Duayaw Nkwanta District Holds One-Day Forum for Pragyia Drivers web

Duayaw Nkwanta District Holds One-Day Forum for Pragyia Drivers

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Duayaw Nkwanta District in the Duayaw Nkwanta Area of The Church of Pentecost organised a One-Day Forum for the Tricycle transport industry, specifically the “Pragyia” Drivers Association, on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. The event aimed to promote safety on the roads of Tano North Municipality, particularly in Duayaw Nkwanta and its environs.

The church collaborated with the Ghana Police Service, the Duayaw Nkwanta Division, and the Driver’s Vehicle and Licensing Authority (DVLA) to support the budding tricycle industry in navigating the transport sector. Other stakeholders present included Donewell Insurance Company, the Revenue Department of the Tano North Municipal Assembly, and Fidelity Bank.

Pastor Emmanuel Osei-Akosah, the Duayaw Nkwanta District Minister, welcomed the stakeholders to the forum. He explained the rationale behind organising such an event, emphasising that the church’s vision to possess nations fueled the passion to create a platform for stakeholders to engage with drivers and ensure the safety of passengers in the municipality.

In his opening remarks, the Divisional Police Commander of Duayaw Nkwanta, ACP John Kus, described the emerging Pragyia business as a “necessary evil” due to the lack of legislation on the commercial use of tricycles, despite their significant contribution to the socio-economic activities of the municipality. He addressed issues such as the registration of tricycles, speeding, overloading, and improper parking. ACP John Kus stressed the need for tricycle owners to avoid engaging underage and unlicensed drivers.

Mr. Isaac Nyarko of DVLA Sunyani encouraged prospective buyers to ensure all taxes required by law are paid before purchasing tricycles. He noted that tricycles are registered as private vehicles, not commercial, due to the absence of relevant legislation. Mr. Nyarko reminded drivers to abide by the rule not to transport passengers beyond certain distances, highlighting that tricycles are registered to carry three people—two passengers and the driver.

Representing Donewell Insurance, Mr. Patrick Donkor advised drivers to obtain licenses before registering their vehicles for insurance. He outlined various insurance packages available for tricycles and reiterated that they are registered as private vehicles.

During the question-and-answer session, drivers raised several concerns, including the lack of designated stations or spaces for passengers to board. A total of 102 members of the Pragyia Drivers Association participated in the forum. Pastor Emmanuel Osei-Akosah led fervent prayers for the drivers, and 25 drivers made decisions for Jesus Christ, including some rededications.

As part of the programme, the Eye Unit of St. John’s of God Hospital conducted free eye screenings for the drivers. Some drivers were referred for further treatment at the hospital. The event concluded with refreshments for all participants.

Report by Duayaw Nkwanta District Media Team

New Tafo Area Head Holds Strategic Meeting With Church Leaders On Church Growth web

New Tafo Area Head Holds Strategic Meeting With Church Leaders On Church Growth

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The New Tafo Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Prophet Samuel Tetteh Doku, has organised a key meeting with church leaders in the Area to deliberate on strategies and plans for advancing the church’s growth.

The meeting, held on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at the Ebenezer Assembly, F-Line, in the Buokrom Estate District, was attended by Presiding Elders, District Secretaries, and District Finance Chairmen.

Addressing the participants, Prophet Tetteh Doku read Exodus 18:13-23 and discussed the operational statistics of The Church of Pentecost, as outlined in the 2023 State-of-the Church Address (SOCA) recently delivered by the Chairman of the Church, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

He charged all attendees, especially Presiding Elders, to ensure that their local assemblies each win at least three souls every month for Christ. He stressed the role of Presiding Elders as the representatives of the local churches and urged them to view their calling as a great privilege and honour.

The New Tafo Area Head provided guidance on activities necessary for spiritual and physical growth of the Church, such as soul-winning, Holy Spirit baptism, organising watch night services, fasting and prayers, and holding monthly presbytery meetings to assess the progress of the church.

