Posts in category: Church News

The Takoradi Area Head and Executive Council Member of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Sylvester Arhin, has stated that a heart of compassion is essential to effectively exercise the spiritual gift of healing.

According to him, the healing power of God is embedded in love, care, and genuine empathy toward the suffering.

Apostle Arhin made these remarks yesterday, June 19, 2025, during a presentation on the topic “The Role of Compassion in the Healing of the Sick” at the 2025 National Prayer Centre Leaders’ Seminar, held at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

Preaching from Matthew 14:14, he recalled a moment in Jesus’ life when, despite retreating to the mountain to pray, He was moved with compassion upon seeing the multitude—many of whom were sick and helpless.

“Compassion,” Apostle Arhin noted, “was not a passing feeling for Jesus; it was the channel through which healing flowed.”

He explained that many who visit prayer centres are weighed down by various burdens. Some are seeking direction, others are overwhelmed by life’s struggles, but many come with physical, emotional, or mental illnesses. What they often need just as much as prayer, he stressed, is compassion.

Drawing from his pastoral experience, Apostle Arhin shared that prolonged exposure to human suffering can sometimes harden even the most caring individuals.

“Over time, caregivers and health workers may become emotionally numb to pain,” he said. “But Jesus models a different path. Whether the need was hunger, sickness, grief, or isolation, He consistently responded with compassion.”

Referencing Luke 7:11, Apostle Arhin described the poignant moment when Jesus encountered a widow mourning her only son.

“Life was entering; death was exiting,” he said poetically. “The only son of the woman met the only Son of God—and compassion moved Jesus to intervene.”

He encouraged the audience to recognise that even small gestures—a smile, a kind word, a listening ear—can bring comfort and spark healing. Recalling a personal moment, he shared that one of the turning points in his own recovery came not through medication, but through a visit from someone who showed genuine care and encouragement.

Quoting Isaiah 63:9, he emphasised that God Himself identifies with the afflictions of His people, and it is out of compassion that He redeems and restores them.

Apostle Arhin also cited the healing of the demon-possessed man in Gadara, noting that Jesus not only delivered him but also embraced him—an act society had long denied. Similarly, he highlighted the story of the lame man at the pool of Bethesda.

“Jesus approached the man not just with power, but with care—acknowledging his long wait and his hopelessness,” he said.

He charged the congregation to demonstrate the same heart in ministering to the sick: “Project faith and love—not fear and despair. Speak comfort. Be the hand of Jesus in someone’s pain.”

Concluding his message, Apostle Arhin urged the Church to intentionally cultivate a heart of compassion. Healing, he said, is not always about dramatic miracles. Often, it begins with kindness, presence, and love.

“In a world where pain is plenty and hope can be thin, compassion is the bridge between suffering and healing,” he stated.

“Jesus didn’t just perform miracles—He felt pain, touched the broken, and stood with the weary. If healing is a river, compassion is the spring from which it flows.”

“May we, too, be moved not just to pray, but to care; not just to preach, but to feel. For in every act of compassion, heaven draws near and healing begins,” he concluded.

PENT NEWS.

The New Tafo Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Prophet Samuel Tetteh Doku, has reaffirmed that the prophetic office is a divine calling given by God to equip the Church, stressing that prophets are not self-appointed but divinely raised vessels to communicate God’s mind and will to His people.

Prophet Doku said this on Thursday, June 19, 2025, during his presentation on “The Prophetic Ministry” at the 2025 National Prayer Centre Leaders’ Seminar, held at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

Basing his message on Ephesians 4:11–13 and Hebrews 5:4, he emphasised that prophets are among the fivefold ministry gifts given to the Church for the purpose of building up the body of Christ until believers reach spiritual maturity. “No one can call himself to be a prophet,” he noted. “It is God who calls, appoints, and anoints prophets to serve His Church.”

Prophet Doku explained that in both the Old and New Testaments, prophets were designated as God’s messengers, chosen to deliver divine counsel to His people. “From Abraham to Samuel, the Bible records how God spoke through His prophets,” he said, citing Hebrews 1:1. “They were the Lord’s mouthpiece, receiving revelations, visions, and dreams to declare God’s mind to nations and individuals.”

In addressing “The Making of a Prophet,” Prophet Doku revealed that the journey into prophetic ministry is marked by divine refinement, not personal ambition. Drawing from Jeremiah 1:4–5, he explained that prophets are prepared even before birth, and undergo seasons of purification and character formation. “The prophet must first respond to God’s dealings in his own life before speaking into the lives of others,” he stated.

He identified three critical factors that shape the prophet’s formation: the dedication of godly parents, a heart of service, and a clear divine call. Using the example of the young Samuel, he highlighted how the servant-heart and mentorship relationship with Eli exposed him to divine encounters. “It was in the atmosphere of service that the voice of God came,” he said.

Prophet Doku further expounded that, under the New Covenant, the prophetic ministry continues—but within a new framework of direct access to God through Christ. While all believers now have access to God’s presence (1 Peter 2:9), the office of the prophet remains necessary for guiding, edifying, and equipping the Church. “The New Testament prophet must operate in line with Scripture, pointing people back to Christ,” he noted.

