Posts in category: Articles

Introduction 

God has a divine intention – an eternal purpose (Ephesians 3:10-11) – predicted at the fall of man (Genesis 3:15), promised to Abraham (Genesis 12:7), revealed in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:16, 29), and destined for consummation at the second coming of Christ (1 John 3:2; Revelation 7:15-17). Between the ascension of Christ and the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose at His second advent, the Holy Spirit introduces major doctrinal revelations that refresh, rejuvenate, reawaken, and sustain the spiritual fervor of the Universal Church. 

These doctrinal revelations emerge periodically within the Universal Church to avert spiritual stagnation and backsliding among the saints, safeguard against the loss of the first love for God’s Kingdom (Revelation 2:4), and prepare believers to attain the full stature of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-13). Since the sixteenth century, these revelations have periodically revitalized the Church as believers await Christ’s return. 

From the Protestant Reformation in the sixteenth century (1501–1600) to movements in the twentieth century (1901–2000), the Holy Spirit has imperceptibly stirred “the hearts of believers in various sections of the professing Church to study the Scriptures, and in so doing, found a flood of light gradually pouring into their minds.” This “flood of light” became impactful doctrinal revelations, propagated globally by specific groups and leaders chosen by the Holy Spirit. 

According to Bishop Orji, the Protestant Reformation revealed the doctrine of salvation by grace alone (Sola Gratia), through faith alone (Sola Fide), and in Christ alone (Solus Christus). In the seventeenth century, the Mystics promoted intimacy with God through holiness and personal devotion, also known as quietism. In the eighteenth century, the Moravian Brothers inspired aggressive missions, fervent corporate prayers, and Christ-centered lifestyles. The Plymouth Brethren in the nineteenth century introduced dispensationalism and pre-tribulation rapture. By the twentieth century, the Brethren of the Local Churches emphasized the Church as the one new man and the saints as the expression of Christ to the world, a teaching known as God’s Economy. 

What, then, is the major doctrinal revelation for the twenty-first century? According to Ferguson, understanding the present requires looking to the past experiences of those who sought to follow Christ. 

This paper argues that for the twenty-first century, The Church of Pentecost’s “Possessing the Nations Agenda” is the major doctrinal revelation. It aligns with God’s divine purpose and plan to refresh, revive, reawaken, re-equip, and unleash believers to transform their world with the values and principles of the Kingdom of God. 

Fulfilling the Eternal Purpose of God

The Lord God’s divine agenda – His eternal purpose – has been revealed in the Holy Scriptures. However, God’s entire plan for accomplishing His eternal purpose is not fully disclosed to mankind. As Jesus said in John 16:12, there were many things the disciples were not ready to receive. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit would reveal all that believers needed to know. 

In Eden, God revealed that the seed of the woman would bruise the serpent’s head. To Abraham, God revealed that through him, the entire world would be blessed. These promises became a foundation of God’s divine plan. In Galatians, Apostle Paul explained that the “seed of the woman” is the same as “Abraham’s seed,” referring to Christ Jesus. In Galatians 3:16 (and Hebrews 2:16), Paul identified Christ as the fulfillment of these promises. 

Christ defeated Satan on the cross, redeeming humanity from its fallen state and reconciling mankind with God, thus setting the stage for God’s ultimate purpose: raising fallen humanity to attain sonship – bearing the image, expression, and full stature of Christ. 

Attaining God’s sonship is the greatest blessing and the highest calling. Romans 8:29-30 and Ephesians 4:11-13 describe this as a process that continues “until we all reach unity in the faith and knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (NIV). This process underpins Christ gathering the saints to form the one new man – the Church (Ephesians 2:15). 

To prevent believers from losing focus or falling into spiritual slumber as they await His return, the Holy Spirit sustains the momentum of God’s purpose by granting doctrinal revelations throughout history. 

God’s Eternal Purpose, Divine Plan, and Doctrinal Revelations 

This paper emphasizes the undeniable correlation between God’s eternal purpose, His divine plan, and doctrinal revelations within the Universal Church. Pentecostal theologian Opoku Onyinah traced the Pentecostal Movement’s roots to the teachings of John Wesley and John Fletcher in the eighteenth century. Wesley’s theology was influenced by the Moravian Brothers, who were, in turn, inspired by Catholic Mystics of the seventeenth century. These Mystics’ pietism teachings and lifestyle reflected the Reformation doctrine restored in the sixteenth century. 