He also encouraged the participants to warmly welcome new converts, new members, visitors, and to diligently address welfare concerns of members in their effort to close the back door of the Church.

Prophet Tetteh Doku further advised elders of the Church to dress formally, particularly on Communion Sundays.

Participants were given the opportunity to ask questions related to the church growth, with some receiving clarifications on the challenges they face in their leadership roles.

Present at the meeting were Elder Dr. Stephen Sarfo Kantanka (Area Deacon), Elder Akwasi Acheampong (Area Accountant), Elder Samuel Nana Karikari (Area Executive Committee Member), among others.

Report by Emmanuel Nana Nsiah

DARE TO BE DIFFERENT web

Dare To Be Different: Becoming A Certain Kind Of Youth

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In a world that often pressures us to conform to societal norms and expectations, it can be challenging to stand out as a Christian. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to be different, to become a certain kind of people who will never bow down to or compromise with the systems of this world. Being a certain kind of youth typically refers to embodying specific qualities, traits, and characteristics that align with one’s goals and aspirations. This is where you allow yourself to be set apart from the world and live according to the principles of the Kingdom of God. The possessing-the-nations agenda mandates everyone to influence his or her sphere with the values and principles of the Kingdom of God. As youth who have been unleashed into various areas of life, it is our mandate to make Christ popular once again in our generation.

We live in a generation where wickedness, corruption, and other social vices have taken deep root, especially among the youth. Truth has now been compromised, and “whateverism” has become the order of the day. If you listen to or watch the news or visit various social media platforms, you will discover that the level of wickedness, corruption, immorality, and evil being perpetrated in high places is growing unabated. As a matter of fact, being referred to as a believer is no longer fashionable in some quarters because crookedness and perversion are fast eroding Christian values that certain people have been known for and are used to. This is why tongue-speaking, professing Christians must arise and dare to be different. The “Christian brand” must be evident wherever you find yourself.

As technology continues to advance, the majority of the youth spend more time in the virtual space. This includes social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter. Though these platforms have positive effects, such as allowing individuals to conduct research, connect with new friends, communicate with others, and access information, some, in the pursuit of validation, acceptance, and popularity in the virtual world, engage in deceptive and immoral practices. Becoming a certain kind of youth with a difference implies allowing your light to shine in the virtual world as well. Understand that whatever you post reflects your personality and identity. You need to ask yourself if Christ would have made that post.

As a Christian youth, always bear in mind that your identity is rooted in your relationship with Christ. You are called to live a life of purpose, love, and righteousness. Rather than conforming to the patterns of this world, we are called to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, living lives that reflect Christ.

According to Orrin Woodward, “You can never make any difference until you dare to be different.” This implies that you must make a conscious effort to dare to stand out in the midst of perversity. In a society that often values conformity and uniformity, standing out can be intimidating and challenging. However, as a Christian, you are called to be “a light unto the world” (Matthew 5:14), shining brightly in the darkness and pointing others toward the love and truth of Christ. By daring to be different, you have the opportunity to impact those around you and bring glory to God.

Furthermore, daring to be different as a Christian can be daunting, especially in a culture that often ridicules or dismisses faith and values that are contrary to its own. You will definitely face challenges such as fear, rejection, judgment, or persecution for your beliefs, values, and principles, which can cause you to shrink back or hide your light under a bushel. However, God has not given you a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).

In conclusion, let us remember the words of Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing, and perfect will.” Dare to be different as a Christian, and may your life be a testimony of the transformative power of Christ in you.

Written by Pastor Prince Augustine Ababio (Jema Nkwanta District – Kintampo Area)

Miraculous Healing web

Miraculous Healing: Deacon Matey Shares His Story

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Members of the Gethsemane Assembly, Otsenkorang District in the Agona Swedru Area of The Church of Pentecost, recently witnessed an extraordinary testimony of God’s healing power, involving Deacon Daniel Matey, who had his miraculous healing experience during one of the Communion services.

