provide alternative explanations for what is typically viewed as a mysterious, miraculous, and supernatural event in Christian theology. They have argued that the resurrection of Christ is nothing but a theory and mythology and must not be accepted. This article seeks to examine a detailed account of some of the most prominent false theories on Jesus’ resurrection and try to set the records straight.

1. THE SWOON THEORY: One of the earliest and most enduring alternative explanations for Jesus’ resurrection is the swoon theory, which suggests that Jesus did not actually die on the cross but merely lost consciousness and later revived in the tomb. This theory became very popular in the Western world after it was first proposed by some 18th–19th-century Western authors and philosophers, including Oscar Wilde and Friedrich Schleiermacher. According to the proponents of the swoon hypothesis, Jesus’ death was not fatal, and he allegedly fell unconscious (“swooned”) on the cross, survived the crucifixion, and then regained enough strength to appear before his followers while he was still alive. They argue that the appearances of the risen Jesus to his disciples following his physical resurrection from the dead after three days in the tomb were merely perceived to be resurrection appearances by his followers. This over 200-year-old theory continues to be the subject of debate in popular circles. However, since the last decade of the 19th century, all of these theories have been discarded as baseless and unacceptable by the majority of biblical scholars. This is because of the eyewitnesses’ account of Jesus’ death and burial in the tomb. On the evening of the Crucifixion, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body, and after Pilate granted his request, he wrapped it in a linen cloth and laid it in a tomb. According to Acts 13:28–29, he was laid in a tomb by “the council as a whole”. This debunks the swoon theory that Jesus didn’t die.

2. THE STOLEN BODY THEORY: Another popular theory proposes that Jesus’ body was stolen from the tomb by his disciples in order to perpetuate the belief in his resurrection. This theory has existed since the days of early Christianity. Matthew’s gospel raises the hypothesis only to refute it; according to it, the claim that the body was stolen is a lie spread by the High Priests of Israel. According to this theory, the disciples secretly removed Jesus’ body and then claimed that he had risen from the dead in order to gain followers and promote their own agenda. While this theory has been used to explain the empty tomb in the Gospel accounts, it fails to account for the numerous eyewitness testimonies and historical evidence supporting the resurrection of Jesus.

3. THE HALLUCINATION THEORY: Some critics of the resurrection have suggested that the appearances of Jesus to his disciples were merely hallucinations or visions brought on by grief and emotional turmoil. Gerd Lüdemann, an atheistic German New Testament scholar, is one of the proponents of this theory. According to this theory, the disciples were so overwhelmed by the loss of their leader that they began to experience shared hallucinations of Jesus appearing to them after his death. While this theory may offer a psychological explanation for the post-resurrection appearances, it fails to address the physical evidence of the empty tomb and the multiple eyewitness accounts of Jesus’ resurrection. Richard Bauckham, in his book “Jesus and the Eyewitnesses,” provides many arguments to support the claim that there is eyewitness testimony behind the Gospel accounts and that the events described in the Gospels were not corrupted by the interests and biases of the early Christians. There is nothing hallucinatory about the resurrection of Christ.

4. THE MYTHOLOGICAL THEORY: Another alternative explanation for the resurrection of Jesus is the mythological theory, which posits that the story of his resurrection was a later embellishment or fabrication added to the gospel accounts by early Christian writers. According to this theory, the resurrection of Jesus was a literary invention designed to enhance his divine status and promote the spread of Christianity. While some scholars have questioned the historical accuracy of the gospel accounts, most agree that the resurrection of Jesus was a central belief of early Christian communities and not a later addition to the biblical narrative.

5. THE SPIRITUAL RESURRECTION THEORY: Some critics of the resurrection have proposed a spiritual interpretation of the events surrounding Jesus’ death and resurrection. According to this theory, the resurrection of Jesus was not a physical event but a symbolic or metaphorical expression of his continuing influence and presence among his followers. This theory views the resurrection as a spiritual experience rather than a literal resurrection from the dead and relies on allegorical interpretations of the biblical texts to support its claims.

