Posts in category: Articles

Elder Dr. Richmond Djorgbenoo’s story is one of faith, resilience, and groundbreaking achievement. From his early days in Ghana to making a global impact in science and ministry, his journey exemplifies the power of determination and divine favor.

In 2018, Dr. Djorgbenoo took a bold step by relocating to the United States to pursue his Master’s and Ph.D. in Chemistry at North Carolina A&T State University. With a clear vision and unwavering commitment, he set out to make a difference in his field. Through years of dedication and hard work, coupled with God’s grace, he has risen to prominence, earning an impressive nine (9) prestigious awards for outstanding research, poster and oral presentations at major conferences, and excellence in Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) competitions both at his institution and the state level. His crowning academic achievement came with the highly coveted 2025 CHBGS National Dissertation Award, conferred by the Council of Historically Black Graduate Schools (CHBGS) in recognition of the best doctoral dissertation of the year.

One of the defining moments of his career was the opportunity to present his groundbreaking research at the North Carolina State Capitol—a prestigious platform that allows distinguished scholars to showcase their scientific contributions to state senators and legislators. His commitment to advancing knowledge in chemistry has also led to the publication of four first-authored research papers, each focused on functional foods and human health, reinforcing his passion for innovation and scientific excellence.

Today, Dr. Djorgbenoo continues to break new ground as the Principal Investigator in Polymer Chromatography at Solenis, a leading company in specialty chemical solutions. In this role, he leads research initiatives within the organisation’s R&D division, further cementing his reputation as a distinguished scientist.

However, his success is not limited to the laboratory. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Djorgbenoo is deeply rooted in his faith and committed to the work of the ministry. While in graduate school, he served as the Presiding Elder of Greensboro Central/District under the Carolina Area of The Church of Pentecost. He later took on the role of Youth & PENSA Leader at Charlotte PIWC. His dedication to nurturing young believers continues today as he serves as the District Secretary and Youth & PENSA Leader in the Delaware District under the Pennsylvania Region.

Dr. Djorgbenoo’s journey is an inspiration to young professionals, proving that faith and excellence can open doors to remarkable opportunities. His story aligns with The Church of Pentecost’s Possessing the Nations agenda, serving as a powerful example of how one can balance professional success with impactful ministry. Through his life’s work, he encourages the next generation to pursue excellence, seek mentorship, and trust in God’s divine purpose for their lives. Indeed, from Ghana to the global stage, Elder Dr. Richmond Djorgbenoo is a beacon of hope, proving that with faith, diligence, and a heart for service, there are no limits to what one can achieve.

Truth be told, it is a great lie for us to believe and accept that all religions and belief systems have the same God but different ways of worship.

We have all fallen for this cliche for far too long, denying us the opportunity to approach matters of salvation from the proper perspective.

Setting the record straight is of great importance and benefit to humanity. We must not be deceived by the prince of this world, the devil, lest we lose focus on our evangelical and unleashed agenda of winning the world back to God.

If one denies the only true way to God, Jesus Christ, then you are worshiping another alien and foreign god and not the Almighty God who created the world who you proclaim all religion and men worship.

In 1 John 2: 23 the bible says, “No one who denies the son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also”. The central theme here is the ‘way’ before the ‘Father’ and not the ‘Father’ before the ‘way’.  Meaning your confession of who you believe to be the way to God is the evidence of who your god is or the kind of father you claim to have as a god, and not your god before the way.

 Your denial of the son Christ Jesus as the only way to God disqualifies you from claiming to know God and renders you and your belief system ‘liars’ – 1 John 2 v 22

We don’t need to know your god to believe you are safe, your confession of your way of worship and by extension, your medium of worship is enough to tell who your God is and your status of salvation. If you do not acknowledge Christ Jesus as the only way to God then I will humbly disappoint you by letting you know we do not have the same God, therefore you are not saved.

The rationale behind the old cliche statement that we all have the same God is to embrace unity in diversity and to encourage harmonious living among all, yes but that should not be an avenue to twist the truth concerning the way to salvation. The fact is we are all one as a people, clothed with flesh, blood, and oxygen functioning as humans but separated on the grounds of belief systems that need to be amended by bringing all to the only path of salvation. Any other way apart from Christ Jesus is a sinking sand. It has no future or hope.

I conclude by encouraging all believers in Christ Jesus to fulfill the great commission agenda of revealing Christ as the only medium unto salvation and a prove that you have God Almighty as your Father and no other foreign god.

