Pentecost Herald Sept 09:Layout 1.qxd
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Pentecost Herald Sept 09:Layout 1.qxd
October 2009 • The National Newsletter of The Church of Pentecost Canada Welcome, Apostle Bediako and Family! Aps. Dr. Bediako and family Apostle Dr. Emmanuel Owusu Bediako and his family were welcomed to the Church of Pentecost Canada on Sunday, October 25, 2009 at the McKeown Worship Centre in Toronto. Apostle Bediako becomes the 4th National Head of the Church, following the transfer of Apostle A. K. Miah to Ghana last September. The ceremony was chaired by Apostle Alfred Kodua, the General Secretary of the Church of Pentecost International. At the inspiring and colorful service were C.O.P. ministers and brethren from other nations and representatives from friendly churches in Toronto. Apostle Kodua encouraged the worshipers with an inspiring message on Not By Might Nor By Power. The Jewish exiles from Medo-Persia led by Zerubbabel faced a huge and daunting task of rebuilding the shattered Temple in Jerusalem. Not to mention the stiff opposition from their neighbors. Consequently, God spoke through Prophet Zechariah to encourage and energize them for the task, assuring them that his Spirit, not their ability, will accomplish the task. The exiles then rose to the challenge and rebuilt the Temple. Apostle Kodua, therefore, called on the brethren to rely on the Holy Spirit alone, not on their intellect, experience or strength, for success. For, “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty” (Zechariah 4:6 b). As believers pray Fare Well, Aps. Miah and Mama Mary! Aps. Miah and family at the historic service The day finally came for the send-off service for Apostle A.K. Miah and his family who have been transferred to the Agormanya Area in Ghana. It was at the McKeown Worship Center in North York, on Sunday, September 20, 2009, where over two thousand worshipers gathered from across the nation for the bitter-sweet ceremony. The officiating Minister was Apostle Dr. S. K. Baidoo, the International Missions Director, accompanied by his wife, Rebecca. Among the teeming worshipers were brethren from COP USA and friendly Churches in Toronto. Also present were Mr. Kwabena Asare, the out-going Ghana Consul General in Toronto, and Dr. Charles McVety, President of Canada Christian College, among other distinguished guests. Preceding the Sunday Service were the Appreciation and Presentation nights on the Friday IN THIS ISSUE and Saturday respectively, during Unction to Function ....................................................3 which members and National Youth Conference in Toronto ..................4 leaders gave Toronto and Montreal Areas Inaugurated ............7 What is your Last Request? .......................................8 glowing testimonies Walking in Forgiveness...............................................9 of the outgoing Quelle Est Votre Derniere Demande? ...................10 Minister and family. COP Canada Breaks New Grounds in Three Provinces .....................................................................12 Apostle Miah and his CHURCH NEWS Aps. & Mrs. Miah with pastors and wives wife, Mary, were praised for their love, wisdom, commitment and vision, among other things. Equally impressive are their ministerial endeavours. Called as full-time Minister in 1983, Apostle Miah, together with his wife, has laboured far and wide in the Lord’s Vineyard, bringing salvation, healing and deliverance to countless lives by the power of God. He started the Church of Pentecost in Gabon and planted other churches in the Cameroon and Republic of Congo. Other places they have ministered are: Ghana, Cote D’Ivoire, Togo, Benin, Nigeria, Malawi, South Africa, France, Holland, Belgium, United Kingdom, USA, Brazil and Canada. Pentecost Village Committee presenting a gift to Aps. & Mrs. Miah Apostle Miah became the National Head of The Church of Pentecost Canada in November 2004 following the transfer of Apostle Kwesi Ackah-Baidoo to Ghana. Together with his family, Apostle Miah has made a huge impact on the Church in Canada over the last five years. Under his leadership, church membership grew 2 from 3255 to 4391, Assemblies rose from 13 to 18, and Ministers from 9 to 12. Apostle Miah had great passion for evangelism, church planting and international missions. He, therefore, encouraged witnessing, reached the community with salvation and other sermons via radio (FM 101.3), and also sent donations of cash, instruments and clothing to Cameroon, Gabon, Mali, Ethiopia and Brazil, to mention but a few. As a