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The day of Pentecost, as recounted in the Book of Acts, marks a pivotal moment in Christian history. On this day, the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, empowering them to spread the Gospel with fervour and miraculous signs. This event is not merely a historical occurrence; it represents a profound spiritual reality that continues to resonate within the hearts of believers today. The Pentecost is born in us, renewing and transforming our lives through the power of the Holy Spirit.

THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

The Old Testament is filled with examples of the Holy Spirit’s work, including how the Spirit empowers leaders, engages in creation, and inspires prophets. Joel 2:28–29, for example, contains prophecies of a greater outpouring of the Spirit that were realised at Pentecost. By showing the continuity of the Spirit’s purpose from creation to the New Covenant, our understanding of the Old Testament work of the Spirit enhances our appreciation of God’s redemptive plan.

THE PRESENCE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN OUR LIVES

The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is a transformative experience. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, the Holy Spirit comes to reside within us, bringing about a new birth. This is the essence of being “born again” (John 3:3-6). The Spirit renews our hearts, convicts us of sin, and leads us into all truth (John 16:8-13).

Galatians 5:22-23 outlines the fruit of the Spirit, characteristics that become evident in the lives of those who walk by the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities reflect the nature of Christ and are cultivated in us as we yield to the Spirit’s work.

EVIDENCE OF PENTECOST BORN IN US

The manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit in the life of a believer is one unmistakable sign that Pentecost was born in us. The outward manifestation of the Holy Spirit’s indwelling in us results in attributes that are consistent with God’s nature. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control,” according to Galatians 5:22–23. There is no law against such acts.

These qualities reveal a deep inner metamorphosis that permeates our behaviors, mindsets, and interpersonal interactions. Joy is no longer dependent on conditions, love becomes unconditional, and peace transcends comprehension. While self-control, gentleness, and faithfulness guide our behavior, others benefit from our patience, kindness, and goodness. These fruits demonstrate in concrete terms that Pentecost—the indwelling of the Holy Spirit—is a genuine event that occurs within us and continuously renews and directs our Christian journey.

THE PROMISE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Before His ascension, Jesus promised His disciples that they would receive the Holy Spirit. In John 14:16-17, He said, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth.” This promise was fulfilled on Pentecost, as described in Acts 2:1-4, when the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples with the sound of a mighty rushing wind and tongues of fire, enabling them to speak in different languages.

This outpouring was not limited to the apostles but is available to all who believe in Jesus Christ. As Peter declared in his sermon on that day, “The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call” (Acts 2:39). The same Holy Spirit who empowered the early church is at work in us today, guiding, teaching, and strengthening us.

LIVING IN THE POWER OF PENTECOST

To live in the power of Pentecost means to cultivate an ongoing relationship with the Holy Spirit. This involves regular prayer, immersing ourselves in Scripture, and being attentive to the Spirit’s leading. Ephesians 5:18 exhorts us to be filled with the Spirit, suggesting a continual process of seeking and being renewed by the Holy Spirit.

Moreover, it calls for a life of obedience and surrender. Romans 8:14 tells us, “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” As we submit to the Spirit’s guidance, we experience greater intimacy with God and effectiveness in our Christian walk.

THE ROLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN INDIVIDUAL TRANSFORMATION

As believers are sanctified and transformed into the likeness of Christ, the Holy Spirit is essential to this process. The Spirit works within us to promote spiritual maturity as we gaze at the splendor of the Lord. Through constant conviction of sin, mental regeneration, and the development of Christlike characteristics, believers are able to live triumphant, virtuous lives as a result of this transformation (2 Corinthians 3:18).

THE HOLY SPIRIT AND COMMUNITY LIFE

Within the body of Christ, the Holy Spirit fosters community and unity, encouraging believers to support one another and have communion with one another. The Spirit empowers every member for the church’s edifying through the distribution of spiritual gifts. This kind of group empowerment strengthens church-wide worship, service, and mission, keeping the church a dynamic, coherent body that serves as a powerful global witness (Ephesians 4:13).

EMPOWERMENT FOR MINISTRY

The Holy Spirit not only transforms us inwardly but also equips us for service. Just as the apostles were empowered to proclaim the Gospel boldly, we too are given gifts and strength for ministry. 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 describes the variety of spiritual gifts distributed by the Spirit for the common good, including wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miraculous powers, prophecy, discernment, speaking in tongues, and interpretation of tongues.

These gifts are given to build up the body of Christ and to witness to the world. The Pentecost experience compels us to move beyond our comfort zones, to reach out in love and compassion, and to declare the good news of Jesus Christ with courage and clarity.