In doing this let us be modest, decent, caring and ready to demonstrate love in all engagement knowing very well that it pleases God, that we leave in peace with all men -Roman 12 v 18. May the Holy Spirit work on us even us we preach the truth of Christ to this dying world.

God bless you all

Written by Elder Sampah Owusu

#ChristianArticle

#TalkAboutJesus

#Livingworthyofyourcalling

Introduction 

Moral law serves as a fundamental guide for human conduct, compelling individuals to reject evil and pursue good. Throughout history, philosophers have debated its origins, leading to three primary perspectives: human nature, societal influence, and divine authority. This article explores these perspectives, evaluates their implications, and distinguishes between absolute and universal moral principles in ethical decision-making. 

Sources of Moral Law 

1. Human Nature as the Source of Moral Law 

Immanuel Kant, a leading moral philosopher, argued that moral law is inherent in human rationality. According to Kant, every rational being possesses an internal moral compass – an obligation imposed by their own will rather than external influence. Morality, therefore, is a natural extension of reason and autonomy. 

2. Society as the Source of Moral Law 

Philosophers such as Henri Bergson and Thomas Hobbes contend that moral law emerges from social influence. They argue that norms, traditions, and legal systems shape individuals’ moral perceptions, making morality a product of collective human experience and cultural evolution. 

3. Divine Origin as the Source of Moral Law 

A widely accepted perspective asserts that moral law originates from God. This view holds that morality is not merely a human construct but is grounded in divine authority. If God created humankind, moral law becomes an extension of His will, making Him the ultimate source of moral guidance. 

Evaluating the Sources of Moral Law 

While society plays a significant role in shaping moral behaviour, it cannot be the original source, as society itself is a product of human history. Similarly, if morality were solely based on rationality, individuals could justify conflicting moral choices through personal reasoning. The divine origin theory offers a more comprehensive explanation: if God created human beings with rationality and free will, then He is both the ultimate source and highest authority of moral law. 

As Christians, we affirm that true morality is not just a human construct – it stems from God. Scripture teaches: 

‘For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.’ (Proverbs 2:6) 

While reasoning and social influence shape decisions, divine authority remains the foundation. In a world of shifting moral values, Christians must remain anchored in God’s truth. Can society exist without God? 

Furthermore, the relationship between law and morality is complex. While legal systems serve as enforcement mechanisms, true morality transcends mere legislation. Morality unites individuals, fostering harmony in society and a deeper connection with God. 

Moral Principles: Absolute vs. Universal 

Moral principles guide human behaviour, but they can be categorised into two distinct types: absolute and universal. 

Absolute Moral Principles 

Absolute moral principles are unchanging, allowing no exceptions regardless of circumstance. A prime example is truthfulness – across all cultures, lying is condemned as immoral. Kant upheld this principle, arguing that lying is always wrong, even if done with good intentions. This position aligns with the biblical injunction: 

‘You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.’ (Exodus 20:16) 

Christians are called to uphold truthfulness, even at great personal cost. 

Universal Moral Principles 

Universal moral principles are widely accepted but allow exceptions based on specific contexts. Consider the Hebrew midwives who deceived Pharaoh to preserve innocent lives:  “The midwives said to Pharaoh, ‘Because the Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women, for they are vigorous and give birth before the midwife comes to them.’ So God dealt well with the midwives… because they feared God, He gave them families.” (Exodus 1:19-21) 

Would absolute truth-telling have been the correct moral stance? Let’s examine a few ethical scenarios. 

Truth-Telling Exception 

Returning rightful property is a universal moral principle. However, if a murderer entrusts someone with a weapon intended for harm and later demands its return, withholding or deceiving may be justified to protect life. 

Medical Confidentiality Exception 

Doctors have ethical obligations to maintain patient confidentiality. However, revealing an HIV-positive diagnosis to a spouse could prevent harm – here, the duty to protect life supersedes strict confidentiality. 

Concealing Truth for Justifiable Reasons 

If a criminal demands personal details about a potential victim, withholding that information is a morally sound decision. The Hebrew midwives, driven by reverence for God, withheld the truth to save lives. 

‘The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.’ (Proverbs 9:10) 

A Persecuted Preacher 

A preacher, St. John, was pursued by persecutors. When questioned about his whereabouts, he falsely claimed to have boarded a departing vehicle, allowing him to escape safely. Did he lie? His decision reflects the biblical principle of self-preservation – a foundational moral law secondary only to loving God. 

‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’ (Matthew 22:36-40) 

These examples illustrate that while absolute moral principles remain rigid, universal moral principles allow for exceptions when ethical complexities arise. 

Conclusion 

The origin of moral law has been debated for centuries, with arguments supporting human nature, societal influence, and divine authority. While reasoning and cultural norms influence morality, the most compelling source remains God. 

Distinguishing between absolute and universal moral principles is essential for navigating ethical dilemmas. Absolute principles remain unyielding, while universal principles offer flexibility in morally complex situations. A thoughtful approach to moral reasoning ensures that ethical decisions serve the greater good. 

In leadership, marriage, and business, ethical challenges arise daily. Should we follow man-made standards, or uphold God’s moral law? While society may redefine right and wrong, Christians are called to remain steadfast in biblical truth. True integrity goes beyond legal compliance – it is about honouring Christ in every decision. 

How do you apply biblical morality in your workplace, marriage, and personal life? 

About the Author  Rev. Joel Beddim is a researcher and writer specialising in ethics, philosophy, history, and moral theology. You can reach him at joelbeddim@gmail.com or 0246906239 

Introduction 

While the Bible does not explicitly condemn gambling or betting, it emphasises the dangers of greed, the importance of hard work, and the need to avoid “get-rich-quick” schemes, which are often associated with gambling. The Bible promotes the value of hard work and earning a living through honest labour, rather than relying on luck or chance. It cautions against the love of money and the pursuit of wealth through questionable means.

The Youth and Betting 

Recently, gambling among Ghanaian youth has seen a marked increase. Studies have reported a prevalence of at least 30% of gambling among children and adolescents, including sports betting, lottery, and casino gambling. This surge in youth participation in gambling is gradually leading to many social vices such as stealing and robbery. 

General analysis shows that factors triggering gambling include personal loss, the proximity of betting sites, unemployment, leisure, and curiosity. Patrons variously perceive betting on sports as a game that involves chance, money, and electronic gadgets. The perceived benefits of gambling include money, socialisation, positive emotions, expression of knowledge, and love of football.

Some Types of Betting

• Moneyline
• Point Spread
• Totals or Over/Under
• Parlays
• Teasers
• Prop Bet
• Futures
• Live Betting

Dangers of Betting

1. Trust in Betting Rather Than God: The rich young ruler who came to Jesus for eternal life mentioned in Mark 10:17-22 is a classic example. He was deeply in love with his money and would not let go of it. The end result was that he walked away from the Giver of eternal life with a death sentence written all over him.
2. Bringing Sorrows in This Present World: The Bible clearly says, “People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction” (1 Timothy 6:9). The temptation to gain more money leads people to work long hours, neglect God, family, and even gain money through sinful means.
3. Leading to Selfishness: We forget that when we got baptised, our bank account also got baptised! We forget that God owns all our money. We are simply stewards of what He has entrusted to our care. We fail to understand that if God prospers us, it may be that He wants us to raise our standard of giving, not necessarily our standard of living.
4. Binding Us to the Temporary and Blinding Us from Eternity: The love of money can obscure our vision. The rich young ruler is a good example. His encounter with Jesus shows how money, which is a very temporary thing, has the power to blind a person from seeing the true eternal riches found only in Jesus. This truth is precisely what Jesus warned through a parable in Luke 12:13-21. The parable is about a man who was bound to the temporary riches of this world and was blind to eternity as he pursued money instead of God. “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’” And then, Jesus went on to make the application, “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”

Consequences of Betting on the Youth

• Youngsters often struggle to properly deal with losses and tend to overcompensate by throwing even bigger money on games of chance. This way, gambling encourages reckless and irresponsible behaviour and inhibits the ability to properly assess risks and consequences. Since gambling is mostly illegal, under-aged gamblers are not keen on seeking professional help either.
• Gambling addiction in teens is a red flag that could signal that there are some other, potentially bigger underlying problems in the life of a young person.
• Betting is proven to disrupt family relationships. Parents are unable to fully understand the problem and come up with an effective solution. Kids, on the other hand, look down on adult interference and are too far gone into the addiction territory. This creates a big communication gap that cannot be easily bridged.

Biblical Viewpoint About Betting 

The Bible warns against greed and the desire for quick riches, which are often associated with gambling. It emphasises the importance of being good stewards of the resources God has given us, rather than squandering them on potentially risky activities like gambling. Gambling can lead to addiction and other problems, which are inconsistent with a life of faith and obedience to God’s principles.

