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The Chairman of the National Discipleship and Leadership Development Committee (NDLDC) of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr. Samuel Kojo Gakpetor, has advised members of the church to intentionally work at owning Vision 2028 of the church and to pay the price it takes to ensure the vision succeeds.

In an interview with PENTECOST NEWS on the sidelines of the ongoing Global Ministers and Wives Conference (GMWC), Apostle Gakpetor outlined the success story of the NDLDC under Vision 2023 and said the new focus of the committee is built on the success of the past vision.

He mentioned that the NDLDC worked at transforming the Bible study groups into discipleship groups with the permanency of membership and leadership. Thus, the group leader is more of a shepherd than a Bible study facilitator, he stressed.

He touched on making the lay leadership school lessons practical on the role of the leader and their life, the environmental care campaign that created awareness on environmental protection and the responsibility of Christians to be stewards of the earth.

Apostle Gakpetor also revealed that the church undertook a literacy project to ensure the preservation of the local languages and interest in using the languages.

Touching on the new things that will attend to discipleship drive under Vision 2028, the Chairman of NDLDC revealed that the dedication of the Mondays of the Lord’s supper week of the church for Home Cell is a great respite to reinvigorate the cell meetings that came handy during the COCID-19 era.

He also indicated an integrated manual for new coverts with lessons and devotionals for spiritual disciplines.

He explained that when coverts are taught on fasting, the devotionals will aid them to practice the lesson within the week.

Another initiative being rolled out by NDLDC is a read-through-the-Bible challenge to cultivate a habit of searching the scriptures.

Apostle Gakpetor also said a manual on ethics and another on leadership will also published for the church populace.

Apostle Gakpetor said though the task looks daunting, it is achievable because God backs it with His Spirit.

“We don’t want to lose guard even as we are unleashed. The local church remains our equipping centre, and it is the overflow of the equipped that will be unleashed. Discipleship remains the focal thing,” he reminded.

He said the vision is targeted at the individual members of the church; thus, he called for members to embrace the vision, avail themselves of the equipping avenues such as the home cells, ministry meetings, and other church programmes, and become committed and willing to pay the price.

“It is work time; we are being tasked to transform our spheres. It will come with attacks and opposition, but we must be willing to go the full hull and achieve the ideals of the vision’, he encouraged.

He also called for a time of prayer to push the vision because “God wants to do something with the church, and we need the ‘fierce wind’ the Chairman talks off to push it.”

Finally, Apostle Gakpetor pleaded with the church members to be willing financiers of the vision in cash and kind to ensure that in five years, all may look back and rejoice over what the Lord has done in His church and with His church. 

PENTECOST NEWS.

The University of Cape Coast (UCC) celebrated its 56th congregation yesterday, where Mr Beryl Agbesi, a dedicated member of the Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA) from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences Education, emerged as the Overall Best Graduating Student.

With a remarkable Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.956, Beryl Agbesi not only clinched the top spot but also served as the valedictorian for the third session of the congregation.

Born on 24th June 1992, hailing from Hohoe in the Volta Region, Agbesi attended Bishop Herman College, Kpando, completing his studies in 2012.

Having pursued a Bachelor of Education in Arts (English) at UCC, Agbesi’s academic excellence reflects the university’s commitment to producing well-trained graduates. The institution has maintained its position as the number one university in Ghana and West Africa for the past four years, contributing significantly to the development of the nation.

A devout member of The Church of Pentecost, Agbesi’s success underscores the effectiveness of the Holistic Development Mandate of the church. The Resident PENSA Campus Pastor (RPCP) concept, designed to provide spiritual and intellectual support to students, played a crucial role in shaping Agbesi’s academic journey.

PENSA-UCC, known for seamlessly integrating spiritual and academic pursuits, conducts programmes such as “Grace and Grades” and “Balancing Academic Life with Spiritual Life” annually. These initiatives, along with department-specific programs, aim to equip members for all-round maturity.

In light of Mr Beryl Agbesi’s outstanding achievement, Dennis Wiafe Akenteng, reporting on behalf of PENSA-UCC, encourages PENSA members worldwide to draw inspiration from this success and strive for excellence in their endeavours.

Report by Dennis Wiafe Akenteng (PENSA UCC).

The former Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Professor Opoku Onyinah (Rtd.), has encouraged Christians not to lose hope in the face of adversities because the God they serve remembers and will never forsake them.

Preaching at the 2024 Global Ministers and Wives’ Conference of the church underway at the Pentecost Convention Centre, Gomoa Fetteh, on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, Apostle Opoku Onyinah emphasised that at times, people go through difficult times and challenges, though they may be righteous.

Citing the life of the late former Chairman of the church, Apostle Dr. Michael Ntumy, to buttress his case, he assured the gathering that, no matter the time of pain and darkness, God will never forget His chosen ones.