CONCLUSION

The Pentecost is not confined to a single event in history but is a living reality in the hearts of believers. The Holy Spirit, who descended upon the early church with power and grace, is the same Spirit who dwells in us today. By embracing this truth, we can experience the transformative and empowering presence of God in our lives. Let us open our hearts to the Holy Spirit, allowing Pentecost to be born anew in us, fueling our faith, empowering our witness, and drawing us closer to our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Written by Deacon Obed Mensah

The dictionary defines truth as a verifiable and indisputable fact. Fact is also something known to have happened or existed, according to the Cambridge Dictionary. Many have paid needlessly with their lives for what they peddled as the truth about themselves or others. Others have weaponized their opponents against them for revealing some facts or truths to their detriment. The ill-advised zeal of “saying it as it must be said” or running amok with some facts they deem the truth has blown away several opportunities for people to make a lasting impact in their households, workplaces, political spheres, and Christian lives. The definition of “truth” even gets more involving per biblical standards since there is someone the Bible calls the Truth. Isn’t the Truth truly true? What are some of the popular lies told about truth? And how does the truth differ from the facts in the light of God’s word? These are some of the questions the article seeks to discuss and recommend ways of achieving intended goals anytime the truth needs to confront any life situation.

Truth is as critical as its presentation, so it’s a lie to think that once you lay your hands on the truth per your estimation, you can run riot with it. Plato once said, “No one is more hated than he who speaks the truth.” So, the presentation of truth needs a certain amount of tact if corporate goals are to be met. A quote attributed to Voltaire says, “Everything you say should be true, but not everything true should be said.”

In John chapter 4, Jesus had an encounter with the Samaritan woman whose relationship or marriage life was nothing to write home about. She virtually hopped from one person’s husband to the other, and when Jesus met her, she was with the sixth man, another woman’s husband (John 4:18). The fact was that she was a certified husband snatcher. However, what do you think would have happened if Jesus started attacking her on that lifestyle of hers? After all, that was the truth. She would have ignored Him or put up very defensive and unwelcoming posturing in their deliberations. She could have also attacked Him with all manner of unprintable words because the Samaritans had no business with the Jews in those days. Presenting the truth misguidedly only amounts to speaking to the fact of a matter and not necessarily speaking the truth.

However, the glorious end of Jesus’ engagement with the woman, who won her community for Christ and became His ambassador, is a lesson for all who are fortunate to discern the truth and have the opportunity to share it to God’s glory. It is a lie that truth can be presented anyhow for desired objectives to be met. Similarly, in the case of Rahab and the two Jewish spies in Joshua chapter 2, it was factual that Rahab hid them in her ceiling against her King’s command, but the truth was that God had given their land to Israel. It was, therefore, immaterial for her to stick to the facts or otherwise.

Again, it was an undeniable fact that the two Hebrew midwives in Exodus 1:19-22 allowed the Israeli male borns to live against the orders they received from King Pharaoh. However, the truth was that God detests the termination of human lives. Therefore, the response they chose to give Pharaoh for disobeying his wicked orders was also immaterial at the time. God was their ultimate, and so must He be to all who have decided to campaign for nothing but the truth.

When you obey man’s laws at the expense of God, you have not necessarily been truthful. You have disobeyed God because He is the standard and measure of truth. God is the custodian of the word “truth” because Jesus did not only say He was the way, but He also said He is the Truth. It was also a fact that Jesus healed a blind man, but the truth was that he was not supposed to tell anyone. The truth must, therefore, be presented in the light of God’s word and precepts because He is the truth.

Truth doesn’t derive its strength from one’s convictions. It is, therefore, a lie to think that once your convictions suggest you’re right, you can present your truths anyhow. You may be wrong or can be misled after all by your emotions. Truth is absolute and not necessarily relative, but for believers, it is contingent on God’s word. The yardstick is, therefore, God’s word both in content and by way of its presentation.

Another lie about truth is when people think there’s nothing wrong in breaking confidential news once that is the truth. When you break confidence, you have not spoken the truth but have become a gossip. “The oath of secrecy is the term used for the duty of clergy and church officers not to report, or comment on, facts and events of a confidential nature that they have come to know in the exercise of their office.” In Mark 9:9-10, Jesus warned His disciples not to tell anyone about the transfiguration until He had risen from the dead. Was it not true that He was transfigured at the full glare of Peter, James, and John? It was. But why would Almighty Jesus decide to manage information like He did when on planet Earth?

There’s a very sound logic as to why we must not haphazardly tell people our plans, visions, and dreams due to the hatred and jealousy they usually stir in the hearts of weak minds and callous hearts. Joseph fully disclosed his dreams as a growing young man to his family members, but the more he told them those truths, the more they hated him. But for God’s intervention through Judah, he would have been slaughtered like a fowl by his brothers (Genesis 37:2-5). Of the seventeen people in Jacob’s household, only Jacob and his wife could contain the exciting truths in Joseph’s dreams. That works to just a little over 11% of the household population. Therefore, presenting the truth still requires a certain amount of circumspection, which has nothing to do with peddling falsehood. The Holy Book has many lessons for those who share their dreams and visions anyhow and anywhere without circumspection because they want to be truthful. Some will sound encouraging and supportive when personal dreams are shared. But others would thwart consciously or unconsciously the fulfillment of such dreams.