Bible Principles Applicable to Gambling

1. Betting Can Lead to Evil: Betting and gambling can be the foundation and primary cause of several wickedness in our world today. Apostle Paul instructed Timothy, a youth Christian, to guard and watch his love and appetite for money. He signaled him to watch how to obtain money and how to gain money in the light of scriptures. “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10).
2. Dishonest Gain: Dishonest gain refers to acquiring wealth or benefits through unethical, deceptive, or illegal means, which is often seen as wrong or harmful. Dishonest gain encompasses any form of profit or advantage obtained through dishonesty, fraud, or other morally questionable practices. “Dishonest money melts away, but the one who gathers by labour increases it” (Proverbs 13:11).
3. Earning from Your Labour, Not Others: Dishonest gain is generally considered unethical and harmful because it violates trust, fairness, and respect for others. The phrase “enjoying the labour of others” can be interpreted as benefiting from the work or efforts of someone else without contributing oneself, and it can be seen as a form of exploitation or taking advantage of others. The Bible, particularly in John 4:38, discusses reaping what others have sown, implying that someone can benefit from the labour of others. “Do not stretch out your hand to what you cannot take, for your labour will be for your own loss” (Proverbs 23:5).
4. Money Is Not the Ultimate of Life: Money cannot buy everything. While money can certainly provide comfort and financial security, it cannot buy intangible things like love, happiness, health, or inner peace. Money also cannot buy certain life experiences, such as meaningful relationships, personal growth, or a sense of purpose. “Whoever loves money will not be satisfied with money; whoever loves wealth will not be satisfied with income. This too is meaningless” (Ecclesiastes 5:10).
5. Work with Your Own Hands and Avoid Shortcuts to Riches: In Paul’s era, almost all employment involved some kind of trade where people worked with their hands. Thus, the phrase “work with your hands” was an idiom for earning one’s own living, i.e., not being dependent upon others or using dubious means of getting money. “For even when we were with you, we used to give you this rule: If any person is not willing to work, neither should that person eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

Conclusion

This script examined the effects of sports betting on moral behaviour and the Christian response to contemporary youth. Sports betting, a form of gambling, has become a prevalent social activity in the 21st century, engaging a significant portion of the youth. While sports betting is harmless fun for most people, it can become a destructive addiction for those who lose control. The high stakes involved have led to numerous social vices. Students have become addicted to betting centres, using their school fees and pocket money for gambling, and some have even dropped out of school, jeopardising their futures.

In light of scriptures, several Christian responses have been outlined to help combat and reduce this issue.

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

“My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me” – (1 Cor. 4:4, NIV)

Conscience is subjective. Sometimes, a person’s conscience may be clear, but this does not mean that the person is innocent (Apostle Eric Nyamekye). People can commit unethical or harmful acts without malicious intent or awareness that their actions are wrong. They genuinely believe their actions are justified, even though they are objectively causing harm. This article explores this oxymoron of life using biblical illustrations.

What is Evil?

Evil is generally seen as immorality, wickedness, and actions that cause harm or undermine the moral foundations of the world. The concept is broadly categorized as either natural evil or moral evil (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, 2022). Evil is not just a personal or individual problem but a social and relational one. At its core, evil involves a lack of conscience, an inability or unwillingness to recognize moral truth and act accordingly. It disregards moral accountability.

The Hebrew word for “evil” is רַע (ra’), which encompasses a range of destructive, displeasing, and harmful attitudes, actions, and circumstances that contradict God’s envisioned goodness and peace.

Causes of Doing Evil Innocently

1. Limited understanding of the mind of God.
2. Ignorance of our weaknesses and limitations.
3. Cultural backgrounds and dogmatic indoctrinations.
4. Hallucinations and stereotyping of certain groups.
5. Conservative ideologies.

Often, people defend their actions proudly, only to realize later that they were wrong. This happens because one can be sincerely wrong due to a lack of complete knowledge. In the sight of God, sin is sin, whether it is an error of omission or commission.

Biblical Characters

These biblical figures acted with a clear conscience but were regarded as living in sin before the Lord.

