BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE YOUTH MINISTRY TODAY web

Building An Effective Youth Ministry Today

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In today’s rapidly evolving society, youth ministries face significant challenges as they strive to support young people amidst many societal pressures. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2022, approximately 8.7% of adolescents aged 12 to 17 had a substance use disorder. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that in 2021, 34% of adolescents experienced bullying, with 11% facing electronic bullying, contributing to mental health struggles. Suicide remains the second leading cause of death among adolescents, with 1,540 deaths recorded in 2022. These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for effective youth ministry programs that address these critical issues.

Moreover, the rise of social media, peer pressure, and secular influences further complicate adolescents’ journeys, often leading to struggles with identity, belonging, and purpose. The CDC’s 2024 survey highlighted that approximately 76.1% of students experienced at least one adverse childhood experience, such as household substance abuse or mental illness, which significantly impacts their mental health. As primary spiritual mentors, the church and youth leaders are called to address these multifaceted challenges, providing a nurturing environment where young people can grow in their faith and find a sense of community.

Youth addiction to pornography, sex, and drugs has reached alarming levels, raising serious concerns about the well-being of the next generation. According to a 2022 report by the Barna Group, 73% of teens and young adults in the U.S. view pornography at least once a month. Psychologists warn that prolonged exposure to pornography can rewire the brain, creating an addiction-like dependency that affects relationships and self-esteem. The rise of hookup culture among teenagers, fueled by dating apps and social media, has led to increased risky sexual behaviors. Substance abuse is another critical issue among adolescents. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that 10.9% of 12th graders used illicit drugs in the past year, with marijuana and prescription opioids being the most abused substances. The fentanyl epidemic has exacerbated the crisis, with teen overdoses doubling in recent years due to counterfeit pills laced with the deadly opioid.

Considering these pressing concerns, the role of the church and youth ministries becomes increasingly vital. Faith communities have the potential to offer a sanctuary of support, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose for young individuals navigating these turbulent times.

To build an effective and transformative youth ministry, it is essential to recognize the needs of young people and create an environment where they feel seen, heard, and supported. The church has a unique opportunity to walk alongside the younger generation, guiding them through life’s challenges while nurturing their faith. Youth ministries can become a place of refuge, growth, and purpose by fostering meaningful relationships, integrating discipleship into daily life, and embracing cultural diversity.

To achieve this, youth ministries can focus on several key areas:

  1. Building Trust and Strong Relationships: Trust is the foundation of any thriving youth ministry. Establishing genuine, consistent connections with young people creates a safe space where they feel valued and understood. Engaging in activities that foster meaningful relationships strengthens their sense of belonging and allows ministry leaders to serve as positive role models. It is essential to truly listen to young people, empathize with their struggles, and offer guidance with wisdom and humility. A key principle in effective mentorship is learning to judge situations, not personalities. This allows youth to grow in a grace-filled environment where they are encouraged to become the best versions of themselves in Christ.
  2. Holistic Discipleship and Parental Partnership: Discipleship should extend beyond church services and be woven into young people’s everyday lives. This involves a strong foundation in prayer, scriptural teaching, and mentorship to help them grow spiritually and navigate their personal faith journey. Ministries should also focus on assisting young people to discover their God-given identity, purpose, and calling. Encouraging youth to develop a personal relationship with Christ through prayer, worship, and studying the Word equips them with the tools they need to stand firm in their faith. Additionally, partnering with parents ensures that spiritual growth continues at home, reinforcing biblical values and providing continuous support.

Building Trust and Strong Relationships:

Trust is essential for effective ministry. Youth leaders should build genuine, consistent relationships with young people, creating a safe environment where they feel valued. Many youths, especially those from homes without stable parental involvement, lack guidance and mentorship, impacting their development and well-being. Mentors, church leaders, and trusted adults can fill this gap, providing the necessary support.

The absence of stable parental figures in the US has been linked to various adverse outcomes:

  • 43% of US children live without their fathers.
  • 63% of teen suicides are from fatherless homes.
  • 90% of runaways and homeless children come from homes without a stable parental figure.
  • 80% of rapists with anger problems come from unstable family backgrounds.
  • 71% of high school dropouts lack strong parental support.
  • 71% of pregnant teenagers report weak or absent parental relationships.
  • 85% of youths in prison come from homes without stable guardians.
  • 92% of daughters without a strong father figure are more likely to experience divorce.

In Ghana and other parts of the world, many children lack strong parental guidance, leading to increased vulnerability and social challenges. These statistics highlight the urgent need for positive, consistent adult relationships in the lives of young people. Churches and youth ministries must provide mentorship, accountability, and support, ensuring no young person feels abandoned. A strong network of pastors, mentors, and church family members can help young people develop resilience, confidence, and a clear sense of identity and purpose.

     i.        Show Up Consistently

Trust is the cornerstone of any successful ministry. Young people need to know that their leaders are reliable, consistent, and genuinely care about them. In a world where many youth experience instability, the presence of a committed and steadfast leader can be life-changing. Trust is not built overnight; it requires continuous effort, patience, and intentional actions. Consistency in presence and behavior reassures young people that they have someone they can depend on.

As Jen Bradbury from Fuller Youth Institute emphasizes, showing up consistently helps young people feel secure and valued. A leader’s presence communicates care, commitment, and a willingness to invest in their lives. When youth leaders remain engaged beyond structured church services—attending school events, checking in during the week, and sharing everyday experiences—young people begin to see them as trustworthy figures who genuinely desire their well-being.

The Bible underscores the importance of regular fellowship and encouragement. Hebrews 10:25 reminds believers: “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” This verse highlights the power of consistent gathering, not just for worship but for support and encouragement. Jesus Himself modeled unwavering consistency in His ministry. He spent three years with His disciples, teaching and living alongside them—eating, traveling, and facing challenges together. His constant presence reassured them of His love, commitment, and leadership.

By consistently showing up in the lives of young people, leaders create a sense of safety and belonging. This trust allows youth to open up about their struggles, seek guidance, and develop a stronger faith foundation. It signals that their leaders are not just authority figures but mentors, supporters, and lifelong encouragers who reflect Christ’s unwavering love.

   ii.        Engage in Relationship-Building Activities

Taking time for activities that build relationships is crucial. Playing games, sharing meals, and participating in group outings create opportunities for bonding. These activities are not merely social; they are spiritual practices that foster trust and community. “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” – Psalm 133:1

Jesus often shared meals with His disciples and others, recognizing the importance of fellowship: “While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take and eat; this is my body.'” – Matthew 26:26. These interactions create memories and strengthen the bonds within the group. God is present in these moments, making them as significant as any worship service or Bible study.

  iii.        Ask Good Questions and Listen

Effective communication is key. Leaders should ask thoughtful questions and actively listen to the responses. This shows you care and helps you understand each young person’s unique challenges and joys. “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19

Jesus exemplified this when He engaged with individuals, asking probing questions to understand their needs and perspectives. For example, when speaking with the Samaritan woman at the well, Jesus asked questions that led to a deeper conversation about her life and spiritual needs: “He told her, ‘Go, call your husband and come back.’ ‘I have no husband,’ she replied. Jesus said to her, ‘You are right when you say you have no husband. You have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.'” – John 4:16-18. Keeping an itinerary of what’s going on in their lives can be a helpful tool for remembering and following essential events.

  iv.        Share Vulnerably and Appropriately

Sharing your own stories and experiences can create a deeper connection. When leaders are open about their failures and successes, they encourage young people to do the same. However, it’s essential to share appropriately, focusing on what benefits the youth and avoiding unnecessary details.

