THE INNER CIRCLE OF DAVID web

The Inner Circle Of David: Men Behind The Scenes

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Too many apprentices (subordinates) claim the title and portfolio of leadership and prematurely seek exposure before their time, breeding a generation of unprepared, inexperienced, and immature leaders. Sadly, everyone claims to be a leader instead of following, and this situation ruefully cuts across almost all sectors of life: from the clergy to politicians, the business arena to education institutions, through the judicial service to the legislature, etc.

There is a serious leadership crisis in our time. It’s quite alarming how individuals and groups easily break away from institutions, superiors, and organisations prematurely to establish their own and become bosses overnight, with the notion of being their own bosses and not under any superior. In fact, the spirit of Elisha and Ruth in waiting and seeking nourishment, guidance, and experience under leaders is lacking.

Whether born a leader or desiring to lead, there is a great necessity to learn to follow before leading at the appropriate time. This cannot be entirely said of today’s generation, which has been blinded by the quest to lead by all means.

In this article, I shall use David and his mighty men as a case study, referencing 2 Samuel 23:8-39. Our interest shall be focused on the three mighty men of David and then draw meaningful lessons on their remarkable roles in David’s administration behind the scenes.

King David has undoubtedly been seen as one of the greatest kings in Israel. His account is rich with stories of triumph, adversity, and spiritual connection, making him a central figure in Biblical history. When David is mentioned, true leadership comes to mind.

David’s mighty men were a group of exceptional warriors and loyal supporters who played a crucial role in the life of King David, as recorded in the Bible. As David faced challenges and enemies, a group of warriors rallied around him. These individuals demonstrated extraordinary courage and loyalty. In the annals of biblical history, King David’s reign is not only marked by his own exploits but also by the indomitable spirit and valour of his loyal warriors. These extraordinary individuals played pivotal roles in securing David’s throne and establishing a legacy of courage and devotion.

A TRIUMVIRATE OF VALOR – MEN BEHIND THE SCENES

David’s Three Mighty Men, comprising Adino, Eleazar, and Shammah, were not mere soldiers but exemplars of courage and fortitude.

Josheb-Basshebeth, also called Adino the Eznite, was credited with single-handedly slaying 800 enemies in a remarkable display of valour (2 Samuel 23:8).

Eleazar, undaunted by a battlefield withdrawal, stood firm and secured a victory against the Philistines when others faltered (2 Samuel 23:9-10). He fought alongside David against the Philistines and played a critical role in securing victory.

Shammah, the third in this triumvirate, defended a field of lentils against Philistine forces, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to protecting what mattered, no matter how trivial it seemed when others had retreated, showcasing the steadfast commitment that defined David’s Mighty Men (2 Samuel 23:11-12).

A BOND BEYOND DUTY

The allegiance of these mighty men to David went beyond mere duty; it was a bond forged in the crucible of shared trials and victories. Their loyalty is highlighted in various episodes, such as when David longed for water from the well of Bethlehem. The Three Mighty Men, recognising the significance of their leader’s desire, braved enemy lines to bring him the water he desired, risking their lives to fulfil David’s longing (2 Samuel 23:13-17).

SACRIFICE BEYOND DUTY

The narratives of Adino, Eleazar, and Shammah offer timeless lessons in leadership and sacrifice. Their commitment to David, their feats of valour, and their willingness to go to great lengths for the sake of their king exemplify the qualities of true warriors and devoted subjects. These stories serve as a source of inspiration for leaders and individuals alike, emphasising the importance of courage, loyalty, and selflessness in the pursuit of a noble cause.

LOYALTY IN ADVERSITY

The Mighty Men were not merely skilled in combat; they embodied loyalty in the face of adversity. Whether confronting enemies on the battlefield or standing by David during his fugitive years, their commitment was unwavering, contributing significantly to David’s survival and ultimate ascent to the throne.