Old Testament Examples

1. Abraham and King Abimelek (Gen. 20:3-6): Abimelek took Sarah, believing she was Abraham’s sister. God intervened, acknowledging Abimelek’s clear conscience but preventing him from sinning.
2. King Saul (1 Sam. 13:7-13): Saul performed a burnt offering himself when Samuel delayed. Though his intentions were good, he disobeyed God’s command.
3. King David (2 Sam. 12:1-12): David judged a rich man in Nathan’s story, not realizing he was condemning himself for his own hidden sins.
4. Uzzah (2 Sam. 6:6-7): Uzzah tried to steady the Ark of the Covenant, but his irreverent act led to his death.

New Testament Examples

1. Apostle Paul (Acts 9:1-5): Paul persecuted the early church, believing he was protecting God’s law. It took divine intervention to realign him.
2. Jewish Leaders (1 Cor. 2:8): They crucified Jesus, believing they were upholding their traditions, not realizing they were condemning themselves.

Lessons to Conclude

The concept of evil is complex. People can do “evil” things innocently if they operate under erroneous suppositions or irresistible constraints. Despite the presence of evildoers, God’s church stands firm, emphasizing divine sovereignty and human responsibility (2 Timothy 2:19):

“Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: ‘The Lord knows those who are his,’ and, ‘Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.’”

Everyone needs to align their conscience with the Holy Spirit to fulfill God’s law without committing sin innocently.

Written by Pastor Daniel Antwi-Adjei, Dome New Town District, Haatso Area

The Home and Urban Missions (HUM) of The Church of Pentecost aims to evangelise foreigners in Ghana and establish culturally relevant churches. HUM recently held the Emerging Leaders’ Conference at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, from March 13-14, 2025. The conference focused on identifying and training young converts with leadership potential to serve effectively within their local assemblies and communities.

Facilitators included Apostle Emmanuel Agyei Kwafo (National Co-ordinator, HUM), Pastors Emmanuel Foster Asamoah (NEC Member, HUM), Paul Kojo Mahama (Area Co-ordinator, Dansoman), and Jeremiah Atakpa (Area Co-ordinator, Aflao). Also present were Mrs Abigail Ofei-Badu (NEC Member, HUM) and Deaconess Dr Grace Owusu Aboagye (Consultant Pharmacist/Executive Director, Refresh-Rx Foundation).

Mrs Abigail Ofei-Badu delivered a thought-provoking presentation on “Repentance,” sharing real-life stories that highlighted the struggles individuals face in their journey toward true repentance. This discussion raised critical questions about the nature of true repentance, its signs, and the challenges Christians face in maintaining their faith.

Understanding True Repentance

Repentance is a foundational principle of the Christian faith, involving a complete transformation of heart, mind, and behaviour. The biblical term metanoia signifies a shift in thinking that leads to a change in action. True repentance requires acknowledging sin, feeling genuine sorrow, and making a conscious decision to turn away from sin and live in alignment with God’s will.

King David and Apostle John emphasise the importance of confessing sins and seeking forgiveness. Genuine sorrow, as described by Apostle Paul, produces repentance leading to salvation. True repentance is evident in a change in behaviour, where a repentant person strives to live a life that pleases God.

Repentance is a continuous process of transformation, reflecting a commitment to righteousness and a deepened relationship with God.

The Two Scenarios and Their Biblical Implications

Scenario 1: The Selective Christian

A man struggling with alcoholism decided to turn over a new leaf. He went to church, confessed his sins, and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour. However, despite being in the church for some time, he continued drinking alcohol. When his relatives confronted him about his drinking habits, he justified his actions by saying, “I have heard that there is a verse in Habakkuk which frowns on drinking alcohol. I don’t want to quit, so I always skip that book.”

This man’s approach reveals selective obedience to God’s word. He acknowledged his need for salvation but was unwilling to fully submit to the authority of Scripture. Instead of allowing God’s word to convict him and lead him to change, he deliberately avoided parts of the Bible that challenged his sinful lifestyle. This mirrors the attitude of King Saul in 1 Samuel 15:22-23, where Saul obeyed God only partially and justified his disobedience. Similarly, Apostle James warns believers, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (Jam. 1:22).

This story reflects the struggle of many Christians today who profess faith in Christ but continue to hold onto their past sins. True repentance requires complete surrender to God. Avoiding parts of Scripture that confront our weaknesses only leads to spiritual stagnation and self-deception.

Scenario 2: The Transformed Life

A man notorious for his violent nature encountered Christ and experienced a radical transformation. Before his conversion, he was feared for his aggression, often beating people without provocation. However, after being won to Christ through the church, he repented and surrendered his life to God.