visionary, Apostle Miah Aps. Dr. S. K. Baidoo and other ministers pray for Aps. Miah & family initiated the Pentecost Village Project by acquiring a 23-acre property in the City of Vaughan, which project envisions a 3500 capacity auditorium as well as educational, recreational and counselling facilities. His social programs included the Jonah Passage- a crime- prevention and restorative justice program- which rescued over 50 young men and women from the grip of the law, giving them a second chance to turn their lives around for the better. In his Sunday sermon, Not What I Will But What You Will (Mark 14:32-36), Mrs. Miah joins other deaconesses to dance to God’s glory PENTECOST HERALD • October 2009 National Executive members making a presentation to Aps. & Mrs. Miah Apostle Dr. Baidoo called on the saints to bring their will under subjection and do the will of God at all times, however hard and unpleasant it might be. Just as Jesus, though burdened by his impending agony of the cross, never gave up but prayed for God’s will to be done in his life, so must believers resist their flesh and please the Lord so as to be victorious. Responding, Apostle Miah thanked God who rescued him from darkness into his marvellous light and called him into his service. He also thanked the Church leaders, members and all others for their support, gifts and services, and prayed for God’s blessings for them all. Concluding, Apostle Miah urged the brethren to unite as one body, listen to the voice of God and obey Him alone, citing Joshua 24:24: And the people said to Joshua,” We will serve the Lord our God and obey him.” Aps. Dr. Emmanuel Owusu Bediako of USA replaces Aps. Miah as Head of C.O.P. Canada as of October 25, 2009. Aps. Dr. E. O. Bediako and Mrs. Faustina Bediako, incoming National Head CHURCH NEWS Unction To Function Some of the Apostles and pastors in prayer at the Convention The theme for the C.O.P. North American Holy Ghost Convention held in Toronto October 1-5, 2008, was Holy Ghost-Unction to Function (Acts 1:8). True to the theme, there was a heavy presence of the Lord in all the meetings as the worshipers praised and adored the Lord, and the messages came with power and conviction. At the end of the glorious times of fellowship, worship and uplifting messages, it was evident that the brethren had received fresh insights and anointing to go transform their places of ministry. Eight people were baptized with the Holy Spirit, while many others were healed and revived. Attending the august Convention was Apostle Dr. S. K. Baidoo (the International Missions Director and Chairperson for the occasion) and several other Apostles, Prophets, Pastors and Officers of the Church of Pentecost worldwide. Also, in attendance were the Ghana Consulate General in Toronto and other community leaders. Glory to God for the great gathering! And bravo to the hosts- COP Canada- for their wonderful reception and organization! The themes for teaching and discussion were about the same for the preceding Pastors and Wives Conference and the General meetings. The call was clear and persistent for Aps. Dr. S. K. Baidoo (IMD) and ministers and wives at the Conference the lay and clergy alike to have a real encounter with the Holy Ghost so they would be touched and empowered anew to live like Christ, reach out to their communities with the good news, and plant new churches. Everyone was admonished to receive and carry the fresh fire of the Holy Ghost to their communities to impact lives. A view of the congregation and pastors’ wives Brethren in prayer Aps. Dr. Baidoo stressed on cultural relevance in church planting during the Pastors and Wives Conference. The Church must have its roots in the society and must benefit the people. Also, practices, methods and changes in the Church must emerge from the felt needs of the people. He cautioned against cultural bias in presenting the gospel, stating that the people must be guided to accept and stand on the gospel to transform their lives and communities without having to cross cultural barriers. Aps. Dr. Baidoo A cross section of some of the pastors closed the Convention on the note that God, in Christ Jesus, has restored to mankind the glory we lost in Eden. As the King of Glory lives in us believers, we must manifest that glory always. For Prophet Amaniampong, character- the expression of your inner being- is of utmost importance to God. Our total being must express the gospel, and we must preach the gospel with our lips and character. PENTECOST HERALD • October 2009 3 CHURCH NEWS McKeown Assembly PEMEF Presents Scholarship