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Peter employs an odd—and rather humorous—image when instructing his readers, “Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:13).

What the ESV translates as “preparing your minds for action” is in Greek, “girding the loins of your mind.” The verb (Anazonnumi), “to gird or bind up,” is used only here in the New Testament. What does it mean to “gird your loins,” and, more specifically, the “loins of your mind”?

The style of dress in Israel, and generally in the Middle East, was long robes. But what if you needed to work or run or fight? A long robe would hamper your movements. To address this issue, a man would pull up his robe to shorten it, then bind it around his waist. Voilà, a long robe is thereby transformed into a pair of shorts!

Okay, you say, but what about loins and mind? Our minds don’t have loins, obviously. This is simply a figure of speech. Just as a man literally “girded his loins” to get ready for action, so Peter says metaphorically to “gird the loins of your mind,” that is, “get your minds ready for action.” Peter is likely alluding to the original departure when the Israelites were told to eat the Passover meal “with your belt fastened, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand” (Exod. 12:11). That phrase, “your belt fastened” in Hebrew is “your loins girded.” In this same context, the likelihood to this in the context is when Peter makes reference to Christ as the “lamb without blemish or spot,” that is, the true Passover Lamb (1 Pet. 1:19).

Peter would thus be saying, “As those redeemed by the Lord Jesus Christ, stay awake and alert, with the loins of your mind girded, exhibiting strong mental fortitude and a disposition of swift but excellent commitment, ready at any moment for action to fulfill your God-given purpose, fixing your focus upon the grace of Christ in this present age as your source of strength.

The second tangent of this piece of writing is to admonish us to assume a disposition of readiness to serve the Lord when he calls. In our respective local churches, there are unique responsibilities one can be assigned to, such as a Youth Executive, presbyter, hospitality department member, etc. Our state of mind should reflect readiness for action and an awareness of the fact that the Lord Jesus Christ shall return.

LUKE 12:35– BE DRESSED, READY FOR SERVICE, AND KEEP YOUR LAMPS BURNING

From the literal interpretational view of this text, it posits that preparation for transformational impact is the key to actualising the aforementioned. “Keep your lamps burning” signifies a state of spiritual fervency, as the testimony of Jesus Christ about John the Baptist says, “He was a burning and a shining light,” and so must our lives be.

Additionally, our Lord, having recommended to his disciples disengagement of affection from the things of this world and a due moderation regarding their esteem for and cares about earthly possessions, proceeds to exhort them to be in constant readiness for the proper discharge of their duty, for their final remove from earth, and for the awful solemnities of death, judgment, and eternity. That this is the purport of this paragraph. The difference between men that succeed and men that fail in ordinary pursuits is by no means so much intellectual as moral, and there is nothing that more certainly commands any kind of success than giving yourselves with your whole concentrated power to the task at hand. If we can succeed in anything, we must focus all our power on it. Only by doing so, like a burning glass does to the sun’s rays, shall we set anything on fire.

The message of this writing is to urge the readers to subscribe to excellent knowledge that conquers humanistic and religious worldviews that are subpar, and to unapologetically become transformers of indelible impact in this society and the world at large.

God bless you.

Written by Elder Goodwill Kodua (PIWC-Swedru, Assistant District Youth Leader)

One prominent feature on the calendar of activities of The Church of Pentecost (CoP) is its annual retreat held for ministers and wives within the church globally. The year 2024 is no exception, as the church marshalled all its frontier militants to a five-day retreat at the Pentecost Convention Center, Gomoa Fetteh, and other satellite centres across the globe.

A significant aspect of this year’s conference was the unveiling of the second phase of the “Possessing the Nations” agenda dubbed Vision 2028, anchored on the overarching theme “Unleashing the Whole Church to Transform Their World with Values and Principles of the Kingdom of God.”

The vision bearer and Chairman of the church, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, carefully outlined the rationale behind Vision 2028 and challenged ministers and wives to own it and propagate the same to the church populace in all local assemblies across the globe. Notable among other key issues highlighted was the release of the tremendous potent power of the church members to transform their world, thereby making Jesus popular again in their communities.

Setting the right impetus for the successful implementation of Vision 2028, some ministry interventions were introduced. Notable among them were the ministry to celebrities, the ministry to Muslims, and the e-church. For me, these ministry interventions will not only aid in the execution of Vision 2028 but will also cause a shift in the ecclesiastical framework of worship in the contemporary generation. Undoubtedly, its impact will be a huge blessing not only to the COP but to the community of faith globally.