FACTS TO KNOW ABOUT THE RESURRECTION

In the midst of all the controversies and heresies circulating around the death and resurrection of Christ, the records must be stated clearly. Below are some facts to note:

RESURRECTION IS NOT IMMORTALITY OF THE SOUL: Greek philosophers saw the body as the prison house of the soul. The material world was considered corrupt, fallen, and evil. Thus, the goal of salvation was to escape the physical realm and to be freed from its shackles. But in Hebrew thought, the material world is considered good. The soul without the body is incomplete. A human being is a body and soul in unity.

RESURRECTION IS NOT REINCARNATION: Eastern religions teach reincarnation, the rebirth of the self (consciousness, soul, mind, etc.) after the death of the body. Reincarnation is considered a curse, not a blessing. Depending on the specific tradition, the goal is to escape the cycle of reincarnation and experience nirvana or personal annihilation. In contrast, the biblical view is that human beings live one life and then are raised to be judged by God (Hebrews 9:27).

RESURRECTION IS NOT RESUSCITATION: As mentioned by the skeptic in the opening story, the Bible records many instances of people coming back to life. Elijah raised the widow’s son (1 Kings 17:17-24). Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead (John 11:43-44). Peter raised Tabitha (Acts 9:36-42). Paul raised Eutychus (Acts 20:9-12). But here is the difference between these people and Jesus: They would each die again, but Jesus was raised to immortality and glory.

RESURRECTION IS NOT TRANSLATION: The Bible records at least two instances where people were taken directly to God without dying. Enoch lived 365 years and then was taken up directly to be with God (Genesis 5:21-24). The prophet Elijah was taken to heaven by a whirlwind (2 Kings 2:1). These are not examples of resurrection because there is no evidence that they have both experienced death.

THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE:

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a central belief of the Christian faith that refers to Jesus rising from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion. According to the Gospels in the New Testament as discussed, Jesus was crucified, died, and was buried, but on the third day, he was raised to life, conquering death and sin. The significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ is profound and carries several key implications for Christians.

VICTORY OVER DEATH: The resurrection demonstrates Jesus’ victory over death and sin, offering hope and the promise of eternal life to believers. It affirms the belief in life after death and the resurrection of the dead.

FOUNDATION OF FAITH: The resurrection is a foundational belief in Christianity and serves as evidence of Jesus’ divinity and messianic identity. It confirms, establishes, and validates his teachings, miracles, and claims about himself as the Son of God.

RECONCILIATION WITH GOD: The resurrection is seen as the ultimate act of reconciliation between humanity and God, providing a way for forgiveness of sins and restoration of the relationship between God and His people.

EMPOWERMENT AND TRANSFORMATION: The resurrection of Jesus empowers believers to live in the power of his resurrection, transforming their lives and enabling them to experience new life in Christ. It offers hope, strength, and a new perspective on life’s challenges and struggles.

COMMISSION FOR MISSION: After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples and commissioned them to spread the good news of salvation to all nations. The resurrection serves as the foundation for the Christian mission to share the message of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection with the world.

In conclusion, it must be noted that Jesus’ resurrection was never a myth or theory as propounded in the various theories but a mystery that keeps unfolding year by year. Jesus was not resuscitated, reincarnated, or translated in any way, and his soul did not escape to an immaterial realm. Jesus was resurrected and will never die again. And since Jesus is the first fruits of those who are yet to come, if we trust in Christ, we too will one day have transformed, resurrected bodies and be able to experience eternity with Christ.