to Six Students The Men’s Fellowship of Mckeown Assembly presented scholarships to six students for their academic excellence and outstanding services in the church and community. The presentation was made as part of their Men’s Week program in June. Recipients were Evelyn Owusu-Ansah (Nursing, Sault College of Applied Arts & Technology), Vivian Ntiri (Environmental and Earth Sciences, Mcmaster University), Reynold Akuamoah Agyei (Kinesiology / Health Science, University of Toronto), Barbara Annor-Larbi (Human Resources Management, York University), Jeffrey Dansoh (Biology, Ryerson University), and Esther Aboagye-Amponsah (Bachelor of Social Work, University of Windsor). They were presented with certificates and cash of $1000 each. The Men’s Movement Excellence Award was established by the Mckeown Assembly Men’s Fellowship to encourage the youth to excel academically and play active leadership and volunteer roles in the church and community. Since its inception 10 years ago, the Men’s Fellowship Scholarship scheme has been awarded to over 35 students in the church. Pastor & Mrs. Fynn-Sackey (Toronto District Pastor), Mrs. Ackah-Baidoo (wife of former National Head), with the Mckeown Assembly’s PEMEF Executives and scholarship recipients continued from page 3 With the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in us who believe, we can live godly lives. Watch your words; they will become your actions. Watch your actions; they will become your character. Watch your character; it will become your destiny, he concluded. Aps. A.K. Miah underlined the triple anointing of King David and of the believer as prophet, priest and king. With the anointing and 4 character from the Holy Spirit, the believer has power to function effectively and do exploits for the Lord. Aps. A. Amoah also taught that the believer must have a real encounter with the Holy Spirit and walk with him always as it is the anointing that enables us to function effectively and uniquely. For Aps. Ayerakwa, what we need the most is total experience with God. Beyond new birth and Holy Ghost baptism, we PENTECOST HERALD • October 2009 must be filled with the fullness of God continually and walk in the divine gifts and abilities. Aps. Samsom O. Yiadom highlighted the person and work of the Holy Spirit, whom we must know, experience and relate to as a person on a daily basis. For, it is the Holy Spirit who regenerates, renews, guides, comforts, empowers for service and makes us fruitful; even as we desire and yield to him. CHURCH NEWS National Youth Conference In Toronto The first-ever National Youth Conference in Canada, held August 69, 2009 at the Holiday Inn Select Hotel in Toronto, proved to be a very powerful encounter with the Living God. Over 300 youth from all the districts in Canada and delegates from USA attended the Conference. The theme was “A Youth After God’s Heart ”(Acts 13:22; 1 Timothy 2:15). The speakers were: Aps. A. K. Miah (National Head), Rev. Israel Wood, Hon. Mary Anne Chambers (former Ontario Minister for Youth and Children’s Services), Dr. Anthony Hutchinson, and Dr. Mary Ashun. Rochelle Hanson ministered in music. There was A Jump Off talent show as well as workshops on education, career development, sexuality, self-esteem and marriage. Throughout the powerful ministrations, the youth were encouraged to have tender hearts, Youth from Western Canada pose with National Youth Executives and Rev. Wood humble themselves and allow God to use them like Josiah and Timothy. Having a heart for God is about loving God and seeking to please Him through an intimate relationship with him; not about positions, titles or how religious we are. We are to crucify the flesh, take up our crosses, and be on fire for the Lord, no matter how heavy the cross becomes. The youth were further challenged to rise up and allow God to use them to change their friends, the church, and the world for the better by accomplishing His purposes in this generation. The National Youth Leader, Elder Richard Adjei, was ordained as Youth Pastor by Aps. Miah at the Conference. 