The Apostle Paul often shared his struggles and weaknesses to encourage others: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9. This kind of openness fosters a culture of honesty and trust, where young people feel safe sharing their experiences.

    v.        Apologize When You Make Mistakes

Perfection in Christlikeness is the goal of Christendom. Since it’s a process, authenticity in handling the youth ministry should not be compromised. In this course, leaders might fall short in pursuit of this ministry. When leaders admit their mistakes and apologize, it builds trust and shows young people that it’s okay to be imperfect. This authenticity can transform fear into trust and encourage young people to engage more openly.

King David is a biblical example of someone who admitted his mistakes and sought forgiveness. His repentance and willingness to admit his faults made him a man after God’s heart: “Then David said to Nathan, ‘I have sinned against the Lord.’ Nathan replied, ‘The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die.'” – 2 Samuel 12:13.

Holistic Discipleship and Parental Partnership

Holistic discipleship is essential for nurturing young people into spiritually mature individuals. It goes beyond attending church services, involving intentional teaching, guidance, and cultivating a deep-rooted faith. Youth need a solid foundation in biblical doctrine to understand their identity in Christ and grow spiritually. This requires consistent teaching on Christian principles, helping them discern truth from deception and navigate their faith confidently. Additionally, cultivating a prayerful life encourages young people to develop an intimate relationship with God through personal and communal prayer. True discipleship involves modeling a Christ-centered life, walking alongside young people in their faith journey, and challenging them to grow deeper in their understanding of God’s purpose.

  1. Character Formation

Effective youth ministry involves cultivating lifelong discipleships characterized by trust, authenticity, and practical application of faith. Leaders should model growth, teach transformation, and practice with youth to help them integrate faith into every aspect of their lives. Engaging in service projects or leadership roles helps young people put their faith into action and develop a sense of purpose and responsibility. “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6

  1. Intergenerational Relationships

Encouraging relationships between young people and other generations within the church community helps build a robust faith foundation. Surrounding youth with a team of adults who invest in their spiritual growth creates a supportive network beyond the youth ministry. Research shows that every young person benefits from being surrounded by a team of adults, fostering a multi-generational faith community. “One generation shall commend your works to another and shall declare your mighty acts.” – Psalm 145:4

  1. Communicating a Whole Gospel

Many young people see faith like a jacket: something they put on or take off based on their behavior. Help students develop a robust understanding of the gospel, integrating it into every area of their lives. With this approach, they’ll see their faith in the context of everyday life, not just at church or in a small group. “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20

  1. Creating a Safe Place for Doubt

Young people have many questions. It’s helpful to remember that teenagers want a favorable environment to start conversations. As youth leaders, we learn to get comfortable saying, “I don’t know, but let’s keep talking about that.” Doubt isn’t toxic to faith—silence is. Encouraging open dialogue about faith and doubts helps young people feel safe and supported as they navigate their spiritual journeys. “Be merciful to those who doubt.” – Jude 1:22

Conclusion

In a world where young people face unprecedented challenges, the church has a critical role in guiding and nurturing the next generation. By building trust, fostering authentic relationships, and addressing the holistic needs of young people, youth ministries can become a beacon of hope and transformation. Effective youth ministry meets young people where they are, offering them a safe place to explore their faith, ask hard questions, and discover their God-given purpose. As leaders, we are called to walk alongside them, pointing them to the hope and truth in Jesus Christ. By doing so, we impact individual lives and contribute to the flourishing of families, communities, and the church.

Written by Pastor Fidelis Graham Mensah, Albany District, New York Area Youth Pastor

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Rev. James Mckeown: The Man Who Was Unleashed For Global Influence

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“The seed that was sown and watered with much tears of prayer has borne fruits. The big question now is: Will the fruit remain?” – Rev. James McKeown

A prophetic declaration at a large Apostolic convention in England announced that a young couple was to go to West Africa as missionaries. Fifteen months passed before they finally accepted the call. What unfolded during that time? Was James grappling with his own sense of insignificance, paralysed by fear, or overwhelmed by doubt?

The life of Rev. James McKeown is a remarkable testimony to the power of obedience in answering a divine call. Who would have thought that the seed sown in Asamankese in the then Gold Coast (now Ghana) would grow and spread to the four corners of the world? McKeown’s acceptance of the call led to the birth of one of the fastest-growing Pentecostal organisations in the world—The Church of Pentecost, a leading global Pentecostal church, currently present in 190 nations.

In commemoration of the annual McKeown Missions Week of The Church of Pentecost (CoP), we take stock and celebrate Rev. James McKeown’s obedience to the call, which has ignited a rapidly expanding global missions enterprise.

McKeown’s Obedience: A Reflection of Jesus’ Obedience to God’s Will

“For as by the one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man’s obedience the many will be made righteous.” — Romans 5:19

This parallel highlights the power of obedience. The submission and obedience of Jesus Christ to the will of God led to salvation for humanity, demonstrating that obedience to a divine calling carries generational and eternal consequences. The life and ministry of Rev. James and Sophia McKeown reflect this principle. Though it took him fifteen months to accept God’s call, through the encouragement of his dear wife, Sophia, his eventual obedience led to a lasting spiritual revival. His commitment to preaching the gospel of Christ resulted in the salvation of countless souls, and today, the fruits of his labour continue to flourish. This mirrors Jesus’ obedience, demonstrating that yielding to God’s call can bring generational and eternal blessings.

About James McKeown: God’s Vessel

Rev. James McKeown was born on 12th September 1900 in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, to his Irish parents, William John McKeown and Elizabeth Thompson. Raised in a Christian home, he knew the Bible well and was drawn to ministry from a young age. At nineteen, he converted to Christianity through the ministry of Rev. Robert Mercer. Rev. George Jeffreys of the Elim Foursquare Gospel Alliance in Ballymena later baptised both James and Sophia, who became his wife.

In March 1937, Rev. James McKeown arrived in the Gold Coast (now Ghana) as a missionary under the Apostolic Church, UK. However, in 1938, he was excommunicated due to doctrinal differences, particularly his belief in divine healing, after contracting malaria and seeking medical assistance. Rather than retreating, McKeown saw this as an opportunity to establish an indigenous Pentecostal movement, firmly rooted in biblical teachings and the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Birth of The Church of Pentecost

The opposition McKeown faced ultimately led to the official formation of the Gold Coast Apostolic Church in 1953, which later became The Church of Pentecost in 1962, following years of tensions. His vision was to build a self-sustaining church that empowered local indigenous leadership, grounded in deep spiritual commitment and focused on community evangelism. Unlike many foreign missionaries who retained control over their churches, McKeown prioritized training and mentoring indigenous leaders, ensuring that the movement was firmly rooted in African leadership and context. This model played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of The Church of Pentecost across Ghana and beyond.