The incident and struggle

Deacon Matey had been suffering from a debilitating condition for the past ten years following a fatal accident he had which maimed his left hand and waist area. This condition became known to the entire church and the community. Despite numerous medical interventions and prayers, the healing seemed distant.

The moment of healing

One memorable communion service, after the District Minister, Overseer Solomon Boadi, had delivered the sermon and led the congregation in the Lord’s Supper, an incredible event unfolded.

Deacon Matey recounted his experience: ‘After the sermon my pastor preached and led us to take the Lord’s Supper, just after I took in the bread and wine, I felt a very sharp electrifying shock in my whole body. It felt like a doctor touched my body and started putting the bones back. My body and both shoulders started shaking, and within seconds, the sharp pain in both my shoulders just vanished.

‘To the glory of God, my whole body was restored that very day. Now I can work, and I can lift up my hands to the glory of God.’

This miraculous event did not go unnoticed, as the entire church and the community members, who were aware of Deacon Matey’s long-term struggle, witnessed his instant healing.

His testimony has strengthened the faith of many and stands as a powerful reminder of God’s miraculous healing power and His presence in the lives of His people.

Deacon Daniel Matey’s testimony is a testament to the power of faith and the sacraments. His healing, after ten years of suffering, serves as an inspiration and encouragement to all.

We give all glory to God for this miraculous healing and for continuously manifesting His power and love in the church. Let us continue to trust in God’s promises and His ability to heal and restore. May this testimony remind us that with God, nothing is impossible.

Report by Otsenkorang District Media Team.

Elder Emmanuel Ansah Retires After 39 Years Of Active Service web

Elder Emmanuel Ansah Retires After 39 Years Of Active Service

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Elder Emmanuel Ansah, an officer of the Asutsuare District in the Agormanya Area of The Church of Pentecost, on Sunday, April 14, 2024, officially brought his active work in the church to an end after 39 years of meritorious service at the local, District, and Area levels.

Addressing the congregation at the retirement service held in his honour at Asutsuare Central Auditorium, the Agormanya Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr Samuel Gapketor, admonished Christians, especially officers of the church to diligently serve God and His church, since a time would come when they would not get such an opportunity again.

‘As long as it is day, we must do the works of Him who sent us. Night is coming, when no one can work,’ he quoted.

Drawing inspiration from John 9:4 with emphasis on ‘Night is coming,’ he explained that ‘night’ in this context may be a period when one cannot get an opportunity to serve in a capacity as a minister, officer, presiding elder, ministry leader or executive committee member.

He explained that the phrase, ‘night is coming’ used by Jesus may be interpreted as a period of age where one cannot be permitted by law to work.

“In The Church of Pentecost, the retirement age for ministers and officers is 65, whilst presiding elders have two years to serve and they are reviewed or considered for another term,’ he said, adding, ‘We must, therefore, serve well and make a meaningful impact to God’s glory while we have the opportunity.’

He noted that transfers, reviews, deaths, and deteriorating health conditions, among others, may be factors (nights) that could prevent one from serving at a particular office and time.

He, therefore, admonished Christian leaders to make good use of the opportunity they have now to serve by doing it well and to God’s glory.

In a testimony that was read by the District Secretary, Elder Ezekiel Abban Teye, in honour of Elder Emmanuel Ansah, it was revealed that he was a hardworking, faithful, and obedient leader who was always willing to serve wherever his services were needed.

It stated: ‘Elder Emmanuel Ansah is a gallant soldier of The Church of Pentecost, a man of wisdom, knowledge, and a strong prayer life. A philanthropist who gives willingly to support all church activities.’

It is on record that Elder Emmanuel Ansah served as a presiding elder for 27 years.

Report by Agormanya Area Media Team.