13 youth were baptized by immersion, 8 received the Holy Ghost, and seven accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior. Youth Mass Choir ministering Pastor James Mckeown (National Youth Patron) leading the youth in prayer Call to Ministry Elder Richard Adjei has been called to full-time ministry. He will be based at the National Head Office as Administration Manager and will also serve as Youth Pastor. Ovr. Adjei has held many leadership roles in the Youth and Children’s Ministries and the Publicity Committee. He is married to Gladys, a registered nurse. May the Lord grant them grace and wisdom to fulfil their calling. Aps. Miah introducing Ovr. & Mrs. Adjei at the Ordination Service PENTECOST HERALD • October 2009 5 CHURCH NEWS Oakville Crusade Some of the ministers at the Crusade A Healing and Evangelistic Crusade held in Oakville July 23-25 by the Greater Toronto Area was a tremendous success. The goal was to plant a multi-national ministry in Oakville. The theme was The God of the Living is Your God Today (Mark 12:27). So powerful was the presence of God during the services that seven souls were saved, while many others were healed and delivered. Rev. Dr. Lyle Lee’s sermon- Cursing Your Blessings- pointed out that God’s blessings for man are conditional or unconditional. We curse our blessings when we refuse to believe, obey or repent. Ignoring the word of God is ignoring our blessings. As we dwell in Jesus- the vine- and eat his words we bear fruit. Rev. Dr. Alison spoke on God’s Healing Is ForYou. He said we have been healed already by the sacrifice of Jesus so we just have to walk in divine healing by trusting, speaking and acting on the word. Pastor Osae Gyan said that obedience and humility are vital in receiving from God. We must therefore be faithful and trust God, love and cling to him, walk blamelessly before him and be sensitive to the Spirit. COPAM Inaugurated Aos. Miah with some of the leaders of COPAM Pentecost Community Development Agency (PENTCDA) and The Church of Pentecost Canada inaugurated Covenant Performing Arts and Media (COPAM) on Sunday March 15, 2009 at 2256 Sheppard Avenue West, North York. The Ceremony, attended by over 350 people, included drama display and music performances by Destined 2B, Eden, Pentecost Youth Choir and the 6 Royal Priesthood Choir. Also present were Dr. George Ansong (PENTCDA Board Chairman), Dr. Sandra Romano Anthony (PENTCDA Board member), Apostle Anthony K. Miah (National Head Church of Pentecost), other ministers of the Church of Pentecost, and other community groups. Covenant Performing Arts and Media is a program that develops talents of the youth through mentoring, drama, music, and other forms of media. Mr. Avenger Danquah, a former actor and film director, is one of the COPAM executives. COPAM is open to every person who is interested in exploring his or her drama and music potentials. In addition to COPAM, PENTCDA also runs the Jonah’s PENTECOST HERALD • October 2009 Passage, a restorative justice and crime- prevention program for the youth aged 13- 25. More information is available via email [email protected] or via telephone at 647-456-4266 or 416745-0242. COPAM in action CHURCH NEWS Toronto and Montreal Areas Inaugurated The Church in Canada has created two administrative Areas for effective governance. The Toronto Area with Rev. Dr. Alex Agyei-Gyamera as Area Head, was inaugurated in September 2008 by the International Missions Director, Aps. Dr. S. Baidoo. It comprises the following districts: Toronto, Peel, PIWC, Hamilton and London. Aps. A. K. Miah (National Head) inaugurated the Montreal Area in October, 2008. The Montreal Area consists of Montreal, Ottawa, and Winnipeg districts and has Pastor James Mckeown Quainoo as Area Head. Western Canada districts remain under the direct supervision of the National Head. Aps. Dr. S. K. Baidoo ( I.M.D.) introducing Toronto Area Officers Heavenville vs. Helltown Michelle Amon Calgary Heavenville vs. Helltown Where would you rather be? Will you cross the intersection of Eternal Life? Or make your way down Burn-forever Street? Heavenville vs. Helltown Both names are quite distinct You’ve really got to stop yourself, Ask yourself, and think Will you turn right on Happiness Circle? And make your way up Deliverance Lane? Or keep left on Pain-N-sorrow Drive Till you reach sin and bondage fame? Heavenville vs. Helltown Do you at present know where you stand? Are you in Holy Ghost Fire Park? Or in Deceitful Demonicland? Heavenville vs. Helltown Who’s the leader where? President Jesus sits upon his throne, Whiles in Helltown Chief Lucifer reigns there Heavenville vs. Helltown Are you walking Grace-N-Mercy Boulevard? If you’re looking for a second chance It’s really not that hard… Just get off at Anger Street Then turn right on Selfish Drive Walk until you see Lustful Beach And from there you’ll see Crescent Pride Keep walking, keep walking Until you meet the intersection again Heavenville vs. Helltown Where would you like to be? And when? PENTECOST HERALD • October 2009 7 FEATURES What is Your Last Request? By Aps. Anthony