Written by Pastor Prince Augustine Ababio

To deny something is the firm refusal to accept and admit that you have knowledge and responsibility for something. It is divine to deny things you do not know as espoused by Christ. However, the outright refusal to admit knowledge of things one is privy to will be completely unacceptable even by the standards of this sinful world. A few hours before 3 pm on one late afternoon in April AD 33, the Lord Jesus Christ suffered a gargantuan denial by his bosom friend in the person of Apostle Simon Peter. Jesus went through a lot, especially the last 24 hours before His crucifixion. He was first deserted by everyone, including His disciples, after another Apostle of His betrayed Him to the Chief Priest and his men. Looking around, the only one who appeared to be monitoring how the event would turn out at a distance was Apostle Peter. “But Peter followed him at a distance, right up to the courtyard of the high priest. He entered and sat down with the guards to see the outcome.” (Matthew 26:58). Mercy is when your most trusted friend’s loyalty begins to oscillate under certain temperatures and pressure awaiting the outcome of an event before determining its final resting place. Which way was the pendulum of Apostle Peter’s loyalty going to finally rest by the fireside before the crucifixion of his bosom friend? This article aims to examine some of the predispositions and causes of denial and recommend ways of handling them in our Christian pilgrimage.

Apostle Simon Peter, who was called with his brother Andrew by Jesus, was one of His three closest apostles among the twelve He called. In my opinion, he was Jesus’ aide, spokesperson for the twelve, and Chief of Staff during Christ’s earthly ministry. There seemed to be a particular spiritual connectivity between him and Christ when he was spotted. When he was brought to Jesus by his brother Andrew, Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon, son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter).” (John 1:42). From that day till some few hours before the crucifixion, Peter was the Apostle who, per the account of scripture, asked Christ more questions than any single one of them. He equally answered most of the questions Christ posed to them during His teaching services and wasn’t too bothered about getting those responses wrong. Peter was the only one among the twelve to gather the nerves to rebuke Jesus or openly disagree with Him on some issues. At one point, when Christ told them about His pending death, “Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. “Never, Lord!” he said. “This shall never happen to you!” (Matthew 16:22). At this, Jesus turned to him and said, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God but merely human concerns.” (Matthew 16:23).

Just before this counter rebuke by Christ, Peter was the only one amongst the twelve who got the revelation of the Messianic nature of Christ correct. Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven.” (Matthew 16:17). The occasional banter and free flow of expression with clear motives instead became a catalyst of the bond of love that was brewing between them. Unlike most human relationships characterized by antagonism and suspicions in the slightest disagreement, the love between Peter and Christ, I would say, increased with increasing divergent views on specific pertinent issues. Indeed, Peter was equally the only one who could gather the strength to ask Christ about their welfare and pension package for following Him. Not many employers or human resource managers can contain and entertain such sensitive discussions publicly. He asked his boss, Christ, “We have left everything to follow you! What then will there be for us?” (Matthew 19:27). The Lord’s reply to this question by Peter settled matters that were probably bothering and disturbing the minds of possibly many of the apostles who had become Christ’ followers.

Meanwhile, the time Peter brought this matter for discussion was after Jesus had aggressively rebuked him for trying to resist His death. Any other person would have coiled back into their shells for fear of further embarrassment for speaking up during their caucus meetings. Yet Christ’s response to their emoluments still resounds today in the ears and hearts of both the laity and those called into full-time ministry and even all workers in the Lord’s vineyard business. A special tribute must be paid to the late Apostle Simon Peter by all workers in the Lord’s vineyard business for asking for clarification on their staff welfare and retirement package. I think this is why many would never bother to put on red armbands to fight their human employers because the package, as elaborated by Jesus, was juicier and far beyond their expectations. To the twelve apostles, Jesus answered Peter, saying, “Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And for all other subsequent followers of Christ, including you and I, Jesus continued, “And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.” (Matthew 19:28-29).

That could have also accounted for why Christ didn’t witness any upheavals or agitations by His followers regarding their retirement package. Indefatigable Peter was equally the one who stood up and assured the Lord when some followers started leaving Jesus that they (i.e., the twelve) had nowhere going, so He should relax. On the question of whether they were also going to leave Him, Peter said, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.” (John 6:68-69). Let us, therefore, countenance divergent opinions at times, especially from those who may appear assertive within the household, marketplace, or church settings. They may not mean any malice, and like Peter, their usefulness usually outlives their generation.