This paper agrees with the Spirit-led theologian’s assessment and asserts that the Holy Spirit has consistently introduced major doctrinal revelations since the Protestant Reformation to keep the Universal Church aligned with God’s purpose. 

For the twenty-first century, “Possessing the Nations Agenda” stands as the major doctrinal revelation, continuing the Holy Spirit’s work in guiding the Church toward God’s eternal plan. 

A Tour into the Centuries since the Reformation (1501 to 2000 AD)

According to Titus Chu, a Chinese American missionary, the Lord has consistently instigated significant movements within the universal body of Christ through doctrinal revelations over the centuries, beginning with the Reformation. The Protestant Reformation was undoubtedly a monumental shift in the universal Church, and its impact continues to resonate globally today. Chu observes that, following the Reformation, equally profound moves by the Holy Spirit have emerged periodically within the Church through major doctrinal revelations. These revelations advance the Church and its members towards attaining the full stature of the Son of God.

Drawing from the assessments of Opoku Onyinah, Chu outlines the following major doctrinal revelations across the centuries:

The 1520s: The Reformation, led by Martin Luther, restored the central theme of the Gospel to Christendom.

The 1620s: The Mystics, led by Jeanne-Marie Bouvier de la Motte Guyon (commonly known as Madame Guyon), introduced the truths of quietism and pietism, emphasizing personal devotion and holiness.

The 1720s: Vicount Nicholaus Ludwig von Zinzendorf (commonly known as Vicount Zinzendorf), a German aristocrat, spearheaded the Moravian Brothers in propagating consecrated life unto the Lord. He also led one of the largest evangelical missions since the Apostolic era and instituted the famous 24/7 corporate global prayers that lasted for 100 years.

The 1820s: The Plymouth Brothers, led by John Nelson Darby, broke forth the doctrine of dispensationalism and pretribulation rapture based on 2 Thessalonians chapter 2. This doctrine, once controversial, has become a cornerstone of modern Christian theology, giving rise to the Scofield Study Bible and Darby Bible translations.

The 1920s: Watchman Nee, leading the Brethren of the Local Churches, presented the doctrine of God’s Recovery Work through God’s Economy. He taught that Christ pours Himself into believers, enabling them to manifest Christ physically wherever they go. Collectively, these believers express Christ as one new man – the Church – across all localities.

Chu observed a recurring pattern: the Holy Spirit raises servants with pivotal doctrines in the “twenties” of each century. He predicted that in the 2020s, the Lord would raise another group to break forth a significant doctrinal revelation for the universal Church. In 2005, Chu wrote, “It seems that the Lord raises up a group of servants every hundred years. According to this calculation, the Lord might raise another group of people up in another 20 or 25 years.”

This paper posits that the “Possessing the Nations Agenda” of The Church of Pentecost is the major doctrinal revelation the Holy Spirit has granted to the universal Church for the 21^st century.

Conclusion

This paper affirms that God has an Eternal Purpose revealed in the Scriptures. However, His Divine Plan for achieving this Purpose remains partly concealed from humanity. As part of this plan, the Holy Spirit has consistently unveiled major doctrinal revelations since the Protestant Reformation to keep believers aligned with God’s Purpose and to prepare the Saints for Christ’s second advent. Building on the observations of Apostle Professor Opoku Onyinah and Titus Chu, this paper firmly asserts that the Holy Spirit has raised Christian groups and leaders to introduce vital doctrines from 1501 AD to 2000 AD. Moreover, it maintains that the “Possessing the Nations Agenda,” birthed in 2018 by The Church of Pentecost, represents the major doctrinal revelation for the universal Church in the 21^st century.

The second part of this paper will analyze the revival brought about by the “Possessing the Nations Agenda” within global Christianity and establish how the Holy Spirit may use it to dismantle even greater strongholds in the 21^st century.

References

Chu, Titus. Being One with the Ministry to Speak the Healthy Words. (Vol. 2). Illinois: Chicago Bibles & Books, 2005.