He also outlined “The Constitution of a Prophet” as the spiritual makeup and giftings that typically accompany the prophetic calling. These include the gifts of prophecy, word of knowledge, word of wisdom, discerning of spirits, teaching, exhortation, and even music. He cited the examples of prophets like Daniel, Elijah, and Jeremiah, who demonstrated multiple spiritual gifts, including the ability to discern, interpret visions, and teach God’s word with power and clarity.

“True prophets don’t just see,” he stressed. “They carry spiritual depth and character, and their lives must align with the message they preach.”

In concluding his presentation, Prophet Doku urged believers to test all prophetic utterances against the Word of God. He provided key questions for discernment: “Does the prophecy align with Scripture? Does the prophet’s life reflect biblical values? Does the message edify or confuse?”

He cautioned against blindly following prophetic manifestations without proper spiritual evaluation. “Not all that glitters is gold,” he warned. “Prophetic accuracy must be matched with biblical integrity.”

“God is still speaking today,” Prophet Doku concluded, “and He continues to raise prophets to speak His heart. But every prophetic voice must be anchored in Scripture and characterised by humility, truth, and holiness.”

PENT NEWS.

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost and President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has reminded believers that true blessedness is found not in spiritual exploits, but in obedience to the Word of God.

He made this known today, June 20, 2025, during his presentation at the 2025 National Prayer Centre Leaders’ Seminar held at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

Speaking on the theme, “Blessed Are the Obedient,”Apostle Nyamekye drew his message from Luke 11:24–28 and challenged participants to reorient their focus from spiritual spectacle to spiritual substance—from gifts to godliness, and from power to personal obedience.

Reflecting on the role of Mary, the mother of Jesus, he clarified that although she was indeed blessed among women, she is not an object of worship. Citing Acts 1:12–14, he explained that Mary was present among the early believers in prayer, underscoring her place as part of the Church—not above it.

Apostle Nyamekye also highlighted Jesus’ authority over unclean spirits, referencing Mark 1:21–28, and emphasised that even beyond miracles, Jesus’ teachings revealed unmatched spiritual depth. “The depth of Jesus’ knowledge was just as astonishing as His miracles,” he noted.

According to him, while spiritual gifts like healing and deliverance are commendable, they do not define who is truly blessed. “The one who is blessed,” he stated, “is the one who hears God’s Word and obeys it.”

Quoting Matthew 7:21–28, he reminded the Church that not everyone who performs miracles or prophesies in Jesus’ name will enter the Kingdom. “The Kingdom belongs to those who do the will of the Father,” he stressed. He likened the obedient believer to a wise builder on solid rock, and the disobedient hearer to one building on sand.

He illustrated this further by comparing two believers under spiritual oppression. One may receive instant deliverance through a powerful prayer session, while another gains freedom gradually by consistently feeding on the Word of God. Both receive deliverance, but the latter emerges stronger, more grounded, and spiritually matured. “The simple Word of God, when obeyed, is powerful enough to break yokes,” he said.

Apostle Nyamekye cautioned against elevating spiritual gifts above Scripture. “No Church,” he warned, “is built on spiritual gifts. The Church is built on the sure foundation of God’s Word.”

He further advised that all believers, especially those who operate in spiritual gifts, must first identify as Christians—followers of Christ committed to living in obedience. He warned against spiritual pride, urging ministers to remain humble and grounded in the Word.

“Let us not confuse spiritual display with spiritual depth,” he concluded. “The truly blessed are not just anointed—they are obedient.”

PENT NEWS.

The Obuasi Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Prophet David Kankam Beditor, has challenged believers to intentionally develop the prophetic gift within them, stressing that prophetic ministry is not reserved for a select few but is available to every believer who desires it and grows in intimacy with God.

Prophet David Kankam Beditor made these remarks on Thursday, June 19, 2025, during a presentation on the topic “Developing the Prophetic Ministry” at the ongoing 2025 National Prayer Centre Leaders’ Seminar, held at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

Reading from 1 Corinthians 14:1 and 14:39–40, he explained that Scripture calls believers to “eagerly desire prophecy,” while ensuring that all spiritual gifts are exercised in an orderly and edifying manner.

“The prophetic is a divine gift, not a personal title,” Prophet Beditor noted. “It is meant to reveal God’s heart, His will, and His intentions—always pointing people to Christ.”

He defined the prophetic gift as the ability to receive and communicate divine messages through visions, revelations, discernment, and spiritual impressions. Referencing Revelation 19:10, he stressed that the spirit of prophecy is the testimony of Jesus, and that all true prophetic utterances must glorify Him.

According to Prophet Beditor, developing the prophetic gift requires more than desire—it demands spiritual maturity, discipline, and a deep relationship with God. Quoting 1 Timothy 4:12–15, he described development as a process of refining and strengthening one’s gift into effective ministry.