One day, a woman he owed money confronted him publicly, calling him names. The crowd that gathered expected the worst, knowing his past behaviour. They warned the woman to stop provoking him, as they believed he would react violently. However, the man remained calm and, to everyone’s surprise, responded, “The God of Pentecost has held my hands at my back.”

This was a powerful statement of transformation. The man, who was once feared for his uncontrollable temper, now displayed remarkable self-restraint, attributing his change to God’s power. His transformation mirrors the experience of Zacchaeus in Luke 19:8-9, who, after encountering Jesus, immediately committed to making restitution and living righteously. His story also aligns with Apostle Paul’s message to the church in Corinth, which declares, “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Cor. 5:17).

Unlike the first man, who resisted change, this second man embraced his new identity in Christ. His repentance was genuine, producing visible evidence of a transformed life. His reliance on God’s strength, rather than his own, underscores the biblical truth made by the apostle Paul to the church in Philippai, which states, “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfil his good purpose” (Php. 2:13).

Lessons for Contemporary Christians

Firstly, true repentance demands a complete turning away from sin rather than selective obedience. The first man exemplified a common struggle among many who desire the benefits of Christianity yet refuse to fully relinquish behaviours that contradict God’s will. While he acknowledged his need for salvation, his unwillingness to submit entirely to God’s authority revealed an incomplete repentance. This mirrors the challenge faced by many today who profess faith but continue to cling to habits, desires, and lifestyles that contradict biblical teachings. The apostle Paul urges believers not to conform to worldly patterns but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds (Rom. 12:2). Likewise, Jesus states, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me” (Lk. 9:23). True repentance, therefore, is not partial or conditional; it requires a wholehearted commitment to living according to God’s will.

Secondly, obedience to God’s word cannot be selective, as demonstrated by the first man’s deliberate avoidance of scripture that convicted him. Many believers today adopt a similar approach, embracing only the aspects of the Bible that align with personal preferences while disregarding passages that challenge their behaviour. However, the apostle Paul makes it clear that “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17.) The Christian life demands full submission to the entirety of God’s word, not a selective application that accommodates personal desires. Apostle James further warns, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (Jam. 1:22). True obedience means accepting divine truth even when it requires difficult changes, knowing that spiritual growth is rooted in complete alignment with God’s teachings.

Next, true repentance produces a visible change, distinguishing between those who merely profess faith and those who genuinely live transformed lives. The contrast between the two men highlights this reality. While the first continued in his old ways, the second man demonstrated undeniable evidence of transformation. His response to provocation—choosing restraint rather than aggression—was a testimony to his changed heart. The apostle Paul underscores that a life rooted in true repentance bears the fruit of the Spirit, characterised by “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Gal. 5:22-23). Similarly, John the baptiser instructs believers to “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance” (Matt. 3:8). Repentance is not simply about expressing regret but about a lifestyle that visibly reflects Christ’s nature.

Furthermore, relying on God’s strength is key to overcoming sin, as seen in the testimony of the second man, who acknowledged that it was God who restrained him. True transformation cannot be achieved by human effort alone but is a work of grace. Many struggle to break free from sinful habits because they rely solely on willpower rather than seeking divine help. Apostle Paul provides a powerful reminder that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Php. 4:13). Additionally, Jesus Christ states, “Apart from me you can do nothing” (Jn. 15:5). Recognising this truth allows believers to surrender their weaknesses to God and trust in His power to bring lasting change.

Finally, repentance must be accompanied by accountability and humility, as seen in the second man’s openness to acknowledge God’s work in his life. Unlike the first man, who justified his sin, the second man understood his need for divine help and did not attempt to excuse his past actions. King Solomon affirms that “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy” (Prov. 28:13). Confession and accountability are essential aspects of true repentance. James 5:16 encourages believers to “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” A repentant heart does not seek to rationalise sin but humbly accepts correction. Christians should, therefore, be willing to hold themselves accountable to God and to fellow believers, allowing their lives to be shaped by truth and genuine transformation.

Conclusion

True repentance is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, requiring a complete transformation of heart, mind, and behaviour. It goes beyond mere confession and manifests in a life fully surrendered to God. Genuine repentance demands full submission to God’s word, embracing its teachings entirely. Without this commitment, repentance remains superficial, leading to spiritual stagnation.

Repentance must produce visible evidence of change, reflecting the biblical principle that faith without works is dead. A truly repentant believer exhibits the fruit of the Spirit, relying on God’s strength to overcome sin. Accountability and humility are crucial, as those who confess and renounce their sins receive mercy and foster spiritual growth through mutual support.