Ferguson, Everret. 2005. Church History Volume 1: From Christ to the Pre-Reformation. Zondervan Publishers

Franklin, B. The Founding Father of the USA greatly praised the

Moravians  www.ushistory.org

Ice, Thomas. “John Nelson Darby and the Rapture”. The Journal of Ministry and Theology 17(1), 2013. www.rapture-notes.com Accessed 29/03/2025

Lee, Witness. The Economy of God. Anaheim, CA: Living Stream Ministry, 1968.

Lee, Witness. The Mysteries in God’s New Testament Economy. Anaheim, CA: Living Stream Ministry, 1990.

Onyinah, Opoku. “Roots and History of the Pentecostal and Charismatic Movement“

Orji, F. (May 2017). SAVED BY GRACE ALONE, THROUGH FAITH ALONE, IN CHRIST ALONE. Pastoral Address, Fifth Annual Synod of the Anglican Diocese of CANA West, USA (Texas 2018)

Siemens, Leelore. Church History podcast www.youtube.com accessed on 2/4/2024

Turner, W.G. & W.S. Gelder. Brief Sketch of the Life and Labours of John Nelson Darby. London: Thomas Weston Publishers, 1901

Weremchuk, M. S. 2018. John Nelson Darby Research Papers www.researchgate.net Accessed 29/03/2025

Written by Pastor Daniel Essuman Koomson

At the very heart of the Christian faith lies a profound and transformative truth: Jesus Christ is the perfect sacrifice for sin. Unlike any other offering made under the Old Covenant, His sacrifice was once and for all—eternal in effect and divine in origin. But what truly sets Jesus apart as the perfect sacrifice is His complete and total victory over all seven consequences of sin. Let’s take a closer look at each one:

1. Curse

A curse is a spiritual force that brings misfortune, limitation, or destruction. It is the opposite of a blessing and can affect individuals, families, or entire generations. In Genesis 9:25, we see the biblical concept of a curse expressed:

“Cursed be Canaan! The lowest of slaves will he be to his brothers.”

However, through Christ, this spiritual affliction is decisively broken.

“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: ‘Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.'” — Galatians 3:13

On the cross, Jesus became a curse so that we could walk in the freedom of God’s blessing. His death is the only antidote to every curse—past, present, and future. In Him, we are no longer victims of hidden forces or generational afflictions, but victors in His name.

2. Shame and Disgrace

Jesus bore not only our sins but also our shame. The scenes leading up to His crucifixion were filled with acts of deep humiliation:

• He was spat on (Mark 14:65; Matthew 27:30).
• He was stripped of His clothing (Matthew 27:28, 35).
• He was rejected by the crowd in favor of a criminal (Matthew 27:15–22).
• He was mocked and insulted by passersby, religious leaders, and even the thieves crucified beside Him (Matthew 27:39–44).

Jesus was crucified at Golgotha, or Calvary, a prominent spot just outside Jerusalem’s city walls. Its location near a busy road ensured many people witnessed His execution, amplifying the shame and humiliation. Yet, by enduring this public disgrace, Jesus took away our shame, enabling us to live with honor as children of God.

3. Suffering

The physical and emotional suffering Jesus endured is almost beyond comprehension:

• The crown of thorns, forced upon His head, mocked His kingship.
• The scourging tore His back open with whips embedded with metal tips.
• The cross—rough, heavy (estimated to weigh as much as two bags of cement)—bruised and tore His already wounded body as He carried it.
• The nails pierced His hands and feet, fixing Him to a rugged wooden beam (John 20:27).

All this He endured not because He had sinned, but because we had. His suffering was our healing. His wounds are our peace.

4. Sicknesses

In Isaiah 53:3–5, the prophet vividly describes Jesus as the suffering servant who bore not only our sins but our sicknesses and infirmities:

“Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows… by his wounds we are healed.”

At the cross, Jesus took upon Himself both the spiritual and physical consequences of sin, opening the door for divine healing and wholeness.