In his exposition with scripture reference from Luke 1:5–7, 64, 67–68, the revered theologian focused on Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist.

Apostle Opoku Onyinah said Zechariah came to the scene at a time of Chaos in Judea when people felt dejected after their returning from exile and the decree by the king to massacre all children aged two and below.

He revealed that though Zechariah and his wife were righteous, they had the challenge of childlessness. He, therefore, admonished Christians to stop imputing sin or wrongdoing to people who go through challenging times.

“The irony of life is that at times those who should heal you will hurt you or those to comfort you will condemn you,” he observed, assuring Christians that, “however, amid challenges, God will offer hope and satisfaction.”

Apostle Opoku Onyinah prayed that a time of grace would befall believers in this period, as happened to Zachariah when the lot fell on him to offer the sacrifice in the holy place. He espoused that the lot that fell on him led him to the sacred place for the angelic encounter.

Apostle Onyinah cautioned against unbelief, stressing that the years of prayer were answered with a time of angelic visitation, but Zechariah doubted.

Comparing Zechariah’s doubts with that of Mary on the message of the angel, he indicated that God expects a higher level of exhibition of faith from experienced Christian leaders.

 He also alluded to the fact that while Mary enquired how the prophecy would be fulfilled, Zechariah doubted the possibility of it happening.

He emphasised that God is sovereign in His doings, and all it takes to experience Him is to believe.

Apostle Professor Onyinah observed that when the angel’s words were fulfilled, the priest prophesied that God had visited His people.

He said that was an acceptance that the Messiah is the sun that will shine on those in darkness. He encouraged the gathering that the Lord is the Light, and He will surely show through the dark times.

“Light will come. It will overcome the shadow of death. The sunrise will shine in your life because the Lord will fall on you,” he declared.

He also revealed that at times, one’s spouse or colleague may be the nearest to Christ one may encounter, but if care is not taken, that will be missed until they have left.

“You have to cherish every moment God gives you and the people He graciously brings our way,” he reiterated.

He ended with a word of benediction, saying, “When you think everyone has ignored, forgot or abandoned you, God remembers you. He will give you an angelic visitation, And your prayer will be answered, and that will be all that the world desires.”

PENTECOST NEWS.

Apostle Joseph Danzerl, the Achimota Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, has urged church leaders to become instruments of the “unleashing agenda” and embrace the evangelistic mission of the church with unwavering faith and obedience. 

He made this passionate call during his meeting with officers and leaders of the Achimota Area Zone on January 18, 2024, at the Achimota Central Assembly auditorium.  

Speaking to the theme “Casting the Net – Pursuing the Unleashing Agenda” and drawing inspiration from the familiar parable of the miraculous catch in Luke 5:1-11, he unveiled profound metaphors for Christian outreach.

He urged Christian leaders to adopt a renewed approach to evangelism and cast their nets with faith, inclusivity, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

He then delved into the lessons embedded in the story and emphasised that it is not merely about fishing, but a potent metaphor for evangelism. Each thread of the net, he explained, represents the diverse ways we connect with others, be it through words, deeds, or acts of kindness.

Apostle Danzerl, citing John 21:1-11, painted a touching picture of the disciples’ post-resurrection struggle. He said, “Despite returning to their familiar trade, they fished in vain until Jesus intervened, guiding them to cast at the right side.

He cautioned that our soul-winning efforts may falter not from lack of opportunity but from failing to heed the Lord’s direction.”

“Casting the net on the “right side,” guided by the Holy Spirit, ensures our efforts bear fruit, for without divine direction, our labour will be in vain,” he added.

 He underscored the importance of trusting the Lord in our evangelistic journey, echoing Proverbs 3:5-6. Church Leaders, he said, must trust that when casting their nets where the Lord directs, a harvest will follow.

He also championed inclusivity, emphasising that our nets should embrace all, just as the disciples’ net caught fish of all kinds; our evangelism must be broad and welcoming, transcending race, disability, or any other barrier.

Citing Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Apostle Danzerl reiterated that the work of evangelism is not a solo act but a collective action. “As lone fisherman struggles with heavy nets, united teams work with ease and efficiency.” This principle, he stated, translates beautifully into the realm of evangelism, where shared efforts can yield a bountiful harvest.

Apostle Danzerl stressed that our evangelistic efforts should be driven by love, the essence of the Gospel.  “Our nets must be strong”, he declared, highlighting the importance of godly virtues and a life aligned with the teachings of Christ.  

“Mere words, without the backing of genuine character, will not secure the hearts of those seeking salvation,” he added.

“In your hands are the nets of salvation,” he declared, “and beyond us is a sea teeming with souls hungering for salvation; therefore, go forth in the might of our Lord Jesus Christ, cast your net, and let us replenish the kingdom of God with a harvest beyond measure,” He concluded.

