As believers, we often face various challenges and struggles in our walk with God. However, one of the most significant obstacles to our spiritual growth and effectiveness is ignorance. The apostle Paul warns us in 2 Corinthians 2:11, “In order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.”
In this verse, Paul emphasises the importance of being aware of Satan’s tactics and strategies. He recognises that ignorance can lead to defeat, and that’s why he encourages believers to be informed and vigilant.
An ignorant Christian is a defeated Christian because:
Lack of Understanding: Without a deep understanding of God’s Word and His plans, we become vulnerable to Satan’s lies and deception.
Spiritual Stagnation: Ignorance hinders our spiritual growth, making us ineffective in our witness and service to others.
Easy Prey: Satan targets those who are unaware of his schemes, taking advantage of their ignorance to lead them astray.
Missed Opportunities: Ignorance causes us to miss out on the blessings and opportunities God has for us, leading to a defeated and unfulfilling life.
On the other hand, a knowledgeable and informed Christian is empowered to:
Resist Satan’s Attacks: With a deep understanding of God’s Word, we can recognise and resist Satan’s tactics.
Grow Spiritually: Knowledge and understanding fuel our spiritual growth, enabling us to become more like Christ.
Be Effective Witnesses: Informed believers can share the Gospel with confidence and clarity, leading others to Christ.
Live a Victorious Life: With knowledge and understanding, we can overcome challenges and live a life that honours God.
In conclusion, an ignorant Christian is indeed a defeated Christian. Let us strive to be informed, knowledgeable, and vigilant, recognising Satan’s schemes and living a victorious life in Christ.
Written by Elder Emmanuel Opoku Yeboah, Channel Islands (UK)
History was made on Saturday, May 25, 2024, when the Pakistan branch of the Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA) was officially inaugurated. The event also saw the induction of the national youth executives into their respective offices.
The inauguration marked the climax of a four-day seminar organised by PENSA International, attended by notable figures including Apostle Dr. Jamil Nasir (National Head, Pakistan), Apostle Ebenezer Hagan (Youth Director), Overseer Kofi Owusu Boakye (PENSA International Coordinator), Pastor Samuel Asare, Pastor Jonathan Ebo Quaye, Pastor Gordon Ansah, Overseer Emmanuel Koduah, Overseer Isaac Brobbey Boadu, Elder Alfred Yamoah, Elder Dr. Samson Ali, along with all pastors in Pakistan, the Global Coordinating Team of PENSA International, and many others.
The seminar commenced on Monday with the theme “Be Strong and Courageous; Leaders of the Possessors of Nations,” based on Joshua 1:6. The Youth Director, Apostle Ebenezer Hagan, opened the session with a talk titled “Leading with Courage in the Midst of Fear.” He emphasised the need for courage in challenging situations, illustrating his point with the story of Joshua leading the Israelites to the promised land despite opposition. He encouraged PENSA leaders to be strong and guide the group towards its God-ordained destiny. Apostle Hagan’s presentation set a positive tone for the entire program.
On the second day, Overseer Isaac Brobbey Boadu, Head of PENSA Establishment, presented on the history, aims, and objectives of PENSA. He continued his presentation on the third day, discussing the leadership structure, the qualities of a leader, and the various departments within PENSA.
Pastor Jonathan Ebo Quaye, Campus Pastor for KNUST and Ghana representative for PENSA International, led the fourth session. He spoke on “How to Make PENSA Services Attractive on Your Campuses,” using scriptural references from Psalm 127:3-5, Hebrews 10:24-25, and 1 Corinthians 9:22. He emphasised understanding the audience’s age group, cultural background, and religious context as crucial to attracting members to PENSA in Pakistan.
Overseer Emmanuel Koduah spoke on the fourth day about “Taking Over the Campuses with the Gospel,” with references from Acts 10:2-3. He highlighted the importance of evangelism on campuses, effective strategies for evangelism, and follow-up discipleship.
The establishment and inauguration of PENSA-Pakistan on May 25, 2024, were celebrated with great joy. The event was blessed by the presence of distinguished guests, including Apostle Ebenezer Hagan, Apostle Dr. Jamil Nasir, and Rev. Kofi Owusu Boakye. Rev. Boakye ministered on “A People of Covenant Unleashed,” with scriptural references from 1 Peter 2:9 and Jeremiah 1:5, encouraging the church to walk as covenanted people equipped to possess the nations.
At the climax of the event, Apostle Dr. Jamil Nasir inducted the national youth executives, followed by Apostle Ebenezer Hagan who inaugurated PENSA Pakistan and inducted the PENSA National Coordinating Team. The inauguration and induction brought immense joy to the participants, who celebrated with clapping and praise. The leadership hopes that this seed planted in Pakistan will grow into a mighty oak.
Closing the event, Apostle Ebenezer Hagan and Apostle Dr. Jamil Nasir expressed their profound gratitude to God, the church’s chairman, the general secretary, the International Missions Director, the executive council, and all who contributed to the church’s growth in Pakistan. They acknowledged that to God be all the glory for the great things He has done.
One of PENSA International’s mandates is to establish PENSA chapters in nations where The Church of Pentecost is present but lacks a student fellowship, and to provide training sessions to equip them to possess the nations for God. In this spirit, the leadership of PENSA International, in collaboration with the Church of Pentecost Pakistan, mobilised and trained young men and women to fulfill this mission through PENSA activities.