5. Separation from God

Perhaps the most agonizing part of the crucifixion was the spiritual separation Jesus experienced. As He hung on the cross, bearing the full weight of the world’s sin, He cried out:

“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” — Matthew 27:46

This echoed the reality of Isaiah 59:2, which teaches that sin separates us from God. But Christ, in being forsaken, closed the gap sin had created. Now, through His blood:

“You who once were far away have been brought near.” — Ephesians 2:13

No more distance. No more silence. Through Jesus, we have access to the Father.

6. Dominion of Darkness (The Devil)

Sin brought mankind under the dominion of darkness, a kingdom ruled by Satan himself. But through His death and resurrection, Jesus overthrew the rule of the enemy:

“For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves…” — Colossians 1:13
“They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…” — Revelation 12:11
“I have given you authority… over all the power of the enemy…” — Luke 10:19

In Christ, we are not just delivered—we are empowered to walk in authority and victory over all forces of evil.

7. Death

The final enemy—death itself—was defeated by the perfect sacrifice of Jesus. His resurrection is the ultimate proof that He has conquered the grave:

“I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.” — Revelation 1:18
“Everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.” — John 6:40

Because Jesus rose, we will rise too. Death no longer has the final word—eternal life does.

Conclusion

Jesus Christ is not just a sacrifice—He is the perfect sacrifice. He did not address some of sin’s consequences; He conquered them all. His death and resurrection offer a complete, all-encompassing redemption that no other could provide.

Let us live in the fullness of this victory, walking boldly as those who have been redeemed, healed, and restored by Jesus Christ, the Perfect Sacrifice for Sin.

By: Ovr. Joel Kwesi Baidoo

0207079250

(Kpandai New Town District)

The apostle Paul, in Colossians 2:14–15, gives a vivid picture of how powers, principalities, and authorities were publicly disarmed and triumphed over by the cross of Christ. He extensively explains that, through the cancellation of our legal indebtedness, we have been victoriously set free and rescued from the dominion of darkness, and brought into the kingdom of the Son He loves—in whom we have redemption, salvation, victory, and the forgiveness of sins through the cross.

• The cross symbolizes and represents the redemptive work of Christ—the suffering, agony, pain, and shame He endured to bring salvation and reconciliation through His death and resurrection.
• The cross is the Christian’s weapon and tool of boasting in Christ’s sacrificial work on our behalf: offering Himself as an atoning sacrifice and propitiation for our sins.
• The cross is a symbol and reflection of the unending, sacrificial love displayed by Christ.
• The cross took away our shame, pain, curse, transgressions, and the penalty of our iniquities.
• The cross is our symbol of authority and pride.
• The cross is the center of our gospel; the totality of the gospel of Christ is centered on the cross (1 Corinthians 1:18).
• The cross is where all our burdened sins were carried, and our debts were officially paid by the shed blood of Jesus our Lord.
• The riches of God’s inheritance (both physical and spiritual) for the believer come through the cross.

To make a public spectacle is to showcase and display an event, occasion, or incident publicly. For Jesus Christ to deliver, save, and redeem us from the bondage of corruption and the captivity of sin, He had to shed His blood by dying on the cross (Hebrews 9:22). He did this by making a public spectacle of the devil, who had spiritually blinded, imprisoned, and enslaved the souls, hearts, and minds of many (2 Corinthians 4:4).

Through the cross, God demolished arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against His knowledge, and took captive every devilish thought to make it obedient to Christ.

Jesus overcame the devil by the cross, where His efficacious blood was shed (Revelation 12:11).

The power of sin, generational bondages, and ancestral curses were broken by the power of the cross and the power of the resurrection.

In Galatians 3:13–14, Paul explains that Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us on the cross. He redeemed us so that the blessing given to Abraham might come to us through Christ Jesus, and that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.

Arguably, Satan has been forever defeated through the authority, the perfect, and the finished work of Christ on the cross. God has eternally canceled the record of sin that contained the charges against us; He took it away and destroyed it by nailing it to Christ’s cross. In this way, God has also forever disarmed the evil rulers and authorities and has shamed them publicly by His victory over them on the cross of Christ.

Paul said, “Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us” (Romans 8:33–34).

Hallelujah!

There is now no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus, because the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed us through Christ Jesus from the power of sin and Satan that leads to death and corruption.

Glory to Jesus for the sacrificial work He did on the cross of Calvary for us.