NOT JUST SERVICE BUT LEGACY

The stories of David’s Mighty Men resonate beyond the pages of biblical history, offering timeless lessons on courage, camaraderie, and the indispensable role of loyalty in pursuing a noble cause. Their exploits highlight the importance of a dedicated and unified team in overcoming challenges and achieving victory.

LEADERSHIP IS NOT AN ISLAND

It’s said, “If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go with others.” Again, Tom Peters once said, “Leaders don’t create followers; they create leaders.” A remarkable leadership quality identified about David is how harmoniously he works with subordinates and grows them into leadership. The fear of today’s leader raising a subordinate into leadership is the fact that the subordinate may outgrow him and take over. I foresee this as one of the causes of subordinates breaking away. In as much as David experienced many assassinations from subordinates, so did he experience much success and defense from loyal subordinates. If one fears going all out regardless, he is not a leader in the first place. It’s of great essence to create loyal leaders; it will pay you off eventually in the end.

SELFLESS SACRIFICE

It’s quite amazing the significant role these men performed in David’s administration. Yet little is said about them, but the most touching part is how behind the scenes, they contributed immensely but did not claim glory nor seek to betray David along the way. Every organisation, institution, or nation must seek such kind of subordinates. It must also be the desire of every individual who aspires for leadership to embrace such an attitude, qualities, and desire. That’s the only way to successfully attain leadership.

CONCLUSION

In the tapestry of David’s reign, the threads woven by his Three Mighty Men are vivid and enduring. Their valour, loyalty, and sacrifices have left an indelible mark on biblical history, embodying the timeless qualities of courage and devotion. As we reflect on their stories, we find inspiration to face our challenges with unwavering resolve and stand firm in loyalty to those we serve. The legacy of David’s Three Mighty Men is a testament to the enduring power of courage and commitment in the face of adversity.

At this point, it must be noted that every leader’s strength and success are proportional to the strength, loyalty, sacrifice, and commitment of his inner men. No leader leads in isolation; you need selfless and devoted mighty men to go beyond boundaries and break limits.

Written by Elder Patrick Turkson (Asenemaso District Youth Ministry Leader)

Let Your Work Announce Your Presence web

Let Your Work Announce Your Presence – Pastor Dr Dela Klutse Tells Christians

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The Media Ministry Pastor of The Church of Pentecost, Pastor Dr Felix Dela Klutse, has revealed that a critical way for Christians to transform their world is when their work announces their presence, just as Jesus’ life on earth announced His presence.

He said this Thursday during the 2023 Headquarters Management and Staff Retreat at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, near Kasoa.

He based his message on 1 Peter 2:9, where the Apostle Peter describes the church as a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a peculiar people. 

Pastor Dr Klutse explained that God has chosen believers, given them access to Him, made them His partners, called them to holiness, and set them apart for His glory.

He challenged the church to show forth the praises of God in the world by transforming it with their work and witness. He said that an agent of transformation stands out among the lot and attracts people to Christ.

The Media Ministry Pastor also reminded church workers that they will be remembered for two things: the problem they solved and the problem they created. He, therefore, urged them to be problem solvers and not problem creators.

He concluded by quoting Acts 1:8, where Jesus promised the Holy Spirit as the power source for the church to be His witnesses in the world. 

He said that the only way to receive this power is to have fellowship with the Holy Spirit and to depend on Him for guidance and strength.

PENTECOST NEWS

Own Vision 2028 web

Own Vision 2028 – Apostle Kotei Djani Tells Church Elders

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The Techiman Area Head and Executive Council Member of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Isaac Nii Kotei Djani, has urged Church Elders to own the new strategic vision of the Church, “Vision 2028,” and to ensure its successful actualisation.

Apostle Kotei Djani said this during a consultative meeting with Elders in the Techiman Area at the Dwomor Central Assembly auditorium.

Addressing the gathering, the Techiman Area Head emphasised the immeasurable value of Elders in The Church of Pentecost, saying: “There cannot be a vibrant Church without Elders. Elders of The Church of Pentecost are so unique.”

He further noted that Elders are catalysts because they effect positive change in the local churches, which is the strength base of the Church.  

