Posts in category: Top Stories

INTRODUCTION

Perception serves as the lens through which we interpret and make sense of the world, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and actions. It shapes our understanding of reality, allowing us to navigate and respond to our surroundings.

Recognizing the power of perception underscores the importance of cultivating a positive and purpose-driven mindset to enhance overall performance.

In this write up, our focus will be on exploring how the lens of perception affects both prayer and relationships, extracting valuable lessons from these insights.

THE ‘OR’ PERCEPTION OF PRAYER AND RELATIONSHIPS

The perception of prayer and relationships as either opportunities or responsibilities significantly shapes the way we approach these aspects of our lives.

Regarding prayer, we can approach it from the standpoint of privilege or responsibility, either way affects how we pray and the same applies to relationship, rightly so because prayer is an important tool in our relationship with God.

For many, viewing prayer as an opportunity suggests a perspective of personal connection, intimacy with God and the potential for positive change. In this light, prayer becomes a chance to deepen one’s spirituality, seek guidance, and experience a meaningful connection with God. Approaching prayer as an opportunity often leads to a more open, hopeful, and proactive engagement with God.

Likewise, viewing relationships as opportunities suggests an openness to growth, learning, and shared experiences. People who embrace relationships as opportunities often approach them with a sense of interest, seeing each connection as a chance for mutual benefit, personal development, and joy.

Conversely, perceiving prayer as a responsibility introduces a sense of duty, obligation, and commitment. Those who view prayer in this manner may see it as a necessary and disciplined part of their routine, emphasizing a commitment to their faith or spiritual beliefs. This perspective can instill a sense of accountability and a structured approach to prayer, where individuals prioritize it as an essential aspect of their daily or weekly responsibilities. However, this may lead to a more mechanical and uninspired rendezvous, potentially diminishing the depth of spiritual connection and personal fulfillment that prayer can offer.

Similarly, perceiving our relationship as a responsibility emphasizes a sense of obligation that comes with interpersonal connections. It may lead to a sense of duty rather than genuine connection, potentially resulting in strained interactions and emotional distance. This perspective might also contribute to feelings of burden, as individuals may feel weighed down by the perceived duties of maintaining the relationship rather than appreciating it as a valuable and enriching part of their lives. Additionally, the obligation-centric approach may hinder the spontaneity and joy that often accompany relationships seen as privileges rather than duties.

Those who approach relationships from a sense of responsibility may try to prioritize the care, support, and maintenance of these connections, viewing them as integral components of a fulfilling and purposeful life, but are usually not able to sustain them in the long run.

SEEING THROUGH THE LENS OF PRIVILEGE

In the initial phase of our Christian journey with God, characterized by the excitement surrounding His immense love for us and His desire to be an integral part of our daily lives, our approach to prayer is lit by the perception of privilege. We consider it a rare and extraordinary opportunity bestowed upon us by God, enabling us to engage in a profound dialogue with Him, both expressing our thoughts and receiving guidance through prayer.

This phase of our relationship with God through prayer has the potential to develop to the extent that we assign it a high priority above all other considerations. This, indeed, aligns with what God rightfully desires – that we acknowledge Him in all we do. Acknowledging Him highlights the centrality of God’s presence in every facet of our existence.

During this phase, our earnest desire is to maintain a continuous connection with God. We express gratitude for His benevolence, engage in discussions about our plans, and earnestly seek His guidance throughout the intricate journey of life, among other aspects. This period is marked by a genuine enthusiasm to commune with our Maker, recognizing prayer as a unique and privileged avenue for fostering a deeper relationship with the Almighty God.

In the initial stages of a relationship, there is an inherent excitement about the love shared with our partner, prompting open discussions on a myriad of topics, including our future plans. During this phase, it is customary to seek our partner’s input, valuing and seriously considering their suggestions as integral components of our future plans.

Additionally, in our physical intimate relationships, there comes a juncture where we prioritize the presence and perspectives of our partners. Typically, we eagerly anticipate hearing from them as the first thing in the morning and the last thing in the evening. There are even occasions when we experience a sense of loneliness if we haven’t heard from them for an extended period.