To conclude, we must not be ignorant of the devil’s schemes, deceptions, and devices, lest he take advantage of us (2 Corinthians 2:11).

The Bible says: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings” (1 Peter 5:8–9).

Let us be watchful and vigilant so the devil does not cunningly and deceitfully frustrate our walk with Christ—even after his defeat on the cross, which has brought us redemption and salvation.

May God help us to remain steadfast in Christ.

Written by Elder David Gyamfi (PENSA Ghana Prayer Secretary)

Easter is a foundational pillar of our salvation and faith. It brings us many benefits and reminds us of the agony of a man who did all to give all to humanity.

Easter is not just a festival of change but a great start to a glorious exchange. Isaiah 53:1-10 highlights the gravity of His suffering, pain, and shame – all these to bring about a newness of life. Here are some glorious exchanges that transpired through the perfect sacrifice made on the cross:

1. He took our shame and gave us His fame

Isaiah 53:2-3: “For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: He hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him. [3] He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from Him; He was despised, and we esteemed Him not.”

Jesus went through all these to restore us to our original level in Him, giving us a new name and new hope.

• He became cursed so we could become blessed

Galatians 3:13-14: “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: [14] That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.”

3. He became poor so we could walk in His glorious riches

2 Corinthians 8:9: “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.”

4. He was made sin to grant us the power to be right with God

“For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.” – 2 Corinthians 5:21:

As believers, walking through scriptures and seeing this great exchange and work done on the cross, we ought not to trivialize this season for any reason. Rather, it should call for a great reflection on the sacrifices made, appreciation of Jesus and His work, and the application of His dictates and commandments by living our lives for Him as Apostle Paul said in Romans 14:8: “For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.”

May this season not be observed merely as a holiday period. Instead, let us observe it with meaning and purpose. May the sacrifice made by Christ never be in vain in our lives.

His pain, our gain.

Written by Elder Emmanuel Baidoo Madugu (Michel Camp District)

Introduction
The blood of Jesus Christ is one of the most powerful and sacred themes in Christianity. It represents the ultimate sacrifice, divine love, and the means by which humanity is reconciled to God. From the Old Testament prophecies to the New Testament fulfillment, the blood of Jesus carries deep spiritual meaning, offering redemption, cleansing, and eternal life to all who believe.

The Blood of Jesus as the Ultimate Sacrifice
In the Old Testament, blood sacrifices were for the atonement of sins. The book of Leviticus (17:11) states, “For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you upon the altar to make atonement for your souls.” However, animal sacrifices were temporary and had to be repeated. Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God (John 1:29), shed His blood once and for all, ending the need for further sacrifices. Hebrews 9:12-14 explains that Christ’s blood secured “eternal redemption” and cleanses our consciences from dead works to serve the living God.

The Blood Brings Forgiveness and Cleansing
Sin separates humanity from God, but the blood of Jesus bridges that gap. “Without shedding of blood, there is no remission of sin” (Hebrews 9:22). When Jesus died on the cross, His blood was poured out for the forgiveness of sins (Matthew 26:28). First John 1:7 assures believers: “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.” This cleansing is not based on our efforts but on God’s grace through Christ’s sacrifice.

Justification and Right Standing with God
Because of sin, we are declared righteous before God. Romans 5:9 says, “Having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.” This justification is a legal act—God no longer sees our sin but Christ’s righteousness covering us.

Access to God’s Presence
In the Old Testament, only the high priest could enter the Holy of Holies once a year with sacrificial blood. But when Jesus died, the temple veil tore (Matthew 27:51), symbolizing that His blood opened a new way to God. Ephesians 2:13 declares, “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” Every believer can approach God boldly (Hebrews 10:19-22).

Victory Over Satan and Spiritual Warfare
The devil seeks to accuse and condemn believers, but the blood of Jesus is our defense. Revelation 12:11 says, “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” By pleading the blood of Jesus in prayer, believers can resist temptation, break strongholds, and walk in authority over demonic oppression.

The New Covenant Sealed by Blood
At the Last Supper, Jesus took the cup and said, “This is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins”(Matthew 26:28). This fulfilled Jeremiah 31:31-34, where God promised a new covenant not based on laws but on a personal relationship with Him.