The devil is so limited in power when compared to God to the extent that he often takes his clues for launching attacks from our shared dreams or careless talk. The devil engaged Eve in the Garden of Eden for a conversation, and when Eve chose the full disclosure path, they were enticed to sin against God. Eve, therefore, didn’t have any business or courtesies to answer the questions the serpent first asked, let alone entertain more interaction with the devil (Genesis 3:1-5). In Proverbs 17:27-28, a fool is even mistaken to be wise if he keeps silent. Esther in the Citadel of Susa could also have revealed her true identity as a Jew during the early stages of the pageantry. After all, that was the truth. However, her cousin Mordecai had warned her never to disclose it at the time. She wholeheartedly obeyed Mordecai, so it was not too consequential her responses to questions regarding her nationality. As long as she concealed her Jewish identity, the best for her and God’s will for her life (Esther 2:10, 19-20). In a letter to Francois-Joachim de Pierre, Cardinal de Bernis on April 23, 1764, Voltaire said, “There are truths which are not for all men, nor for all times.”

One other myth about truth is that everyone dislikes it and will, therefore, do everything to stifle it. King Herod still liked John the Baptist, although he boldly told him the truth he didn’t want to hear (Mark 6:20). Although some, for want of their interest, may appear allergic and fight it, their instincts, conscience, and inner being secretly admire the truth. Ironically and contrary to popular beliefs, the Bible says in Proverbs 16:13 that kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value a man who speaks the truth. This means, for want of their selfish desires, they may not necessarily like you because of your truthful stands; they will, however, give you your value.

Before attacking Ramoth Gilead, 400 prophets in Israel had all prophesied victory for King Ahab and Israel. Yet Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, who had visited the King then, was still unconvinced and wanted more spiritual consultations. Ahab sent for Micaiah, who initially did not want to hear his prophecy since he didn’t believe he was going to say anything his itching ear wanted to hear. Jehoshaphat insisted it would be good to listen to him as well. It is, therefore, a lie that people always do not want to have anything to do with the truth.

“When he arrived, the king asked him, ‘Micaiah, shall we go to war against Ramoth Gilead or not?’ ‘Attack and be victorious,’ he answered, ‘for the LORD will give it into the king’s hand.’ The king said to him, ‘How many times must I make you swear to tell me nothing but the truth in the name of the LORD?’ Then Micaiah answered, ‘I saw all Israel scattered on the hills like sheep without a shepherd, and the LORD said, ‘These people have no master. Let each one go home in peace.’” (1 Kings 22:15-17). From the above text, in that spiritually intimidating presence of 400 prophets singing the same chorus, Micaiah initially tested King Ahab by affirming what the other prophets had already told him. However, as powerful and attractive as the truth always stands, the King is unconvinced but pleads with Micaiah to say to him nothing but the truth. At this, Micaiah told him the truth and the fallout of the pending war, which was not in the King’s favor. Although Ahab insisted on fighting that battle, every word Micaiah spoke came to pass, and the King of Israel died in that battle. Even though many may not have the wherewithal to accept the truth, they would still want to hear it anyway. The truth is presented to the glory of God and for the betterment of society and not just for the sake of presenting facts. To speak the truth as a believer, get the facts correct, mirror them in the light of God’s word, and present them without any intent to deceive anyone. It can, therefore, be safely concluded that truth is absolute to the extent of God’s word because Jesus is the Truth.

Stay blessed.

Written by Apostle James Orhin Agyin

“God may lay His workers to rest. His mission perseveres.” A pressing plea for mentorship within the Christian community.

The renowned words of Charles Wesley, “God buries His workmen, but His work goes on,” serve as a reflection on the enduring legacy of God’s mission despite the lifespan of His servants. This belief echoes throughout narratives emphasizing the role of intentional mentorship in present-day Christianity.

The Bible offers accounts of mentorship and the seamless continuation of God’s purpose across generations. A prime example is seen in the bond between Moses and Joshua. Recognizing the significance of grooming a successor, Moses, esteemed leader of Israel, passed on his wisdom to Joshua. In Deuteronomy 34:9, it is recorded: “Now Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him. So the Israelites listened to him and followed what the Lord had commanded Moses.”

This deliberate act of mentorship ensured that Israel’s leadership and spiritual guidance remained steadfast after Moses’ passing. Joshua seamlessly carried out God’s work initiated by Moses with fervor and commitment. This continuity stands as a testament to the power and impact of mentorship.

THE ULTIMATE MODEL

Jesus Christ Himself provides the ultimate model for mentorship. His earthly ministry was marked by intentional investment in His disciples. He taught them, lived with them, and prepared them for the mission ahead. In John 14:12, Jesus assures His followers, “Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.”