McKeown’s Leadership Style and Its Influence on the CoP Today

Rev. James McKeown’s leadership style was characterised by discipline, spiritual devotion, and an unwavering commitment to biblical principles. His approach to leadership was firm yet visionary, blending humility with authority. He placed a strong emphasis on prayer, self-sustenance, and integrity, setting a precedent for how The Church of Pentecost would be governed in the years to come.

He was a man of great discipline and order. Though his leadership style reflected a “laissez-faire” approach by allowing Africans to lead, it had an autocratic bite that instilled godly reverence within the church. He did not tolerate laziness, dishonesty, or compromise among ministers and church officers. He held those in full-time pastoral ministry to rigorous standards, insisting on proper mentorship and preparation. Whenever he observed incompetence in a minister, he famously asked, “Who brought this man into ministry?”

His famous rebuke, “Stop preaching rats; preach Christ!” reflected his strong stance against irrelevant preaching.

McKeown’s disciplined leadership has left an indelible mark on The Church of Pentecost. Today, the church continues to uphold high standards, carefully vetting and training its officers and pastors to ensure that only those who demonstrate commitment, integrity, and sound doctrine are entrusted with leadership.

3 Lessons

  1. He Gladly Answered His Call

Initially hesitant to accept his calling due to his lack of formal education, McKeown eventually obeyed after persistent encouragement from his wife, Sophia. Despite challenges, he trusted God and moved forward with his call to the Gold Coast.

Lesson: God does not call the qualified; He qualifies the called. Fear and self-doubt should not prevent anyone from stepping into their divine purpose, whether in the church or in the public sphere.

  1. James Was A Man of Prayer

“Prayer is the work, and the work is prayer.”

McKeown believed that prayer was the foundation of ministry, famously stating, “Prayer is the work, and the work is prayer.” His dedication to prayer and spiritual discipline teaches that true success in ministry and leadership comes from a deep relationship with God. He was a man who understood the practice of waiting on God through prayer and fasting.

Lesson: A thriving spiritual life is essential for effective leadership and lasting impact. Prayer should not be an afterthought but the driving force behind every decision and action as an unleashed person.

  1. He Did Not Live for Himself

Rev. James McKeown’s life was the very definition of selflessness, marked by deep humility. McKeown could have chosen a more comfortable life in the UK. Instead, he left and did not seek personal comfort or recognition but dedicated his entire life to fulfilling God’s mission and serving others. From his early years in ministry to his final days, his decisions and actions reflected a deep commitment to the people he served rather than his personal interests.

Fun Fact: According to veteran Apostle Rigwell Ato Addison (a Trustee and former General Secretary of CoP, third in succession), James McKeown’s will to the church helped fund the initial establishment of The Church of Pentecost in the United Kingdom.

His Impact and What We See Today

McKeown unknowingly set the foundation for what would later become the Possessing the Nations agenda—equipping and unleashing Christians to influence every sphere of society with the principles and values of the Kingdom of God. His vision for a church that would not depend on external support but rather equip its members to transform their communities continues to shape The Church of Pentecost’s vision: “To become a global Pentecostal church that is culturally relevant in vibrant evangelism, church planting, discipleship, and holistic ministry.”

Conclusion

Rev. James McKeown’s decision to accept the call to ministry was not just an act of obedience but a historic, defining moment that transformed Christianity in Ghana and beyond. Truly, he was a man unleashed by God, and the seed he sowed many years ago continues to bear fruit. His faith, perseverance, and strategic approach to evangelism sparked a movement that still spreads the good news of Jesus Christ today. His life serves as an inspiration to all who seek to fulfill God’s calling, proving that when one is truly unleashed for the gospel, the impact is limitless. Let us join hearts and drive the ‘Possessing the Nations’ agenda by living lives worthy of our calling, to the glory of God.

Written by Elder Moses Yeboah Mensah, Hope City Church, Milton Keynes Area, The CoP-UK

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Commission On A Mission Without Omission

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In fulfilling the Great Commission, there are various ways to share the gospel message today. Contextualisation plays a major role in this endeavour and cannot be downplayed.

In some contexts, personal relationships and conversations with friends, family, and coworkers can effectively share the good news. Depending on your area, this can be a long-term project. Where applicable, we can also invite them to church or other Christian events.

The Great Commission is an essential aspect of the Christian faith. The apostles demonstrated how to fulfill this command in the book of Acts by sharing the gospel message and making disciples of all nations.

In the current dispensation and location we find ourselves, we can still contextualise the gospel and present it to every tribe, community, religion, and family. Sometimes, we may not see the evidence of our efforts, but remember, “I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the growth.”

May God cause the seeds we’ve planted to grow and multiply a hundredfold. Never give up; God is interested in the seed you are planting.

Missions is the Heartbeat of God

There is no greater calling than missions. Mission is the spiritual DNA of every born-again Christian. Among all that the church does, mission work is its highest calling.

Missions is the ultimate reason for the existence of the church on earth. The church is called out only to go back into the world with the good news that will snatch souls from hell.

Mission is the movement of good news across cultural and geographical boundaries. Jesus Christ is the first and foremost missionary in this world.

Jesus left the splendors of heaven and came down to earth to reconcile men to God. The essence of mission is reconciling sinful man to his Creator. We are called to know God and make Him known.

We are all missionaries. Be a missionary in your village, your community, your office, the country you’ve travelled to seek greener pastures, and above all, in your family.

Remember, You are a Missionary!

Written by Pastor Peter Darlinting Kwaku Abdulai, A Missionary

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False Altars and Spiritual Deception: A Call to Return to True Worship

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Although “altars, in their literal meaning, are associated with physical materials, it is more than just a physical place; it is a spiritual symbol. In the olden days, altars were used as sacrificial grounds, representing the relationship between man and God. In a classical scenario, in the Old Testament, altars were used for burnt offerings (Leviticus 1:9); for instance, Abraham built an altar to God in Genesis 12:7 after receiving God’s promise. These altars were not just physical structures but divine ones that exhibited man’s fellowship and commitment. But today, our fellowship and worship with God is offered through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross, who has become the ultimate altar for us from that time. Hebrews 13:10 shows Jesus as our altar, replacing the old system of sacrifices. Through Him, we have direct access to God and spiritual nourishment.