Kingsley Miah, Immediate-Past National Head II Kings 2:9-14; John 14:10-14 INTRODUCTION: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock and it will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7). One of the biggest requests ever made in the Bible is in II Kings 2:9-10 where Elisha asked Elijah to let a double portion of his spirit be upon him. This was in response to Elijah requesting Elisha to ask whatever he wanted before he was whisked to heaven in a whirlwind. Elijah obviously wanted to bless Elisha before separating physically from him. In Jewish and many cultures, the leader or priest blesses the lesser ones in the following situations: Nearing Death: For instance, Isaac blessed Jacob when he was old and his eyes were so dim that he could not see (Gen. 27:1:26-29). During Separation: In Genesis 32:2629, we find Jacob asking the Angel of God to bless him before he would allow Him to go. During Consecration: Kings, prophets and priests were all blessed in Bible times during consecration. SEPARATION CAN BE PAINFUL: Separation can be very painful, but it is an opportunity to reflect on the past, plan for the future and to ASK for God’s blessings for the loved ones we are leaving behind. Elisha followed certain principles and received what he requested from Elijah. These principles are applicable to us today as Christians. First, Elisha saw an opportunity and seized it. He had seen Elijah throw his mantle on him - a sign of authority and power. He immediately left what 8 he was doing and followed after Elijah. An invisible hand touched his heart and inclined him to quit his profession and give himself to the ministry, without any external persuasion (I Kings 19:19). Second, he followed with determination and expectation. Not even Elijah’s suggestion to him to stay back in Gilgal (rolling the reproach), Bethel (House of God), Jericho (where the Israelites faced a great impediment), and Jordan (the descender), or the discouraging remarks by the sons of the prophets could deter him from following his mentor. As Christians, we need to encounter our Gilgals so that our reproach will be rolled away. Then the house of God (Bethel) must also be our house (Psalm 23:6). We face our Jerichos as we grow, but God has provided a way of escape. To receive the best from God we need to encounter our Jordans (descend). Humility will cause us to receive the best from God. ELIJAH DEMONSTRATED LASTMINUTE POWER River Jordan was the last obstacle but Elijah’s God was bigger than the challenge. Elijah took his mantle, rolled it up, and struck the water and it was divided this way and that, so that the two of them crossed over on dry ground. Greatly pleased with the constancy of Elisha’s affection and perseverance, Elijah bade him ask what he should do for him, what blessing he should leave him at parting. Elijah seems to be saying, “ask before I go.” Elisha did not ask for wealth, riches or good old age but a “double portion of his mentor’s spirit”. That was the right of the first -born (Deut. 21:17). Elisha yearned to do greater things for God as His prophet – and that he was able to PENTECOST HERALD • October 2009 accomplish. Elijah has to his credit sixteen (16) recorded miracles while Elisha has thirty two (32) — double that of Elijah! Elisha’s request was big, but it was to be met by a bigger God. God has big things for serious Christians. A diligent attendance upon his master’s instructions, and a careful observation of his example, particularly in his last scene, were the conditions and would be the proper means of obtaining what he requested. Elisha had a long-sighted vision, seeking the Holy Spirit power and enablement to perform his prophetic functions. The Spirit of Elijah (II Kings 2:9-15) refers to the Holy Spirit. Elisha’s return journey was more glorious. He had learned how his mentor did things and had received power to do likewise. The over-flown Jordan was not a problem to him. Taking Elijah’s mantle that had fallen upon him, he struck the Jordan by calling on the God of Elijah and it was divided this way and that. Elisha then crossed over. CONCLUSION: If we will learn from leaders who are over us, support them, and depend on the Holy Spirit- even come so low and eschew pride and arrogance- and go ahead to ask for blessing, we shall receive the unction to function and do greater. All hurdles will be cleared and we shall cross over to the other side. Separation, even though painful, has its divine benefits. What is your last request? Deny yourself, follow expectantly, desire the best from God. Look out for a vacuum that needs