The message of repentance serves as a reminder for Christians to examine their faith. True repentance is a lifelong commitment to walking in obedience to God, continually surrendering to His will and allowing His word and Spirit to shape their lives.

Written by Pastor Emmanuel Foster Asamoah (Abasraba District Minister/NEC Member, HUM)

In today’s world, many parents have shifted the responsibility of nurturing and training their children to school teachers and Children’s Ministry teachers. While these educators play a vital role in shaping young minds, parental involvement is crucial in helping children become who God has called them to be. Unfortunately, some parents blame school teachers and Children’s Ministry teachers for not disciplining or teaching their children effectively, rather than taking ownership of their role.

A Disturbing Encounter

I attended a funeral recently in a prominent town in the Volta Region of Ghana. During my visit, I met some children aged 8-13 and engaged in a game of football with them. As we prepared to leave, I asked if they attended church that Sunday. Shockingly, about 70% of the children replied, “We are traditionalists.” I was surprised and, in my shocked mood, I spoke to them about the love of Jesus. I further encouraged them to find a Bible-believing church and attend as we bid them farewell.

These children could be the close friends of our children. What influence will they have on our children if our children are not well-grounded in their faith?

A Wake-Up Call for Parents

This encounter served as a wake-up call, highlighting the need for parents to take up their responsibility in nurturing their children’s spiritual growth. We must prioritise teaching our children about God’s love and values, rather than relying solely on external educators.

Dear parents, let us rise to the challenge and take ownership of our role as parents, guiding our children to become the individuals God has called them to be. As parents and guardians, we have been entrusted with the precious gift of nurturing and guiding the next generation.

In today’s world, where moral and spiritual values are constantly being challenged, it is more crucial than ever to intentionally raise our children to follow Jesus Christ. This is where the Children’s Ministry’s ‘Win, Wean, and Unleash’ agenda comes in – a powerful framework for parents and guardians to raise children who are deeply rooted in their faith.

1. Winning Their Hearts
   The first step in this journey is to “win” our children’s hearts. This means creating a safe, loving, and supportive environment where they feel valued, heard, and understood. By doing so, we establish a strong foundation for our relationship with them, built on trust, respect, and open communication. As we win their hearts, we also model the character of Christ before them. We demonstrate His love, patience, kindness, and compassion, showing our children what it means to follow Jesus. This is not about being perfect; it’s about being authentic, humble, and willing to learn alongside our children.
2. Weaning Them from the World
   As our children grow, they begin to face various influences from the world around them. This is where the “weaning” process comes in – gradually helping our children to discern between the values of the world and the values of God’s Kingdom. Weaning involves teaching our children to think critically, to evaluate information and ideas in light of biblical truth, and to make choices that align with their faith. It’s about empowering them to resist the negative influences of the world and be transformed by the renewing of their minds (Romans 12:2).
3. Unleashing Them for Christ
   The final step in this journey is to “unleash” our children for Christ. This means releasing them into the world, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to live out their faith boldly and authentically. Unleashing involves trusting that our children have been rooted and grounded in their faith, and that they are now ready to make a positive impact in the world around them. It’s about encouraging them to take risks, step out of their comfort zones, and to share the love of Christ with others.

The Children’s Ministry’s Win, Wean, and Unleash agenda is a powerful framework for parents and guardians who desire to raise children who are deeply committed to following Jesus Christ. By winning their hearts, weaning them from the world, and unleashing them for Christ, we can empower our children to become the next generation of leaders, disciples, and ambassadors for God’s Kingdom.

So let us run with this agenda, trusting that God will guide and equip us every step of the way. Let us be intentional about raising our children to follow Christ and watch with excitement as they grow into the men and women God has called them to be.

Written By Elder Jonathan Avornyo – Tokuroano District

The eye is one of the most important organs of the human system. It gives light to the body. Almost all human activities depend on one’s ability to see. A person’s life patterns, goals and aspirations would be greatly interrupted if there were no eyes. Despite the great importance of the eye to life, it is a very delicate organ hence the need to pay critical attention to it. Just as other parts of the body are prone to diseases and disorders, the eye is not exempted. Due to its delicate nature, one’s inability to pay attention to it usually results in worst situations such as blindness. In this article, I will discuss and campaign about Glaucoma, nicknamed the silent thief of sight. The World Health Organization has designated March 9^th to 15^th   as World Glaucoma Week. The focus of the week is to raise awareness to educate the public on the deadly condition hence this article.