10 Officers Retire In Nyakrom District web

10 Officers Retire In Nyakrom District

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Ten gallant officers of The Church of Pentecost in Nyakrom District of the Agona Swedru Area have been retired from active service after attaining the church’s statutory retiring age of 65.

A memorable retirement service was organised on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at the Glorious Assembly in Nyakrom District, in honour of the officers by the District Minister, Pastor William Ofosu Asiamah, and members of his executive committee, with the support of the Area Head, Apostle Derek Kwaning Mireku, and other ministers in the Area.

The retirees were Elder Robert Adjei, who served as an officer from 1988 to 2024, and Deacon Ebenezer Asare (2009-2024).

Others were Deaconesses Cecilia Duodu (1976-2024), Mary Arkoh (2007-2024), Margaret Selby (1985-2024), Leticia Baisie (1999-2024), Grace Annan (1963-2024), Mercy Appiah (1990-2024), Grace Arkoh and Emelia Acquah, who also served for several years.

Pastor Edward Asamoah Antwi of Ekroful District, who spoke at the service on the topic, ‘Be Faithful unto Death,’ stated that church officers’ work and labour ends when they die. According to him, one must work to the end even after retirement.

He, therefore, charged officers of the church to remain faithful to death no matter the situation.

He advised retirees to position themselves well in retirement, saying, ‘Many retire to become coaches and others, critics. Which one will you be?’

Teaching them how to make retirement period impactful, Pastor Antwi entreated retirees to pray for the church, seek reconciliation, be inspiration for the youth, agents of peace and coaches from behind.

He also advised them to take things easy and continue to work on their salvation.

Report by Agona Swedru Area Media Team

COP Elder Installed Paramount Chief web

COP Elder Installed Paramount Chief

by with No Comment ChieftaincyChurch NewsTop Stories

Elder Dr Abraham Okrah of the Adenta District of The Church of Pentecost has been installed the Omanhene (Paramount Chief) of the Debibi Traditional Area in the Bono Region.

Under the stool name Obrempong Osabarima Amoako Gago II, a thanksgiving service has been held to climax activities marking his coronation.

The well-attended service, which was officiated by the Haatso Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle William Boakye Agyarko, took place on Sunday, April 28, 2024.

Delivering the sermon at the service, Apostle Boakye Agyarko spoke on the theme “Justice.” His main text was taken from l Samuel 8:1-19.

He said the main reason why God granted the people of Israel their request for a kjng through Prophet Samuel was that the people were unhappy with the way the two sons of Samuel appointed as judges over Israel were perverting justice for their selfish gains and interests.

He emphasised that the cardinal function of a chief is to administer justice.  He said justice, when well served, brings peace and harmony, fairness and togetherness, unity, love and belongingness. 

He, however, stressed that when justice is denied, conflicts, strives and all sorts of disturbances occur, saying, “The absence of justice hinders the development of the affected area or community.”

Apostle Boakye Agyarko, therefore, admonished all traditional rulers in the Church and those in places of authority at workplaces to always pray for wisdom and insight as requested by King Solomon to be fair and transparent to all manner of persons when their issues come before them for adjudication.

Apostle Boakye Agyarko then led the congregation to pray for Elder Dr. Obrempong Osabarima Amoako Gago ll.

Present at the thanksgiving service were Chiefs and Queen mothers in the Area, Pastor Paul Adzebill who is the Area Secretary, Pastor Emmanuel Oppong Donkor Adenta District Pastor, Pastor William Amponsah Asiamah who is the Area Coordinator of the Chieftaincy Ministry and some members of the Area committee.

Report by Godwin Gborglah (Area Chieftaincy Committee Secretary)

Possessing The Nations Agenda Not For The Aged - Chairman web

“Possessing The Nations” Agenda Not For The Aged – Chairman

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The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has asserted that the success of the “Possessing the Nations” agenda hinges on the church’s vibrant youth, with the adult membership providing guidance to ensure its success.

He, therefore, charged ministers and other church leaders at all levels to engage the youth meaningfully by loving and involving them in all church activities.