to be filled in the body of Christ and ask for anointing to flow in the supernatural. Ask, seek, knock and believe! And God will never turn His back on you. FEATURES Walking in Forgiveness Ewurabena Okyere-Koranteng, PIWC, North York What is Forgiveness? To forgive is to let go of the wrong someone has done us. Forgiveness is a choice we make through a decision of our will. Forgiveness does not come easy for most of us because our natural instinct is to withdraw in self-protection when we have been hurt by others. We do not naturally overflow with mercy, grace, and forgiveness when wronged. Certainly, it is not easy to forget hurts, but we can forgive and move on with our lives. Forgiveness is not a one-time action; it must be a lifetime effort and attitude. Forgiveness should come out of our hearts in obedience to God (Matthew 18:21-35). Why Do We Have To Forgive? We are commanded to forgive Forgiveness is a divine quality. God is merciful and forgiving and he wants us to be like Him in showing love and forgiveness. Thus we need to forgive others so as to obey and honor God. Colossians 3:13 says: “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.’’ Again, Hebrews 10:30 states “ For we know Him who said, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,”says the Lord. And again, “The LORD will judge His people. Thus, when we forgive others we show ourselves as the children of a merciful God and appreciate His forgiveness for ourselves. We should forgive so that our prayers and blessings are not hindered Unforgiveness holds back our prayers, blessings and impedes our walk with God. Mark 11:25 says: “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” If we have been praying endlessly for our needs but it is taking too long for God to respond to us, we must check our lives; it may be that we have unforgiveness in our hearts. We try to defend ourselves when someone has wronged us, thinking that God will hear our prayer and forget the other person. If we walk in unforgiveness, our prayers, praises and worship will hit the ceiling and bounce back, just like Cain’s offering never pleased the Lord. We should forgive to avoid needless suffering We are the ones who suffer the most when we choose not to forgive. The anger and bitterness we harbor in us against others make us moody, gloomy, and explosive. As these emotions boil in us, we can develop sicknesses such as fever, headaches, and even hypertension. Just let go and receive the healing of God. When we do forgive, the Lord frees us from the vile emotions of anger, bitterness and resentment that previously imprisoned us. We walk in freedom when we forgive We grow in the process of forgiving. Bitterness and hatred not only stunt our spiritual growth; they also put us at odds with God Himself. It takes a stronger person to forgive and not retaliate. Forgiving others shows we are growing in the Lord. We walk in freedom when we forgive. We are freed from hurt, stress and sin. We put the devil to shame when we forgive others thus Ephesians 4:26-27 urges us not to give the devil a chance in our anger. The enemy can no longer control our emotions and actions since we do not get bitter or hateful when we are hurt by others. How Can We Forgive? Many people want to forgive but have difficulty doing so. Understanding the process of forgiveness can make it easier to achieve. We forgive by faith and out of obedience. We must trust God to do a deep work in us so that we can forgive others genuinely and completely. We will know the work of forgiveness is complete when we experience the freedom and joy that come with it. Prayer is another important weapon to break the wall of unforgiveness in our hearts. When we pray for the person who has wronged us, God gives us a new heart to care for that person. We can also pray for God to take the hurt from our heart and help us to let go, and also to give us the wisdom to approach the offender where necessary. Also, we must purpose in our heart to forgive others since forgiveness does not just happen. It is a choice we make- an act of the will. Conclusion It is not easy for humans to forgive but because of God’s love and power in us, we can determine to forgive and walk in forgiveness. We need to forgive even if the offender does not apologize. When we forgive, we grow in the Lord, have a good relationship with Him, and enjoy His blessings. We even hurt ourselves by not forgiving. Life is too short to be harboring unforgiveness in our hearts which will bring us emotional and physical pain and sickness. You do not have to please the person you have