He cited practical examples of two Elders who discipled him and helped to unleash his God-given potential from the early days of his life.

Apostle Kotei Djani charged the Elders to pay particular attention to the new ministries introduced by the Church in pursuit of the “Possessing the Nations” agenda, such as the Ministry to Persons with Disabilities (MPWDs), Chaplaincy Ministry, Home and Urban Missions (HUM), Pentecost Workers’ Guild (PeWG), etc.

“These new ministries have made the Church more conspicuous and unique,” he added.

He commended the Church Elders for supporting these new ministries and encouraged them to continue supporting the ministries and to educate the members about them.

Apostle Kotei Djani took the opportunity to explain the rationale behind Vision 2028, dubbed “Possessing the Nations: Phase 2.”

He stated that we serve a visionary God who continues to grant the Church great visions. He said that the vision is now a collective vision of the Church; hence, all must own it and run with it.

He explained that Vision 2023 focused on equipping the Church; however, Vision 2028 focuses on unleashing the “equipped Church” into the world to transform it with values and principles of the kingdom of God.

The Techiman Area Head further noted that the first annual theme under Vision 2028 is “A People of God Unleashed to Transform their World (1 Peter 2:9, Acts 1:8).”

He explained that the 2024 theme seeks to drive home the truth that believers are a chosen people, a Kingdom of priests, a sanctified nation, and God’s special possession.

“God has an expectation for us, and this is to declare His stance, His character and lifestyle of His kingdom,” he said.

According to Apostle Kotei Djani, it does not matter how high one goes in the world of work; one must keep one’s position as a child of God.

Reading from Acts 1:8, he stated that the church cannot be deployed/ unleashed with their physical strength, hence the need to seek the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.

“For this reason, we must always yield to the Spirit of God for power to transform our worlds,” he said.

Report by Techiman Area Media Team

Best Way To Impact And Transform People Is To Be Exemplary WEB

Best Way To Impact And Transform People Is To Be Exemplary – Apostle Derek Mireku

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The most effective way a leader can impact and transform people is to lead by example, Apostle Derek Kwaning Mireku, Agona Swedru Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, has said.

Apostle Derek Mireku said this during his annual engagement with the staff of the five centers of Compassion International Ghana in the Agona Swedru Area.

Speaking on the topic: ‘Unleashed in Spirit and in Truth to Transform Generations,” the Swedru Area Head emphasised the need for children workers to advance Kingdom values and principles in all their engagements with the youth and children.

He cautioned against questionable lifestyles and urged them to be accountable in their dealings with Compassion International and The Church of Pentecost.

Apostle Mireku observed that as representatives of the church and Compassion International, the staff are strategically placed to be ambassadors of Christ and the two institutions.

He called on them to exhibit a great level of integrity in their dealings with beneficiaries and their guardians.

Touching on the unleashing mandate of the church, Apostle Mireku said the church is God’s power instrument to effect transformation in every sphere of life. “Thus, if we do not go out there, spheres will remain untransformed,” Apostle Mireku iterated, adding that “God is counting on us representing Him well.”

He pleaded with the staff to focus on forming Christ in the people under their care while advancing their social well-being.

Apostle Mireku posited that compassion is about the heart of Christ, and that is the total well-being of the spirit, soul, or body.

“The best way to impact and transform the body, soul, and spirit is by being an example to others in word and deeds,” he stated.

The annual engagement is held every December for the centers to brief the Area Head of their activities and also share best practices amongst themselves.

This year’s meeting was held at the Nyakrom Central Assembly auditorium. In attendance were the seven pastors, including the host minister, Pastor William Ofosu Asiamah, Pastor George Osei-Asiedu (Area Secretary), Pastor Nathaniel Asare (Area Children’s Ministry Leaders), and Pastor Paul Obuobi (Area PENTSOS Coordinator).

Report by Agona Swedru Area Media.

Work Is Part Of God's Plan For Humanity WEB

Work Is Part Of God’s Plan For Humanity – Apostle Gyau Obuobi

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The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, has hinted that work, as tedious as it may seem, is part of God’s plan for humanity and is never a product of sin.