Mrs. Dorcas Danzerl, wife of the Achimota Area Head, as well as the pastorate and their wives from the Achimota Zone, were also present at the meeting.

Report by Blessed Amonoo (Achimota Area Media Ministry)

The Ashanti Bekwai Area of The Church of Pentecost, led by Apostle Fred Tiakor, has extended a helping hand to victims of the recent flood disaster caused by the spillage of the Akosombo Dam.

The donations were made to the Sogakope Area of the Church, which was severely affected by the floods.

According to Apostle Tiakor, the devastating floods in the Sogakope Area deeply moved the members of the Ashanti Bekwai Area. In response, they rallied together, contributing various items to aid the flood victims.

“Some members even expressed a desire to deliver their donations personally,” he revealed.

Representatives from the Ashanti Bekwai Area, including several pastors, presented the donated items and a cheque for GHS 15,000.00 to the Sogakope Area Head, Pastor Godwin Coffie Adzahlie, during a short presentation ceremony on the sidelines of the Global Ministers and Wives’ Conference (GMWC) at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

The donations, collected from 22 districts, included clothing, 20 pieces of wax prints, and lace, among other valuable items. The generosity of the Ashanti Bekwai Area members was evident in the quality of the donated items.

Receiving the items, the Sogakope Area Head expressed his gratitude to the Ashanti Bekwai Area for the donations.

He acknowledged that the floods had submerged 23 assemblies and affected seven districts.

He thanked the Ashanti Bekwai Area for their support, noting that the donations would significantly help the flood victims.

PENTECOST NEWS

The Tarkwa Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr. Daniel Okyere Walker, has advised Christian leaders on the importance of maintaining one’s standards and not yielding to the pressures of compromise.

Apostle Walker said this when he delivered an exhortation on the topic: “Compromise” during the Heads’ Session preceding the Global Ministers and Wives’ Conference 2024. The conference is taking place at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa-Fetteh.

In his sermon, Apostle Walker defined compromise as the lowering of standards to accept an option that was initially unacceptable. He used the biblical story of Pharaoh and Moses to illustrate his point, referencing several passages from the book of Exodus.

The Tarkwa Area Head highlighted four instances of compromise in the story. First, Pharaoh allowed the Israelites to worship God in Egypt. Second, he told them not to go far in their worship. Third, he asked only men to worship. Finally, he asked the Israelites to worship God without their belongings. In each instance, Moses resisted the compromise.

Apostle Walker stressed the importance of not compromising our faith, our zeal for service, or our standards. He encouraged Christians to be generous, pay tithes, give offerings, and bless their members.

He concluded by warning against compromise, citing 2 Corinthians 6:14-15.

The Global Ministers and Wives’ Conference, which is being held under the theme: “A People of God Unleashed To Transform Their World (1 Peter 2:9 and Acts 1:8),” was officially opened today (January 23) and is expected to close on January 26, 2024.

PENTECOST NEWS.

The Kintampo Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Francis Agyemang Badu, has urged believers to let their light shine wherever they go by engaging in good works. He made this call on Sunday, January 14, 2024, during a working visit to the Krutakyi Assembly in the Jema Nkwanta District of the Church.

In a sermon titled “We Were Dead, But God” and using Ephesians 2:1-10 as a scripture reference, Apostle Agyemang Badu enumerated how God has graciously chosen believers to become His sons and daughters, despite their past. He explained that, before Christ’s redemption, they were dead in their transgressions and sins, following the ways of the world. He added, “We were under demonic and satanic powers and followed the desires of the flesh.”

Touching on the three types of death, he explained that humankind experienced spiritual death, which is separation from God, as a result of Adam and Eve’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden. The second type of death, he mentioned, is physical death, occurring when the soul departs from the body, whereas the last death, eternal death, awaits those who refuse to accept Christ as Lord and will be cast into hell fire on judgment day.

He emphasised that God, through His love, mercy, and grace, has completely paid for the sins of humanity and restored their broken relationship with God. “He showed us mercy by not punishing us or allowing us to die in our transgressions, but He saved us out of His unconditional love and grace. God has raised us with Christ, given us eternal life, and seated us in the heavenly realm,” he said.

The Kintampo Area Head concluded by advising everyone to abstain from the works of the flesh since they are new creations, and the old has already passed away. He urged believers to live up to their new standing in Christ as God’s handiwork, specially created in Christ Jesus to do good works and implored them to influence their spheres with the values and principles of the Kingdom of God.

In attendance were Apostle Samuel Badu Nyarko (Rtd.) and his wife, Mama Cecilia, Pastor Prince Augustine Ababio (Jema Nkwanta District Minister), Nana Oduro Pinkrah II (Yefri Anponahene), as well as officers and members of the Krutakyi Assembly.

Report by Jema Nkwanta Media Team