KEEPING THE FIRE UP & VIBE ON

In our prayer lives, we cherish the continual chance to strengthen our faith through an active prayer routine, viewing it as a rare privilege. With sincere dedication, we approach each instance of prayer with reverence, recognizing the gravity of the bestowed privilege. Committed to fortifying our faith, we follow scriptural guidance by praying in the spirit on all occasions, utilizing various forms of prayer to deepen our spiritual connection. We keep firing up!

Also, when we perceive our relationship as a privilege, we are better positioned to wholeheartedly invest in that connection. We cherish the moments spent with our partners and actively seek ways to cultivate a vibrant and thriving relationship. Thoughtfully, we contemplate ways to add excitement to the interests we share with our partners.

We hold in high regard the sacrifices made by our partners and ensure they feel both loved and appreciated. This perspective encourages us to approach the relationship with a sense of gratitude, prompting us to contribute our utmost to its success and fulfillment.

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE LENS; RESPONSIBILITY!

The other side of the lens of perception is responsibility.

When we view prayer as a call to duty or a responsibility, it also affects how we approach it. We feel obliged to pray and guilty when we don’t do it.

This perspective often leads us to believe that negative consequences may befall us if we neglect prayer and makes our prayer life driven by fear and guilt. But the scripture in 2 Timothy 1:7 states that “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

When prayer is seen primarily as a response to fear, the focus shifts towards seeking divine intervention to avert potential harm or misfortune. This fear-driven approach is evident in the tendency to ask God for specific requests and blessings without expressing a genuine interest in fostering intimacy with Him.

This transactional mindset can hinder the development of a genuine and intimate connection with God. Instead of viewing prayer as an opportunity for communion and understanding, it becomes a means of appeasement or a way to secure protection and break ancestral curses.

When it comes to our relationship, a sharp cooling off curve emerges that is driven by our perception of relationship as a responsibility. As we begin to perceive our actions within relationships as responsibilities, a subtle but profound shift occurs, siphoning away the inherent intimacy and vibe that comes with them. It makes the relationship rigid and boring, stripping away the spontaneity and excitement that typically characterize vibrant connections.

We may find ourselves feeling a sense of guilt for failing to engage in certain behaviors, such as checking in on each other or being present for one another. Moreover, actions like communication, demonstrating love and aiding each other’s growth are often perceived as responsibilities. This perspective leads us to mentally position ourselves to anticipate appreciation when fulfilling these duties. Consequently, we tend to allocate roles and elevate the expectation ladder within our relationships. This transactional approach creates an environment where we expect reciprocal actions from the other person based on our own contributions.

THE TOUGH BEND & BREAKING UP

When this pattern persists for an extended period, we find ourselves relenting in our prayer lives. We struggle to sustain the practice, often attributing our lapses to hectic schedules and other trivial excuses. We inadvertently distance ourselves from this invaluable opportunity to engage in meaningful conversation with our creator and ultimate source.

Within the context of relationships, the unfortunate yet inevitable consequence of its stiffness and rigidity is a breakup. No relationship can be sustained on the foundation of such perception. There is an absence of vitality, connection, and a genuine vibe within the relationship. Conversations are direct and lack intimacy. Each partner anticipates the other to initiate action.

The relationship may turn into a fault-finding avenue wherein each partner actively seeks out reasons to assign blame to the other.

THE HARD COMEBACK

At times, though not consistently, individuals can acknowledge and embrace their shortcomings, akin to the prodigal son who came to a profound realization of his errors.

Upon recognizing our errors and the factors that led us astray from our most cherished prayer experiences with God, we embark on a pathway to restoration. God, ever-forgiving and welcoming, stands prepared to receive us back into His embrace, mirroring the compassion demonstrated by the father in the parable of the prodigal son.

We can rekindle our prayer life and delve even deeper into our connection with God.

Regrettably, the likelihood of experiencing comebacks in our physical intimate relationships diminishes considerably.