He highlighted the divine origin of work, stressing that it was God’s plan for humanity, rooted in the Scriptures, thus Genesis 2:15, when man was placed in the garden of Eden to work and care for it.

He, therefore, asserted that work is not a consequence of sin but an integral part of life, a concept established at the beginning of creation.

Apostle Obuobi made this remark during a presentation on “Workplace Ethics” at the 2023 Headquarters Staff and Management Retreat underway at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, near Kasoa.

Citing biblical examples like Apostle Paul, who worked tirelessly day and night (1 Thessalonians 2:9), Apostle Obuobi conveyed that work is a timeless principle. He mentioned that 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12 illustrates the value of diligence, stating that work is not a punishment but a creation concept.

He explained the importance of workplace values as prerequisites for organisational success, saying, “Values are the guiding principles deemed paramount at work. These values, both personal and organisational, form the foundation for decision-making, enjoyment of life, and overall success within any institution.”

The General Secretary mentioned some key workplace values as excellence, diligence, integrity, accountability, team spirit, loyalty, confidentiality, and hard work.

He asserted that excellence must be a lifestyle, emphasising its pursuit in every aspect of life. 

He defined diligence as working carefully and with much effort, a virtue preventing slothfulness.

Apostle Obuobi concluded with a passionate call not to compromise on these foundational values, emphasising that great institutions are built on great values.

PENTECOST NEWS

The Church Of Pentecost Embarks On Digital Transformation Journey WEB

The Church Of Pentecost Embarks On Digital Transformation Journey

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The Church of Pentecost, a global Pentecostal church with millions of members across over 151 nations, is undergoing a digital transformation agenda to achieve its vision of ‘Possessing the Nations’ and transforming lives with godly principles and values. 

The church recognises the need to adopt modern technology to improve efficiency, productivity, and ministry decisions.

This was revealed by the IT Manager at The Church of Pentecost General Headquarters, Pastor Paul Odai Laryea, on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, during the annual Head Office Management and Staff Retreat underway at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) near Kasoa.

According to Pastor Laryea, the digital transformation agenda addresses the church’s current and future IT challenges, such as integrating systems and processes, scaling up operations, ensuring security and compliance, accessing and utilising data, and enabling remote work and collaboration.

“The vision of this digital transformation is clear – strategically positioning the church on a robust digital path, aligning with its mission to possess the nations and transform lives with godly principles,” he said. 

He added: “The mission is to sharpen the church’s digital edge, placing it on high-tech wheels, reshaping processes for data-driven information systems governance, and equipping ministers, staff, lay leaders, and all members to embrace technological advancements.” 

He stressed that the ultimate goal is to utilise these advancements to reach more souls, raise leaders, establish churches, make disciples, and exemplify Christ-like character globally.

According to him, the church’s goals include the digitalisation of administrative functions, the acquisition of advanced systems, the expansion of IT infrastructure, policy documentation, information sharing, and skills training.

He explained that to increase productivity and corporate flexibility, the church is focused on automating various operations at different levels, streamlining reporting processes, and improving communication across church levels and among its workforce.

PENTERP System and Beyond

Central to this digital overhaul is the ‘PENTERP’ system, featuring a Financial Management System, Inventory Management System, Human Resources Management System, Asset Management System, and Project Management System.

Beyond PENTERP, the church is adopting various systems such as Church Management, Appraisal, Conference, and Ministerial Interview Management, along with integrating Microsoft 365, a Geographical Information System, Online Store, Job Portal, Document Management System, Online Payment System, and more.

Infrastructure Enhancement Initiatives

The church is actively investing in acquiring advanced systems, state-of-the-art IT devices for its offices, a central server to support a distributed computing environment, and improvements to its network infrastructure.

Pastor Odai Laryea emphasised: “As we digitalise our church’s operations, we are not just upgrading systems, but we are elevating our mission to possess nations.”