Unfortunately, the storms of this life started blowing somewhat hard against this beautiful relationship between Jesus and Peter during the former’s last few days on Earth. A few hours before He was arrested, the Lord took the apostles to the Mount of Olives to pray for strength since He knew what would happen to Him and which would affect them. He selected Peter, James, and John, who could be best described as His inner core, and charged them to wait with Him in prayer after they moved a little farther away from the rest. He told them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” (Matthew 26:38). The Lord, at this point, expected at least all three of them, even if not His entire team to share in His pain and anguish. To request a trusted friend to keep watch with you is asking them to offer their uttermost attention, care, support, and concern in a difficult moment. At Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives, what Jesus required from the three was explicitly to support Him with prayers as He prayed.

However, when He watched their direction after an hour elapsed, He realized all three of them were asleep. Wow! One would have thought that two out of the three or even one, say Peter or His beloved John, would be there for Him. Yet, when He sought fellowship and inspiration from them, He had none. “Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. (Matthew 26:40). For three consecutive times, the three could still get sleep for their eyes when their Master was crying in pain. Had they all plotted to show the Messiah a bitter lesson? Obviously No! They did not conspire against Jesus. “When he came back, he again found them sleeping because their eyes were heavy.”

One wonders how sleepy or heavy eyes became so infectious to all three simultaneously, even after Jesus’ intermittent reminders to them hourly. After the third time, Jesus asked them in verse 45, “Are you still sleeping and resting? In all of these, the Lord never took those unpardonable weaknesses they exhibited personal by severing their relationship with Him. The Christian walk is full of such occurrences and surprises from people we least expect to desert us in times when they are needed most. They may be genuinely tired or spiritually dozing off due to their strength levels against the challenges. Now, what probably broke the Camel’s back after He descended from Gethsemane was when all the disciples this time around deserted Him and fled for their lives. “Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.” (Matthew 26:56b).

The Lord, in all of this, did not cut ties with His disciples because He knew He would still need them in those crucial moments and more especially after His resurrection. People who desert us and our brand when we need them most must not be perceived as opponents because they would still be helpful after the mist has rolled away.

After His en-bloc desertion and monumental betrayal by Apostle Judas, the Lord underwent another painful denial; the world may not witness its kind until the end. It happened by the fireside, with the culprit being no other than His own Apostle Peter. Did all of this happen around the same time? Of course, yes! These were all unfolding within a matter of hours, if not minutes. The world was getting darker until noon when utter darkness covered the world for three hours. For three consecutive times running, Peter said he did not know who Jesus was when he was being interrogated. To clear all doubts about what he was saying, “He began to call down curses, and he swore to them, “I don’t know this man you’re talking about.” (Mark 12:71). Wow! This passes as the Greatest of all Time (G.O.A.T) Denial by a man born of a woman. And like the Monumental betrayal by Apostle Judas, this was also meted out to Christ for our sake.

At the time of this record-breaking denial, Jesus knew Peter was the one He would entrust the flock to His care after resurrecting and before ascending to His Father’s Kingdom. What would have been your reaction if you were Christ and, just after the news of your resurrection, you saw Peter also running towards your tomb to verify things for himself? For some, that would have been the end of their relationship. Others would have confronted and embarrassed him with name callings such as “hypocrite, liar, a snake under grass, greedy bastard, wicked Apostle, etc. Jesus, however, confronted Peter’s gargantuan denial with an immeasurable amount of Love at their next meeting. No wonder Peter had no option but to offer his best for Christ when he got the needed implements after the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

It is worth noting that whereas John the Baptist literally denied his successor by the question he sent his disciples to ask Jesus, Peter also denied his predecessor. The former did it out of offense with a question, and the latter with an answer out of fear. (Luke 7:22). Jesus, therefore, became a victim of hurtful denials by the one who introduced him to public ministry and the other who bid Him farewell before His ascension to Heaven. In all this, He kept His focus and brought His task to a victorious and glorious end. Believers must understand the bitter truth that all manner of denials and betrayals from unsuspecting personalities aren’t unusual in our pilgrimage. Here again, it should not be taken too personal because the reason for the denial may be borne out of fear and not malice or wickedness. (Matthew 26:75).

