AS YOU ARE EXPECTING web

As You Are Expecting: A Message To Pregnant Women

I became a mother for the first time a few years ago. It is such a blessing to be handed God’s gift to take care of. Before I conceived, I saw myself as a mother-in-waiting, and I strongly believe that every woman who desires to have a child shall soon carry it in her womb and in her arms. No one shall be left behind; we are all going to experience motherhood no matter how long it takes. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I realised during my pregnancy, which I believe has been under-discussed, if at all, and I pray for the Lord’s help as I seek to address it through this post.

I’m able to write this because I have been pregnant, have had conversations with pregnant women, and read other people’s stories. I think I have enough to share with an expectant mother in the same situation.

I heard many strange stories from mothers during my first pregnancy a few years ago. I heard so many scary stories over such a short period that, at a point, I thought I was going to lose my baby. The fear I felt was indescribable. My fear was exacerbated by the inexplicable similarities between the stories told to me by women from completely different circles of my life.

The most common of these was the maternal mortality stories. Almost everyone knew someone who had died during childbirth. It didn’t help that social media was always awash with pictures announcing the “Painful Exit” of one woman or another while they were pregnant or giving birth.

It is a painful thing to see, but when you witness such while pregnant, you begin to feel like that is more the rule than the exception, and if you are truly not strong in faith and fortified by the Word of God, you might even assume that yours will not be any different.

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, talks about “a force in fear that can make a person paralysed”. I believe these stories are meant to do one thing only: grip your heart with FEAR and consume your mind, even leading to unnecessary and unpleasant dreams. Fear awakes, fear asleep. Fear that everybody wants to harm you or your unborn baby, especially the unfortunate person who dares ask when you are due. Mercy Lord! That is the paralysis of which the Chairman speaks.

The fear of losing your life or your child or both your life and your child is a product of the toothless bulldog called the devil. And all our years in Christianity have told us nothing fights the devil better than the earnest prayer of a committed man or woman.

My dear pregnant woman, take your place in prayer. Being pregnant as a Christian is, in some ways, a spiritual warfare because we hold the key to delivering godly seeds to populate the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. The devil will make sure you do not have a smooth journey. You need to consistently pray, renew your minds and speeches with the word of God daily and make positive, godly declarations about your babies and yourself.

Fear can make you lose anything and everything, including your precious life. Job 3:25 says, “What I’m afraid of is what has come upon me”. Do not give in to fear, lest what you are afraid comes upon you. With a serious tone, I charge you to take your place in Prayer. Study the word and claim the blessings of pregnancy.

Declare with aggressive faith, saying:

  • “I’m seated with Christ in Heavenly place where miscarriages and death do not occur.”
  • “My womb is not a grave to carry dead babies.”
  • “I shall deliver my baby in perfect health and condition.”
  • “I shall not die, neither will I lose my baby.”
  • “I’m coming out of the delivery room with my baby or babies in my arms.”
  • “I shall attend my children’s graduation. “
  • “I shall attend their weddings, not their funeral”.

Keep declaring every day, even after birth. Remember, you are the product of your words. Battles are won in the mind before they are won physically. David in the Bible killed Goliath in his mind before he died in his hands. The state of your mind affects the conditions of your life. Feed your faith with the word, and your fear will vanish!

Please share this post to save a pregnant woman. God bless you.

Written by Mrs. Priscilla Baah Kumi (Kanjarga District, Bolga Area)

WHO'S YOUR FRIEND web

Who’s Your Friend, Jonadab Or Jonathan?

During the closing session of this year’s PENSA Ghana Conference, aptly named the “Transformers Conference,” Apostle Eric Nyamekye, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, delivered a thought-provoking message titled “Amnon Had A Friend.” The impact of his words resonated not only within my heart but also among the thousands of youth members gathered across the country for this significant event.

Apostle Nyamekye’s message delved into the friendship between Amnon and Jonadab, as recounted in 2 Samuel 13:1-3.

Amnon, consumed by an uncontrolled amorous affection for his half-sister Tamar, sought counsel from his closest friend, Jonadab, on how to satisfy his wicked desire. Jonadab, described as shrewd and subtle, provided his friend with counsel that led to Amnon raping his sister Tamar.

The repercussions of this reprehensible act were severe: Amnon lost the opportunity to become the next king; enmity arose within the family; and, tragically, Amnon met an early grave—all due to the influence of his friend.

In essence, Amnon’s abominable act was a direct result of the friend he chose. Much like the crab that lost its head due to a bad companion, many young individuals have unwittingly squandered the gifts bestowed upon them by God on the altar of negative company.

