Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu Asks Chiefs To Reflect On Symbols Associated With Their Offices web

Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu Asks Chiefs To Reflect On Symbols Associated With Their Offices

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The President of the Trinity Theological Seminary, Very Rev. Prof. Johnson Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu, has suggested that traditional rulers have great lessons to learn from the symbols associated with their offices to guide them to become agents of morality and service to their people.

Addressing the gathering of royals at the Royals Conference organised by The Church of Pentecost under the theme, ‘Moral Vision and National Development: The Role of Traditional Rulers’ underway at Pentecost Convention Centre, Gomoa Fetteh, Very Rev. Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu said royalty is associated with symbols that are to serve as constant reminders to them in the discharge of their duties.

‘The symbols, colours, names and appellations are not there to make you swollen-headed but to draw your attention to serve,’ he reminded the gathering.

The theologian emphasised that the symbols of office of chiefs and their jurisdictions are not chosen at random but serve as memorials, encouragement, instructions and status, and thus should be a constant reflection of their personality and deeds.

Referencing the Fante names of the months in the year, Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu stated that they point to prudent use of time. He observed that one of the things royals need to help change in society is the use of time.

‘One of the things we are joking with in this country is the use of time, and anyone who doesn’t respect time will live in a corrupt society because when time catches you by you want to catch up and that makes you cut corners’, he stressed.

He regretted that the nation’s leaders; politicians and traditional rulers are aiding in the perpetuation of a lack of shame in the Ghanaian society. 

‘One of the things I’m ashamed of is the lack of shame. When the law catches up with someone, you see politicians gathering at the courts in the name of solidarity. You can’t provide moral support for an act that is immoral,’ he indicated.

He noted that patriotic songs of the country highlight the need for the citizenry to be selfless and morally upright. He stressed that renowned songwriter, Dr Ephraim Amu, described greed as disability because it robs the nation of progress and lack of commitment to moral development as disgraceful.

Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu entreated the royals to submit to Christ as there is no symbol that surpasses the sovereignty and supremacy of God.

‘Your personality is a symbol, and it is sacred. There are things you are expected to do and not to do. There are critical lessons of morality, ethics and service associated with your position as a traditional ruler and you must take them seriously,’ he admonished.

He recommended that the rich symbols of the nation must be incorporated into the educational system of Ghana to make morality a central theme in the development agenda of the nation.  

‘There are many great moral lessons in symbols to guide decision-making and ethical behaviour that will serve as examples of morals in society and inform what we want to teach. Let us imbibe them,’ he concluded.

PENTECOST NEWS

We Must Awaken Ghana's Moral Vision - Chairman Urges Royals web

We Must Awaken Ghana’s Moral Vision – Chairman Urges Royals

by with No Comment Church NewsTop Stories

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Kwabena Nyamekye, has emphasised the need to awaken Ghana’s moral vision for national development.

Speaking at the opening session of the 2024 Royals Conference, Apostle Nyamekye stated, “We must awaken the moral vision of the people. The development of the citizens is the most important factor in the development of the nation.”

Highlighting why the church has recently been actively involved in national development issues, the Chairman mentioned, “The purpose of the church is the transformation of the nation. The history of the church invites it to do so, and righteousness exalts a nation.”

Explaining the church’s role in transforming the nation while advocating for moral vision, Apostle Nyamekye noted that the Great Commission calls on the church to go beyond its walls and evangelize. He added that the church must also be concerned about the environment in which people live.

“The church cannot only evangelise to win souls and ignore their environment. We need to win souls and transform nations,” he asserted.

Apostle Eric Nyamekye stressed the need for deliberate development of citizens ahead of infrastructural development.

He argued that morally bankrupt people undermine national progress, citing examples of how deliberate actions can lead to currency depreciation, inflation, interest rates hikes, and national debt.

According to him, the most important factor in the development of a nation is the character of its people.