Jesus’ strategic and intimate mentorship enabled the disciples to carry forth His mission after His ascension. The Acts of the Apostles vividly demonstrate how the early church grew and flourished through the work of these mentored leaders, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

A MENTORSHIP EXAMPLE

Paul’s relationship with Timothy further exemplifies intentional mentorship. Paul saw potential in Timothy and took him under his wing, providing guidance and encouragement. In 2 Timothy 2:2, Paul instructs Timothy, “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”

This directive highlights a critical element of mentorship: the multiplication of capable leaders. Paul understood that the strength of the Christian mission depended on the continuous development of new leaders who could teach and mentor others, ensuring the perpetuation of the gospel.

One may think that the issue of mentorship only happened in the Bible and ceased there, while others may think it only happens in the business or career world. This is not the case. Mentorship is very present in the Christian world, particularly in The Church of Pentecost. For this article, I made the deliberate effort of getting some mentorship stories of great names in the church as evidence.

MENTORSHIP EXAMPLES IN THE CHURCH OF PENTECOST

In the annals of The Church of Pentecost, several prominent figures have been mentored and subsequently played pivotal roles in the church and God’s kingdom. Among them, Prophet Jonathan Edmund Ameyaw stands out as a significant figure who was called into full-time ministry in 1976 at just 26 years old. At the time, he was based in Nkawkaw but was soon invited to Koforidua by the third Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Prophet Martinson Kwadwo Yeboah, who was the then Eastern Regional Head.

Prophet Ameyaw recalls his formative years vividly. Upon being identified as a ministerial candidate, he was invited to Koforidua by Prophet Yeboah. This was the first of many visitations before attending Bible school. During this period, he shared a room with Prophet Yeboah on numerous treks, gaining firsthand experience and invaluable insights into the ministry.

Reflecting on his journey, Prophet Ameyaw attributes his spiritual growth and ministerial prowess to the profound influence of Prophet Yeboah. He stated, “My walk with Prophet Yeboah really impacted me mightily. I picked up his prayer life, his way of studying the Bible, and his complete understanding of scripture. His manner of speaking and his approach to handling people were exemplary.” Prophet Ameyaw’s admiration for his mentor was such that he prayed for a double portion of Yeboah’s mantle, a blessing he believes he received following Prophet Yeboah’s prayer for him before his passing.

The impact of Prophet Yeboah on Prophet Ameyaw was so profound that people often remarked on the similarities in their actions. This underscores the critical importance of mentorship within the church.

Prophet J.E. Ameyaw also mentioned the late Apostle Abraham Tetteh Nartey as another influential figure who profoundly impacted him, instilling in him exemplary leadership skills.

My investigations also led me to speak with Apostle Rigwell Ato Addison (rtd.), a former General Secretary of the Church and now a trustee while in retirement from active service.

According to Apostle Ato Addison (rtd.), one person whom he was privileged to have as a mentor was the founder of The Church of Pentecost, Pastor James McKeown.

He explained that due to the relationship between Pastor McKeown and his family, the late founder of the church used to frequently visit their house. Whenever he did, he spoke on leadership and service.

Apostle Addison (rtd.) further revealed that the proper mentorship began in 1973, when Pastor James McKeown, without prior notice, gave him the opportunity to minister in the United Kingdom at a very big Billy Graham conference. He added that despite working as an accountant and not initially aspiring to go into ministry, Pastor McKeown saw potential in him and deliberately mentored him closely.

Not only did Pastor McKeown mentor him in ministry, but the mentorship even covered his marriage life and the kind of woman he would marry.

Apart from Pastor McKeown, Apostle A.B. Nartey and Prophet Yeboah were some of the great men Apostle Addison (rtd.) mentioned as mentors.

Speaking on the importance of mentorship, especially in ministry, Apostle Addison said, “If these people had not helped, the practical aspects of ministry would have been difficult. Even if you go to Bible school, you still need mentorship for the practical aspect of ministry.”

These experiences highlight the necessity for the current generation to humble themselves and seek guidance from established leaders.

For effective continuity, leaders must remain approachable and refrain from intimidating postures that scare the younger generations from approaching them. By doing so, they will ensure that these young leaders are well-prepared to carry the mantle and advance the mission of the church into the future.

AN URGENT CALL FOR CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN LEADERS

In our contemporary context, the call for intentional mentorship is more urgent than ever. Leaders today must recognize that their influence and leadership will eventually pass on. Therefore, investing in the next generation is not just beneficial but essential for the sustainability of the Christian mission. Modern church leaders face unique challenges, such as navigating diverse cultural contexts and managing time constraints. Addressing these challenges with practical strategies can make mentorship more effective.

Proverbs 27:17 states, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” This proverb enfolds the essence of mentorship: mutual growth and strengthening through intentional relationships. Contemporary leaders are called to identify, nurture, and equip emerging leaders to ensure that God’s work continues unabated.

PRACTICAL STEPS FOR INTENTIONAL MENTORSHIP

From the experiences shared, I was able to gather some practical steps through which intentional mentorship can be established:

• Identify Potential Leaders
• Build Relationships
• Provide Opportunities
• Teach and Model
• Encourage and Correct
• Pray and Empower

“God buries His workmen, but His work goes on.” This truth should inspire contemporary Christian leaders to embrace the mantle of mentorship with intentionality and vigor. By investing in the next generation, we ensure that the work of God not only continues but flourishes. As we mentor others, we follow in the footsteps of Moses, Jesus, Paul, and countless others who understood that God’s mission is far greater than any one individual. Through intentional mentorship, we contribute to a legacy of faithfulness that will endure until Christ returns.