Those who desert, betray, and deny their comrades when needed most are those who lack spiritual strength or have energies already used up. When the Lord called the disciples for a prayer session at Gethsemane, they went and dozed off. Knowing what lay ahead of Peter, He warned him on the mountain before they descended to watch and pray; otherwise, he entered into temptation. No wonder Peter’s abysmal performance before little girls when the going was getting tough. He was even lucky that the Lord had already prayed for his preservation since Satan wanted to sift him as wheat. (Luke 22:31-32). Let us keep a quality devotional life as Christians to keep us from deserting, disappointing, betraying, and denying fellow believers who desperately rely on us in their dark moments of pain and trials.

From the above, it would be realized that the only tried and tested antidote to denial and its effects is the expression of God’s Love. It neutralizes the venom responsible for breaking apart relationships and binds the parties together. The Apostle who swore before Little Girls to have nothing to do with Christ was the same person who proclaimed before Men that he would rather obey God than them. (Acts 5:29). Stay blessed.

Written by Pastor James Agyin

INTRODUCTION

The Passover Feast and Easter Celebration are two of the most significant celebrations cherished by Judaism and Christian traditions, respectively. These celebrations may appear distinct from one another but are deeply connected through various shared themes. The Passover Feast, as recorded in Exodus 12, commemorating the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt, serves as a foundational event in Jewish history and faith. Similarly, Easter, celebrating the trial, crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, serves as the foundation of Christianity and is central to our Christian beliefs and practices. In this article, we will explore the parallels between the Passover Feast and the Easter Celebration, drawing out the typologies that exist between them to draw some lessons for contemporary Christians.

HISTORICAL ORIGIN OF THE PASSOVER AND EASTER CELEBRATIONS

The idea of typology has to do with New Testament indications of patterns and people in the Old Testament, who were, in a sense, created to serve as pre-figured shapes of what Christ would do. To understand the typology between the Passover Feast and Easter Celebration, it is important to first understand the historical events that these celebrations commemorate. The Passover Feast originated from the story of the Exodus of the nation of Israel, as described in the Book of Exodus. According to the biblical account, the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt under the rule of Pharaoh, who oppressed and mistreated them. In response to their cries for deliverance, God raised Moses as a leader to lead the Israelites out of bondage and into freedom. Through a series of miraculous plagues and events, including the Passover Sacrifice, the Israelites were ultimately liberated from slavery and began their journey to the Promised Land.

Similarly, Easter commemorates the crucifixion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ; it reminds Christians of the vicarious death of Christ, that is, the agony and disgrace Christ had to go through. Jesus was crucified by the Romans as a criminal, but three days later, he rose from the dead, conquering sin and death and offering salvation to all who believe in him. The Easter celebration marks the culmination of Jesus’ life and ministry, emphasising his sacrificial death as atonement for the sins of humanity and his victorious resurrection as a sign of new life and hope.

THE TYPOLOGY BETWEEN THE PASSOVER FEAST AND EASTER CELEBRATION

The Passover Feast in the Jewish tradition serves as a typology, or foreshadowing, of the Easter celebration in Christianity. Both celebrations share several themes and symbols that connect them in a meaningful way:

1. TYPOLOGY OF LIBERATION AND REDEMPTION

One of the key typologies between the Passover Feast and Easter Celebration is the theme of liberation and redemption. In the Passover story, the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt, held captive by Pharaoh’s tyranny and oppression. Through the intervention of God, they were set free from bondage and led to freedom in the wilderness. The Passover Feast serves as a symbolic remembrance of this liberation, with the retelling of the Exodus story, the eating of unleavened bread, and the sacrificial lamb pointing to the deliverance and redemption that God provided for his people.