Conclusion
The blood of Jesus is not a mere symbol—it is the foundation of salvation. It redeems, cleanses, justifies, and empowers believers. As we reflect on its significance, we must live in gratitude, walking in the freedom and victory that His blood provides.
“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12).

May we never take for granted the priceless gift of Jesus’ blood, which has secured our eternal salvation. If you don’t have your share of this great treasure, call on the name of Jesus and believe in Him. He will save you.

Written by El Kwofie, Grace Worship Centre-Koforidua

INTRODUCTION

Your digital presence is often the first (and sometimes only) impression others have of you as a Christian. Remember that your online presence is not separate from your Christian identity. The world is watching not just what you do in public but what you post in digital spaces.

In the old days, if someone made a mistake, it could be forgotten over time. No cameras were recording every moment, no internet to store embarrassing moments forever—just fading memories. But today, things are different; social media never forgets. Every post, comment, photo, or video you share stays online, sometimes forever. Even if you delete something, someone might have already saved it. We live in a world where a single reckless post can define our future or can come back years later to ruin job opportunities or friendships.

Social media includes all the apps and websites where people share things online. Some popular ones are Facebook for keeping up with family, Instagram and TikTok for sharing pictures and short videos, Twitter (now called X) for quick thoughts and news, WhatsApp and Snapchat for private chats, and YouTube for watching and making videos. The big difference between social media and old-school media like newspapers or TV is that anyone can post anything—good or bad—without needing permission. This freedom is great, but it also means people can easily share things they later regret.

As Christians, we are called to live lives worthy of our calling (Ephesians 4:1). This calling extends to every aspect of our lives—including our digital presence. We are unleashed to God’s purpose in our lives, but this freedom comes with responsibility, especially in spaces that never forget our words or actions. When you’re unleashed to shine online, your digital presence becomes more than just self-expression; it becomes a ministry. In a world where so many use social media to tear down, promote self, or spread negativity, your light can shine distinctly bright. As Matthew 5:16 encourages, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” This is our ultimate purpose online: not to bring attention to ourselves, but to reflect glory back to God.

HOW SOCIAL MEDIA IS DIFFERENT FROM THE PAST

Back in the day, life was simpler. If someone did something embarrassing, it wasn’t recorded and shared with the world. Except for God, private moments stayed private unless someone told others face-to-face. But now, everything changes the second it goes online. A silly mistake, a bad joke, or a heated argument can be screenshotted, shared, and spread to thousands of people in minutes. Even if you delete a post, it might already be saved somewhere else.

Imagine losing your dream job because of a tweet you wrote years ago as a teenager. That’s why it’s so important to think before you post. For young Christians especially, this reality presents both challenges and opportunities. Your digital footprint can either amplify your testimony or undermine it. Being unleashed to live a life worthy of your calling means recognizing that your online presence is an extension of your witness for Christ.

People get “canceled” after posting something offensive. Old tweets, Facebook rants, or embarrassing photos can resurface and damage reputations. Some have even faced legal trouble because of threatening messages or leaked private chats used as evidence in court. Scripture reminds us that “whatever is hidden will be revealed” (Luke 12:2-3). This spiritual principle finds a technological parallel in our digital age. As those unleashed to shine in a world that never forgets, we should approach each post with the awareness that our words have a lasting impact.

BEING WATCHED: YOUR DIGITAL WITNESS MATTERS

As Christians, we are always being observed—not just in person, but online as well. People who may never step foot in a church building are watching your posts, stories, and comments to see if your faith is genuine. They notice when:

• You post about loving God on Sunday but tear others down on Monday
• You share Bible verses but also inappropriate content
• You claim to follow Jesus but your online behavior suggests otherwise

THE GOOD AND BAD OF SOCIAL MEDIA

THE GOOD SIDE: Social media isn’t all bad—it has many great uses for those seeking to shine for Christ:

• Staying Connected – The church community can maintain fellowship across distances. You can video call family overseas for free, something that was expensive or impossible in the past.
• Learning New Things – Biblical teachings and devotionals are more accessible than ever. YouTube has tutorials for everything. Many people have even built careers from online courses.
• Growing Businesses – Christian entrepreneurs can align their businesses with their values and reach wider audiences. Small shops and creators use Instagram and TikTok to reach millions of customers without needing a big budget.
• Sharing Your Faith – Social media provides unprecedented opportunities to share testimonies, Bible verses, and encouragement with friends and followers, extending your ministry beyond physical gatherings.