His exhortation, inspired by Joshua 13:1, is founded on the belief that it is the youth who possess the energy needed to take territories for the Lord.

Speaking on a three-divisional topic with “Building the Church of God” as its broad theme at a meeting with the Antwerp Zone of the Church in Belgium, Apostle Nyamekye emphasised that today’s youth must be assigned roles in the church’s operations because they represent the strength and greatest hope of tomorrow’s church.

While focusing on the first sub-topic, “Build the Church to Last,” Apostle Eric Nyamekye emphatically stated that building a lasting church requires intentional involvement of the youth at all levels of leadership. He noted, “The youth are the strength and greatest hope of tomorrow’s church.”

Consequently, he urged church leadership at all levels to nurture, love, and involve the youth in church programs to better position them to take over from today’s generation. He referenced a statement by E. Pinto: “The society that hates its youth has no future.”

“Let’s love them; make adjustments in our programs for them; involve them in the choir, choreography, recitations, and reading of the scriptures; let’s support them and adjust our programs sometimes to help them,” he said.

Referring to Judges 2:10, Apostle Nyamekye reminded the congregants of Israel’s failure to prepare their youth to take over from Joshua’s generation and its repercussions on the nation. He warned that the church could face a similar grim reality if today’s leadership fails to prepare tomorrow’s leaders.

“If we fail to do so, they will go through the back door. Let’s create interest in them and encourage them because we need to build the church to last,” he remarked.

The call to involve the youth in all activities of the church does not mean compromising the church’s treasured beliefs and core values. Quoting 1 Corinthians 3:9-14, he cautioned, “When we are building, let’s be mindful about how we are building and the quality of materials we use, knowing that fire will test it one day.”

“Let’s be mindful of the quality and integrity of the materials we use to build. We must remember that the churches we are building are not for self, but for God’s glory,” he stated.

“We need to know that leadership is not a marathon, but like a relay race, which has to be gauged and run to win; it is not a marathon. Leadership is about tomorrow.

“Human beings expire; we come into the world in phases, and we will go in phases. So, anytime we are building a church, we must be mindful of the materials we use and recognize the limits of what we can achieve in our generation,” he said.

Explaining why today’s church leadership must be futuristic in their operations, Apostle Nyamekye stated, “No generation possibly finishes the work because every day sinners are born onto this planet. Every generation comes with its own challenges, and it takes the people of the same generation to deal with the challenges of their generation.”

Referencing Deuteronomy 6 and Psalms 78, Apostle Nyamekye urged the congregation to ensure a proper handover to the next generation. “Let’s enjoy our local church, but let’s build a church that will last,” he added.

Beyond the church, he urged, “Pay attention to your family; they are your greatest asset. If you want your name to outlive you, bring your children to God. Let’s change our minds concerning the young people,” he concluded.

Report by David Tagoe, Antwerp

Making Your Roommate Choose You Again If They Have The Opportunity web

Making Your Roommate Choose You Again If They Have The Opportunity

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Everyone will one day have a temporary roommate. A temporary roommate is someone you share a room with other than your partner or children.

This happens in boarding houses, hostels, hotels, etc. This occurs during conferences, seminars, short courses, programmes, academic calendars, etc. Sometimes one may have one or more roommates depending on the occasion. The duration may be for hours, days or months. It may also last for years.

When two or more people meet, they must know that no matter how short the duration is, each one has an impact on the other or one another. It is therefore incumbent on everyone to ensure that as much as it depends on them, they must leave positive lasting impression on the others when they meet new friends.