To illustrate how the church’s history mandates its involvement in national development, Apostle Nyamekye referenced how the Puritans’ beliefs led to positive transformations in Europe.

He called on royals to respect everyone regardless of social status, eradicate laziness in their communities, and maintain integrity by being truthful.

Touching on the need for righteousness in leadership, Apostle Nyamekye said, “When you are a chief or a traditional leader, it is your service to God and your people.”

He urged the royals to impart Godly principles such as hard work, dignity of labor, patriotism, love, and forgiveness to their subjects.

Apostle Nyamekye admonished all traditional rulers and leaders to live with the next generation in mind and avoid amassing wealth at the expense of future generations.

PENTECOST NEWS

Keep Your Voices Loud In National Affairs - Hon. Asamoah Boateng Tells Religious web

Keep Your Voices Loud In National Affairs – Hon. Asamoah Boateng Tells Religious Leaders

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The Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs in Ghana, Mr. Stephen Asamoah Boateng, has urged religious leaders and traditional rulers to maintain a strong presence in national affairs.

He, thus, commended The Church of Pentecost and its leadership for their keen interest in national development and emphasised the importance of reminding politicians and citizens of their solemn pledge to keep the nation united and morally upright.

“Our existence here on earth is to do the will of God. He expects us to deliver and lead His people to Him. Help us not to lose sight of this,” he pleaded.

Hon. Asamoah Boateng made these remarks during the opening session of the Royals Conference organised by The Church of Pentecost at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) in Gomoa Fetteh near Kasoa.

The event which has about 1500 traditional rulers in attendance, includimg over 100 paramount chiefs, is under the theme “Moral Vision and National Development: The Role Of Traditional Rulers.”

Addressing the gathering at the event, Hon. Asamoah Boateng praised The Church of Pentecost for its innovative approach of gathering royals to discuss moral vision and national development, as well as for establishing the Chieftaincy Ministry within the church. He recognised traditional leaders as having a unique ability to unite people for development and to awaken the moral conscience of the nation.

“Nananom, it is possible to make a difference wherever you find yourselves. You have a role, a labor, and a charge to keep. Where your predecessors walked, you must tread and make it better. Lead with uprightness and require it of us all,” he stated.

The Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Minister also stressed that the role of politicians is similar to that of royals and priests. He noted that their primary responsibility is to identify societal challenges and offer solutions.

Mr. Asamoah Boateng further stated that because royals and clergy possess spiritual authority, they are well-positioned to ensure that corruption is not tolerated in their presence.

“Commit to the laws of the land. The world is run on discipline and not feelings. Be sensitive to the people you preside over and respect the customs and traditions. Serve as the people’s royals, not as taskmasters,” he recommended.

Mr. Asamoah Boateng reiterated the need for royals to embrace diversity within their jurisdictions and resist viewing others as outsiders.

“Let us embrace our diversity and the discipline our ancestors bequeathed to us. The morality of our society today is a sad story. Social media has overtaken us, and we have forgotten ourselves. We must bring our discipline back,” he stated.

He revealed that his ministry has focused significant attention on ensuring adherence to customary law, discipline, and dispute resolution. He lamented that chieftaincy disputes consume over 70% of the ministry’s budget, noting that traditional leaders should not be seen as perverting decency and justice.

The minister also discussed regional stakeholder engagements held across the nation to propose a national policy on religion aimed at ensuring cooperation and coordination in serving God. He said the outcomes of these engagements revealed key issues threatening religious stability and coexistence in Ghana, including religious intolerance, inhumane treatment, political interference, child marriages, noise pollution, and fanaticism.

He also mentioned other issues identified during the engagements, such as money laundering, leadership disputes, lack of succession rules, insufficient institutional structures, and weak regulations. He noted that a proposal for a national policy on religion, to be managed and implemented by religious leaders, has emerged from these engagements.

“An independent body is to be set up to work on self-regulation, self-management, and registration to streamline religious activities in the nation,” he revealed. He appealed to the conference participants to consider these issues in their deliberations and propose solutions.