It is evident that altars have been pivotal in marking key moments of covenant and worship, and it also reinforces how altars have always been integral in establishing and maintaining a covenant relationship with God. Altars represent where our worship and devotion are directed, whether to God or other things. Although the Bible presents altars as sacred places, it can also be abused. There is a biblical instance of King Manasseh, in 2 Kings 21, where he built altars for false gods, inviting evil spirits. This duality of nature is revealed when people place ideal emphasis on human abilities, artifacts, and articles as mediums to reach God and heal, as well as secular ideologies, or power, creating spiritual altars that, though subtly harmless, can lead to idolatry and deception. The reason is this engagement brings about worship of anything other than God. In (2 Kings 21:3), King Manasseh of Judah built altars to Baal and plunged the nation into spiritual decline. Whenever man engages in acts that redirect the focus from Jesus, then our hearts become corrupted, and misdirected, and ultimately lead to separation from God.

In the contemporary context, Christians are gradually building altars and are devoting themselves to things and actions that divert their attention from the worship of God through Jesus to emphasis on human abilities, artifacts, and articles as well as the craving for personal fame. Below are some of the means through which it manifests:

The Prosperity Gospel and Materialism: False altars in today’s Christianity are pervasive but subtle as spiritual directions; however, this act diverts the minds and souls of Christians from the teachings of Jesus to directions and artifacts. In such scenarios, preachers often claim that financial giving, especially to them and buying artifacts from them, will lead to wealth and blessings. This creates a mindset where Christians worship preachers, money, and personal success rather than focusing on spiritual growth through Jesus by studying the Bible and praying. The emphasis shifts from God’s kingdom to human glory, worldly desires, and possessions, leading Christians to place their hope in their men of God and financial rewards rather than in God’s eternal promises.

Worship of influence: Some worshippers are deliberately treated like celebrities, with their every word regarded as gospel truth, deviating from Christ’s message. The false altar here is tilted toward the worship of influence, fame, and authority rather than God’s Word and personal relationship with Jesus. Colossians 2:18 warns against misplaced focus and pride, urging us to stay grounded in Christ.

Chasing Prophetic Words and Spiritual Quick Fixes: Prophetic words and spiritual shortcuts have become an obsession among most Christians today. Some self-proclaimed prophets and teachers use these obsessions to attract followers by providing instant solutions to life’s problems. Replacing the steady and faithful work of studying the Word, prayer, and growth with emotional highs and spiritual experiences can be dangerous. Seeking the supernatural within the church becomes synonymous with a deeper communion with God while new altars are built. Chasing prophetic words and quick fixes is an evil altar because it shifts focus from God to human-centered experiences (Jeremiah 23:16). It leads to abandoning sound doctrine for emotional highs (2 Timothy 4:3-4). True worship requires patience, prayer, and growth in God’s Word.

Hyper-Individualism and Self-Centered Faith: The modern cult of individualism, self-love, and personal satisfaction is so rampant that it is difficult for a Christian to steer away from the self-love gospel, which alters faith in God into faith for oneself. Everyone saves their hearts in the name of love, yet God and others are the last things on their minds. So, where is the self-sacrifice towards the will, love, and service for God? Nowadays people want everything, including turning to God, but the question persists: Do you want to turn to God in the first place? This is because, 2 Timothy 3:1-2 warns against self-centeredness in the last days, where self-love takes priority over God and others. Luke 9:23 calls for self-denial and daily submission to God’s will for true discipleship.

 All that becomes evil altars to the Christian and participating in those altars exposes individuals to ideologies that contradict biblical truth. The above pursuits shift the Christian focus from serving God to seeking quick fixes, validation, and glory, placing human desires and will above the divine purpose of God’s will.

It further distracts Christians from spiritual growth, replacing genuine connection with superficial approval, leading Christians to worship on the altar of popularity rather than God’s altar of truth and salvation: Jesus Christ.

Jesus fulfills every altar in the Old Testament, this is captured in Hebrews 10:10:  ‘We have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.’ This basic and truthful message should shape our worship and dedication, reminding us that all altars point to Him. We are no longer devoted and directed to earthly and pagan sacrifices but to the completed work of Jesus on the cross. Otherwise, false altars may have an emotional and psychological impact on us since there are instances where Christians buy financial success oil and water to cure ancestral curses. Aside from the fact that all that is bought with huge sums

of money, their purposes are not realized, leaving Christians in desperate guilt of failure and emotionally shattered and bound as slaves to the bully of evil altars. Jeremiah 17:5 warns against trusting in man-made solutions, in this context, we can talk of things like oils, water, and any other articles sold as solutions. True peace comes from relying solely on Jesus. Jesus as the True Altar helps Christians understand that their worship and offerings should be directed to Him alone. Hebrews 9:14 says, ‘How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.’ This understanding emphasizes Christ’s sacrifice and the sufficiency of His work.

 In conclusion, it becomes important for the Christian to have a personal altar with God through a relationship with Jesus that is built through daily prayer, reading the Bible, and worship. This relationship serves as a shield against evil altars, and external influences and keeps the Christian focused on Christ. A prayer like Psalm 91:1-2 can serve as a daily declaration: ”He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”  May the Lord bless and cause us to abide in Him. Amen.

BY: MOSES ANTWI OPPONG

       AGONA SWEDRU AREA

       JUKWA DISTRICT

       GOOD NEWS ASSEMBLY

CONTACT: 0209516746

Nanaoppongkyekyeku5@gmail.com

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The Calling Received, As Department/Committee Workers Of Hum: The Inter-Departmental Teamwork (IDT) Culture In Perspective

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The concept and slogan, “All things to all People”, of the Home and Urban Missions (HUM), is inspired by Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 9:19-23. Paul, a Jew by birth and an apostle to the Gentiles by calling, subjected himself to the law of Christ, which transcends boundaries, cultures, social classes, and people groups.

As a Jew and an apostle, Paul was entitled to many rights, privileges, usages, and laws. However, he chose not to stand on privileges but denied himself for their sakes, so that he might win their souls. Thus, he became all things to all people, so that by all lawful means, he might win some for Christ.

This is the mandate of HUM. Through the leadership of the Chairman and the Executive Council of the Church, HUM was birthed in May 2019 at the 16th Extraordinary Council Meeting as a new ministry, completely dedicated to becoming all things to all people, reaching out to the marginalized, unreached and unengaged people groups.

Despite the clear mandate, it appears that not every Church member has come to terms with the goals and objectives of this Ministry. Furthermore, the Ministry platform has historically been centered around the clergy, often overlooking the active involvement of the laity. Many young people want a way and a place to do ministry beyond the pulpit ministry but lack the direction. This situation necessitates a re-examination of our approach to ministry and a renewed emphasis on collaboration and teamwork as already highlighted in the Vision 2028 of the Church of Pentecost.

In Vision 2028, it is stated that every member, every ministry, and every Local Assembly would become a channel through which God’s grace reaches others. According to the specific outcomes expected at the end of August 2028, at least, 50% of adult members, 50% of the youth, and 10% of the children would have aligned themselves with the corporate mandate of the church to transform society, and would have involved themselves in ministry beyond the church. One of the actions to be taken by all ministries is to give special attention to the establishment and strengthening of small groups (squads) as vital platforms for mobilization, fellowship, accountability, and mutual support in spiritual growth. HUM, in the Vision 2028, is expected to collaborate with the Traditional Ministries and other Ministry interventions such as the Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA), Counseling Ministry, Pentecost International Worship Centres (PIWCS), Chaplaincy Ministry, among others.