For a groundbreaking takeoff, the 2024 theme that initiates Vision 2028 was introduced. The Chairman and other seasoned ministers of the church made presentations on the various thematic areas of the operational theme for the year 2024. Topics treated included the characteristics of the church unleashed, the church as a people of God, tithes and offerings, etc. Their in-depth ministration ignited fresh inspiration, illumination, and empowerment as ministers globally sat to drink and assimilate from the well of our fathers. For me, the apex of all the ministrations in the 2024 Ministers and Wives Conference was the presentation on “Winning the Cities” by the Chairman, Apostle Eric Nyamekye. My admiration for our dear Chairman deepened as he outlined a systematic approach to building a glorifying and attractive church in the contemporary era, especially in the cities and urban areas.

The various sessions of prayer and worship during the conference were so refreshing. It afforded participants the space for spiritual deepening, realignments, times of reflections, and spiritual fortification. One can simply behold a changed and charged atmosphere of believers whose spiritual antennas have activated and are ready to be unleashed to the frontiers of the battlefield. I cannot hide my affection for our dear General Secretary, Aps. Samuel Gyau Obuobi, who constantly offered space for prayerful reflective moments after the Lord had spoken to his church through prophecies.

Furthermore, such an impactful conference couldn’t be complete without good music ministrations. The Voice of Pentecost was simply a delight to behold. Music in all forms of genres was well served, triggering massive revival sessions, especially on Wednesday night. When the Chairman and our fathers stepped out with a Davidic dance, one could ultimately conclude that something spectacular had happened. Indisputably, the Voice of Pentecost has become a household name in CoP as they keep blessing the Christian community with inspirational theme songs and other “Pentecocharismatic” music renditions.

Also, through the great work of the media ministry, the CoP fraternity across the globe enjoyed up-to-date daily newsletters and updates on all CoP media handles with great aesthetic views. The entire media team was simply phenomenal in their delivery.

The 2024 Global Ministers and Wives’ Conference has really released a “fierce wind” to combat any form of opposing inclination, and as I reflect on the totality of the conference, I am certain in my spirit that the Lord will surely accomplish mighty things in the coming years. Without any form of ambiguity, the 2024 conference will be remembered in the historical narrative of The Church of Pentecost.

I cannot conclude without acknowledging the huge investment made by the executive council and the sterling work done by the organising committee chaired by the General Secretary. In conclusion, though Vision 2028 appears humongous, I believe the Lord has given us all the accoutrements needed to effectively advance the kingdom on the battlefield. Surely, he will surmount the insurmountable and make every crooked path straight, granting his church victory. The mantle has now fallen on us, the ministers, to appropriate the physical and spiritual tools garnered at the conference to make Jesus famous in our dispensation.

Possessing the nation, I am an agent of transformation.

Possessing the nations, Transforming my world.

Written by Pastor Samuel Yankey, Tepa Anyinasuso

INTRODUCTION

The Church of Pentecost, like many classical Pentecostal institutions, places a premium on many activities and practices. These practices are documented and captured in our core values underpinning and undergirding her activities.

Predominant in her liturgy is the importance the Church places on prayer. Historical narrative notes that the founder of the Church, Rev. James Mckeown, retorted, “The work is prayer, and prayer is the work”, to wit that the role that prayer plays in the church cannot be overemphasised and belaboured.

Following the unveiling of Vision 2028, the Chairman has made a strong appeal through an exhortation from James 3:4 for the vision to be pushed by fierce winds.

As I reflect on the many factors for pushing the implementation of the vision, the Virtual Prayer Night (VPN), a global intercession army called by our revered Chairman some two years ago, comes to mind strongly.

In this article, attempts will be made to make a case for the impact of this highest form of Christian service as one of the fierce winds powering Vision 2028

THE ROLE OF THE CHAIRMAN ON THE VPN PLATFORM

To begin with, let me briefly touch on the Chairman’s general disposition toward the VPN platform – what I will describe as Chairman Nyamekye’s admirable response.

Being part of the backend production team facilitating the Tuesday Virtual Prayer Night, one cannot help but watch with endearing admiration how our revered Chairman responds to this call.

Bearing his office – THE VIRTUAL PRAYER NIGHT WITH THE CHAIRMAN, it is clear that the spirit and soul of the programme rest on his loins and the Chairman has provided the right kind of leadership to sustain this prayer venture all through the years.

Clearly, the Chairman’s eyes and ears are on the ground, seeing the nitty-gritty details of the programme layout without leaving anything to chance. From those scheduled to lead to those mobilised in-person team members, the technical architecture, and set up even to the aggregated statistics of participants, the Chairman is into every aspect.

Another significant observation is his consistency and frequent participation in the intercessory service. Driven by the axiom that leadership is the cause and everything else is the effect, the Chairman is seen almost always online every Tuesday with his video turned on, fully engaged and into the service praying and exuding positive energy as a participant.

With his numerous schedules, one would understand if genuinely he would not be able to participate frequently, but that is not the case with our revered Chairman, whose actions perfectly describe the terminology – Leadership by example.