A concealed truth about bad friends is that they will lead you into danger and then disappear into thin air, leaving you to face the consequences alone.

CONSIDER THESE QUESTIONS:

  • Where was Jonadab when Amnon faced the consequences of his actions?
  • Where did Ahithophel go when Absalom suffered due to his wicked counsel?
  • Delilah was nowhere to be found when Samson endured his pains.

Conversely, we have witnessed friendships that have had a positive impact on individuals. The camaraderie between David and Jonathan is a prime example worth emulating. Their connection strengthened when David slew Goliath, and their friendship endured despite their differences.

David, a shepherd, and Jonathan, a prince, grew up in distinct environments, yet they became one in spirit. Their friendship was characterised by keeping promises. Jonathan made a covenant with David, saying, “Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the Lord” (1 Samuel 20:42).

True friends uphold their words, and this covenant prompted Jonathan to save David’s life when Saul sought to kill him. In return, David fulfilled his promise years later by showing kindness to Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son, in accordance with their covenant (2 Samuel 9:1).

CONCLUSION

As we are empowered through the impactful impartation by our spiritual leaders to be unleashed and transform our world, one critical factor hindering our progress is associating with the wrong people. Let Jesus Christ be your friend and a perfect example in your relationships.

Chairman Nyamekye aptly stated, “Don’t just be interested in looking for good friends; be one yourself.” Walk with the wise, for a companion of a fool suffers harm (Proverbs 13:20).

A word to the wise is enough.

Written by Richard Mbelembote (Ntankoro District, Kintampo Area)

Tepa Area Women’s Ministry Holds Annual Thanksgiving Service web

Tepa Area Women’s Ministry Holds Annual Thanksgiving Service 

The Tepa Area Women’s Ministry of The Church of Pentecost has held an annual thanksgiving service to thank, honour and appreciate God for His goodness and kindness throughout 2023.

The event was put together with the support of the Area Head, Apostle David Nii Addo-Pappoe, and wife, Mrs Faustina Addo-Pappoe, and the Area Women’s Leader, Mrs Lilly Amarnor and her team.

All the districts in the Area joined the service to show gratitude to the Almighty God for His power and divine protection within 2023. 

During the programme, there were many testimonies, thanksgiving and songs of praise. 

Delivering the sermon, Apostle David Nii Addo-Pappoe spoke on the theme, “Do Not Set Yourself As An Opposition To God” based on 1 Samuel 18 14 and 2 Chronicles 26:5. 

He admonished women not to be stumbling blocks to the progress of God and their success at large. To succeed, they must align themselves to God’s purpose and plan. 

He charged Christian women to allow God to take full control of their lives to attract His blessing.

After the message, Mrs Agnes Mensah led the congregation in prayer.

The service was attended by ministers and their wives in the Area.

Among them were Pastor Atta Agyapong (Area Secretary), Pastors Samuel Yankey, Samuel Amponsem, Isaiah Coker Yankson, Steven Larbi and Obeng Gyemfi.

Others were Overseers Akwesi Yawson, Daniel Frimpong and Emmanuel Owusu.

Report by Overseer Emmanuel Owusu.

A PEOPLE OF GOD UNLEASED TO TRANSFORM THEIR WORLD WITH PERSONAL HOLINESS web

A People Of God Unleased To Transform Their World With Personal Holiness

Scripture References: Ezekiel 48:11 – 18, 2 Timothy 2:19 – 22, Ecclesiastes 8:11

Eli was the high priest and had forgotten what it was to be in the priesthood and what the priesthood is all about. The Bible says that he had been in ministry so long that he was lazy, undisciplined, blind, had lost his vision, and would not discipline his sons who were totally immoral and would not straighten up. Eli was a mess spiritually, and his family was a mess too; he was doing church stuff while all kinds of immorality were going on (1 Samuel 1:1-15).

Personal sin does not stop ministry. The gifts and callings of God are without repentance. When God gives a gift, He does not take it back. Bad things can happen, and for a season, God will allow that person to continue to function as normal.

When your attitude as a believer becomes easier to get forgiveness than permission, you are in trouble.

In this text, God was saying, “I see that there are two priesthoods that are in the house (the temple).”

  1. THE PRIESTHOOD OF ELI:

They are those who are wrong and not delivering right, yet they are ministering. God still said He’s going to use them. He’ll let them have ministry in His house. They’ll minister to people but will not come near to me (God). The fact that He has given you that gift, He’ll let you minister to His people—the word, ministration, singing, healing, prophetic, etc. Because His word does not return void, it has to make an impact. God loves His people so much that He will use anything, even a donkey, to speak to them.