He stated that the government is considering amending the chieftaincy law to give traditional leaders clear authority to resolve community issues and to restore their authority. Additionally, he mentioned a proposal for a chieftaincy development fund, similar to the common fund, to support chiefs and queens.

Regarding the conduct leading up to the electioneering period, Mr. Asamoah Boateng expressed his trust in traditional leaders and the church to ensure peace in the nation, particularly through their actions and words for peaceful elections and governance thereafter.

“Let us build rather than destroy; our words must mend and not tear each other apart,” he advised.

The Royals Conference follows the National Development Conference (NADEC) organised by The Church of Pentecost in 2023, which brought together key political actors in the country to discuss issues of national importance.

PENTECOST NEWS

Haatso Area Organises In Him Is Life Crusade At Pantang Hospital Park web

Haatso Area Organises “In Him Is Life” Crusade At Pantang Hospital Park

by with No Comment Church NewsEvangelism MinistryTop Stories

The Pantang Hospital Park is the venue for a soul-saving and life-transforming crusade, dubbed “In Him Is Life,” organised by the Haatso Area of The Church of Pentecost.

The four-day crusade is part of a series of activities marking the end of the 2024 mid-year programmes.

Opening the event on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, the Area Head, Apostle William Boakye Agyarko, spoke on the main theme, “In Him Is Life,” based on John 1:1-4.

He defined life as a period of time in which something is in existence or operates.

Apostle Agyarko stated that Jesus came into the world to give eternal life freely to man, along with all the necessary things to make life easy for those who freely come to accept Him as their Lord and Saviour.

“When you come to Jesus, you receive in abundance not only salvation but also peace, love, joy, and protection from Satan and his host of demons,” Apostle Boakye Agyarko stated.

Concluding his message, Apostle Boakye Agyarko warned that whoever fails to believe that Jesus Christ is the only saviour and surrender to Him risks facing eternal damnation in hell because God’s wrath will abide on them forever.

He used the occasion to invite all to come to Jesus Christ, who gives eternal life freely.

On Wednesday, June 19, Apostle Anthony Mensah of PIWC-Atomic delivered a message on the topic, “Life in Jesus Christ,” based on Mark 10:17 and Hebrews 9:27.

Apostle Mensah revealed that the ancient Greeks classified life as Bios (physical life), Psuche (soulish life), and Zoe, which is eternal life.

According to Apostle Mensah, eternal life has no end, no beginning, and is not created; it is in God only. It is this Zoe life that God gives to all those who come to Him through Jesus, and it is activated as soon as human beings die.

Apostle Mensah intimated that since every man has an appointment with death once in their lifetime to face judgment, it is very expedient for everyone to accept Jesus in order to escape eternal damnation and receive eternal life, which only Jesus gives.

Other speakers scheduled for the crusade include Apostle Joseph Danzerl, Achimota Area Head, and Pastor Yaw Agyenim Boateng, the Agbogba District Pastor and Area Evangelism Ministry Leader.

Also participating in the event are all ministers and their wives in the Haatso Area.

So far, 24 souls have been won, and 12 of them were baptised by immersion on Thursda, June 20.

Report by Pastor William Boachie-Ansah (Area Media Ministry Leader)

THE ENDURING LEGACY OF FATHERHOOD web

The Enduring Legacy Of Fatherhood

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Fatherhood is a cornerstone of familial and societal stability, embodying the essence of creation and the transmission of values from one generation to the next. As Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) advises, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” Fathers are instrumental in this guidance, laying down the moral and ethical framework within which their children grow. They are the creators of not only life but also the environment that nurtures dreams and aspirations. Their wisdom and experience shape the character and destiny of their children, ensuring that the legacy of values and principles endures.