My reflections for powering Vision 2028 with fierce winds through the VPN would hover around four thematic areas of Burden Sharing, Boarding, Building, Bidding, & Blossoming.

BURDEN SHARING

T. A. Webb has noted that a shared burden is halved, which means that the load one carries is lessened, provided avenues are created for others to bear aspects of the load. This is vividly revealed in the Virtual Prayer Night as the intercessory platform so created has allowed the burden of leadership, including Vision 2028, to be shared broadly by the church populace. One day, God chose to share the burden of Moses with seventy elders of Israel so the man of God would be eased of the weight of leading such a vast mass of people (Num. 11:16-30). The same can be gleaned from the VPN, which allows ministers, officers and the rank and file of the church to feel the heartbeat of leadership, interpret the dreams and visions in the mind of leadership and bear the spiritual load of gestation to delivery.

BOARDING

Another key reflection on the Virtual Prayer Night is what I call BOARDING. The term “boarding,” as used in this context, relates to the mobilisation of efforts and the rallying round approaches that have been put in place and are continually reviewed and enhanced over the period. The VPN is one of the fierce winds for advancing Vision 2028 because this platform has become a unique spiritual hub that has drawn the majority of the church family to awaken awareness of intercession, cry day and night, and continue steadfastly in prayer. Today, through the VPN, we cannot excuse ourselves that people are too busy to pray because of the numerous church-based activities; no wonder there is a strong clarion call to raise a million intercessors – a seed which is flourishing to become an endearing oak tree.

BUILDING

The Virtual Prayer Night has also become a bedrock for the building up and spiritual edification of the global church. With a consistent time set coupled with a well-structured programme schedule, patrons in person and virtually can look forward to an intense spiritual experience that allows their humanity to interact with divinity for an outpouring of divine grace. Moreover, the nature of the topics dealt with at the VPN demonstrates a deliberate intention of raising a certain calibre of transformed believers who are to be salt and light to their world. This is the spirit and soul of Vision 2028; a people unleashed to transform their world with the values and principles of the kingdom of God.

BIDDING & BLOSSOMING

A closer examination of the many successes chalked by the church over the last few years provides a clear understanding that fierce winds are powering the success equation. This is what I describe as the BIDDING and BLOSSOMING praxis of the VPN. The bidding is the process, and the BLOSSOMING is the outcome. Even without the backing of empirical data, the writings are clear on the wall that through the VPN platform, various bids have been made to the divine auctioneer, who has responded positively by providing strong winds to power the achievement of Vision 2023, the expansion of the missions enterprise, the forging of stronger fronts through church nation dialogues, massive soul winning and church planting and an unprecedented financial growth not forgetting the testimonies of healing, divine intervention and mind-boggling breakthroughs. With the understanding that we do not change a winning working formula, there is a much stronger call for a fiercer wind to push the new vision, and I believe the role of the VPN is strategic.

CONCLUSION

The purpose of this article is to shed light on the Virtual Prayer Night with the Chairman as a strategic tool for pushing Vision 2028 and its contribution to advancing the cause of The Church of Pentecost and her prophetic mandate within the global ministry space. With the understanding that through intercession, the impotence of man meets the omnipotence of God, there is a need to continue to rally more intercessors to push for the execution of Vision 2028. The army of the Lord, the Church, must tactfully and aggressively intercede to ensure that God’s power prevails over the evil threatening to overrun our world. So, it will be a joy to have you enlisted as part of this global conscripts into the army of intercessors every Tuesday….welcome aboard!

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

I became a mother for the first time a few years ago. It is such a blessing to be handed God’s gift to take care of. Before I conceived, I saw myself as a mother-in-waiting, and I strongly believe that every woman who desires to have a child shall soon carry it in her womb and in her arms. No one shall be left behind; we are all going to experience motherhood no matter how long it takes. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I realised during my pregnancy, which I believe has been under-discussed, if at all, and I pray for the Lord’s help as I seek to address it through this post.

I’m able to write this because I have been pregnant, have had conversations with pregnant women, and read other people’s stories. I think I have enough to share with an expectant mother in the same situation.

I heard many strange stories from mothers during my first pregnancy a few years ago. I heard so many scary stories over such a short period that, at a point, I thought I was going to lose my baby. The fear I felt was indescribable. My fear was exacerbated by the inexplicable similarities between the stories told to me by women from completely different circles of my life.

The most common of these was the maternal mortality stories. Almost everyone knew someone who had died during childbirth. It didn’t help that social media was always awash with pictures announcing the “Painful Exit” of one woman or another while they were pregnant or giving birth.

It is a painful thing to see, but when you witness such while pregnant, you begin to feel like that is more the rule than the exception, and if you are truly not strong in faith and fortified by the Word of God, you might even assume that yours will not be any different.