THE BAD SIDE: But there are also serious downsides that can dim our light online:

• Cyberbullying – Because people can hide behind screens, bullying online is worse than ever. Hateful comments, fake profiles, and public shaming can lead to real-life harm. Christians are called to speak life, not death (Proverbs 18:21).
• Addiction – Many people waste hours mindlessly scrolling, losing sleep, and neglecting real-life responsibilities because social media is designed to keep you hooked. This can distract from our calling and purpose.
• Echo Chambers – We often only follow people who think like us, creating bubbles that reinforce our views without challenging us to grow. This limits our ability to love and understand others unlike ourselves.

WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS ABOUT SOCIAL MEDIA USE

The Bible was written long before the internet, but its wisdom still applies today for those unleashed to shine online:

Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt (Colossians 4:6). This means we should speak (or post) with kindness, not cruelty. Don’t spread rumors or private things online. Respect confidentiality and privacy. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths (Ephesians 4:29), meaning avoid hate speech, insults, and toxic behavior on social media. Instead, post what is helpful for building others up according to their needs. These principles remind us that our words matter, whether spoken or typed. Being unleashed to shine means bringing these biblical values into our digital interactions.

WHAT YOU SHOULD (AND SHOULDN’T) POST ONLINE

SAFE THINGS TO POST

• Positive messages: Inspirational quotes, encouraging words, and testimonies of God’s faithfulness.
• Educational content: Helpful tips, news, or interesting facts that edify others.
• Professional updates: Job achievements, school successes, or business promotions that honor God’s provision.

• Ministry moments: Church events, volunteer work, or mission trips that inspire others to serve.
• Family celebrations: Milestones and memories that show gratitude for God’s blessings.

DANGEROUS THINGS TO POST

• Personal arguments: Public fights can make you look bad and never truly disappear. Matthew 18:15 teaches us to resolve conflicts privately first.
• Financial details: Never share bank info, salary, or credit card numbers. Practice wise stewardship in all areas.
• Location check-ins: Telling strangers where you are can be a safety risk, especially for youth.
• Judgmental content: Harsh criticisms of others that don’t demonstrate Christ’s love or grace.

DIGITAL EVANGELISM: HOW CHRISTIAN YOUTH CAN SHARE THEIR FAITH ONLINE

As young believers unleashed to shine, you have unprecedented opportunities to spread God’s Word digitally:

1. Share Your Testimony – Post about how God has worked in your life. Personal stories often reach people who would never click on a Bible verse.
2. Create Faith-Based Content – Make videos, graphics, or write posts explaining biblical concepts in relatable ways. Use your creativity to make faith accessible.
3. Engage Thoughtfully – When someone posts about struggles or questions, respond with compassionate, Christ-centered perspectives rather than judgment.

NB: Remember, digital evangelism isn’t about forcing your beliefs on others; it’s about shining Christ’s light naturally in spaces where people already gather.

HOW PARENTS CAN PROTECT THEIR KIDS ONLINE

Kids and teens don’t always understand the long-term effects of social media. Parents must step in to guide them in living worthy of their calling. By staying involved, parents can help their children avoid mistakes that could follow them for life and guide them in using social media in ways that allow them to shine for Christ.

1. Monitor Their Accounts

• Follow your child on every platform they use.
• Make sure their profiles are private and they only accept friends they know in real life.
• Use parental controls when appropriate, explaining they’re for protection, not punishment.

2. Teach Them About Consequences

• Explain that nothing online is truly private; even disappearing messages can be screenshotted.
• Share real stories of people who lost jobs or scholarships because of old posts.
• Connect digital choices to their Christian witness and future calling.

3. Encourage Open Talks

• Let them know they can come to you if they see something scary or if someone bullies them online.
• Warn them about strangers who might pretend to be kids to trick them.
• Discuss difficult topics they might encounter online before they see them.