Reference to Paul the apostle and our Lord Jesus Christ, the calling has an aim and an end. The aim is to win some for Christ (1 Corinthians 9:22) and the end is to make them like Christ as commissioned by our Lord Jesus himself in Matthew 28:19, 20.

Everything HUM is, and does, consolidates in winning others to the kingdom and discipling them to become like our Lord Jesus Christ. HUM is able to do these through several in-house services or interventions, which are further labelled as subcommittees or departments.

HUM’s in-house services include various subcommittees/ departments, such as Literature Committee, Diaspora Missions Committee, Fulani Ministry Committee, Media (Electronic Unit, Social Media, Print & Graphics), Pent 5000, Research & Innovations Department, Drama/Choreography & Sports, Ministry to the Other UPGs, City Ministry and Vulnerable Children & Children at Risk. The others include Nation Possessors Committee, Professionals in Critical Missions, Secretariat, Ministry to Internal Migrants, Centre for Drug Misuse Prevention, Education, Rehabilitation and Integration (CDPERT), Outreach Ministry, Equipping Centre, and the Discipleship Ministry. These departments work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that the goals of HUM are achieved. The inclusion of these departments have given ministry platforms to both the clergy and non-clergy who are mostly young people.

HUM as a ministry, is running very fast because we have a supportive leadership base from the Chairman, The General Secretary, The International Missions Director, Executive Council, Area Heads, Ministers, Officers and Members of the Church. Additionally, one of the successes of HUM is due to the robust intra-organizational culture that exists.

One of these cultures that has brought HUM this far since its inception is the culture of Inter-Department Teamwork (IDT). IDT is a strong culture among departments in HUM, where each subcommittee needs the other, and thus, all sub-committees/departments are both intra-dependent and inter-dependent. None works as an island or in isolation of the other.

IDT calls for leaders at all levels to be intentional and innovative in birthing ministry opportunities for both the clergy and the laity to offer gifts and sacrifices to the Lord. As part of the IDT efforts, HUM recognizes and harnesses the talent, gifts, and skills of the young ones especially the non-clergy. Ministry as emphasized by the Chairman, Aps. Eric Nyamekye, “is not for the clergy only”.

As a result, HUM is able to bring on board many other young people who want to use their skills to serve the Church voluntarily. IDT therefore calls for more reflections in other ministries. The clergy responsibilities are quite huge, and it is factual that they cannot do it alone. The pulpit ministry space is not enough for all members, considering our huge numbers.

In HUM, the IDT also calls for collaborative efforts among subcommittees and departments. The aim or vision is one, and thus, the need for mutual complements. Perhaps, other ministries of the church may consider these learnings from HUM to engage other willing laity or stakeholders who are called by God to serve in His vineyard.

Sustaining the IDT culture is a recommendation for great accomplishments in the future. This is possible when close supervision and strong leadership are provided at the base where things happen.

In conclusion, members of the Church are encouraged to be part of the squads established by various ministries at different levels. HUM stakeholders in the IDT chain are encouraged to receive this calling with all reverence and work worthy of the calling received. The slogan, ‘all things to all people’, must not just remain another chant, but become a collaborative and intentional effort among all subcommittees and departments as they strive to serve each other and work as a common team with a common goal and objective.

Article By Emmanuel Otchere Darko (Ps.) HUM Diaspora Missions Committee Head

CYBERSECURITY AND THE CHURCH- THE ROLE OF LEADERSHIP, PASTORS, AND MEMBERS wen

Cybersecurity And The Church: The Role Of Leadership, Pastors, And Members

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As technology advances, it has become necessary for churches to invest in protecting their data and usage. Cybersecurity management, an emerging area in the technological space, remains largely unexplored by many churches, including The Church of Pentecost, one of the largest Pentecostal churches in Ghana, Africa, and the world.

This discussion aims to inform and engage key stakeholders in the protection of church data about their roles in ensuring a safe place for all.

According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence, “data security maintains the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of an organization’s data in a way that it works with its risk strategies.”

Cybersecurity, then, is defined as “the prevention of damage to, protection of, and restoration of computers, electronic communications systems, electronic communication services, wire communication, and electronic communication, including information contained therein, to ensure its availability, integrity, authentication, confidentiality, and nonrepudiation.”

Every organisation, whether faith-based or “secular,” as far as it engages with the receipt, storage, and processing of data, must have information risk management strategies to be on the safer side of its servers on-premises or in the cloud.

With over 170 branches globally, protection of data by involving the stakeholders such as Executive Council, Pastors and Members, is key to the growth of The Church of Pentecost as we explore the theme, “Unleashed To Live A Life Worthy Of Your Calling” – Ephesians 4:1, Galatians 1:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:7.

As a budding Cybersecurity Management professional unleashed to live a life worthy of my calling, I encourage churches to begin inculcating the sense of protection online and physically into members. With over millions of data being processed every day, one would agree that as we possess the nations through our careers, direct actors (pastors and members) have a part to play.

I recall an incident that happened in the church a couple of years ago, when delicate and sensitive data or documents of the church leaked, thereby spiking a national security concern since it became nationally talked about. While hearing and reading the comments of Ghanaians on the issue, I became motivated as I yearned to go back to my passion for information security analysis. However, I felt helpless because I did not have much skill, access and capacity then to address or help solve the situation as a member. Such incidents could have been avoided if the stakeholders involved understood the repercussions of the action legally and morally through intentional awareness. 

The Role of Leadership

Building a strong framework for cybersecurity activities in the church involves the adaptation of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework as its bedrock. The framework uses a five-step approach in addressing issues: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond and Recover. Leadership’s role involves thorough and intentional engagement with experts, professionals and industries to draft strong Cybersecurity and Data policies that stakeholders can adapt in their interactions with information.

Also, special cyber units can be established within the church, beginning in the headquarters, who will liaise with the Audit and IT departments, respectively. This can be replicated in the various areas, external nations, districts, and locals.

Moreover, Vision 2028 affirms the positive role of leadership in the Digital Transformation agenda by the expansion of IT infrastructure and equipping ministers with the needed information and skills to align IT best practices with the ministry.

The Role of Pastors, Pastors’ Wives & Lay Leaders

Our revered ministers and their wives have a greater part to play in the success of this security awareness and implementation. As key stakeholders, they have direct access to church information, which at times is termed as “classified,” and without proper education and management of such high-priority data, the church could be at a high-risk index.

Regular cybersecurity awareness should be created at various levels, coupled with training on the spiritual, legal, and moral implications as stewards of the church’s data. They have the mandate to relay the same knowledge to their lay leaders/administrative staff and members. Lay leadership (Elders, Deaconesses and Deacons) also interact with sensitive data at their level, as the pastor relays, therefore, they should be willing to accept regular training and the implementation of information security policies too.