Fathers are also the protectors, the guardians of their families. This role is beautifully encapsulated in Psalm 103:13 (NIV): “As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him.” Fathers provide a safe haven, shielding their families from the physical and emotional adversities of life. Their presence offers a sense of security, teaching children resilience, courage, and the importance of standing firm in the face of challenges. Through their example, fathers impart lessons of discipline, respect, and responsibility, preparing their children to navigate the complexities of life with confidence and integrity.

The loss of a father often feels like the disintegration of the family’s core. As Deuteronomy 1:31 (NIV) reflects, “There you saw how the Lord your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place.” When a father passes away, the family’s guiding light and central pillar is lost, creating a void that profoundly impacts the family’s structure and unity. This loss reverberates through the lives of those left behind, often leading to a sense of fragmentation and disorientation. However, the legacy of a father lives on through the memories, lessons, and values he imparted. His influence continues to inspire and guide, a testament to the enduring power of fatherhood. Even in their absence, fathers remain the lifeblood of the family, their essence woven into the very fabric of their children’s lives.

Happy Father’s Day to all men!

Written by Elder Owusu – Bibini (CoP Sunyani Area, Dumasua District)

Axim Area Head Dedicates Ezilinbo & Ekpanyisuazo Church Buildings web

Axim Area Head Dedicates Ezilinbo & Ekpanyisuazo Church Buildings

by with No Comment Church NewsMissionsTop Stories

The Axim Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Daniel Mireku-Gyamera, has dedicated the newly constructed church auditoriums of the Ezilinbo and Ekpanyisuazo Assemblies in the Bonyere and Tikobo No. 1 districts of the Church, respectively.

The separate dedication services took place on Sunday, June 16, 2024.

The Ezilinbo Assembly auditorium, which cost GHS 143,000.00, was funded by national, area, and district grants, along with local assembly and individual contributions.

It is worthy to mention that Elder Robert and Mrs. Regina Andoh, both members of the church and natives of Ezilinbo but based in the United States of America, made a massive contribution of GHS 73,000.00 towards the construction of the auditorium.

Preaching on the topic “A Dedicated Church is an Unleashing Centre for Transformation” at the event, Pastor Yeboah Koranteng Jnr., the Nsien District Minister, admonished the members to see the church as a place where love, self-control, and morality are taught and practiced.

He stressed that a dedicated church is a place of prayer and power, a hospital, and not a mortuary.

He added that members should see themselves as mobile churches who will aggressively embark on all forms of outreach, converting and transforming their society.

Apostle Daniel Mireku-Gyamera, in his remarks, thanked and blessed Elder Robert and Mrs. Andoh for their sacrificial giving towards the construction of the building.

He encouraged members to emulate such an act, stressing that The Church of Pentecost was birthed, nurtured, and continues to spread through sacrificial giving.

In attendance were Mrs. Evelyn Selasi Mireku-Gyamera (wife of the Area Head), the area pastorate and their wives. Also present were General Augustine Peter Blay (former Chief of Defence Staff), Nana Kroah IV (Chief of Ezilinbo Community), as well as a delegation from the Jomoro Constituency and other churches.

The Ekpanyisuazo Assembly church building, constructed at a total cost of GHS 80,264.00, was largely funded through the GHS 40,000.00 grant received through the Community Based Church Building (CBCB) initiative of the Church’s Headquarters. The rest of the funds were generated through the area, district, local assembly, and individual contributions.

The most spectacular aspect of the dedication ceremony came when a sister and one of the elders of the Chief of Ekpanyisuazo, who had accompanied him to the event, responded to an altar call by Apostle Daniel Mireku-Gyamera and were led to give their lives to Jesus Christ.