1.1 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PRIESTHOOD OF ELI:

  1. It is impure.
  2. It compromises.
  3. It says, “I can live like I want to live, and my gifts will still work.”

Judgment does not immediately come, but listen, God can be blessing you. Businessperson, your gifts may be making money, and God can be blessing you; He doesn’t inspire personal sin. He is gracious, kind, long-suffering, and patient with us.

In Ezekiel 44:11, they will do all these things, but God said:

They shall be ministers in my sanctuary, having oversight at the gates of the temple and ministering in the temple. They shall slaughter the burnt offering and the sacrifice for the people, and they shall stand before the people to minister to them.”

  1. They will not have intimacy with me
  2. They will not come into my holy place, and
  3. They will not come near me.

This is one of the scariest scriptures ever heard. Imagine that all you’ve been this far is all about outward performance, and you’re ministering to them through the gifts. You can preach if you got drunk last night, and your gifts will still work. You can minister to people and not touch God; you don’t come near Him. What kind of priesthood do you want to be? Do you want a wall that looks religious outwardly, and everybody thinks one thing, but personally, you’re unclean? The gifts will work for a season no matter what you’re doing, but you’ll never get near God.

I want to be that person who has fun, lives life, enjoys life, and has success, but I want to be pure, I want to be clean, I want to be holy like Jesus, I want to be sanctified by Jesus and set apart.

I can tell by how much you sing, how successful you are, how religious you look outside here; the issue is, in God’s eyes, when He looks beyond the surface, does He see the LINEN UNDERWEAR? This means personal holiness in areas of your life that people cannot see. That’s the issue.

On the other hand, the priesthood of Eli is those that are corrupt and unclean, but there is another priesthood in verse 15.

  • THE PRIESTHOOD OF THE LEVITES

Zadok comes from a Hebrew word, TSODEK, meaning ‘to be right,’’ to be correct,’’ and ‘to be righteous’’ (Ezekiel 44:15-18).

2.1 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ZADOKS (ZADOKITES):

  1. They shall come near me.
  2. They shall minister unto me.
  3. They shall stand before me to offer sacrifices.
  4. They shall keep His charge and approach His table to minister to Him.

“I don’t want them to sweat; the curse of men was the sweat of the brow when Adam fell into sin. But God is saying to the Levites here: I don’t want you to sweat; I want you to come into My presence. It’s not your ability and talent; it’s your relationship with me that’s more important. You’ll minister to them more effectively because you’ll minister to me first with a life that you live—a personal holiness.”

Nobody knows what you have hidden under that priestly garment. Nobody knows what colour your underwear is; we’re not going to check. Nobody knows if you have your own underwear; only God and you know, and that is what exactly He was saying in the text. Only God and you know personally if you’re living a life of purity and holiness. Underwear doesn’t show externally on you, and God knows for sure if it’s on or not. In this text, God was talking about our PERSONAL HOLINESS; it’s private, it’s personal, and it’s internal.

Everywhere good results are happening doesn’t mean it’s clean, it’s pure, and it’s acceptable to God. I choose a ministry that ministers to God. It’s not what’s going on in a person’s public life but what’s going on in their private life that really matters. God is getting ready to change the priesthood in some people if they don’t get it right.

  • Brother Saul had no idea; his replacement David was growing up in his house. And when he was playing the harp, he had no idea he was his replacement because God was long-suffering.
  • Pharaoh had no idea when Moses was little and sitting on his table eating cornflakes, T.Z., and fufu. He had no idea he was so powerful; everything outwardly looked like he’s wonderful in Egypt. He didn’t know Moses was raised up to replace him.
  • Eli’s ministry—in this ministry, God is not in a hurry. Eli is just ministering corrupt, immoral, and dishonest; his boys sleep with women in the church, do drugs get high, and smoke cigarettes. To be used by God is a precious thing; treasure it, guide it. Don’t play with God’s anointing, talents, and favour because you can lose it. There’s a difference between an ELI’s priesthood and ZADOK; those who have been with me.

There are two priesthoods; there are singers who minister to people, but God said they won’t minister to me. Their music won’t minister to me, their preaching won’t minister to me, their business won’t minister to me. It will only minister to people. There are two kinds of musicians: the music that ministers to people and that which ministers to God (2 Timothy 2:20-22).