They are the unsung heroes, the base of the iceberg, and the support system. Although unseen, the wife is the heart of the ministry and as important as the minister, who many see as the face of the ministry. Of course, the face is always seen. When I say ministry, I am not referring only to the clergy or religious leaders; I am referring to any man to whom the Lord has entrusted something to care for and keep. Be it a career, profession, or any other endeavor, you have a ministry, and you shall be held accountable. “…From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” (Luke 12:48b NIV).
The adage “Behind every successful man, there is a woman” resonates strongly within this context. The wife of the minister is the secret engine that powers his ministry. I do not, in any way, downplay the work of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the foundation upon which the ministry is steadfastly held. Notwithstanding, the wife empowers the ministry. She executes this act of empowerment through unceasing prayer in the ministry of her husband. As he goes about his ministry, he encounters battles opposing the ministry and sometimes does not even realise them. It takes the wife, who is also active and has put on her ministerial robe, to intercede and fight these battles. Even though the wife may not be applauded or given recognition for her support, she is simply indispensable. A few examples include the ministry of Mrs. Martha Ntumy in Apostle Michael Kwabena Ntumy’s ministry and Mrs. Adelaide Araba Siaw Agyapong’s ministry in the ministry of Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyapong, to mention but a few.
Who is his utmost mortal cheerleader, the motivator, and the one who encourages him to press on when the ministry becomes challenging? You guessed right, the wife. The wife creates a home where the minister finds rest and peace. She feeds him with courage, confidence, and the spark to press on. She creates the atmosphere for him to thrive in his ministry. Pause a minute and think about how important the role of the wife is in the husband’s ministry. How many ministries would have collapsed if wives were not executing their duties as ministers? How many generations would have been disappointed and denied the impact they have experienced? Indeed, wives have essential ministries. When a minister reaches the zenith of his ministry, where there’s a likelihood of becoming self-sufficient and neglecting sincere retrospection, a vital ingredient for the success and continued impact of a ministry, it is the wife who draws his attention and brings to bear his flaws and wrongs with love and tenderness, allowing him to make positive adjustments and improvements.
Tell me, who is in a better position to make him aware of his excesses than his precious wife? Come with me to analyse this instance in the scriptures. “Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. With his wife’s full knowledge, he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles’ feet.” (Acts 5:1-2 NIV). Sapphira failed to execute her ministerial duties as a wife. She failed to point out her husband’s wrong decision but joined him in executing this decision. The next scripture points out the results of their decision. “Peter said to her, ‘How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord? Listen! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also.’” (Acts 5:9 NIV). The consequences of their actions may seem to have affected them only, but I strongly believe that their actions generated a ripple effect on other people of their generation. I will give you an assignment: study the ministry of the wife in the life of the husband, scattered throughout scripture, and compare it with the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer, as pointed out by Jesus. I guarantee you’ll be amazed!
To draw down the curtains, there is always the ministry of the wife within the husband’s ministry. The ministerial duties of the wife should be executed in love and total submission to the husband, yielding to the Holy Spirit. As a church, we should seize every opportunity to celebrate these unsung heroes because you can agree with me that their impact is unmatched.
Written by Elder Michael Boakye (Suame Area, Kronum District, Macedonia Assembly)
The Akosombo New Combine District Women’s Ministry of The Church of Pentecost presented hampers containing assorted soft drinks to all Imams in the Akosombo municipality during the celebration of this year’s Eid-Ul-Fitr.
All nine Imams in charge of the various mosques in the municipality, including the Chief Imam of Akosombo, Alhaji Is Ma, who is also the Deputy Chief Imam for Asuogyaman District, benefited from the gesture.
During the presentation, the wife of the district minister, Mrs Esther Kesse, who led the team, gave a short Gospel message based on ‘Jesus Christ as the true Messiah.’
She said that Quran Chapter 3 verse 45 presents Jesus Christ as The Messiah, who was honoured in this world and the next world to come, whilst the Bible in Mark 14:61-62 declares Jesus Christ as the Messiah, making Christ the Messiah accepted by both Christian and Muslim religions.
According to her, it is only Jesus Christ who has been accredited by God to save humanity from the dark world to God’s kingdom of light, and that if someone is looking for a saviour then Jesus is the right source.
Mrs Esther Kesse advised the gathering to think about how they can join hands to embark on strategic societal impactful projects in the area. She noted that projects like entrepreneurship, environmental awareness and educational programmes can be jointly organised to positively impact society.
In response, the Chief Imam of Akosombo, Alhaji Is Ma, thanked The Church of Pentecost, New Combine District for the wonderful love shown to the Imams.
He observed that the strong relationship that has been established between The Church of Pentecost and Muslims in Akosombo will surely impact positively.
‘For a women’s fellowship of a church to show us this kindness is first in history in Akosombo since 1974,’ he said.
Alhaji Is Ma assured the church that they are ever ready to partner with the church to undertake projects that are geared towards the development of the community.
The imams also commended the church for the weekly Gospel messages they share on the local information centres every Tuesday and Wednesday. They encouraged Muslims in the community to continue to follow and listen to the sermons to guard their lives.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.