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, talks about “a force in fear that can make a person paralysed”. I believe these stories are meant to do one thing only: grip your heart with FEAR and consume your mind, even leading to unnecessary and unpleasant dreams. Fear awakes, fear asleep. Fear that everybody wants to harm you or your unborn baby, especially the unfortunate person who dares ask when you are due. Mercy Lord! That is the paralysis of which the Chairman speaks.

The fear of losing your life or your child or both your life and your child is a product of the toothless bulldog called the devil. And all our years in Christianity have told us nothing fights the devil better than the earnest prayer of a committed man or woman.

My dear pregnant woman, take your place in prayer. Being pregnant as a Christian is, in some ways, a spiritual warfare because we hold the key to delivering godly seeds to populate the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. The devil will make sure you do not have a smooth journey. You need to consistently pray, renew your minds and speeches with the word of God daily and make positive, godly declarations about your babies and yourself.

Fear can make you lose anything and everything, including your precious life. Job 3:25 says, “What I’m afraid of is what has come upon me”. Do not give in to fear, lest what you are afraid comes upon you. With a serious tone, I charge you to take your place in Prayer. Study the word and claim the blessings of pregnancy.

Declare with aggressive faith, saying:

• “I’m seated with Christ in Heavenly place where miscarriages and death do not occur.”
• “My womb is not a grave to carry dead babies.”
• “I shall deliver my baby in perfect health and condition.”
• “I shall not die, neither will I lose my baby.”
• “I’m coming out of the delivery room with my baby or babies in my arms.”
• “I shall attend my children’s graduation. “
• “I shall attend their weddings, not their funeral”.

Keep declaring every day, even after birth. Remember, you are the product of your words. Battles are won in the mind before they are won physically. David in the Bible killed Goliath in his mind before he died in his hands. The state of your mind affects the conditions of your life. Feed your faith with the word, and your fear will vanish!

Please share this post to save a pregnant woman. God bless you.

Written by Mrs. Priscilla Baah Kumi (Kanjarga District, Bolga Area)

During the closing session of this year’s PENSA Ghana Conference, aptly named the “Transformers Conference,” Apostle Eric Nyamekye, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, delivered a thought-provoking message titled “Amnon Had A Friend.” The impact of his words resonated not only within my heart but also among the thousands of youth members gathered across the country for this significant event.

Apostle Nyamekye’s message delved into the friendship between Amnon and Jonadab, as recounted in 2 Samuel 13:1-3.

Amnon, consumed by an uncontrolled amorous affection for his half-sister Tamar, sought counsel from his closest friend, Jonadab, on how to satisfy his wicked desire. Jonadab, described as shrewd and subtle, provided his friend with counsel that led to Amnon raping his sister Tamar.

The repercussions of this reprehensible act were severe: Amnon lost the opportunity to become the next king; enmity arose within the family; and, tragically, Amnon met an early grave—all due to the influence of his friend.

In essence, Amnon’s abominable act was a direct result of the friend he chose. Much like the crab that lost its head due to a bad companion, many young individuals have unwittingly squandered the gifts bestowed upon them by God on the altar of negative company.

A concealed truth about bad friends is that they will lead you into danger and then disappear into thin air, leaving you to face the consequences alone.

CONSIDER THESE QUESTIONS:

• Where was Jonadab when Amnon faced the consequences of his actions?
• Where did Ahithophel go when Absalom suffered due to his wicked counsel?
• Delilah was nowhere to be found when Samson endured his pains.

Conversely, we have witnessed friendships that have had a positive impact on individuals. The camaraderie between David and Jonathan is a prime example worth emulating. Their connection strengthened when David slew Goliath, and their friendship endured despite their differences.

David, a shepherd, and Jonathan, a prince, grew up in distinct environments, yet they became one in spirit. Their friendship was characterised by keeping promises. Jonathan made a covenant with David, saying, “Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the Lord” (1 Samuel 20:42).

True friends uphold their words, and this covenant prompted Jonathan to save David’s life when Saul sought to kill him. In return, David fulfilled his promise years later by showing kindness to Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son, in accordance with their covenant (2 Samuel 9:1).

CONCLUSION

As we are empowered through the impactful impartation by our spiritual leaders to be unleashed and transform our world, one critical factor hindering our progress is associating with the wrong people. Let Jesus Christ be your friend and a perfect example in your relationships.

Chairman Nyamekye aptly stated, “Don’t just be interested in looking for good friends; be one yourself.” Walk with the wise, for a companion of a fool suffers harm (Proverbs 13:20).

A word to the wise is enough.

Written by Richard Mbelembote (Ntankoro District, Kintampo Area)

Scripture References: Ezekiel 48:11 – 18, 2 Timothy 2:19 – 22, Ecclesiastes 8:11

Eli was the high priest and had forgotten what it was to be in the priesthood and what the priesthood is all about. The Bible says that he had been in ministry so long that he was lazy, undisciplined, blind, had lost his vision, and would not discipline his sons who were totally immoral and would not straighten up. Eli was a mess spiritually, and his family was a mess too; he was doing church stuff while all kinds of immorality were going on (1 Samuel 1:1-15).