The Role of Members

Members of the church are the basic implementors of the church’s policies and themes. They are always in search of information when it is not readily available to them, thus, they may go the extra mile to acquire such information. The instincts of the members seek more regardless of the available information given during services and meetings.

Members should not be left out of the awareness creation process and education. They should engage in training programmes organised for them by the leadership of the church. They should know how to protect themselves from cyberfraudsters and hackers who forcefully access their data, hence gaining access to The Church’s data. 

Conclusion

To conclude, this is a clarion call on all faith-based organisations, churches, and individuals to adapt the sense of cybersecurity consciousness as we deliberate on these upcoming topics in cyberspace. I humbly indulge leadership to help create more cybersecurity information sessions on our various physical, print, and online platforms to further build engagement in all churches and denominations across Ghana and globally.

Remember, to “Possess the Nations” and live a life worthy of your calling in the unleashed spirit, Cybersecurity management is a good investment to consider globally.

Written by Emmanuel Otchere Somuah (Cybersecurity Management Graduate Student, East Tennessee State University, US)

Called To Be The Light Of The World web

Called To Be The Light Of The World

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In many nations such as the USA, Canada, UK, Germany, and Australia, terms like “ungodly nations” and “modern-day Sodom and Gomorrah” are often used to describe societies whose norms, laws, and educational curriculums do not align with the values and principles of the Kingdom of God.

Recently, during a series of mass gatherings of young people around the world, deep questions have arisen about morality and the church’s stance on issues such as the acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community, the concept of abstinence, and its relevance in today’s society. These are major concerns for the future of strong, healthy, and sustainable churches.

This year, the church is being challenged to live out its calling and become the true light of the world in every sphere. The calling to be the light is a powerful one, granting great responsibility to share love and kindness with others, guiding people through the perils of life with the word of God. With this in mind, the question remains: Are we ready to carry such a call? How often do we scroll through our Instagram feed, like Christian content on TikTok, yet fail to post a scripture or mention the word ‘Jesus’ even once a year on our stories or make a viral video about our faith?

Marianne Williamson, a famous American author, once said, “You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you.” This quote reminds us of our clarion call as believers to be the light and salt that the world needs, and not to belittle the impact one can make when living for Christ in this generation.

To the youth in the diaspora, the church is calling us to a deeper way of thinking beyond the religiosity of Christianity, which is often limited to attending church services, conferences, events, and feel-good evangelism. Instead, we are called to truly reflect Christ and be a shining light in our damaged world. We can no longer attend clubs on Saturday and churches on Sunday if we want to reflect Christ, or attend conferences that go against our beliefs.

If we stand for truth and live by it, those around us can truly come to the saving knowledge of Christ. Do not be a follower; endeavour to be Christ’s true reflection in speech, conduct, and holy living. We are the carriers of the truth, and the potency of this will be seen by how we proudly and boldly live out our faith in 2025.

Whenever the term ‘light of Christ’ comes to mind, I am reminded of the popular scripture in Matthew 5:14-16, which states, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” This scripture emphasises that a city set on a hill is visible and can be seen by all. It is an opportunity for us as believers to reflect on how we live out our faith with purpose and authenticity. People are not looking for religious individuals but for truth-speaking, truth-living, evidence-based believers. This is also the kind of follower our Father in heaven is seeking.

So, ask yourself today: How are you living as light in your generation?

Written by Elder Michael Benson

DO NOT WASTE THE WAIT AND FAST web

Do Not Waste The Wait And Fast

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Dear Youth,

Having recently completed our 14-day global fast, we must remember that the true test of our spiritual resolve begins now. When we fast and seek God’s face, we attract divine power and strength. As Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, “Those who wait upon the Lord, He will renew their strength.”

However, it is crucial that we maintain this newfound strength by continuing to pray, obey, and live a holy life. We must not let our guard down or allow sin to creep in and undermine our spiritual progress.

Let’s draw inspiration from Jesus’ example. After fasting for 40 days and nights, He faced temptation from the enemy. But because He had gained spiritual strength through fasting, He was able to overcome the temptation (Matthew 4:1-11). Jesus could have lost it all if He had failed the test.

Similarly, we must not waste the spiritual gains we have made during our global fast through sin and disobedience. Instead, let’s build upon them and continue to grow in God’s grace.

As you go forward, remember that:

  • Prayer is key to maintaining spiritual strength.
  • Obedience to God’s Word is essential for sustained growth.
  • Living a holy life is crucial for preserving our spiritual gains.

Don’t let the enemy steal the blessings and breakthroughs you have experienced during our global fast. Instead, press on and continue to seek God’s face.

May we emerge from this global fast stronger, more resilient, and more committed to our faith.

May God’s strength and grace be with you always!

Written by Elder Emmanuel Baidoo Madugu (Michel Camp District Youth Leader)

THE “CALLING” AND THE “FULL-TIME MINISTRY” PERSPECTIVE FROM A MINISTER’S WIFE web

The “Calling” And The “Full-Time Ministry:” Perspective From A Minister’s Wife

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Background

This article aims to shed light on the “Calling,” the “Full-time Ministry,” and the essential partnership between the minister and the minister’s wife, creating a synergy for a beautiful ministry. It also highlights the full-time ministry dimension of a minister’s wife engaged in activities within their ministry setting that are not strictly ministry-related, often referred to as “Secular Work.”

Recently through the rollout of Vision 2028 of The Church of Pentecost, the Chairman, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has underscored the need to avoid creating a dichotomy between the “sacred” and the “secular.” The secular should always be the setting for the sacred. In this way, the church – those in Christ – will truly serve as agents of transformation, influencing every sphere of society with the values and principles of the Kingdom of God, thereby turning many hearts to participate in the divine nature through faith in Christ.

It is worth noting that God has given everyone in Christ the “Calling.” The purpose of the “Calling” is to fulfill the “Ministry” – whether on a full-time or part-time basis. So, what is the “Calling” and what is the “Ministry”? What is the difference between full-time ministry and part-time ministry? Within the context of The Church of Pentecost, where does the full-time minister’s wife fit into the equation of full-time ministry in light of her work in other not-strictly-ministry settings?

The Nature of God’s Calling

God’s “Calling” is an invitation to become partakers of His divine nature. It is for a person to become like Christ and a bearer of His image. But this is not the end. The ultimate purpose of God’s “Calling” is for a person – becoming like Christ – to be an ambassador of Christ’s character and power, like salt, light, or aroma to the souls within their sphere, causing a transformation by the power of the Holy Spirit through their repentance (turning towards Christ and placing their faith in Him). Here are some scriptural witnesses for this truth:

Matthew 4:19, ‘Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!’ (NLT)

1 Corinthians 1:9, ‘God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.’ (NIV)

2 Thessalonians 2:14, ‘He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.’ (NIV)

The Setting for the Calling

The “Calling” is becoming like Christ and a vessel to receive heavenly content – the image of God through the glorious gospel. The “Calling” does not happen in a vacuum. It happens in real-life settings. It happened when Moses was tending the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro. It happened when Gideon was threshing wheat to keep it from the Midianites. It happened when Elisha was plowing his field. It happened when Mary was going about her daily work at home. It happened when Peter and Andrew were fishing. It happened when Saul (Paul) was on the road to Damascus to persecute those already called by God. God can throw the “Calling” in any human setting, situation, or scenario. God cannot be limited in His approach to “Calling” people. He can call anyone from any profession or background to be like Christ and become a vessel to carry Christ to dying souls.