CONCLUSION

Social media is a powerful tool; it can help us connect, learn, and grow in our faith, but it can also dim our light if used carelessly. Being unleashed to shine in a world that never forgets means bringing your faith into every post, comment, and share. Before you post anything, ask yourself: Could this hurt someone? Is this necessary? Does this reflect Christ to others? Does this help or hinder my witness? Would I share this if Jesus was following my account?

Written by Derrick Decency Antwi (kingdecency55@gmail.com / WhatsApp: +233551955161)(Jato Zongo District, Atebubu Area, and Pentecost University Alumni)

Sin can be described as a violation of God’s law in thought, word, or deed. The Bible explicitly mentions different kinds of sin. However, the first sin recorded in Scripture is the sin of disobedience by the first man, Adam. In Christian theology, this sin is known as the original sin because it was the first transgression, and all other sins can be considered offshoots of this initial act of rebellion.

Essentially, the effect of the original sin necessitated the need for a Saviour, as it introduced the sin nature, suffering, and eternal damnation to the human race. Graciously, Jesus was manifested in the fullness of time to address both the root and the effects of original sin.

Scripture provides ample evidence that no other sacrifice could fully satisfy God’s justice except Jesus. Comparing the Law and Old Testament sacrifices with Jesus’ perfect, substitutionary atonement, the writer of Hebrews emphasizes that the blood of animals, offered year after year, could not deal with the problem of sin. The annual sacrifices fell short of appeasing God’s wrath and fulfilling His ultimate plan to deal with sin once and for all (Romans 3:25-26).

Nevertheless, God allowed these sacrifices to continue until the appointed time for a good reason. Primarily, through the Law and the system of sacrifices, God highlighted the effect of sin, the need for redemption, and foreshadowed Jesus as the perfect Lamb of God who would take away the sins of humanity. In God’s perfect plan, the Law and sacrifices prepared humankind for the new covenant, which would later be established through Christ.

In the fullness of time, God “prepared a body” for His Son and “gave Him” to the world as the perfect atonement for sin. This is known as the incarnation of Christ—the Son of God taking on human form and becoming a man.

“Therefore, when Christ came into the world, he said: ‘Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me; with burnt offerings and sin offerings you were not pleased.’” (Hebrews 10:5-6)

When John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, saw Jesus, he declared:

“Look! The Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29)

Surely, Jesus was the Lamb whose sacrifice brought an end to the repeated offerings of ‘lambs’, which could never truly deal with the problem of sin. What the Law and sacrifices foreshadowed had now been fulfilled in Christ for the redemption of mankind. Hallelujah!

By becoming the propitiation for sin, Jesus set aside the old order, paid the ransom for sin once and for all, and purchased eternal redemption for all of humanity.

“He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption.” (Hebrews 9:12)

According to Hebrews 9:12, “He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption.” The implication of this sacrifice is that “we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all” (Hebrews 10:10). Therefore, we stand guiltless before God—justified and righteous, without condemnation or shame.

In a nutshell, through His death, Jesus achieved the following for humankind:

• Set aside the old order

“By calling this covenant ‘new,’ he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and outdated will soon disappear.” – Hebrews 8:13

“Then he said, ‘Here I am, I have come to do your will.’ He sets aside the first to establish the second.” – Hebrews 10:9

• Paid the ransom for the sins of mankind once and for all

“For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time.” – 1 Timothy 2:5-6

• Purchased eternal redemption for all of mankind

“He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption.” – Hebrews 9:12

CONCLUSION

Having received a new identity, the believer has the responsibility to live a holy life worthy of that identity. This is crucial because the reality of a life-changing encounter with the living Christ is made manifest to the world when we renounce sin, depart from our old ways, and live holy lives.

Highlighting this responsibility in Romans 8:12, the Apostle Paul emphasized that “we are debtors—not to the flesh.” This means the believer’s obligation and debt of gratitude is to willingly offer themselves as slaves to righteousness, thereby justifying the sacrifice made for them by Christ. By doing this, we translate our positional state (righteousness) into an operational reality (holiness).

Written by Pastor Joseph Owusu-Boateng (PENSA Travelling Secretary – Sunyani Sector)