Personal sin does not stop ministry. The gifts and callings of God are without repentance. When God gives a gift, He does not take it back. Bad things can happen, and for a season, God will allow that person to continue to function as normal.

When your attitude as a believer becomes easier to get forgiveness than permission, you are in trouble.

In this text, God was saying, “I see that there are two priesthoods that are in the house (the temple).”

1. THE PRIESTHOOD OF ELI:

They are those who are wrong and not delivering right, yet they are ministering. God still said He’s going to use them. He’ll let them have ministry in His house. They’ll minister to people but will not come near to me (God). The fact that He has given you that gift, He’ll let you minister to His people—the word, ministration, singing, healing, prophetic, etc. Because His word does not return void, it has to make an impact. God loves His people so much that He will use anything, even a donkey, to speak to them.

1.1 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PRIESTHOOD OF ELI:

1. It is impure.
2. It compromises.
3. It says, “I can live like I want to live, and my gifts will still work.”

Judgment does not immediately come, but listen, God can be blessing you. Businessperson, your gifts may be making money, and God can be blessing you; He doesn’t inspire personal sin. He is gracious, kind, long-suffering, and patient with us.

In Ezekiel 44:11, they will do all these things, but God said:

^“They shall be ministers in my sanctuary, having oversight at the gates of the temple and ministering in the temple. They shall slaughter the burnt offering and the sacrifice for the people, and they shall stand before the people to minister to them.”

1. They will not have intimacy with me
2. They will not come into my holy place, and
3. They will not come near me.

This is one of the scariest scriptures ever heard. Imagine that all you’ve been this far is all about outward performance, and you’re ministering to them through the gifts. You can preach if you got drunk last night, and your gifts will still work. You can minister to people and not touch God; you don’t come near Him. What kind of priesthood do you want to be? Do you want a wall that looks religious outwardly, and everybody thinks one thing, but personally, you’re unclean? The gifts will work for a season no matter what you’re doing, but you’ll never get near God.

I want to be that person who has fun, lives life, enjoys life, and has success, but I want to be pure, I want to be clean, I want to be holy like Jesus, I want to be sanctified by Jesus and set apart.

I can tell by how much you sing, how successful you are, how religious you look outside here; the issue is, in God’s eyes, when He looks beyond the surface, does He see the LINEN UNDERWEAR? This means personal holiness in areas of your life that people cannot see. That’s the issue.

On the other hand, the priesthood of Eli is those that are corrupt and unclean, but there is another priesthood in verse 15.

• THE PRIESTHOOD OF THE LEVITES

Zadok comes from a Hebrew word, TSODEK, meaning ‘to be right,’’ to be correct,’’ and ‘to be righteous’’ (Ezekiel 44:15-18).

2.1 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ZADOKS (ZADOKITES):

1. They shall come near me.
2. They shall minister unto me.
3. They shall stand before me to offer sacrifices.
4. They shall keep His charge and approach His table to minister to Him.

“I don’t want them to sweat; the curse of men was the sweat of the brow when Adam fell into sin. But God is saying to the Levites here: I don’t want you to sweat; I want you to come into My presence. It’s not your ability and talent; it’s your relationship with me that’s more important. You’ll minister to them more effectively because you’ll minister to me first with a life that you live—a personal holiness.”

Nobody knows what you have hidden under that priestly garment. Nobody knows what colour your underwear is; we’re not going to check. Nobody knows if you have your own underwear; only God and you know, and that is what exactly He was saying in the text. Only God and you know personally if you’re living a life of purity and holiness. Underwear doesn’t show externally on you, and God knows for sure if it’s on or not. In this text, God was talking about our PERSONAL HOLINESS; it’s private, it’s personal, and it’s internal.

Everywhere good results are happening doesn’t mean it’s clean, it’s pure, and it’s acceptable to God. I choose a ministry that ministers to God. It’s not what’s going on in a person’s public life but what’s going on in their private life that really matters. God is getting ready to change the priesthood in some people if they don’t get it right.

• Brother Saul had no idea; his replacement David was growing up in his house. And when he was playing the harp, he had no idea he was his replacement because God was long-suffering.
• Pharaoh had no idea when Moses was little and sitting on his table eating cornflakes, T.Z., and fufu. He had no idea he was so powerful; everything outwardly looked like he’s wonderful in Egypt. He didn’t know Moses was raised up to replace him.

• Eli’s ministry—in this ministry, God is not in a hurry. Eli is just ministering corrupt, immoral, and dishonest; his boys sleep with women in the church, do drugs get high, and smoke cigarettes. To be used by God is a precious thing; treasure it, guide it. Don’t play with God’s anointing, talents, and favour because you can lose it. There’s a difference between an ELI’s priesthood and ZADOK; those who have been with me.