20 Now, in a great house, there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honourable use, some for dishonourable. 21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonourable, he will be a vessel for honourable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work. 22 So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.

When you understand that there are vessels of honour and dishonour, He’s promoting, and He’s demoting some. We’re in an hour of transition (2 Timothy 2:19). That’s personal holiness.”

In verse 21, if you judge yourself, I won’t judge you—sit yourself down and stop that which entangles you. Get on your knees and repent, and God says, I will keep blessing you; I will keep promoting you. But if you ever get the chance to play the game with Christians, then you’ve got a season to make a change. Anyone who wants to do right, God will help you. ZADOK or ELI is a vessel of honour or a vessel of dishonour. Lord, purge me, cleanse me, and use me—this is after you’ve realized your faults. This is a kind of message that would get you to heaven; it will make you do an inspection of your soul. This is a kind of warning from the Lord in the gentleness of love. I believe the Lord wants you to know the difference in His grace and mercy.

Grace is God giving you what you don’t deserve. Mercy is God holding back what you deserve. Now, I want to see some people doing a God check, saying am I going to heaven? Am I a vessel of honour or dishonour? Am I really drawing near to God? Do I ever get in His presence, or is it just outward religion on Sunday as ELI or as ZADOK? Draw near to me.

Written by Elder Wayo Felix (Abesim District – English Assembly)

God Desires For Every Christian Is To Be Like Christ – Apostle Samuel Obuobi Asserts web

God Expects Every Christian To Be Like Christ – Apostle Samuel Obuobi Asserts

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, has asserted that God’s ultimate expectation for His children (believers) is for them to become like Jesus Christ, His son.

Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi said this today during his presentation on the topic: “Raising Christ-Like Believers to Transform Their Spheres” at the Global Ministers and Wives Conference (GMWC) at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

In his presentation, he explained that the redemptive work of Christ in a believer will only be complete when the Christian becomes Christ-like.

“God called us to mould us into the likeness of Jesus. He chose us so we would become like His Son as we live in this world. Indeed, He wants us to reflect the image of His Son or be like Jesus in all aspects of our lives,” he said.

Citing Romans 8:29, he reiterated that the ultimate goal of God for His children is for us to be like His Son Jesus when He appears, yet one reason for which He called us is for us to be cast in the mould of Jesus even as we live in this crooked world.

The General Secretary noted that Christlikeness is the result of the transformation of a person into the image of Christ and the complete formation of Christ within them.

“In other words, it means to be changed, transformed, or metamorphosed into the image of Jesus. So, a person who is like Jesus is the one who has been transformed or metamorphosed into the image of Christ,” he said.

He said that as this transformation occurs, the individual starts to display or exemplify the characteristics and actions associated with the life of Jesus.

According to him, a believer undergoing this godly transformation manifests the qualities and character of Christ within them, ultimately becoming like Jesus Christ.

“They live their life or behave like Jesus would behave. So, for a person to be Christ-like signifies that the person has transformed, taking on the image and behaviour of Christ,” he said.

He advised believers to yearn to have Christ fully formed in them, as it is not enough to be labelled as Christians or followers of Christ.

He said this is critical for the “possessing the nations” agenda of The Church of Pentecost because the only people who have what it takes to transform their spheres of influence with the values and principles of God’s Kingdom are Christ-like believers.

“It is important to note that the indwelling of Christ in us as believers puts a responsibility on every Christian to live like Christ and portray His beauty. Therefore, every child of God is expected to reflect Jesus’ life and ministry in the world. As disciples of Christ, we have the responsibility to model His life and nature in our spheres of influence,” he said.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Watch These Things – Apostle Nyamekye Advocates The CoP’s Distinctiveness web

Watch These Things – Apostle Nyamekye Advocates The CoP’s Distinctiveness

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has reiterated the need for The Church of Pentecost to maintain her distinctive character as it launches out to transform all spheres of society in line with the Church’s Vision 2028.