These areas need important attention:

  1. Personal hygiene
  2. Hang towels outside the room for them to dry before you take them inside.
  3. Place shoes outside after prolonged wear for aeration before you take them inside.
  4. Keep sweat soiled clothing aerated before hanging them inside.
  5. Bath twice a day if possible.
  6. Aside from the morning, brush your teeth after lunch and supper if possible.
  7. Brush your teeth after a nap, especially after afternoon siesta.
  • Respiratory protection

i. Perfumes/creams: Some people are allergic to high scented perfumes and creams. Be moderate in using them. Kindly know that the people that may sit around you in class or in the hall too may be allergic to your perfumes, so be very moderate. To help your roommate, you may even apply the perfume in the balcony or just when you are leaving the room. Please take this seriously lest you harm people.

ii. Fan: Some people cannot tolerate high speed fan. It can lead to blocked nostrils, cough or chest pains. So, kindly reduce the speed of the fan.

iii. Air conditioning: Some people can tolerate the lowest temperature while others cannot. Kindly make the cooling comfortable for all.

  • Noise pollution

Some people enjoy listening to music or news or sermons on their phones. Please, kindly note that if each of you in the room tunes to their favourite radio stations or plays their favourite music or sermons, there will be total anarchy in the room. It is better to use earpiece so the other person does not hear what you are hearing. It is very courteous to do so.

Also observe these:

  • Lower your tone when making a call. You may even step out to do so.
  • Do not shout to call someone far away.
  • Do not stand in front of a room to talk on top of your voice.
  • Note that your rising time may be someone’s sleeping or meditation time.
  • Considering the plight of your roommate

Top beds may not help some roommates by their conditions. Some may be heavy, pregnant, old, sick or weak while others may have babies with them. When you arrive in a room earlier and choose a down bed it would be much appreciated if you give your down bed to any of the people in these categories.

  • Tolerating the other person

Your roommate may consciously or unconsciously make you uncomfortable. Some of the things they do may be beyond their control. Examples include their babies crying, snoring, coughing, etc. Kindly tolerate them just as you would have loved to be tolerated if you were in the same situation.

  • Politely voicing your challenges out

I have realised that naturally people are caring and so those who may have a challenge with perfumes, fans, air conditioners, height, etc. should voice it out to their roommates. It is better letting them know than expecting them to know. Kindly help them to help you.

  • Avoid discussing deep family matters or leadership matters that may make your roommate uncomfortable

Conclusion

From the above, I can unequivocally allude that many of us have inadvertently caused discomfort to our roommates before.

Well, Proverbs 28:13 tells us to forsake what is not good. Kindly make amends to prolong the life of your roommate and to make him/her want to choose you next time if they have the option to choose.

Written by Pastor Dr Suleman De-Graft Issaka (Tema Greenwich Meridian District)

AFTER PENTECOST, WHAT NEXT web

After Pentecost, What Next?

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Pentecost marks a pivotal moment in Christian history, marking the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the early believers. This divine encounter empowered them to become bold witnesses for Christ, initiating the rapid spread of the Gospel. In Acts 2, we see the birth of the Church and the beginning of a powerful movement that continues to this day. But what comes next after such a transformative experience? How are young men and women, filled with the Holy Spirit, called to “possess the nations” and impact their spheres for the Lord?

The Call to Action

After Pentecost, the first call to action for the apostles was the Great Commission. Pentecost was not just a one-time event but a catalyst for a lifelong mission. The book of Acts chronicles the immediate aftermath of Pentecost, showcasing the apostles’ newfound boldness and miraculous works.

After receiving the Holy Spirit, the early disciples were transformed and equipped to spread the Gospel. Acts 1:8 captures Jesus’ promise: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” This mandate is still relevant today, calling young Christians to be witnesses in their communities and beyond. The call to action is to embrace the Holy Spirit, walk in His power daily, allow Him to guide, teach, and empower us for the tasks ahead.