Report by Axim Area Media Team

THE ROCK OF ESCAPE web

The Rock Of Escape: Young People Finding Safety In Jesus To Transform Their World

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SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:

1 Samuel 23:26-29; Psalm 91:1-2, 4; Matthew 16:18; Revelation 5:5; 1 Peter 5:8; Ephesians 6:11-12; Matthew 5:14-16

INTRODUCTION

In a world where young people face relentless pressures and temptations, the story of David’s escape from King Saul offers a powerful metaphor for finding refuge and strength. In 1 Samuel 23:26-29, David, the anointed future king of Israel, flees from Saul and finds safety at what becomes known as the Rock of Escape. This rock symbolizes Jesus Christ, our ultimate refuge and savior. As young people navigate the complexities of modern life, turning to Jesus as their Rock can provide the safety and strength needed to fulfill their God-given purpose and transform their world.

THE ANOINTED AND THE PURSUED

David, though chosen by God to be the future king, was pursued relentlessly by King Saul, who recognized David’s potential and sought to eliminate him. Similarly, young people today, anointed with unique talents and a bright future, often face intense opposition from the enemy, who aims to derail their destiny. Just as Saul pursued David with soldiers and weapons, the devil uses temptations such as sexual immorality, laziness, addictions, and despair to hinder spiritual growth and potential.

MODERN-DAY PURSUIT

The devil’s tactics are as varied and cunning today as they were in David’s time. Temptations are designed to exploit our vulnerabilities and lead us astray:

  • Sexual Immorality: Promiscuity and pornography corrupt hearts and minds, leading many away from their intended path.
  • Laziness: Procrastination and a lack of discipline prevent young people from achieving their full potential.
  • Addictions: Substance abuse, gambling, and other addictions ensnare and ruin lives.
  • Despair and Hopelessness: Mental health struggles can lead to feelings of worthlessness and despair, preventing individuals from realizing their potential.

Just as David found himself surrounded and desperate, young people today may feel trapped by these powerful forces. The key to escape lies in the same source David relied on: the Rock of Escape.

RUNNING TO THE ROCK

David’s escape was not just a physical act but a spiritual one. By seeking refuge at the Rock of Escape, David was trusting in God’s deliverance. For us, Jesus is our Rock. In Matthew 16:18, Jesus declares, “On this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” When we run to Jesus, we find protection, strength, and guidance.

Psalm 91 beautifully encapsulates this promise: “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1). This psalm assures us that those who take refuge in God are safe from harm. However, it’s crucial not just to run to Jesus but to stay in His presence, for it is there that we find continual safety and fulfillment of our purpose.

THE LION OF JUDAH: OUR PROTECTOR

Jesus, the Rock of Escape, is also the Lion of Judah. Lions are known for their power and majesty, traits that invoke fear and respect. In Revelation 5:5, Jesus is referred to as the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, who has triumphed. This imagery reminds us of His might and sovereignty.

In the wild, lions are feared, but when they are caged in a zoo, their power seems diminished, and they no longer inspire the same fear. This can serve as a metaphor for how we sometimes perceive Jesus. When we keep Him “caged” in our lives—acknowledging Him but not truly living in His power—we fail to experience the full extent of His protection and guidance. But when we recognize and embrace His true nature, we understand that He is the one who can protect us from all harm.

Similarly, when young people find themselves caged by sexual immorality, laziness, and other destructive behaviors, like a caged lion, the devil will not fear us. However, when we are not caged but continue to roar like a hungry lion, full of zeal and righteousness, the devil will fear us. The Bible reminds us in 1 Peter 5:8 to “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” When we live in the fullness of Christ’s power, we can stand firm against the devil’s schemes.

STAYING IN THE PRESENCE OF THE ROCK

The safety that David found at the Rock of Escape, and that we find in Jesus, is contingent upon our continuous dwelling in His presence. As Psalm 91 highlights, it is the one who dwells in the secret place of the Most High who will find refuge. We are safe as long as we remain in Jesus. This means a daily commitment to prayer, scripture reading, and living in obedience to His will.

Psalm 91:4 further assures us: “He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” The imagery of God’s protection is vivid, conveying the warmth, safety, and security we find in Him. Just as a bird protects its young under its wings, God shields us from harm.