Individuals are not divine; human beings are constrained by both time and capability. Consequently, people often linger on the past, creating a challenge in accepting someone they had previously separated from, even when the other partner acknowledges their mistakes and expresses a genuine willingness to rectify them.

Simply put, people move on easily.

Not everyone possesses the ability to go back to their former partners even when they realize their wrongs.

This makes it necessary for us to be more intentional about our intimate relationship and develop the right perception for them.

We should love deeply and cultivate good character traits that make it easier for others to love us.

In a relationship, you don’t do what you want, because everything you do affects your partner and your relationship with them, therefore, it is pertinent to conscientiously factor in your partner’s perspective when making decisions.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our perception acts as a powerful lens that shapes our approach to prayer and relationships, influencing the dynamics of these essential aspects of our lives. Whether viewed through the lens of privilege or responsibility, the impact on our experiences is profound.

When we see prayer as a privilege, we embrace it as a rare opportunity to connect intimately with God, fostering a deep and meaningful relationship. Similarly, relationships seen as privileges are cherished, and efforts are made to cultivate vibrancy and joy, contributing to mutual growth and fulfillment.

On the other hand, perceiving prayer and relationships as responsibilities introduces a sense of duty that may lead to a transactional approach, driven by fear, guilt and expectations. This mindset can hinder the genuine connection and spontaneity that make prayer and relationships fulfilling.

The consequences of these perceptions are plain – a waning prayer life and the potential breakdown of relationships. The realization of our errors may lead to a comeback in our prayer life, but in relationships, the chance for reconciliation diminishes considerably.

Ultimately, the key lies in cultivating a positive perspective of prayer and our relationship, understanding the significance of our perception in shaping the quality of our prayer life and relationships. By doing so, we can keep the fire alive in our prayer experiences and maintain vibrant connections in our relationships, navigating the delicate balance between privilege and responsibility with wisdom and intentionality.

Thank you.

Written by James A. Brown (District Youth Organizer, New Mamprobi)

The annual musical programme of the resident choir of the Pentecost International Worship Centre, Odorkor (PIWC-Odorkor), The New Song (TNS), dubbed “KARA,” embarked on a transformative journey over a decade ago, but it wasn’t until 2022 that its resonating melodies and divine messages reached a multitude of patrons outside the corridors of PIWC-Odorkor.

Since its inception, the leadership of PIWC-Odorkor envisioned elevating the musical event to greater heights, yet we needed substantial support to transform these dreams into reality. For nine years, KARA had stood as a symbol God’s power, but the turning point of the choir came during the preparation for the “KARA @10” celebrations in 2022 when the idea of KARA was pitched to Elder Ing. Felix Atsrim, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FeDems Limited.

While the dream of KARA had lingered for years, it was Ing. Felix Astrim who moulded and shaped that dream into the vibrant reality witnessed today. His efforts and guidance materialised in the recently-ended KARA 23, where the presence of the Holy Spirit was palpable to all patrons. The musical ministry of TNS served as a profound affirmation of the power of the Holy Spirit at the National Theatre on Sunday November 19, 2023.

In commemorating its 10th anniversary last year, TNS hosted KARA at the National Theatre for the first time. This strategic move was aimed to propel The Church of Pentecost’s agenda of “possessing the nations,” an accomplishment attributed to the choir’s backbone and hero, Ing. Felix Atsrim.

His support extends beyond financial backing; he has become an integral part of KARA’s spiritual journey. Today, KARA stands proudly as a household name, having successfully filled the National Theatre to full capacity on two separate occasions in 2022 and 2023.

Elder Felix Atsrim’s nurturing influence on KARA has proven instrumental in the choir’s spiritual growth, creating a harmonious journey for the people of God. His steadfast commitment has left a lasting imprint on the hearts and souls of those fortunate enough to experience the choir’s musical journey.

Ing. Atsrim is a consummate engineering and project finance professional with a proven track record of success. He has established a niche for himself both in the public and private sector of Ghana, delivering projects with cutting-edge technologies and value for money. He is also an Elder of The Church of Pentecost and currently serves as the Presiding Elder for the Mount Olives Worship Centre in the Odorkor Area of the Church.