forgiven or be intimate with that person. Just let go the hurt, and do not hold it against the offender. We can do this if we purpose in our heart to forgive and ask God to guide and help us. When we practice forgiveness, we show the world that we are true believers and can attract people to God. This way, we can make a big difference for Christ in the world. Unforgiveness is not from God and it does not profit the saints. May the Holy Spirit help us all to walk in forgiveness and peace. PENTECOST HERALD • October 2009 9 SECTION FRANCAISE Quelle Est Votre Derniere Demande? Par Apotre Anthony Kingsley Miah, Dirigeant national 2 Rois 2 :9-14; Jean 14 : 10-14 maison de Dieu (Béthel) doit devenir aussi notre maison (psaumes 23 : 6) Nous faisons face à nos Jéricho comme nous grandissons, mais Dieu a pourvu une voie de sortie pour nous faire échapper. Pour recevoir, le meilleur de Dieu, nous avons besoin de rencontrer nos Jourdain(descente ou abaissement). L’humilité nous aide à recevoir le meilleur de Dieu. Introduction « Demandez, et l’on vous donnera,cherchez, et vous trouverez, frappez et l’on vous ouvrira » (Matthieu 7 :7) Une des plus grandes demandes faites à jamais dans la Bible est dans 2 Rois 2 ; 9-10 OÙ Elisée a demandé à Élie de laisser qu’une double portion de son esprit soit sur lui. Ceci était en réponse à la demande qu’Élie avait faite à Elisée de pouvoir demander tout ce qu il voulait avant qu’il soit enlevé au ciel dans le tourbillon. Élie, voulait visiblement bénir Elisée avant de se séparer de lui physiquement. Dans la culture juive et dans plusieurs autres, le dirigeant ou prêtre, bénit ceux qui sont sous sa direction dans les situations suivantes : *Une mort proche : Par exemple, Isaac bénit Jacob quand il était vieux et que sa vue était si affaiblit qu’il ne pouvait pas voir. (Genèse 27 : 26-27) *Pendant la séparation : Dans Genèse 32 : 26-29, nous voyons Jacob demandant à l’ange de le bénir avant qu’il lui permette de partir. *Pendant la consécration. Les rois, les prophètes et les prêtres étaient tous bénit dans le temps de la Bible pendant la consécration. La Separation Peut Etre Penible La séparation peut être très pénible mais c’est l’opportunité pour réfléchir sur le passé, planifier pour le futur et demander les bénédictions de Dieu pour les bien-aimés que nous 10 laissons derrière nous. Elisée a suivi certains principes et a obtenu ce qu’il demandait à Élie. Ces principes sont applicables à nous en tant que Chrétiens. Premièrement, Elisée a vu une opportunité et l’a saisie. I l avait vu Élie jeter son manteau sur lui, un signe d’autorité et de pouvoir. Il a immédiatement laisser ce qu’il faisait et suivi Élie. Une main invisible toucha son cœur et l’inclina ou le poussa à quitter sa profession et à se donner lui-même au ministère sans une persuasion externe (1Rois 19 : 19). Deuxièmement, Il suivi avec détermination et avec une attente. Même pas la suggestion d’Élie pour qu’il reste à Guilgal (reproches successives), Béthel(Maison de Dieu), Jéricho(là où les Israelites ont faits face à un grand obstacle), et Jourdain( celui qui abaisse), ou les remarques qui découragent provenant des fils des prophètes ne pouvaient le dissuader de suivre son maître ou son encadreur. En tant que chrétiens, nous avons besoin de rencontrer nos Guilgal pour que notre reproche soit enlevée. Après, la PENTECOST HERALD • October 2009 Élisée A Demontré La Puissance De Dernière Minute La rivière Jourdain était le dernier obstacle, mais le Dieu d’Élie était plus grand que le défis. Élie a pris son manteau, l’a enroulé et a frappé l’eau et l’eau était divisée ici et là, à tel point que tous les deux traversèrent sur une terre sèche. Etant grandement content de la constance, l’affection et la persévérance d’Élisée, Élie lui demanda ce qu’il pouvait faire pour lui, quelle bénédiction, il devait lui laisser avant son départ. Élie a semblé lui dire : « demande avant que je parte ». Élisée n’a pas demandé la richesse, ou une bonne vieillesse, mais une « double portion de l’esprit de son maître ou son encadreur ». C’était le droit des fils-ainés ( Deut.21 : 17).