Exodus 3:1, 2, 4, ‘Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the flock to the far side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up…When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, “Moses! Moses!” And Moses said, “Here I am.”’ (NIV)

Judges 6:11-12, ‘The angel of the Lord came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites. When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.”’ (NIV)

Luke 1:26-28, ‘In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”’ (NIV)

Ministry: The Purpose of the Calling

The end goal of the “Calling” is to serve as human vessels to impart Christ (the divine nature) to the souls within our various spheres. In the “Calling,” we receive heavenly contents to pour out to dying souls, imparting divine life to them. We are filled with divine virtues and power to impart unto dying souls. We become jars of clay filled with heavenly treasures. Out of our bellies flow streams of living waters. We work out our salvation with fear and trembling because the salvation of many souls depends on our instrumentality. Thus, much as the “Calling” is to be like Christ and receive divine content, “Ministry” is going out there – being unleashed – to express this divine content. The “Ministry” is what is known as “God’s Work.” Thus, the end goal of the “Calling” is “Ministry.”

Acts 13:2, ‘As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”’ (NKJV)

2 Corinthians 4:7, ‘We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves.’

John 7:38-39, ‘Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” By this, he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.’ (NIV)

Philippians 7:38-39, ‘Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.’ (NTL, bold mine)

After calling Paul, this was Jesus’ instruction to Ananias regarding the ministry description of Paul:

‘But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and the people of Israel.’ (Acts 9:15)

The Components of the Ministry

It is worth restating that, “Ministry” is receiving heavenly words and treasures and delivering them to target groups. These contents can also be referred to as values and principles of the Kingdom of God. Ministry results in, as Chairman Nyamekye would say, “meeting needs, solving problems, and answering questions” so that many may come to Christ. The “Components of Ministry,” as I have come to know and experience them, are as follows:

  1. Interceding for others and various people groups in prayer;
  2. Forgiving others because Christ also forgave us;
  3. Showing kindness to others as the Spirit leads for the sake of Christ even when recipients show no gratitude;
  4. Studying our various ministry settings (contexts) and sharing the glorious gospel of Christ for others to also become vessels of Christ; invariably, people come to Jesus through other people; remember that Andrew brought his brother Simon Peter to Jesus;
  5. Walking with those who receive the gospel on their path of growing in Christ;
  6. Giving towards the corporate church efforts at possessing the nations for Christ.
  7. Staying unleashed in our spheres to live lives worthy of our calling as imitators of Christ in the power of holiness by the Spirit;
  8. Creating a transformational movement of Christ by building godly structures in every position of influence regardless of persecution – that is, saying, “No” to sin and “Yes” to godliness – for the glory of Christ;
  9. Openly affirming others within the movement of Christ who are also standing for Christ;
  10. Creating fora for peer review, accountability, genuine fellowship, and sharing of transformation testimonies to spur each other unto this glorious good work in Christ (Acts 2:42-47; Hebrews 10:24-25).

Spheres: The Setting for Ministry

Ministry involves intentionally imparting or expressing the content of Christ to transform souls into Christ. Every place where people are present is a ministry setting, and Jesus must reign there. In Vision 2028, these settings are referred to as Spheres. A ministry setting can be a physical place or a virtual space, but it is always filled with human beings from different cultural backgrounds.

The new ministry interventions in Vision 2028, such as Ministry to Celebrities (MoC), The Other Sheep Ministry (TOSM), Ministry to People Living with Disabilities (MPLWD), Schools Outreach Ministry (SOM), and Home and Urban Ministry (HUM), are designed to understand different people groups within our ministry settings. These interventions aim to tailor the heavenly treasure (the glorious gospel) to them in contextually relevant ways without compromising the gospel message.

There are many ministry settings around us. In which ministry setting are you serving intentionally as a missionary? To which people group within your ministry setting do you feel called? Selah.

In every human setting, there are people groups to be studied, prayed about, and reached with the gospel, leading them on a journey of discipleship to be like Christ. Every setting for human interaction is a ministry setting – in marriage, school, on the streets, at the workplace, as parents, in the neighborhood, in vehicular transport, etc. The awareness and intentional activity to impart Christ – the divine treasure – unto souls is the essence of ministry.

The Calling for every believer is the same: to be like Christ and become vessels to impact Christ. However, the Ministry dynamics and settings vary for each of us in Christ. For example, a banker’s ministry setting is primarily the banking sector, but the calling remains the same – to be like Christ and manifest Christ. A person’s ministry setting may be among drug addicts, but the calling remains the same. We should not be surprised to see many more new ministries becoming official because ministry settings are manifold and filled with many people groups yet to be reached.

Matthew 10:5-6, ‘These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: “Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel.’ (NIV)

John 10:16, ‘I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.’

Acts 26:17-18, ‘I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’

Ministry: Full-Time or Part-Time?

If all of us in Christ are called into ministry, what then is the difference between Full-Time and Part-Time Ministry? In a parable symbolic of Jesus returning to heaven and coming a second time, the instruction He gave His followers was, “Occupy till I Come.” This implies Ministry, at least in part. The other dimension of “Occupy till I Come” is the maintenance of the ministry setting – an activity we refer to as Creation Care.

Aside from Creation Care, there are many human needs on earth that provide opportunities for humans to make the earth a better place as we await the Second Coming of Christ. We can ensure Creation Care and Provision of Human Needs either for profit or non-profit (maybe, for goodwill). When we serve the needs of society for profit, such activity becomes a Vocation. A vocation is a service or product to meet the needs that humans perceive as relevant and thus are ready to patronize in exchange for credit/profit. A Christian who is into a vocation and also into ministry is said to be in Bi-Vocational Ministry or Part-Time Ministry.

Those who are strictly into ministry, having dropped the use of their profession for profit, are said to be in Full-Time Ministry. Those in full-time ministry may use their professional knowledge to help the setting in which they minister, but they do so for no profit. Jesus modeled this when He solved existential problems in His earthly ministry setting at zero charge; He turned water into wine for free, fed a multitude for free, and healed for free. His position is, “Freely, we receive, freely we should give.” When we solve human needs for free, such good deeds often become the social capital that provides goodwill for easy ministering among the target group in the ministry setting.

Jesus would often link the human need He solves to their ultimate need of Him as their Saviour; after giving water, He wisely pointed the people towards their need of Him as the Living Water; after giving bread, He wisely pointed the people towards their need of Him as the Bread of Life. All human needs are a temporal manifestation of their eternal ultimate need for Christ as their Saviour. For example, an architect in full-time ministry may use their architectural knowledge to help with the construction of a community centre for the community among whom they minister – doing so for no profit. Afterward, the architect can point the people to Jesus Christ as the Grand Architect of the Universe and their personal lives.