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that affect or damage the optic nerves of the eyes and lead to progressive and irreversible vision loss.  The optic nerves are tissues that send information of the things we look at, from the eyes to the brain before one can see. Any damage to the optic nerve affects the transmission hence making vision blurry.  Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness globally. In 2020, 4.13 million people aged 50years and older suffered moderate to severe vision impairment and 3.6 million were permanently blind due to glaucoma (Global Burden of Disease Study, 2020). The condition appears to be more rampant among persons of African Descent.

Glaucoma has been named the ‘silent thief of sight’ because, it usually does not come with symptoms in the early stages because the optic nerves die off gradually.  Symptoms are usually noticed at the moderate to advanced stage of the condition. This explains why a lot of people get blind due to glaucoma. People usually would not have an eye examination until they have troubling issues which pushes them to present themselves for an eye consult. Some people even reject free check-ups and screenings organized by credible institutions due to belief in their incredible vision and in extension overall eye health.

As indicated earlier, glaucoma usually does not present with symptoms but its signs are usually noticeable and this is only possible through comprehensive eye examination by qualified professionals such as Optometrists, Ophthalmologist or Ophthalmic nurses in the case of Ghana. Even with our expertise, it would be very difficult for a doctor to look at a person and make a definite diagnosis of glaucoma without examination of the eyes. The symptomless nature of the condition in the early stages is a clarion call to the public to place premium on their eyes and visit the appropriate health facilities to be thoroughly examined. 

There are some factors that can make a person liable to glaucoma. One major risk factor I want to discuss is the ‘family history of glaucoma’. It has been well established by medical scientists that glaucoma is a hereditary disease, thus it can be passed on from one family member to another especially people who have direct relation like parents and their children. Specific genes have been identified to be responsible for this.  In my close to five years of practice as an Optometrist, I have seen families with all members victims of glaucoma. Some were first detected in the either parent, the children were called for examination and it was discovered they also had. In some other cases, it was first detected in their children, we traced back to parents and realized they also have the condition but they did not know because they never had and eye check- up. In my outfit of practice, numerous patients come to us frustrated because they feel they are going blind because of glaucoma. These are red flags that should prompt every individual to develop a good eye care seeking behavior.

Other risk factors worth mentioning include increased eye pressures, old age, trauma, prolonged use of certain medications like steroids, diabetes and hypertension. It must be stated emphatically that presently glaucoma does not have any medical cure. That is to say that whatever damage that the disease causes remain. Scientific work is ongoing to find a permanent cure for the condition.  What we try to do as clinicians is to manage and protect the remaining nerves.

Among the factors that can cause glaucoma, only the eye pressure can be modified when we are trying to manage the condition. Hence we prescribe medicines or surgery to reduce the pressures. I must be quick to say that; the eye pressures cannot be measured until one visits the hospital. This tells us that if we are able to visit the hospital for routine check- up regardless of whether we have complaints or not, it will help identify a lot of cases and management can start early. An annual routine eye check -up is recommended for every individual. Sticking to this recommendation will help detect the condition early and this will go a long way to prevent blindness. Also parents who have been diagnosed of glaucoma should make a conscious effort to inform their children about their condition and encourage them to be examined or send them up for examination. Glaucoma affect people of all age groups.

Before I end, I would want to debunk one myth people usually have about glaucoma. People hold the myth that spectacles cure glaucoma. I must emphatically say that glaucoma is not about spectacle wear. Your eye doctor may prescribe spectacles for you to improve your vision but that is not a cure for the glaucoma. In simple terms, Spectacles have their role to play in a person’s visions but they do not cure glaucoma. We have realized that some patients do not go for comprehensive eye examination or stop using their prescribed medications and rely on spectacles thinking they would be cured by that. A lot of the time, these people come back to us with the situation worsened. Am I saying spectacles are bad? Not at all, but they have their own role to play. This myth has coursed people to fall in the hands of wayside spectacle vendors and has affected them negatively.

As we celebrate the World Glaucoma Week, I implore and encourage you to take the opportunity to have your eye examined. Do not let glaucoma steal your sight. Thank you.

Written by

Dr. Stephen Oduro Kyei

Optometrist (OD, MGOA, Glaucoma Enthusiast)

Save the Nation’s Sight Clinic Manet Estate District