Written by Lydia Nyame

INTRODUCTION

God’s reaction to his creation demonstrates satisfaction and great expectation from His created things. He beholds his creation and confesses its goodness (Genesis 1:31). The word “good” which is a translation of the Hebrew word ט֖וֹב, tob (transliteration) also means pleasant or agreeable. This connotes harmony of creation with God. The Greek rendering of that word in the Septuagint (the first Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible or the Christian Old Testament) is ἀγαθὸς, which transliterates as agathos also means holistically excellent or distinguished. God had no iota of doubt that he had produced the best of everything that is in harmony with his nature and manifests his glory.

His creation of man in His image and the charge to man to “Increase, multiply and subdue the earth,” (Genesis 1:28) suggests in part that man has been given a creative ability that would enable him to explore his environment and maximize his use of aspects of God’s creation. Through His act of providence, God has made available the raw materials that would be used by man. Through observation and experimentation, humanity has managed throughout the generations to explore his environment to his advantage. It is against this backdrop that genetic engineering of natural things emerged. In addition, man through his ingenuity further wants to rely on an intelligence that emanates from technologically produced machines instead of the intellect of animals and man himself hence the explosion of artificial intelligence (AI) in our world today.

Advancements in genetic engineering (GE) and AI have reached an extent, despite the good things that come from these undertakings, where they are being used, arguably, to perpetrate evil. Instead of dominating the earth through the eyes of the divinely created things, there is a rising phenomenon of the use of science and technology to create and modify the creation of God in a way that threatens life. The good things harnessed from GE and AI cannot be denied as well. Where do we bring the balance? The ethical issues that border on AI and GE are enormous and cannot be covered entirely here. This very short article, however, comes from the viewpoint that the creativity of man must be pursued under the paradigm of God who authorizes humanity to be productive and what comes out of man’s ingenuity must be in harmony with God and reveal his glory. The words “man” and “humanity” have been used interchangeably in this article.

YOU ARE THE GENES THAT YOU POSSESS

A living organism’s genetic makeup or genotype defines its physical uniqueness; it creates what a particular organism is. Living organisms have different numbers of genes. Genes are the primary morphological and functional unit of heredity. They are located on chromosomes that are in turn found in the nucleus of living cells (specifically eukaryotic cells like that of humans). Humans for instance have 23 pairs of chromosomes. Chromosomes per their morphology are thread-like and come in different, lengths, sizes, and shapes, and are made of Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and proteins. Genes are located in the DNA. The specific part of the DNA where a particular gene is found is called the locus. The genome or genotype is a collection of all the instructions that an organism’s body needs for its makeup and function. This defines the organism’s phenotype. These genes determine the traits of organisms.

In GE, there is the manipulation of genes for the purpose of production of “favorable” traits among others. This took particular effect in the early 1970s. It has developed over the years. GE has been explored in agriculture, medicine, and the production of raw materials for industries. In medicine, for instance, GE has enabled the production of vaccines and other pharmaceuticals that have helped in the improvement of health. To give an example, the human gene that codes for insulin is being introduced into other organisms like bacteria or yeast cells. These organisms replicate very quickly to produce insulin that is harvested and used in the management of diabetes. There are other genetically engineered therapies.

Some genetically modified organisms have emerged as a result of various research in GE. There is concern about modifying certain life forms which would have harmful effects on the biome. There is the risk of creating genetically modified foods that would have dire allergic consequences for humans. Meanwhile, currently, there is an increase in genetic modification of various food crops at commercial levels. This shows that there is a strong economic determinant of GE of food crops.

Modification of the human genome is another area that is been explored in which changes are made to the human DNA. One of the arguments has been that editing the human genome would help create humans who would beat diseases that are inheritable. This is done by editing the genes that cause particular diseases. There is also the prediction that humans would live forever if the part of the human genome that facilitates the aging process and eventual death can be edited.