Empowered to Possess

To “possess the nations” means to take ownership and responsibility for bringing God’s Kingdom to every sphere of influence. The empowerment that came at Pentecost is not limited to geographical boundaries but extends to every area of life, education, business, politics, arts, and more. Peter, once timid and afraid, preached boldly to the masses after receiving the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:14-41 records Peter’s first sermon, resulting in about three thousand conversions. Similarly, young men and women empowered by the Holy Spirit are called to transform their spheres with the values and principles of the Kingdom of God. The Holy Spirit equips us with courage and the words to speak, as Jesus promised in Luke 12:12: “For the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.” Believers today are called to step out in boldness. Do not be afraid to share your faith, to stand for righteousness, and to influence your world.

Possessing the Nations

“Possessing the nations” is not just a call to geographical expansion but a mandate to influence every sector of society with God’s principles. It is about establishing God’s kingdom in every domain of society. Young men and women are uniquely positioned to bring God’s kingdom to their workplaces, schools, families, and communities. As Jesus instructed in Matthew 5:13-16, we are to be salt and light, preserving godly values and illuminating truth wherever we go.

The book of Daniel provides an excellent example of this. Daniel and his friends, empowered by the Spirit of God, rose to positions of influence in a foreign land, impacting the Babylonian society while remaining faithful to their God (Daniel 1:17-20). Likewise, you are called to rise in your respective fields, bringing godly influence and transformation.

Living Out the Mission

1. Personal Holiness and Integrity:

Before we can impact the world, we must allow the Holy Spirit to transform us from within. Ephesians 4:22-24 exhorts us to put off the old self and put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

Personal integrity and holiness are foundational to being effective witnesses.

2. Bold Proclamation of the Gospel:

The early disciples were known for their boldness in proclaiming the Gospel. Acts 4:31 says, “And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.” We are called to share the Good News without fear, trusting that the Holy Spirit will give us the words to speak.

3. Compassionate Service:

Jesus’ ministry was marked by compassion and service to others. Matthew 25:35-36 reminds us of the importance of serving those in need: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.” Young Christians are called to reflect Christ’s love through acts of kindness and service.

4. Excellence in All Things:

Colossians 3:23-24 encourages us to work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that we will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. Whether in academics, career, or any other endeavour, striving for excellence is a way to glorify God and be a testimony to others.

Overcoming Challenges

Possessing the nations comes with its challenges. The world is often hostile to the message of Christ, and living out our faith can lead to opposition and persecution. Jesus warned us in John 16:33, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” The Holy Spirit empowers us to stand firm in the face of adversity, providing comfort and strength.

Cultivate a Spirit-Led Life

To effectively “Possess the Nations,” it is essential to maintain a Spirit-filled life.

Living a Spirit-led life involves constant communion with God through prayer and worship which sustains one’s spiritual fervor (Ephesians 6:18), Studying the Scriptures which allows the believer to know and apply God’s Word and equips them to discern truth and navigate challenges (2 Timothy 3:16-17), Holiness, thus living a life set apart for God attracts His Favour and Power (1 Peter 1:15-16).

Galatians 5:16 encourages us to “walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” This daily walk transforms us, aligning our desires with God’s will and empowering us to make impactful decisions.

Transform Your Sphere

Empowerment by the Holy Spirit is for a purpose to possess our spheres for the Lord. Every believer has a unique sphere of influence. Whether in business, education, media, or any other field, young Christians are called to excellence and integrity, showcasing God’s wisdom and love. Colossians 3:23-24 advises, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.”

Conclusion

After Pentecost, the mission is clear: to be witnesses of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and to possess the nations for His glory. Young men and women, you are unleashed by the power of the Holy Spirit to influence your world. By living lives of integrity, proclaiming the Gospel boldly, serving compassionately, and striving for excellence, we can fulfill this divine mandate.

Let us embrace the power of the Holy Spirit and step into our calling to possess the nations, bringing the light of Christ to a world in need. Let the journey of possessing the nations begin with you.

May you be inspired and equipped to “possess the nations” for His glory, just as the apostles did in the early church and as many have done. May your life be a testament to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, and may you carry the light of Christ into every corner of the world.

Written by Elder John Anaman Essiam, PENSA India