Similarly, in the Easter story, Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection represent the ultimate act of liberation and redemption for humanity. C.H. Spurgeon once said, “the heart of the gospel is redemption, and the essence of redemption is the substitutionary sacrifice of Christ”. By dying on the cross, Jesus paid the price for sin and broke the power of death, offering salvation and forgiveness to all who believe in him. His resurrection symbolises new life and victory over sin and death, demonstrating God’s power to redeem and restore broken lives. The Easter Celebration serves as a reminder of this redemption, with the symbols of the cross, the empty tomb, and the resurrection pointing to the transformative work of Christ in the lives of believers.

2.  SACRIFICE AND ATONEMENT

Another typology between the Passover Feast and Easter Celebration is the theme of sacrifice and atonement. In the Passover story, the sacrificial lamb plays a central role in the redemption of the Israelites. According to God’s instructions, each household was to select a perfect lamb, slaughter it, and place its blood on the doorposts of their homes. When the Angel of Death passed over Egypt, he spared the houses marked with the blood of the lamb but visited judgment on the rest. The sacrificial lamb thus served as a substitute for the firstborn sons of Israel, offering protection and deliverance from death.

In the Easter story, Jesus is portrayed as the sacrificial Lamb of God, whose death atones for the sins of humanity. As the perfect and sinless Son of God, Jesus willingly offered himself as a sacrifice on the cross, shedding his blood for the forgiveness of sins. His death is seen as the ultimate act of atonement, reconciling humanity with God and paving the way for salvation and eternal life. The Easter Celebration commemorates this sacrifice, with the symbols of the cross, the blood, and the bread and wine in the Eucharist representing the body and blood of Christ given for the redemption of all.

3. NEW LIFE AND RESURRECTION

Another typology is the theme of new life and resurrection. In the Passover story, the Israelites experienced a new beginning as they were led out of slavery into freedom. Their journey through the wilderness was a time of testing, purification, renewal, and transformation. The Passover Feast marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Israel as they prepare to enter the Promised Land and fulfil God’s covenant with them.

Jesus’ resurrection in the Easter celebration signifies a new beginning for humanity, as believers are reconciled with God and given the promise of eternal life. By rising from the dead, Jesus demonstrated his power over sin and death, offering the hope of resurrection to all who believe in him. The Easter Celebration proclaims the victory of Christ over the grave, with believers participating in his resurrection through faith and baptism. According to Romans 6:4 NIV,

“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”

LESSONS FOR TODAY’S CHURCH

I want to conclude by providing some lessons from these typologies for today’s believers. Christians must not view Easter as just an annual celebration that comes and goes. Instead, it calls for constant reflection on the freedom and new life Christ’s death and resurrection brought mankind. The believer must live their lives in a way that truly reflects the newness of life in Christ.

Also, Jesus’ willingness to lay down his life for the salvation of humanity, demonstrating the ultimate act of self-sacrifice motivated by love, is worth emulating by all. This must challenge all Christians to prioritise serving others, putting the needs of others above their own, and embodying a spirit of humility and generosity in their interaction with others.

In conclusion, we learn of the power of forgiveness and reconciliation. Through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, Jesus provided a means for all people to be forgiven and reconciled back to God. This must serve as a reminder for Christians to extend forgiveness and reconciliation to others, following Jesus ‘example of unconditional love and mercy. As we observe the Easter Celebration, may we be reminded of the timeless truths of God’s love, mercy, and grace, and may we experience the power of redemption and resurrection in our own lives.

Written by Pastor Prince Augustine Ababio (Jema Nkwanta District- Kintampo Area)