Written by Benjamin Mwinbeogre Zii (Photographic Officer – The Church of Pentecost)

As a young religious boy born into the church, I was made to believe that it is only Satan and demons who can possess human beings and the environment. Such statements like, “You’re possessed by the devil,” or “You are demon-possessed” were common, especially during our prayer meetings. As I grew in the Lord, I realised that the Holy Ghost and the Church can also possess the environment, including Satan and his agents. This profound truth is rooted in the Great Commission given to us by Jesus Christ.

The Holy Spirit’s indwelling presence transforms believers, empowering us to be agents of divine change. This realisation reshaped my perspective on spiritual possession. Rather than viewing ourselves as vulnerable to demonic influence, we should recognise our calling to be vessels of the Holy Spirit, spreading His influence across every facet of society.

In Matthew 28:18-19, Jesus declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” Similarly, in Mark 16:15-17, He commands, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptised will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name, they will drive out demons and speak in new tongues.”

These scriptures emphasise the authority and power bestowed upon believers. As followers of Christ filled with the Holy Spirit, we are called to go out and possess the nations, the systems, the earth, and everything in it, including demons, principalities, powers, thrones, and dominions. Our mission is to transform the world by making Jesus the centre of its system.

When we go out as people filled with the Holy Spirit, we carry the essence of God’s kingdom. We are not just ordinary individuals; we are ambassadors of Christ, empowered to bring His light into the earth’s darkest corners. The church is not a passive entity but a dynamic force capable of influencing and transforming every aspect of society.

In the presence of the church, Satan’s power is rendered ineffective. With the church in existence, Satan should have no authority to possess any soul or the environment; it should be the other way around. The church should instead possess Satan himself. This is not a mere metaphor but a spiritual reality. As we walk in the power of the Holy Spirit, we have the authority to bind and cast out demons, reclaim territories for the kingdom of God, and transform individuals and communities.

The notion of possessing the nations is not about dominance or control in a worldly sense. It is about permeating every sphere of influence with the love, grace, and truth of Jesus Christ. It is about being salt and light, bringing hope to the hopeless, and standing as a testament to the power of the gospel. As believers, we are called to be transformational agents, impacting the world around us with the values and principles of God’s kingdom.

The Holy Spirit’s power is not limited to the personal transformation of believers but extends to the transformation of societies and environments. We become conduits of God’s will on earth when we acknowledge and embrace this power. This is not a passive role but an active engagement with the world around us, confronting and overcoming darkness with the light of Christ.

Practically, this means engaging in our communities, workplaces, and societies from a kingdom mindset. It means living out our faith authentically and serving as a witness to the transformative power of Christ in our lives. It means praying for our leaders, advocating for justice, and serving those in need. It means confronting the forces of darkness with our authority in Christ and declaring His lordship over every situation.

Let us swallow up the devil by making Jesus the centre of the world’s system. Let us be intentional in our efforts to possess the nations, knowing that we are not alone. The Holy Spirit is with us, empowering us to fulfil the Great Commission. As we step out in faith, remember that we are part of a more significant movement, the body of Christ, working together to bring God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.

In conclusion, as we grow in our understanding of our divine mandate, let us be bold in our pursuit of possessing the nations. Let us walk in the authority given to us by Jesus Christ, knowing that we are equipped to drive out demons, heal the sick, and proclaim the good news of the kingdom. The church is not a passive observer but actively involved in God’s redemptive plan for humanity. Let us rise to the occasion, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and make a lasting impact in our world.

By Pastor Fred Amoakohene Sarpong (Resident Minister, Prophet M. K. Yeboah Worship Centre, Kasoa Area)

Excellence, as a concept, transcends mere achievement or success; it is the pinnacle of human potential and virtue. The Bible provides a profound narrative of excellence through its depiction of God and the lives of His faithful servants. By examining the stories of Daniel, Joseph, and Ruth, we see a divine pattern that calls us to pursue excellence in all aspects of our lives.

GOD: THE PARAGON OF EXCELLENCE

From the creation of the universe to His intricate plans for humanity, God exemplifies excellence. The Bible begins with a depiction of God’s creative prowess, stating, “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good” (Genesis 1:31, NIV). This declaration sets a precedent for excellence, indicating that everything God undertakes is marked by quality, purpose, and perfection.

In the Psalms, David reflects on God’s works, proclaiming, “The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy. They are established forever and ever, enacted in faithfulness and uprightness” (Psalm 111:7-8, NIV). God’s excellence is not just in His actions but also in His character. His faithfulness, justice, and righteousness serve as the ultimate standard for humanity.