He illustrated the importance of intimacy with God in prophetic ministry by referring to Moses’ encounter with the Lord in Exodus 34:28–30. “Moses’ face shone because he spent extended time with God,” he said. “The power of the prophetic flows from the presence of God.”

Prophet Beditor also highlighted the critical role of discernment in operating the prophetic gift. “Believers must distinguish the voice of the Spirit from personal emotions or fleshly impulses,” he stated, referencing John 15:15 to affirm that Jesus reveals His heart to those who walk closely with Him.

He cautioned that the integrity of the vessel is as important as the gift itself. “Without godly character, the prophetic can become dangerous,” he warned. “Love, humility, holiness, and compassion must guide every prophetic expression.” Quoting 1 Corinthians 13:2 and James 4:6, he underscored the importance of ministering from a pure heart.

Prophet David Kankam Beditor also stressed the need for prophetic voices to remain accountable to spiritual authority within the Church. “The prophetic gift is not for show or self-promotion,” he said. “It is given for the edification of the body and must operate within the boundaries of sound doctrine and Church structure.”

Another foundational element he touched on was the centrality of Scripture in prophetic development. “Every true prophetic word must align with God’s written Word,” he affirmed, quoting Ezekiel 3:1. “The Bible is the prophetic compass—without it, we risk drifting into error.”

He encouraged believers to cultivate faith, courage, and perseverance in their prophetic journey. “Delivering the word of the Lord, especially when difficult, takes boldness,” he said. “But even when we make mistakes, we must continue to grow and not give up.” He cited Galatians 6:9 to urge consistency and patience.

Prophet David Kankam Beditor concluded by highlighting the blessings of prophetic ministry when developed rightly. “A well-nurtured prophetic gift edifies the Church, leads people to repentance, unveils divine direction, and prepares us for Christ’s return,” he noted.

In his final charge, he encouraged the Church to make room for the Holy Spirit to develop their prophetic capacities. “God is not looking for perfect people,” he said. “He’s looking for willing, obedient, and humble vessels—those who are ready to be shaped, filled, and sent.”

PENT NEWS.

The Takoradi Area Head and Executive Council Member of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Sylvester Arhin, has stated that a heart of compassion is essential to effectively exercise the spiritual gift of healing.

According to him, the healing power of God is embedded in love, care, and genuine empathy toward the suffering.

Apostle Arhin made these remarks yesterday, June 19, 2025, during a presentation on the topic “The Role of Compassion in the Healing of the Sick” at the 2025 National Prayer Centre Leaders’ Seminar, held at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

Preaching from Matthew 14:14, he recalled a moment in Jesus’ life when, despite retreating to the mountain to pray, He was moved with compassion upon seeing the multitude—many of whom were sick and helpless.

“Compassion,” Apostle Arhin noted, “was not a passing feeling for Jesus; it was the channel through which healing flowed.”

He explained that many who visit prayer centres are weighed down by various burdens. Some are seeking direction, others are overwhelmed by life’s struggles, but many come with physical, emotional, or mental illnesses. What they often need just as much as prayer, he stressed, is compassion.

Drawing from his pastoral experience, Apostle Arhin shared that prolonged exposure to human suffering can sometimes harden even the most caring individuals.

“Over time, caregivers and health workers may become emotionally numb to pain,” he said. “But Jesus models a different path. Whether the need was hunger, sickness, grief, or isolation, He consistently responded with compassion.”

Referencing Luke 7:11, Apostle Arhin described the poignant moment when Jesus encountered a widow mourning her only son.

“Life was entering; death was exiting,” he said poetically. “The only son of the woman met the only Son of God—and compassion moved Jesus to intervene.”

He encouraged the audience to recognise that even small gestures—a smile, a kind word, a listening ear—can bring comfort and spark healing. Recalling a personal moment, he shared that one of the turning points in his own recovery came not through medication, but through a visit from someone who showed genuine care and encouragement.

Quoting Isaiah 63:9, he emphasised that God Himself identifies with the afflictions of His people, and it is out of compassion that He redeems and restores them.

Apostle Arhin also cited the healing of the demon-possessed man in Gadara, noting that Jesus not only delivered him but also embraced him—an act society had long denied. Similarly, he highlighted the story of the lame man at the pool of Bethesda.

“Jesus approached the man not just with power, but with care—acknowledging his long wait and his hopelessness,” he said.

He charged the congregation to demonstrate the same heart in ministering to the sick: “Project faith and love—not fear and despair. Speak comfort. Be the hand of Jesus in someone’s pain.”

Concluding his message, Apostle Arhin urged the Church to intentionally cultivate a heart of compassion. Healing, he said, is not always about dramatic miracles. Often, it begins with kindness, presence, and love.

“In a world where pain is plenty and hope can be thin, compassion is the bridge between suffering and healing,” he stated.

“Jesus didn’t just perform miracles—He felt pain, touched the broken, and stood with the weary. If healing is a river, compassion is the spring from which it flows.”

“May we, too, be moved not just to pray, but to care; not just to preach, but to feel. For in every act of compassion, heaven draws near and healing begins,” he concluded.

PENT NEWS.