The National Coordinator for the Schools Outreach Ministry of The Church of Pentecost, Pastor Tandoh, has emphasised that relationships are fundamental to the Christian life and must be approached with purpose and intentionality.
Speaking on the topic “The Etymology of Relationships” during the Empowerment Session of the recently held “You Must Be Born Again” Gospel Crusade at Ho Technical University, Pastor Tandoh highlighted that God is both deliberate and inclusive in how He relates to people, and believers must reflect this divine intentionality in their relationships.
Quoting Matthew 22:37-38, he explained that Jesus viewed the commandments through the lens of relationship — urging believers to love God with all their heart, soul, and mind. “God is very intentional, and yet embraces all individuals,” he said.
Using 2 Timothy 2:20-21, Pastor Tandoh likened believers to vessels of gold, silver, wood, and clay, stressing that one’s usefulness in God’s house is directly tied to personal sanctification.
“To be a noble vessel in the house of God depends on how you have cleansed yourself,” he stated.
He also addressed the dynamics of romantic relationships, warning against entering into such relationships prematurely. Referencing Song of Solomon 8:4, he underscored the importance of timing and knowledge in managing the power of love.
“You need knowledge to guide this power of love; otherwise, what was meant to be a blessing can become something else,” he cautioned.
Breaking down the word “relationship” into “relate” and “ship”, he described relationships as journeys between individuals that require direction and purpose.
“Every ship must have direction — and so must every relationship,” he said.
Pastor Tandoh advised young people to avoid emotionally overinvesting in relationships that lack clear direction. He stressed the importance of boundaries, saying,
“Boundaries are created by values. The boundaries you give to a person become their area of play.”
The SOM Coordinator also warned against toxic relationship types – Doggie and Serpentine relationships.
“Doggie relationships”, he described as those driven by fleshly desires and lacking spiritual discernment, often marked by repeated mistakes.
“Serpentine relationships”, on the other hand, are deceitful and draw individuals away from God’s purpose.
Pastor Tandoh concluded his presentation by urging the youth to build relationships that honor God, promote spiritual and personal growth, and align with their divine calling.
“The ultimate bond and power of every relationship is love. On the altar of love, any sacrifice can be made,” he affirmed.
PENT NEWS.