THE CALL TO HUMAN EXCELLENCE

God’s embodiment of excellence serves as an invitation for humans to strive towards the same. The lives of biblical figures such as Daniel, Joseph, and Ruth provide vivid illustrations of this pursuit.

DANIEL: EXCELLENCE IN INTEGRITY AND WISDOM

Daniel’s life is a testament to the pursuit of excellence through unwavering integrity and wisdom. Despite being in exile in Babylon, Daniel distinguished himself by his exceptional qualities. “Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and the satraps by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom” (Daniel 6:3, NIV).

Daniel’s commitment to prayer and adherence to God’s laws, even in the face of persecution, highlights his integrity. His wisdom and excellence were recognized by the Babylonian kings, leading to his rise in a foreign land. Daniel’s story demonstrates that excellence involves not only skill and intelligence but also moral integrity and faithfulness to God.

JOSEPH: EXCELLENCE THROUGH ADVERSITY

Joseph’s journey from slavery to rulership in Egypt underscores the power of excellence amid adversity. Betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery, Joseph’s life was fraught with challenges. However, his unwavering faith in God and his consistent demonstration of excellence in his duties led to his rise. “The LORD was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master” (Genesis 39:2, NIV).

Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams and his exceptional administrative skills eventually earned him a position of great power. His story reveals that excellence involves resilience, perseverance, and steadfast trust in God’s plan.

RUTH: EXCELLENCE IN LOYALTY AND DEVOTION

Ruth’s story is one of devotion and loyalty, both to her family and to God. After the death of her husband, Ruth chose to stay with her mother-in-law Naomi, uttering the famous words, “Where you go, I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16, NIV).

Ruth’s excellence is seen in her hard work and loyalty, as she gleaned in the fields to support Naomi. Her character and dedication eventually led to her marriage to Boaz and her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus Christ. Ruth’s life illustrates that excellence is found in steadfast devotion, humility, and love.

THE PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE TODAY

The lives of Daniel, Joseph, and Ruth provide powerful examples of how excellence can manifest in various forms—wisdom, integrity, resilience, loyalty, and devotion. As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate these qualities in our own lives. The Apostle Paul urges believers to strive for excellence, saying, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters” (Colossians 3:23, NIV).

In every endeavour, whether personal, professional, or spiritual, we are to pursue excellence as a reflection of God’s nature. This pursuit is not about achieving perfection but about honouring God through our efforts and character. By doing so, we not only fulfil our potential but also serve as a testament to God’s greatness.

In conclusion, God is the ultimate embodiment of excellence, and His example calls us to strive for the highest standards in all aspects of our lives. Through the stories of Daniel, Joseph, and Ruth, we see that this pursuit is marked by integrity, wisdom, resilience, and devotion. As we seek to honour God through excellence, we become living testimonies of His glory and grace.

Written by Elder Dr. Bismark Owusu-Sekyere Adu (Senior Lecturer and Head of Institute of Leadership and Governance, Pentecost University)

In a world that constantly shifts its values and norms, the youth of today face an array of challenges and opportunities. As young people, we are bombarded with voices telling us who we should be and what we should do. Yet, amid this cacophony, there is one voice that stands above the rest—the voice of the Holy Spirit. Embracing this divine guidance is the key to living a powerful, purposeful life. As we allow ourselves to be led by the Spirit, we can truly become an unleashed force for God’s Kingdom.

THE CALL TO BE LED BY THE SPIRIT

The call to be led by the Holy Spirit is not just for the elderly or the seasoned believer; it is a call for every believer, including the youth. In John 16:13, Jesus promises, “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth.” This promise is as much for you as it is for anyone else. The Holy Spirit is our guide, our helper, and our counselor, and He is ready to lead us into a life of truth and purpose.

In Romans 8:14, Paul emphasises this call by saying, “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.” This verse underscores the importance of being continuously led by the Spirit. It’s not a one-time event but a daily, ongoing journey. As young people, we must make the conscious decision to follow the Holy Spirit’s leading in every aspect of our lives.

LIVING BEYOND RULES: EMBRACING GRACE

One of the greatest obstacles to being led by the Spirit is the tendency to rely on a set of rules or laws to define our righteousness. Many young Christians fall into the trap of legalism, believing that their worthiness is based on their ability to follow religious laws perfectly. However, the Bible teaches us that righteousness is achieved not through the law but through grace.

Ephesians 2:8 reminds us, “For by grace you have been saved through faith.” Grace is a gift from God that we cannot earn through our actions. It is freely given and can only be received through faith. When we embrace God’s grace, we are empowered to live a life free from the bondage of sin. Romans 6:14 affirms, “For sin shall not have dominion over you; for you are not under law but under grace.”

YIELDING TO THE HOLY SPIRIT

Yielding to the Holy Spirit means surrendering our own efforts and trusting in His guidance. It’s about coming to the end of our own strength and saying, “Holy Spirit, take over. I cannot handle this situation, but You can.” This does not mean that we abandon our willpower, but rather we use our willpower to trust the Holy Spirit rather than relying on our own strength.