The creation of God is good and in harmony with God. The entrance of sin had a negative impact on the creation of God. Creation has been subjected to suffering and frustration. The Bible attests that “the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now” (Romans 8:22). The pains of disease and death, scarcity of necessary items for life, and mere ego and curiosity of humanity have pushed humanity to exploit the creation of God with special reference to GE. Genetic modification of the creation is an attempt to solve the problems and difficulties creation has been subjected to. Some of the ventures in GE are a direct affront to the supremacy of God. As it were, it is another case of humanity’s attempt to be like God as it played in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:5). An essential issue to ponder over is whether some of the GE projects are in harmony with God and bring glory to him the creator. Can they be described as agathos?

Instructively, there is a purpose for the heterogeneity of humans. The crossing of traits when a man and woman give birth to an offspring has facilitated the survival of humanity species. Where modification of the human genome towards engendering a particular trait becomes the order of the day, human differences would become compromised. This end does not justify genome control. In our quest to deal with certain gene mutations, there is the risk of causing further mutations that would alter what a human is supposed to be.

ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

In 1956, John MacCarthy, a Stanford computer scientist coined the term artificial intelligence. The term primarily means to give machines human intelligence to perform complex tasks like humans. The technologically engineered systems and gadgets are infused with computer algorithms that enable them to perform tasks like humans. AI has developed over the years but has taken a rapid developmental curve in the last few years with tremendous application in diverse fields of human endeavors including healthcare, education,  scientific research (like space exploration), manufacturing industries, and integral aspects of social life.

In industrial applications, the biological limitations that come with humans are done away with AI. That is, automation may enable machines to work for longer hours without the usual biological fatigue. Complex tasks that demand the synergistic effort of several humans can be performed by an artificially intelligent robot. The performance of these tasks is significantly based on empirical programming and not on emotions. Robotics have wide applications in manufacturing industries leading to an increase in productivity.

In the scientific exploration of the universe, there are several places that humans have not yet been to. Meanwhile, AI-empowered machines have been dispatched to aspects of the universe. For instance, there are currently on Mars, the red planet, rovers deployed to that planet to enable the study of conditions on that planet to see if it can support life adequately.

AI-empowered systems or models like the Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT) have made access to complex information possible within a relatively short time. This chatbox can communicate with humans and give helpful feedback. It has impacted education extensively lately. Tasks like writing and other aspects of research can be done with ChatGPT within the shortest possible time. Consequently, it has helped in the dissemination of information. This AI-empowered chatbox can aid studies. There have also emerged AI software tools that help in the learning and translation of languages, arts, and designs, among others. Schools and universities can employ the power of ChatGPT for instance to aid in research and learning.

Does AI impinge on human ingenuity that proceeded from God though it is, arguably, a product of this same ingenuity? Human factors in research work are essentially compromised in the application of AI. Consequently, despite the many good things that the boom of AI presents to the world, there is a tendency to prevent man from exploiting his innate abilities. There are already concerns about how students just utilized AI to do assignments without the recourse to the necessary academic rigors that enable the development of the human thinking faculty. This promotes laziness and stagnation of human originality. There is the challenge of the production of fake images and impersonation. There are situations where people use AI in spiritual matters. Some preachers use it to prepare their sermons without personally studying the word of God and praying for God to inspire them for their proper edification. Spirituality concerns the various ways and attitudes that come into play in how we approach God. AI must not determine this.

CONCLUSION

Indeed, parts of the creation of God have been given to humanity for his benefit hence their scientific modification for the benefit of humanity and to the glory of God are ethical ventures that are a good presentation of the charge by God to humans to subdue and have dominion on the Earth (Genesis 1:28). Meanwhile, genetic modification of humans would not solve the problem of sin and its repercussion. This is only dealt with in Christ. The editing of the genome of some food crops that have a harmful bearing on humans and other organisms and upsets the ecosystem shows that such GE is not in harmony with God and is inimical to life. This cannot be described as good. Continual empirical research backed by the fear of God and grounded on sound morality and bioethics would shape science and technology. The Church must explore vital ways of promoting this. It must not lose touch with new developments in GE and AI but rather get involved and bring the principles of the Kingdom of God to bear on them. GE and AI must be turned to Christ.