There are two priesthoods; there are singers who minister to people, but God said they won’t minister to me. Their music won’t minister to me, their preaching won’t minister to me, their business won’t minister to me. It will only minister to people. There are two kinds of musicians: the music that ministers to people and that which ministers to God (2 Timothy 2:20-22).

²⁰ Now, in a great house, there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honourable use, some for dishonourable. ²¹ Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonourable, he will be a vessel for honourable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work. ²² So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.

When you understand that there are vessels of honour and dishonour, He’s promoting, and He’s demoting some. We’re in an hour of transition (2 Timothy 2:19). That’s personal holiness.”

In verse 21, if you judge yourself, I won’t judge you—sit yourself down and stop that which entangles you. Get on your knees and repent, and God says, I will keep blessing you; I will keep promoting you. But if you ever get the chance to play the game with Christians, then you’ve got a season to make a change. Anyone who wants to do right, God will help you. ZADOK or ELI is a vessel of honour or a vessel of dishonour. Lord, purge me, cleanse me, and use me—this is after you’ve realized your faults. This is a kind of message that would get you to heaven; it will make you do an inspection of your soul. This is a kind of warning from the Lord in the gentleness of love. I believe the Lord wants you to know the difference in His grace and mercy.

Grace is God giving you what you don’t deserve. Mercy is God holding back what you deserve. Now, I want to see some people doing a God check, saying am I going to heaven? Am I a vessel of honour or dishonour? Am I really drawing near to God? Do I ever get in His presence, or is it just outward religion on Sunday as ELI or as ZADOK? Draw near to me.

Written by Elder Wayo Felix (Abesim District – English Assembly)

In the realm of worship, where words often fall short, and melodies linger in the air, there exists a language that transcends the confines of speech and melody—a language written in the rhythmic movements of the body. Welcome to the captivating world of Christian choreography, where every step becomes a prayer and each movement a profound dialogue with the divine. 

In the quiet sanctuaries and vibrant fellowship halls of Christian communities, a unique ministry unfolds—one that weaves together the physical and the spiritual, the seen and the unseen. Christian dance ministry, often overlooked in its transformative power, emerges as a sacred art form, a choreographed symphony that echoes the heartbeats of worshipers and resonates with the whispers of the Holy Spirit.

Choreography, a long-aged form of artistic expression, has been a part of human livelihood for as long as history records. Today, the secular world has embraced dance choreography challenges as a creative and engaging way to drive music and entertainment. Many songs have made the top of billboards and charts because a well-crafted choreography accompanied their promotion. This phenomenon has become increasingly popular, especially with the rise of social media platforms like TikTok that allow users to share their choreography performances globally.

In exploring the depths of Christian choreography, we uncover a tapestry woven with spiritual significance and divine mysteries, as illuminated by the holy scriptures:

1. Ecclesiastes 3:4: A Time to Dance

The famous passage in Ecclesiastes 3:4 reminds us that there is a time for everything, including a time to dance. This scripture implies that dance is not merely a physical activity but holds a designated place in the divine order, emphasising the spiritual significance of rhythmic movement. The Christian Dance Ministry fulfils this place within Christian worship.

• Dancing before the Lord: A Biblical Tradition

The Bible introduces us to the concept of dance as a sacred expression of joy and praise. In Psalm 149:3, we are encouraged to “Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with timbrel and harp.” This ancient tradition of dancing before the Lord symbolises a connection between the physical and spiritual realms. 

•  Dance as Worship: Miriam’s Mass Dance

The story of Miriam in Exodus 15:20-21 reveals the spiritual power embedded in dance. Miriam, who was addressed in this passage as a prophetess, took a timbrel and led the Israelite women in dance after the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea. This act of celebration through dance demonstrates the profound spiritual impact dance can have on worship and gratitude. After such a miraculous act, words failed; something more than that was required, and dance came to the rescue.

• Davidic Dancing: A Heartfelt Expression

King David, known for his profound connection with God, exemplifies the spiritual depth of dance in 2 Samuel 6:14. Dancing before the Ark of the Covenant, David exhibited unrestrained joy, emphasising that our physical movements can genuinely reflect the joyous spirit within. The Bible was interested in accounting that the dance of David, which indeed pleased the Lord, was despised by Michal, his wife – this situation has been the case to date. Many people despise this sacred ministry.

The Christian dance ministry, when integrated thoughtfully into the life of the church, can offer numerous advantages and contribute significantly to spiritual, communal, and effective outreach deployments. Christian dance provides a unique avenue for worship and spiritual expression. Through choreography, dancers can convey deep emotions, joy, gratitude, and reverence, fostering a richer and more holistic worship experience for the congregation.