THE ROLE OF SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE

Maintaining our refuge in Jesus requires spiritual discipline. Ephesians 6:11-12 encourages us to “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” By cultivating a strong spiritual life through prayer, worship, and studying the Word, we equip ourselves to resist the devil’s attacks.

TRANSFORMING THE WORLD THROUGH JESUS

By finding safety in Jesus, young people are empowered to transform their world. When we dwell in His presence and live out our faith boldly, we become beacons of light in a dark world. Jesus Himself declared in Matthew 5:14-16, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Living in the power of Jesus means being proactive in our faith—standing against injustices, showing compassion, and spreading the Gospel. As we rely on the Rock of Escape, we not only find personal safety but also the strength to make a significant impact on those around us.

CONCLUSION

The story of David at the Rock of Escape is a powerful reminder of where our true refuge lies. In a world where the devil constantly seeks to destroy our future through various means, we must run to Jesus, the Rock of Escape. By staying in His presence, we find not only safety but also the strength and guidance to fulfill our God-given purpose.

As we navigate the challenges of life, let us remember that Jesus, the Lion of Judah, is our protector and savior. He has triumphed over all forces of evil, and in Him, we too can find victory. Let us stay close to the Rock, abiding under the shadow of the Almighty, and live out the great future God has planned for us.

Written by Isaac Ansah

4th Edition Of The Uncommon Leadership Summit Held web

4th Edition Of Uncommon Leadership Summit Held

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesYouth Ministry

The Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA) Cape Coast Sector organised a residential retreat dubbed the “Uncommon Leadership Summit” for various leadership groups and working committee members in the Cape Coast zone. The event took place from Friday, June 14th to Sunday, June 16th, 2024, at the PENSA CCTU Auditorium.

The three-day leadership retreat was held under the guidance of Pastor Blessing Joseph Quayson, the PENSA Traveling Secretary.

The PENSA Ghana Coordinator, Elder Issah N. Jeln, opened the summit on Friday evening. He presented on the theme, “Unleashed to Lead with Excellence to Transform Your Campus.”

Drawing from 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, Daniel 6:1-4, and Acts 1:8, he encouraged participants to lead with love, integrity, loyalty, and diligence.

Elder Bismark Afrifa Marfo, a working committee member, addressed the topic, “Leadership Integrity: Managing Church Finance” on Day 2 of the event.  

Using 2 Corinthians 8:1-24 as his scripture reference, he emphasized the importance of being morally upright, trustworthy, honest, and faithful in managing church finances.

Elder Evans Darko Addo, another working committee member, spoke about the PENSA Discipleship Program (PDP) and the “Reach Out and Take Over” mandate focused on campus evangelism.

He encouraged participants to utilize the PDP system to win more souls for Christ on their respective campuses, urging leaders to ensure that every PENSA member becomes a soul winner.

Deaconess Lucy Araba Asiedu, a member of the National Coordinating Team (NCT), explained the concept and importance of the PENSA Professional Guild (PPG).

She noted that membership in the PPG on campuses aids evangelism, creates networks and connections, and provides more job opportunities, especially after graduation.

Pastor Patrick Ayertey, the Oguaa Abura District Pastor, presented on the “Core Values of the Church of Pentecost.”

He outlined the core values, including evangelism, discipleship, character, prayer, faithfulness, and integrity. He emphasized the importance of being a prayerful leader with integrity.

The Saturday session concluded with a prayer and impartation session led by Pastor Frank Akonnor, the Resident PENSA Campus Pastor at UCC.

The summit culminated with a presentation by Mrs. Esther Mansa Annan Quayson, the wife of the PENSA Traveling Secretary on Sunday morning.

She spoke on the topic, “The Unleashed Leader and Relationships,” drawing from 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, and Proverbs 6:27-29.

She advised leaders to be physically, spiritually, emotionally, financially, and mentally prepared before entering into any pre-marital relationship.