As young people, we often believe we can solve our problems on our own. Our independence and self-reliance can become barriers to truly yielding to the Holy Spirit. Yet, it is in our surrender that we find true strength and direction. By allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us, we open ourselves to divine solutions that we could never conceive on our own.

THE VINE AND THE BRANCHES

Jesus beautifully illustrates our relationship with Him in John 15:1-5, where He compares Himself to the vine and us to the branches. He says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” This passage highlights the importance of staying connected to Jesus through the Holy Spirit. Just as branches cannot bear fruit on their own, we cannot achieve true success or fulfillment without abiding in Him.

Pruning is also a crucial part of this process. Sometimes, the struggles and challenges we face are God’s way of pruning us, cutting away the dead parts so that we can bear even more fruit. Though the process may be painful, it is necessary for our growth and maturity. Trust in the Vinedresser, and yield to His pruning, knowing that it is for your ultimate good.

CHOOSING THE GUIDE OVER THE MAP

Imagine being given a choice between a detailed map and a personal guide to navigate an unknown territory. While the map provides information, it is the guide who knows the terrain intimately and can lead you safely. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is our Guide, and we must choose to follow Him over relying solely on our own understanding or a set of rules.

In life, we often find ourselves in situations where our knowledge is insufficient. It is in these moments that we must turn to the Holy Spirit for guidance. He knows the way, and He has a perfect plan for our lives. Trusting Him means letting go of our desire to control and allowing Him to lead us step by step.

THE BRIDE WHO TRUSTED HER GUIDE

The story of Abraham’s servant finding a bride for Isaac in Genesis 24 serves as a powerful analogy. The servant, guided by the Holy Spirit, found Rebekah, who trusted him to lead her to a future she had never seen. This story mirrors our journey as believers. We are the bride of Christ, led by the Holy Spirit to our eternal destination. We may not see the end, but we can trust our Guide.

Just as Rebekah accepted the servant’s gifts as a sign of her new identity, we too must accept the gifts of the Holy Spirit. These gifts mark us as belonging to God and equip us for the journey ahead. Rejecting these gifts means missing out on the fullness of what God has for us.

CONCLUSION

As young people, we have the opportunity to be a powerful force for God’s Kingdom. By being led by the Holy Spirit, we can navigate the complexities of life with divine wisdom and strength. Let us choose to yield to the Spirit, embrace God’s grace, and stay connected to the vine. In doing so, we will bear much fruit and fulfill the incredible destiny God has for each of us.

Take some time today to thank God for His Holy Spirit. Ask Him to lead you, guide you, and empower you to live a life that glorifies Him. Together, we can be an unleashed youth, making a lasting impact for the Kingdom of God.

Written by Elder Martinson T. Yeboah (Den Haag District Youth Ministry Leader, CoP-Netherlands)

Every child needs a mature-minded person around him/her. This is because the kind of surroundings they have shows who they will become in the future.

With this, for a child to be developed, his/her stakeholders should have the capacity to work on their minds.

The reason is that a fool can’t nurture a child to be wise. Parenting is a matter of the garbage in – garbage out principle.

What is the state of your mind? Are you mature enough to live a parental life? Have you considered the impact on your child with your state of mind?

Truthfully, some children are cowards not because of their traits only but due to the kind of minds they have in their environment. Again, some children have become adults who lack the tenacity to make decisions for themselves because of how they were nurtured.

That’s why your mental health is important as a parent. Because of this, work on your thoughts, control how you worry about issues, and personally demonstrate some bold steps toward issues of life.

Sometimes, you may think it is right to shout at your children.

You may think it is the best way to be in charge as a parent by always being bossy in the midst of your children.

You may also think your children don’t have any special say in your decisions. With this, treating them anyhow is your best style of parenting.

The sad thing is, doing any of these and the like shows how unhealthy you are in mind as a parent.

One place where mental illness is dominating is in the world of parenting. The stress, pain, imbalance, depression, agony, and others are contributing factors.

To solve this, that’s why parenting is not and can’t be done in isolation. Don’t be blinded and think that you can be the only stakeholder in your parental life.

Seek professional coaching. Read parental books. Be highly concerned about your mental health as a parent.

Do these because your child(ren) need(s) your maturity as one of his/her basic needs for development.

Written by Elder Tonnie Baffoe (Agona Swedru Area – Schools Outreach Coordinator)

As I sat at the Home and Urban Missions (HUM) Equippers Training for the Ashaiman Sector held on March 23, 2024, at the Pentecost International Worship Centre, Atomic, and listened to one of the leaders share a testimony of how a deaconess in The Church of Pentecost had resolved to leave the church for a new church that had transformed her son, who was a drug addict, the reality of the HUM effect became more visible to me.

Unknown to this deaconess, the church she was prepared to join to transform her son from being a drug addict into a new person is the same church she attends – The Church of Pentecost. She never expected her miracle to come from her own church. Her shock was evident when she realised it was The Church of Pentecost involved in such evangelistic works.