He indicated that the church is prioritising policy documentation, advanced IT security measures, and comprehensive skills training to align IT best practices with ministry goals.

He noted that digital transformation is not merely about technology but a strategic shift in delivering the message.

“As we embark on this digital transformation, we are not changing our message; we are changing how we deliver it to meet our congregation where they are in the digital age,” he said.

This ambitious initiative positions The Church of Pentecost as a forward-thinking institution ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities of the digital era, ensuring its messages reach a global audience effectively.

PENTECOST NEWS

Whistler Barracks Worship Center Dedicates New Children’s Ministry Auditorium web

Whistler Barracks Worship Center Dedicates New Children’s Ministry Auditorium

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Whistler Barracks Worship Center in the Teshie-Nungua Area of The Church of Pentecost, on Sunday, December 10, 2023, dedicated a newly-constructed Children’s Ministry auditorium.

The ceremony was officiated by the General Secretary, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, with support from Apostle Wilberforce Nkrumah-Agyeman (Teshie Nungua Area Head), Apostle Dr. Col. Benjamin Godson Kumi-Woode (Military Chaplains’ Coordinator), and Pastor Captain Collins Badu Agyapong (Resident Minister for Whistler Barracks Worship Centre).

Preaching on the topic “No More Manger for a Child,” Apostle Dr. Col. B.G. Kumi-Woode quoted Luke 2:7 and Ephesians 2:22 and explained that of all the places that Jesus could be born, no one pitied Mary – a pregnant woman to offer a better place for her delivery than a manger.

“The place of worship for the Children’s ministry is a type of manger that must bring much comfort to the children,” he explained further.

He added that the church is the only place where some children receive love and care, so it becomes worrying when they are neglected in their place of worship.

Apostle Kumi-Woode continued that at times when church buildings are constructed, the main focus becomes where the adults will worship while the Children’s auditoriums are neglected, and the children are left to worship under trees and tents.

He concluded that Christians should extend love to all, especially children, in this Christmas festive season.

The General Secretary dedicated the Children’s Auditorium and a newly constructed mission house to accommodate the Resident Minister and his family.

He commended the leadership of Teshie Nungua Area and Whistler Barracks Worship Centre for constructing the Children’s Ministry auditorium and a place of residence for the resident minister.

Pastor Capt. Agyapong was grateful to the leadership of the Church and the Area for their enormous support.

In attendance were Air Vice Marshal Appiah Agyekum (Deputy Chief of Staff, Administration – Ghana Armed Forces), Rev Commodore Paul Adjei-Djan (Director General of Religious Affairs – Ghana Armed Forces) and Mrs Korkor Obuobi (wife of the General Secretary). The Guest of Honour for the occasion was Vice Admiral Seth Amoama (Chief of Defence Staff – Ghana Armed Forces)

Report by Pastor Bernard T. Kofie

Offinso For Christ Crusade Yields 1,229 Souls web

“Offinso For Christ” Crusade Yields 1,229 Souls

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The gospel and healing crusade organised by the Offinso Area of The Church of Pentecost, known as the “Offinso for Christ Crusade,” has ended successfully with 1,229 souls won for Christ.

Held in collaboration with Soul Partners International (SPI), a US-based organisation, the crusade also witnessed 16 individuals rededicating their lives to Christ, 43 people experiencing healing and deliverance from various ailments, and 398 new converts undergoing water baptism.

The various activities undertaken during the outreach produced significant outcomes. The pre-crusade cinema van evangelism, involving the deployment of cinema vans to different Districts for several days of film evangelism, resulted in the conversion of 896 souls, with 181 individuals undergoing water baptism. Additionally, the Gospel Heralds pre-crusade evangelism initiative, which featured the deployment of the Area Gospel Heralds team to various districts for intensive evangelism, led to the conversion of 187 individuals, with 99 undergoing water baptism.

The main program itself also achieved remarkable results, recording 206 souls and 118 water baptisms, all to the glory of God.

As part of the event, a free medical screening exercise was conducted, drawing the participation of 224 people, including non-members.