The participating institutions included Cape Coast Nursing and Midwifery Training College (CCNMTC), Psychiatric Nursing Training College (PNTC), OLA College of Education (OLACOE), Komenda College of Education (KOMENCOE), and Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU).

Report by Justina Mensah, PENSA CCTU Secretary

Christians Urged To Walk Away From Contentious People web

Christians Urged To Walk Away From Contentious People

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With ChairmanTop Stories

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost and President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has advised Christians on the need to stay away from contentious people.

He mentioned that such people believe only in their opinions and see anyone who disagrees with them as an enemy, warning Christians to be cautious in their interactions with them.

Apostle Nyamekye shared this advice in a live televised sermon on PENT TV as part of his series on “Bitterness,” during a ‘Special Evening Service With the Chairman’ on Sunday, June 9, 2024.

In his sermon, Chairman Nyamekye quoted Mike Murdock, stating, “Any contentious person who refuses to change must not continue to have access to you.” He highlighted the unchanging and malevolent nature of contentious people, citing the story of Nehemiah and his adversaries Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem (Nehemiah 6:1-4) to illustrate his point.

He stressed the importance of not engaging with conflict-driven individuals and advised Christians to walk away from them, referencing Proverbs 26:20.

“If someone permits the spirit of conflict and disputing to enter their life, it is best to walk away from them as such people are unlikely to change and can potentially cause harm,” he stated.

Apostle Nyamekye discussed the story of Joseph and his brothers, emphasising Joseph’s decision to distance himself from his brothers after he was released from prison due to their wicked intentions. He revealed that in their encounters, Joseph experienced moments of weeping and contemplated seeking revenge on his brothers for their actions, but ultimately chose to forgive them for the fear of God (Genesis 42:18).

The Chairman believed that Joseph’s third cry helped him release the bitterness from his heart, as shown by his reconciliation with his brothers (Genesis 45:1-5). He, however, pointed out that while crying can be a natural emotional response, it does not always indicate repentance or forgiveness, as bitterness can still remain even after tears are shed, saying, “One can release bitter feelings without crying.”

Apostle Nyamekye also stressed the significance of Christians maintaining quietness and controlling their mouths when offended, drawing parallels from the behaviours of Joseph and Jesus in the face of adversity (Mark 15:1-5, Isaiah 53:7). He urged Christians to trust in God’s timing for vindication and not to fret over issues, as their destiny is secure in Him.

Reading from Luke 21:16-19, the noted theologian emphasised the inevitability of disturbances and offenses in life and urged Christians to practice patience, saying, “Quietness goes with patience, and in patience, shall you save your souls.”

Apostle Eric Nyamekye concluded his sermon by reminding Christians of the demand of their newly found faith, stating it is required of them to live to please Jesus who loved them and gave His life for their ransom.

“As a people of God, we need to be men amongst men. People should see that we are born of God,” he said.

Report by Emmanuel Nana Nsiah

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PIWC Downtown Visits Graceland Child Care Shelter

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesWomen's Ministry

The Women’s Ministry of the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC)-Downtown in Kasoa, has visited Graceland Child Care Shelter in Bawjiase to engage with the inmates, share fellowship, and donate essential items to them.

The visit, which took place on May 11, 2024, was led by the District Women’s Ministry Leader, Deaconess Mrs. Agyekumwaa Boye, and her team, accompanied by other members of the church.

The items donated included toiletries, cooking supplies, snacks, clothing, footwear, and books.

The visiting team first met with the founders of the orphanage, offering words of encouragement to inspire them to continue their commendable work. They then spent time with the inmates, sharing the word of God with them, teaching them songs and scriptures, offering encouragement, and praying with them. Snacks were also distributed, bringing much joy to the inmates.

The response from the inmates was overwhelmingly positive, making the visit a memorable and impactful experience. The joy on their faces was truly heartwarming.

Graceland Child Care Shelter is home to 92 inmates, with the youngest being just three months old. Report by Mavis Osei