This is the story of the Home and Urban Missions in gathering the “devils” left in the streets, with no one wanting to have anything to do with them, and making them “saints” for the master’s use.

In the church today, we have classified certain groups of people as not welcome for worship because we think they are the worst of sinners and their place is not the church. However, if they are the worst sinners indeed, then the church is truly their best place to be. Yet, we have neglected our duty to go after such ones with the gospel of truth and light, which is able to break the power that has held them captive and restore their souls.

As we try to answer the question of whether such ones are not part of the lost Jesus came to seek and save, The Church of Pentecost, in its “Possessing the Nations” agenda (Vision 2023), brought about the Home and Urban Missions (HUM) in 2019. The coming of HUM was the church’s resolve to cast its net wider than had been done in the past by going after the marginalised in society whom the gospel is often kept from. Aside from HUM, the church has a ministry for persons with disabilities. This simply tells us the church is not only after polished pearls but also the abandoned stones that need the process (love of Jesus) to become polished pearls in His sight.

The focus of HUM over these five years has been on taking the gospel to Unreached People Groups (UPGs). There are currently 19 Unreached People Groups in Ghana. According to the Joshua Project, an Unreached People Group means there is no indigenous community of believing Christians able to engage this people group with church planting. Aside from UPGs are the Unreached Unengaged People Groups (UUPGs), which means there is no church planting strategy, consistent with evangelical faith and practice, underway.

HUM seeks to purposely engage them with the gospel, win and disciple them using their specific languages and cultures. HUM’s mandate does not end with these two groups but also focuses on disillusioned persons in cities and towns, those trapped in slums, and the destitute (head porters – kayayie, drug addicts, prostitutes, the homeless, and street children).

I observed that one of the ministries of The Church of Pentecost very vigorous with training and capacity building is the Home and Urban Missions. Virtually no month passes by without a HUM training program. It is therefore not surprising the results the ministry has produced since its outdooring.

Statistics available show that from 2019 to 2023, 27,404 drug addicts have been won for Christ. Out of this number, close to 6,360 have been rehabilitated. I happened to have met one rehabilitated drug addict at one of the HUM training programs at Ofankor. I was astonished at the fluency with which he read the Akan Bible and his oratory when the Bible was closed.

Curious to find out if he was a believer before going into drugs, he responded in the negative. He was caught up in drugs very early in his youth and later graduated into criminal activities until a policeman led leaders of HUM into his ghetto one time where he surrendered his life to Christ after hearing the gospel preached to him. Everything about him changed from that moment onward. This gentleman, for the first time in almost ten years, had stopped breaking into people’s homes at night to steal. He has now become a church worker and a disciple that Home and Urban Missions is using to reach out to other drug addicts.

There are many HUM stories out there that we need to tell to show how God is transforming hardcore “devils” in our society into vessels of noble use, consecrated and useful to the master for any good work (2 Timothy 2:21). I believe the “Possessing the Nations” agenda first begins with reaching out to these destitute with the power of the gospel to transform them into salt and light in our society.

In the same period from 2019 to 2023, 2,502 commercial sex workers have abandoned their trade to follow Jesus by surrendering to Him. While figures for street dwellers stand at 7,321, that of northerners in the south won for Jesus reached over 35,201. The effort of reaching out to children has also been highly positive, with 14,130 children won through HUM and Bible Clubs introduced purposely to target them. One will not say this has been an easy sailing for the ministry.

Efforts of the ministry have come with many challenges, attacks, and temptations, but the Lord has proven strong at all times and comes through for the ministry in overcoming obstacles associated with their work. One initiative that has been of immense help to the ministry is constant dedication to prayer by the works of the Nation Possessors, whose mandate is to raise and bear the ministry up in prayers with regular long weeks and hours of marathon prayers.

The records from the fieldwork of the ministry make for interesting interpretation. Out of the total 84,852 souls won, 41,623 have been baptised in water; this represents nearly half of the souls won. A total of 42,406 souls have been retained in the church and are undergoing various discipleship training. This has led to the opening of 610 HUM churches comprising 286 assemblies and 324 ghetto churches and HUM cells.

While the ministry lauds itself with these achievements, one area, however, that is of great concern is the rehabilitation drive of the ministry. While the figure showing drug addicts and commercial sex workers rehabilitated is commendable, that number is far too low compared to the many souls won. Out of 29,906 souls won for both drug addicts and commercial sex workers, only 6,360 persons have been rehabilitated. It is here that the church must double its efforts to ensure the rehabilitation aspect of the HUM ministry is attended to. It would be great if the Vision 2028 agenda of the church to build a rehabilitation centre sees the light of day to help address the numerous cases encountered at the various levels of the ministry’s operation in dealing with drug addicts, commercial sex workers, street dwellers, and other marginalised groups.

Until then, when you have had a relation described as deviant and a social outcast but now purposeful for society’s progress, then you will appreciate the work of a ministry such as HUM.

Written by Elder Keith Eubulus Ackah