Apostle Nyamekye, in a pastoralia at the 2024 Global Ministers and Wives’ Conference underway at the Pentecost Convention Centre near Gomoa Fetteh, touched on a few of the issues that needed attention. Below are some of the issues he raised:

  1. Make the Lord’s Supper service a solemn one. Praise/drumming time should be reserved until after attending the communion.
  2. Taking offerings should not be done by cajoling members by mentioning various amounts people should donate. Teach on sacrificial giving and then prayerfully raise funds.
  3. Let people with the ‘grace’ lead segments of the church service, such as the worship (adoration) time. It should not always or necessarily be the Osofomaame (minister’s wife).
  4. Study the Word and teach the people the deep secrets of God. Avoid storytelling in the pulpits.
  5. Manage church time creatively and with inspiration. Desist from prolonging church service beyond three hours.
  6. Make daily prayer and Bible study time a habit of every member. Teach on how to do it.
  7. Create a welcoming atmosphere at church for everyone. Be careful of a judgemental attitude.
  8. Desist from playing the keyboard (organ) or any other instrument during prayer and preaching/Word ministrations.
  9. Avoid using huge towels as handkerchiefs during Word ministration.
  10. Avoid interrupting prayer times with lengthy commentaries. Raise the prayer topic and allow the people to pray.

PENTECOST NEWS

Pent Radio-Kumasi Hits Airwaves web

Pent Radio-Kumasi Hits Airwaves

The Church of Pentecost is poised to saturate the media landscape, particularly the airwaves, with unadulterated Christian content in the next five years and beyond.

This vision has received a significant boost following the commencement of a test transmission of Pent Radio–Kumasi (100.1MHz) located at Asokwa in Kumasi, the first of the Pent Radio stations, ten years after the commencement of Pent TV and four years of Pentvars Radio (96.1FM – the campus broadcasting station of Pentecost University).

“In the next five years, we expect to begin operations in Takoradi, Tamale, and Accra, in addition to others that will be acquired soon for evangelisation of the gospel of Christ,” Pastor Dr. Felix Dela Klutse, Media Ministry Pastor of the Church, has said.

Pent Radio – Kumasi has “Yesu Nkoaa” as the tagline. The test transmission currently covers the entire Ashanti Region. It can also be tuned in from some parts of Bono Region (Sunyani and environs), Ahafo Region (Tepa, Kenyasi 1 & 2, Wioso, Hwidiem, Achiase, Bechem, Subriso, Goaso, Mim, Camp 1, Kuffuor Camp, and Tano Odumase), and Western North (Sefwi Bekwai, Bibiani, Chirano, Awaso, Datano, Pataboase Nkwanta, Ashiam, Sefwi Larwehkrom, Dwahse, and Ahwiaa). The rest are the Western Region (parts of Bogoso, Prestea, Himan, Oppong Valley) and Central Region (parts of Dunkwa and Wassa Mampong, Denkyira, Dunkwa Offin, and Diaso).

Pent Radio is expected to bring back and reinforce the signature tune of the Pentecost Hour program, “The fire is burning in my soul,” which members and the public looked forward to years ago. It will also be a testament to the work started by the church’s foremost Radio Pastor, Evangelist L. A. Nyarko, of blessed memory and built upon by subsequent ministers on the state broadcaster, GBC Radio, and other private radio stations.

Pastor Dr. Klutse stated that Pent Radio would redefine and augment the face of the church’s evangelistic activities since it will reinforce and play a key role in the admonition in the Bible that the gospel must be preached throughout all the corners of the world as well as set an agenda on issues of national interest.

“Radio is a powerful tool. It will move us from the four corners of the church auditoriums. We will use it to propagate the gospel, set an agenda, and unleash Kingdom values and principles in our attempt to transform lives in all spheres and possess the nations for Christ as part of the Vision 2028,” he said.

He stressed that Pent Radio would provide contemporary Christian and entertainment programs fit for the edification of the spiritual and moral lives of listeners with no compromise on innovation, excellence, and Christ-centeredness.

The Media Ministry Pastor opined that the Pent Radio stable would adopt a hybrid business model (Christian and business) with priority for Christian content. He emphasised that the business bit will help generate revenue through advertisement. He revealed that Areas, Districts, and Locals intending to use the services of the radio stations will be charged in line with approved rate cards on a case-by-case basis.

“As we speak now, we have already called for advertisements but will have to hold on until after the test transmission. We will not compromise on adverts that do not have bearings with the Christian ethics and values of the Church,” Dr. Klutse revealed.

He added that “going forward, we hope to liaise and streamline the operations of Pent Radio–Germany, Pent Radio–Qatar, Pent Radio–UK, Pent Radio–US, and Pentvars Radio to synchronise live broadcasts of the church’s official programs while providing training and equipping the staff for a better understanding and appreciation of the Media Ministry.”

Among other objectives, the Church aims to redefine, reshape, and correct erroneous doctrines of the gospel currently propagated by some charlatans.

Dr. Klutse further revealed that the Pent Radio stations shall be opened to all denominations for their preaching and other broadcast activities. “We are open to the use of all Christian groupings. We shall, however, vet and scrutinise their doctrines and message contents before granting approval,” he indicated.