Written by Apostle Prof. Kwabena Agyapong-Kodua & Elder Dr. Stephen Ofotsu Ofoe

INTRODUCTION

The Crowds roared, the congregants sang, danced, prayed, tongued in the Holy Ghost as The New Song, the Music Ministry of The Church of Pentecost, PIWC Odorkor, led us in renditions of the songs of the Spirit.

Under the theme, “THE MOVE OF THE SPIRIT”, these skillful young men and women anointed by the Spirit moved the audience to the movement of the wind of the Holy Ghost that was blowing refreshingly in the National Theater to the extent that many of the patrons did not mind the heat generated by the pressing crowd.

Sitting in the service and seeing the Spirit Divine attending to the lifted hands  and the heartfelt prayers of yearning souls….the writings were clearly on the wall that the Holy Spirit had descended with his gracious power – indeed where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

As I kept reflecting on this awe-struck encounter and piecing it with the just unveiled theme of The Church of Pentecost for 2024, it became clear that the UNLEASHING agenda has been set in motion.

As a student of the place of songs in Pentecostal Theology and Spirituality, I was left with no other choice than to share my reflections on how we can leverage the power of the singing ministry as a contribution to the UNLEASHING AGENDA.

I will attempt to draw lessons from KARA Experience

VENUE

The decision to stage the Worship event at the National Theatre by the organizers of KARA was a bold statement of faith, a departure from our conservative disposition as classical Pentecostals but a perfect fit into the spirit of the vision that effective ministry is not done within the four walls of the Church but one which connects the church to the society.

THEME AND SELECTION OF SONGS

The choice of the theme, MOVE OF THE SPIRIT, I consider as very prophetic within the context of the unleashing agenda considering that to unleash a people on a transformation agenda is to see them move in power, move in grace, move in giftings and move in new beginnings. From our classical Pentecostal tunes laced with contemporary vibes, flavored with swelling harmonies and garnished with scintillating vocals to foreign sounds, The New Song dished for us meals of the Holy Ghost till our hearts were full with indescribable satisfaction.

ARTISTES AND GOSPEL MINISTERS

It was clear that KARA meant business considering the parade of anointed minstrels who lined up to serve us toasts from the kitchen of Rauch Elohim. It was perfect blend of the fire of Mrs. Grace Gakpetor, the dance of Shadrach Mensah, the oil of Edwin Dadson, energy of Ps. Kyei Boate, the aura of Sandra Boakye, the bliss of MOG and the glamour of Piesie Esther who led us to thank God by taking our shoes and dancing agbadza and kpalogo. Not forgetting moments of impartation and impactation with the reverred Apostles and pastors who ministered in between.

…AND THE FIRE DESCENDED

KARA clearly had a definite objective – that the move of the Spirit will release the fire and indeed the fire descended. KARA is one of the few events that blended class, skill and unction. We witnessed evidences of God’s power, demonstration of authentic Pentecostal graces, undiluted release of the supernatural. Indeed, the fire fell and burdens were rolled, bondages releases, shackles broken and lives totally transformed.

FUNDING

Let me sincerely commend FEDEMS, the headline sponsor together with the myriad of sponsors as well as the leadership of the Odorkor Area and the PIWC Odorkor for the huge investments to place this brand on the Ghanaian gospel and global map.

LESSONS

Now in reflecting on this historic event, a few lessons   come to mind

1. Continous attention ought to be given to our songs as Classical Pentecostals as a missiological tool for driving the unleashing agenda.

2. Our Church choirs should be challenged, empowered and emboldened to be dynamic and innovative in their programming, having the understanding that their ministries are out there.

3. Church-based institutions and entities owned by Christian businesses are implored to identify Christian music groups hoisting the flags of impact so they can be supported to do more.

4. Young musicians in the Church should be encouraged to be innovative, think outside the box, take bold steps of faith guided by our fathers to swim in deeper waters because there bigger fishes of impact are caught.

Written by Pastor Kwasi Asante Annor (General Manager, PENT TV)