Since they are not using their profession for profit, in God’s economy, those in full-time ministry receive allowances from willing donations from the people among whom they minister – either directly as gifts or through the ecclesiastical institution from the tithes and offerings given by the recipients of the ministry. Thus, those in Part-Time Ministry (an example is Apostle Paul) are to provide for the needs of those in Full-Time Ministry. God foreshadowed this in His provision for the Levites under the Old Covenant.

Numbers 18:24, ‘Instead, I give to the Levites as their inheritance the tithes that the Israelites present as an offering to the LORD. That is why I said concerning them: ‘They will have no inheritance among the Israelites.’” (NIV)

1 Timothy 5:17-18, ‘Elders who do their work well should be respected and paid well, especially those who work hard at both preaching and teaching. For Scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,” and “The worker deserves his wages.”’

In The Church of Pentecost, the “Elders” in the context of 1 Timothy 5:17-18 are the clergy in “Full-Time Ministry” or Elders in “full-time ministry” as “Field Assistants” in some nations. God’s arrangement for their upkeep is just like the Levites in the Old Testament.

The expectation is that those in “Full-Time Ministry” will have more time to do ministry while those in “Part-Time Ministry’ (all other Christians) work hard in their vocations for money to take care of their needs and the needs of those in Full-Time Ministry while creating bridges in their setting of vocation to disciple many for Christ, and modeling Christ-like approach to their vocation to stem any corrupt trends. Those in Part-Time Ministry can also meet as “Workers’ Guilds,” an initiative in Vision 2028, to intercede for their profession/vocation, update themselves on current trends in their profession/vocation (maybe from journals and practical experiences), discuss ways to deal with their vocation-specific corruption manifestations, share testimonies of their individual impacts in their workplaces, encourage one another, and pray for one another.

Marriage and Full-Time Ministry

Since all those in Christ have the “Calling” to become like Christ and vessels to impart Christ, and the “Ministry” to intentionally impart Christ within various settings, a group of people can come together for “Joint Ministry.” One example of “Joint Ministry” is marriage. Marriage is the union of two people—adults of opposite sexes at birth—with sound minds, who have fulfilled the requirements of their family, nation, and church denomination(s). This union creates synergy and mutual encouragement, resulting in a better harvest compared to a single person working alone. Indeed, with two coming together in marriage, “Greater works shall they do…” (John 14:12).

Genesis 2:18, 24, ‘Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him…Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”’ (ESV)

Deuteronomy 32:30-31, ‘How should one chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight, except their Rock had sold them, and the Lord had shut them up? For their rock is not as our Rock, even our enemies themselves being judges.’ (NIV)

Amos 3:3, ‘“Do two walk together, unless they have agreed to meet?’ (ESV)

Jesus as the “Central Force” catalyzes the beautiful synergy of “Joint Ministry” through marriage. With Jesus as the centre of marriage, there is great potential for ministry success.

Ecclesiastes 4:12, ‘Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.’ (NIV)

The Minister’s Wife, Functional Subordination, and the Full-Time Ministry

We have discussed the concepts of “Part-Time Ministry” and “Full-Time Ministry.” The minister’s wife can engage in ministry through either approach, ensuring that her efforts complement rather than compete with her husband’s ministry, fostering synergy. Her role includes personal spiritual growth through reading scripture and literature, praying, fasting, and waiting upon the Lord. Additionally, she should build relationships within their ministry sphere, apply her professional skills within the ministry context (whether for profit or goodwill), and actively participate in ministry activities, embodying the expression of Christ.

Functional Subordination is a theological term describing Jesus Christ’s relationship with the Father. It refers to Jesus’ deliberate choice not to compete with the Father, despite their equality in divine nature. This concept also applies to the relationship between Christ and the Church. An analogy can be drawn from football, where the team captain is the only player allowed to speak to the referee on behalf of the team. Although all players are equal, the captain acts as “primus inter pares” (first among equals). Another term for Functional Subordination is “Submission.”

In essence, Functional Subordination or Submission means that a person within a group avoids unhealthy competition or strife, deferring the final decision on a matter to another group member (preferably the leader) to maintain the group’s unity of purpose, despite differing roles. Without submission or functional subordination, a group loses its unified vision, resulting in “Di-Vision” (double visions or conflicts). Such division is disastrous for any group. In The Church of Pentecost, there is always a single vision, currently “Vision 2028,” led by Chairman Nyamekye and the Executive Council.

Philippians 2:5-7. ‘In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.’ (NIV)

Ephesians 5:21-24, ‘Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.

Conclusion

When a married couple shares a Calling and Ministry Vision, they can practice mutual submission. In such a collaborative environment, the wife allows her husband to lead, while the husband empowers his wife by providing opportunities for her to maximize her potential (e.g., taking courses), involving her in the ministry, sharing ministry benefits, graciously receiving constructive criticism, and valuing her perspectives to enhance their “Joint Ministry.” 

However, when a couple disagrees on an issue and the husband is not being sacrificial like Christ in considering his wife’s view, the wife is called by God to model submission—following her husband’s lead as long as his position aligns with Christ. In a godly manner, either spouse can yield to prevent the devil from disrupting the beautiful unity and synergy of the “Joint Ministry” afforded by marriage.

Written by Dr Theresah Fianko-Larbi (Optometrist Clinical Psychologist/Wife of the Resident Minister for PIWC Sakumono)

The Missionary In A Foreign Land web

The Missionary In A Foreign Land

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Missionaries are guests in a foreign country, which presents unique risks in missionary work. Why? Our citizenship is elsewhere, and we are there on a visa.

When you are a guest in someone else’s home, you treat them with respect and adapt yourself to be accepted by them. The same is true when you are a missionary in another country.

Truth be told, you cannot save a culture by attacking the people, their way of life, and their beliefs. Why? “To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews… I have become all things to all people…” (1 Corinthians 9:20-22). This is the guiding principle for all missionaries.

Missions are all about contextualization. Because of this, there is no greater calling than missions. I believe mission work is the highest calling.

Missions are the ultimate reason for the existence of the church on earth. The church is called out only to go back into the world with the good tidings that will depopulate hell.

Mission is the movement of good tidings across cultural and geographical boundaries. Jesus Christ is the first and foremost missionary in this world.

Jesus left the splendors of heaven and came down to earth to reconcile men to God. The essence of mission is reconciling sinful man to his creator. We are called to know God and make Him known.

Most people risk their lives to travel to unknown and no-go areas just for greener pastures. Why can’t you risk carrying the gospel to a no-go area?

We are all missionaries. So, don’t just be a member; be a missionary.

Remember, don’t only take risks because of greener pastures; take risks to propagate the good news also.

Written by Pastor Peter Darlinting Kwaku Abdulai, Missionary