Participation in a dance ministry fosters a sense of community among members, especially the youth. As they collaborate in choreography and rehearse together, strong bonds are formed, creating a supportive and encouraging community within the church.

Christian dance performances can be utilised in evangelistic efforts, reaching out to the broader community. Dance has the potential to captivate audiences and serve as a powerful tool for sharing the love of Christ with those outside the church.

In summary, the Christian dance ministry offers a range of advantages, from deepening the spiritual experience of worship to fostering community and engagement across diverse demographics within the body of Christ. Now more than ever, the Christian dance ministry must be given a place and a heightened room for operation. As with any ministry, careful consideration of the congregation’s needs, cultural context, and theological foundations is essential for its effective implementation – a conversation we can have on another day.

Written by Deacon Rendolf Bamfo Apaah [PENSA Ghana Literary Head, 2021]

In the tapestry of life, children are the vibrant threads that weave joy, innocence, and hope into the fabric of our existence. The Lord’s Garden, as we affectionately call it, is a metaphorical oasis where these blossoms of pure delight thrive, creating an environment brimming with the laughter and curiosity of the young souls entrusted to our care.

In this sacred space, every child is a unique bloom, nurtured by the collective efforts of parents, educators, and the community at large. The responsibility to tend to these tender shoots is a shared one, with each adult serving as a gardener in the grand design of the Lord’s Garden.

Within the Garden’s bounds, we witness the enchanting dance of diversity, where children of various backgrounds, cultures, and abilities coalesce harmoniously. The essence of this place lies in its inclusive embrace, fostering an atmosphere where differences are celebrated, and every child’s individuality is cherished.

The laughter that echoes through the Lord’s Garden is a testament to the resilience and optimism inherent in childhood. It resonates in the classrooms, playgrounds, and corridors, forming a symphony that uplifts spirits and brings smiles to the faces of all who enter this sacred space. It is a melody that transcends linguistic barriers, connecting hearts and souls in a universal language of joy.

Education, both formal and informal, is the fertile soil in which the Lord’s Garden flourishes. Here, the seeds of knowledge, empathy, and compassion are sown, and young minds are encouraged to blossom into individuals who contribute positively to the world. As educators, we take pride in nurturing not only the intellect but also the character of these budding personalities.

In the Lord’s Garden, the concept of growth extends beyond academic achievements. It encompasses emotional intelligence, social skills, and a deep-rooted understanding of the values that form the bedrock of a compassionate and just society. Through the guidance of dedicated mentors, the children learn to navigate the complexities of life with resilience, kindness, and an unwavering sense of purpose.

The vibrancy of the Lord’s Garden is not confined to its physical space; it extends into the broader community. Parents, guardians, and caregivers play pivotal roles as stewards, tending to the well-being of the children and contributing to the nurturing environment that defines this special place.

As we cultivate the Lord’s Garden, remember that safeguarding and nurturing the next generation is a sacred duty. It is an investment in the future, ensuring that the seeds planted today will grow into sturdy trees, providing shade and sustenance for future generations.

In the Lord’s Garden, let us continue to celebrate the laughter of children, for it is the melody that carries the promise of a brighter tomorrow. May our collective efforts as guardians of this sacred space yield a bountiful harvest of compassionate, resilient, and enlightened individuals, enriching the world with their unique contributions.

Until then, listen to the kids’ side.

Written by Elder Owusu Bibini (Dumasua District)

In the Christian faith, creativity is not merely a human endeavour but a reflection of God Himself. Creativity is a divine gift given to humankind, and as believers, exploring creativity in Christ adds a unique dimension to our understanding of this profound aspect of our existence. The Bible emphasises the role of God as the ultimate artist, designer, and innovator. As we explore the idea of creativity in Christ, we learn how our artistic endeavours can serve as a platform for worship and a reflection of God’s glory.

The Bible opens with the story of God creating the heavens and the earth. Humanity is described as having been made in the likeness of God in Genesis 1:27. The capacity for creation is a part of our innate relationship with our Creator. We participate in a kind of co-creation with God when we create, mirroring His creative essence.

God’s creativity extends beyond the material world to encompass the complexities of each of our unique existences. We are reminded that we are fearfully and wonderfully made in Psalm 139:13–14. Every individual is a singular work of art, a manifestation of God’s ingenuity and purpose. As Christians, we may appreciate the richness of God’s artistic expression in our lives when we acknowledge and celebrate the creative aspects of who we are.

Our creative expressions can be a form of worship, acknowledging and glorifying the Creator. Whether it be through art, music, writing, or any other form of creative endeavour, we have the opportunity to use our talents to bring glory to God. Colossians 3:23 encourages us to do everything as if we are working for the Lord. This includes our creative pursuits as we offer our skills and abilities back to God in gratitude for the creativity He has bestowed upon us.