At the end of the crusade, Evangelist Nat Owusu, the SPI Director, expressed gratitude to the Church, particularly the Offinso Area pastorate led by Apostle Samuel Edzii Davidson and his wife, Winnifred, for their hospitality, hard work, and the warm reception extended to SPI during their stay.

In response, the Offinso Area expressed appreciation to the SPI team for selecting Offinso Area for this impactful crusade.

The “Offinso for Christ” crusade featured powerful song ministrations by Elder Gideon Ntumy, Kwaku Gyansi, and the Offinso Area Gospel Mass Choir.

Report by Offinso Area Media Team.

HUM Ministers & Wives Outreach Yields 840 Souls web

HUM Ministers & Wives Outreach Yields 840 Souls

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A five-day special outreach organized by the Home and Urban Missions (HUM) ministers and wives in the Techiman and Walewale areas of The Church of Pentecost has brought 840 souls to Christ.

The outreach, held from November 7 to 11, 2023, also resulted in 240 water baptisms, 38 Holy Spirit baptisms, 42 instant healings, and four spectacular events.

The event aimed to reach out to HUM targeted groups, including expatriates, African migrants, the Urban Poor, and the Marginalized, such as street dwellers, drug addicts, sex workers, head porters, hawkers, and Northerners living in the South. Additionally, efforts were made to reach Unreached People Groups such as Mossi, Fulanis, Kotokoli, Zarma, Walla, Hausa, among others.

The team received valuable support from some ministers and wives and the “Nation Possessors” team in the respective areas.

Activities during the outreach included house-to-house visits, dawn broadcasting, market evangelism, ghetto, and film evangelism.

These activities took place in communities under the Yunyoo and Jimbale districts in the Walewale Area, as well as those in the Aburso and Gyarko districts in Techiman.

The team also took the opportunity to visit residents of the Dagomba land to proclaim the gospel to them.

At the end of the outreach, two Fulani cell groups were opened at Jimbale. A Grusi Assembly was recommended to be opened at Aburso for the 23 Grusi converts won for Christ.

A restoration center is set to commence at Aburso for the drug addicts won for Christ, and a Basare cell was also started at Tanoso District.

To the glory of God, a Mamprusi man named Kijo Abdulai, who had blurred vision, was fully restored by God after prayers were said for him during house-to-house evangelism at Yunyoo.

Report by Pastor Prince Augustine Ababio

Bawku Area Holds 3rd Edition Of Area Officers All-Night Service web

Bawku Area Holds 3rd Edition Of Area Officers All-Night Service

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The Bawku Area of The Church of Pentecost organized the third edition of the all-night service on Friday, December 8, 2023, at the Zebilla Central Assembly auditorium.

The service aimed to introduce the officers to the new strategic vision of the Church, “Vision 2028,” and the theme for the upcoming year, 2024.

The event featured various activities, including learning the theme song, a presentation on Vision 2028, group discussions, seeking the best way to own and implement the vision, and intensive intercessory prayers. The group discussions allowed officers to share their perspectives, exchange ideas, and seek clarity on how best to implement the vision within their respective roles.

During the service, officers received a detailed understanding of Vision 2028 and were, therefore, encouraged to align their efforts and work towards its fulfilment.

According to the Area Head, Pastor Eric Gyacham, the 2024 theme, “A People of God Unleashed to Transform their World,” serves as a guiding principle or focus area for the church’s activities throughout the year and as a build-up to the actualisation of the overarching vision.

Intensive prayers were subsequently offered for the church in general and for the Area in particular, especially for the upcoming Christmas convention. The prophetic messages and songs received during such an intimate time were indications of the immense presence of the Lord.

The event served as a significant gathering for officers to familiarize themselves with Vision 2028 and the theme for the year 2024.

Through group discussions and shared insights, officers strengthened their commitment to the church’s goals, explored effective ways to implement the vision in their respective roles, and offered intensive prayers for the actualisation of the vision.

Report by Bawku Area Media Team