PENTECOST NEWS.

THE SPIRITUALITY OF CHOREOGRAPHY web

The Spirituality Of Choreography: A Case For The Christian Dance Ministry

In the realm of worship, where words often fall short, and melodies linger in the air, there exists a language that transcends the confines of speech and melody—a language written in the rhythmic movements of the body. Welcome to the captivating world of Christian choreography, where every step becomes a prayer and each movement a profound dialogue with the divine. 

In the quiet sanctuaries and vibrant fellowship halls of Christian communities, a unique ministry unfolds—one that weaves together the physical and the spiritual, the seen and the unseen. Christian dance ministry, often overlooked in its transformative power, emerges as a sacred art form, a choreographed symphony that echoes the heartbeats of worshipers and resonates with the whispers of the Holy Spirit.

Choreography, a long-aged form of artistic expression, has been a part of human livelihood for as long as history records. Today, the secular world has embraced dance choreography challenges as a creative and engaging way to drive music and entertainment. Many songs have made the top of billboards and charts because a well-crafted choreography accompanied their promotion. This phenomenon has become increasingly popular, especially with the rise of social media platforms like TikTok that allow users to share their choreography performances globally.

In exploring the depths of Christian choreography, we uncover a tapestry woven with spiritual significance and divine mysteries, as illuminated by the holy scriptures:

  1. Ecclesiastes 3:4: A Time to Dance

The famous passage in Ecclesiastes 3:4 reminds us that there is a time for everything, including a time to dance. This scripture implies that dance is not merely a physical activity but holds a designated place in the divine order, emphasising the spiritual significance of rhythmic movement. The Christian Dance Ministry fulfils this place within Christian worship.

  • Dancing before the Lord: A Biblical Tradition

The Bible introduces us to the concept of dance as a sacred expression of joy and praise. In Psalm 149:3, we are encouraged to “Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with timbrel and harp.” This ancient tradition of dancing before the Lord symbolises a connection between the physical and spiritual realms. 

  •  Dance as Worship: Miriam’s Mass Dance

The story of Miriam in Exodus 15:20-21 reveals the spiritual power embedded in dance. Miriam, who was addressed in this passage as a prophetess, took a timbrel and led the Israelite women in dance after the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea. This act of celebration through dance demonstrates the profound spiritual impact dance can have on worship and gratitude. After such a miraculous act, words failed; something more than that was required, and dance came to the rescue.

  • Davidic Dancing: A Heartfelt Expression

King David, known for his profound connection with God, exemplifies the spiritual depth of dance in 2 Samuel 6:14. Dancing before the Ark of the Covenant, David exhibited unrestrained joy, emphasising that our physical movements can genuinely reflect the joyous spirit within. The Bible was interested in accounting that the dance of David, which indeed pleased the Lord, was despised by Michal, his wife – this situation has been the case to date. Many people despise this sacred ministry.

The Christian dance ministry, when integrated thoughtfully into the life of the church, can offer numerous advantages and contribute significantly to spiritual, communal, and effective outreach deployments. Christian dance provides a unique avenue for worship and spiritual expression. Through choreography, dancers can convey deep emotions, joy, gratitude, and reverence, fostering a richer and more holistic worship experience for the congregation.

Participation in a dance ministry fosters a sense of community among members, especially the youth. As they collaborate in choreography and rehearse together, strong bonds are formed, creating a supportive and encouraging community within the church.

Christian dance performances can be utilised in evangelistic efforts, reaching out to the broader community. Dance has the potential to captivate audiences and serve as a powerful tool for sharing the love of Christ with those outside the church.

In summary, the Christian dance ministry offers a range of advantages, from deepening the spiritual experience of worship to fostering community and engagement across diverse demographics within the body of Christ. Now more than ever, the Christian dance ministry must be given a place and a heightened room for operation. As with any ministry, careful consideration of the congregation’s needs, cultural context, and theological foundations is essential for its effective implementation – a conversation we can have on another day.

Written by Deacon Rendolf Bamfo Apaah [PENSA Ghana Literary Head, 2021]

Own Vision 2028 And Be Willing To Pay The Price For Its Success web

“Own Vision 2028 And Be Willing To Pay The Price For Its Success” – Church Leaders Told

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.

PENSA-UCC Member Emerges As Best Graduating Student At UCC's 56th Congregation web

PENSA-UCC Member Emerges As Best Graduating Student At UCC’s 56th Congregation

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).