As Christians, we believe in the transformative power of Christ’s love. This transformative aspect extends to our creativity as well. When our minds are renewed in Christ, our creativity is also transformed. Our creative expressions can become instruments of love, hope, and redemption, reflecting the transformative work of the Holy Spirit within us.

Exploring creativity in Christ reveals a deep relationship between our artistic pursuits and our religion. We have the honour and privilege of using our creativity to honour and glorify God as co-creators. Our artistic endeavours turn into a kind of worship and a celebration of who we are as specially made creatures in the likeness of the Almighty. We add to the ongoing story of God’s creative and redemptive work in the world by allowing the love and truth of Christ to permeate our creative endeavours.

Written by Joshua Oduro Owusu Afari

INTRODUCTION

The Church of Pentecost, like every institution, is both an organism and an organisation. Our dear Chairman, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, explains that the Church is an organism because there is life in it and dispenses life.

It is also an organisation because it thrives on structures, systems, and the programme of activities that drive the organism to be active, potent, and effective.

One of the Church’s flagship major programs that drive the organisation is the annual week-long retreat, generally known as the Ministers and Wives Conference or the Global Ministers and Wives Conference (GMWC) if it is held globally for all clergy and their spouses within the church.

After successful events over the period, it is clear to me that this conference is one to always look forward to in January every year.

In this article, I will attempt to reflect on some reasons to always anticipate the Ministers and Wives Conference (MWC) or the Global Ministers and Wives Conference (GMWC).

1. FELLOWSHIP AND REUNION

Drawing from the Psalmist submission on the goodness and pleasantness that characterises the dwelling together of the brethren, I see the GMWC or the MWC as one of the beautiful platforms for building fellowships and strengthening our ministerial bonds. In these meetings, Bible schoolmates reunite to share fond memories, get to see each other and reignite the warmth of being together. Fellowshipping and reuniting among the clergy and our spouses create a sense of belongingness, drive companionship, and deepen the camaraderie that leads to the cultivation and sustenance of healthy connections.

2. INTENSE SPIRITUAL ATMOSPHERE

A significant observation from the GMWC or MWCs relates to the intensity of the spiritual atmosphere created for encounters, transformations, and impartations. The structure of these conferences is set in such a way that participants are brought into a place where their physical nature engages with the supernatural. Indeed, the intense spiritual atmosphere programs a climate for many spiritual possibilities and spiritual expressions driven by hunger, passion, and yieldedness indicative of the understanding that patrons have come to receive new wine into their new wineskins.

3. THE VOICE OF PENTECOST

One cannot discuss the GMWC without touching on the music production during these conferences. From its outset, music has also played a significant role in modifying the engagement between human patrons and the supernatural, making it an enviable toast. Led by the vocal powerhouse – The Voice of Pentecost, patrons can expect nothing else but a sumptuous service of a bouquet of well-arranged theme songs, classical Pentecostal choruses, and meditative hymns garnished with a colourful blend of contemporary tunes all served on trays of unique vocal abilities and skillful instrumentations. Indeed, the colour that the Voice of Pentecost brings to the table cannot be quantified.

4. SPIRITUAL RECALIBRATION AND REENGINEERING

I see the MWC/GMWC as an avenue for spiritual recalibration and re-engineering. The prophet Isaiah says the remnant of Judah will be rooted downwards and fruitful upwards (2Kgs. 19:30). So, in these conferences, we see a conscious effort by leadership through the power of the Holy Spirit to teach ministers and their wives God’s word. In these meetings, the various topics pertaining to the theme for the year are thoroughly discussed, and intense prayer sessions are offered. The pastoralia moments where deep insights for effective pastoring and shepherding serve as great reminders for patrons to be wary of ministerial pitfalls while aggregating ministerial gems to make giant strides in their stations of operation. Usually, the look on the faces of patrons is one filled with fresh zeal, revelation, understanding, poise and renewed passion to soar like an eagle with a clear vision and strong momentum to do God’s will.

5. UNITY AND INCLUSIVITY

One key aspect of the GMWC/MWC is to get the entire church public united and have a sense of inclusivity in carrying them along the vision and heart of God as directed through leadership. This is the reason why platforms have been created to broadcast the programme live on TV and social media platforms, including Zoom and Webinar. This allows both in-person patrons and the virtual audience who are stakeholders to receive God’s spiritual direction for the Church first-hand in the ensuing years, particularly in these times of the unleashing agenda. This allows for effective assimilation of the agreed strategy to facilitate easy implementation. For nothing can stop the force unleashed on the wings of unity and inclusivity.

CONCLUSION

The purpose of this article was to offer five reasons why the Global Ministers and Wives Conference (GMWC) is always an event to look forward to. With the kind of preparations and planning that go into such events, it is clear that this year’s event would not be different but an unforgettable encounter.

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