Élisée avait la nostalgie de faire les grandes choses pour Dieu comme son prophète –et il était capable d’accomplir cela. Élie a dans son crédit seize (16) miracles rapportés, tandis que Élisée en a trente deux (32) - le double de ceux d’Élie. La demande d’Élisée était grande, mais elle devait être réaliser par un plus Grand Dieu. Dieu a de grandes choses pour les chrétiens sérieux. SECTION FRANCAISE Une attente diligente concernant les instructions de son maître et une observation attentive de son exemple, particulièrement dans sa dernière scène étaient les conditions appropriées et la raison propre pour obtenir ce qu’il demandait. Élisée avait la vision de prévoir (ou une vue de loin), cherchant la puissance du Saint-Esprit et la capacité d’accomplir ses fonctions prophétiques. Cet esprit d’Élie (2Rois 2 : 9-15) fait référence au Saint-Esprit. Le retour de ce voyage d’Élisée était glorieux. Il avait apprit comment son encadreur faisait les choses et avait reçu la puissance de faire. Le Jourdain qui coulait n’était plus un problème pour lui. Il a pris le manteau d’Élie qui était tombé, il frappa le Jourdain en appelant le Dieu d’Élie et la rivière se divisa ici et là, Elisée a ensuite, il a traversé. CONCLUSION Si nous apprenons de nos dirigeants qui sont avec nous, nous les supportons et dépendons du SaintEsprit, si nous nous abaissons, nous évitons l’orgueil et l’arrogance et allons de l’avant en demandant les bénédictions nous recevrons l’onction de fonctionner et de faire des grandes choses. Tout embûche sera effacé et nous traverserons de l’autre coté. La séparation, même très pénible, a des bienfaits divins. Quelle est ta dernière demande ? Renies toi, toi-même suis avec attente, désires le meilleur de Dieu. Cherches un vide qui a besoin d’être comblé dans le corps de Christ et demandes que l’onction coule dans le super naturel. Demandes, frappes et croies ! Et Dieu ne te tournera jamais le dos. « Quand Je Le Verrai » Sœur. Françoise Masimasi, Montréal, French. Assembly. - Lorsque toute lumière éteinte et une plus Brillante que le soleil allumée, sera-t-elle, sur une voie nouvelle et vers ma destinée, je m’en irai. -Lorsqu’apparaitra cette Lumière plus brillante que le soleil une route pavée d’or, de jaspe et de saphir c’est ma destinée sur le chemin de la victoire. -Lorsque la Lumière parfaite resplendira, effaçant toute ténèbre mon âme verra mon Roi, dans sa splendeur et dans ma destinée tel qu’Il est, telle que je serai. -Lorsque la Lumière pure et incomparable se fera voir, je dirai, Seigneur mon âme soupire auprès de Toi Je t’aime, Jésus, Lumière Parfaite, ma destinée finale. New National Executive Committee Members A new National Executive Committee was elected for the Church at this year’s National Council Meeting last February. Pastor Lawrence Manu replaces Pastor Daniel Engmann who has served as an Executive member for 14 consecutive years, while Elder Joseph Tieku was elected as National Deacon (Treasurer) to replace Elder Eric Asare-Boateng whose term was over. PENTECOST HERALD • October 2009 9 UPCOMING EVENTS Christmas Convention Dec. 16-20 / 23-27 New Year Service Dec. 31 End of Year Meetings Jan. Pastors and Wives Meeting Feb. 9 - 10, 2010 National Council Meeting Feb. 12-13, 2010 Some of the pastors and wives at the Welcome Service. (L-R): Aps. & Mrs. Owusu (USA), Aps. Ackah-Baidoo (Area Head, New Tafo), Aps. Dr. & Mrs. Emmanuel O. Bediako (National Head, Canada), Aps. & Mrs. Alfred Koduah (General Secretary), and Aps. & Mrs. Ofori Yeboah (Area Head, LA). fervently and rely on the Holy Spirit every mountain in their way shall become level ground. By the power of God believers will complete every project they start. In closing, Apostle Kodua urged the brethren to build a church that will stand the test of time- a church of holiness, power and unity that will do exploits for the Lord. Called into full-time ministry in 1992, Apostle Bediako has served in many positions and stations, helping to plant churches in the U.S.A, Canada, Germany, Japan, Korea and Switzerland. He was the Regional Head in Washington, U.S.A. just before he came to Canada. Interestingly, he was one of the pioneering workers of the Canada church. Apostle Bediako holds a PhD in Biblical Studies, and is the author of Book of Books: A History of the Bible (2008). He is a member of the National Clergy Association, U.S.A., and an Associate Member of the Chartered Bankers, London. He is married to Faustina - a writer, teacher and nurse. They are blessed with four children- Christie, Portia, Esther and Eunice. COP Canada Breaks New Grounds in Three Provinces The Church of Pentecost Canada has broken new grounds in Sherbrooke and Quebec City in the province of Quebec. In Western Canada, a new assembly is being planted in the Saskatchewan capital of Saskatoon. Oakville is the newest assembly in the province of Ontario. Anyone in these cities who would like to fellowship with us can contact us at [email protected] or www.pentecost.ca/branches.html BRANCHES: NORTH YORK: 2256 Sheppard Ave. W. Ontario M9M 1L7 Tel: (416) 745-0242 Fax: (416) 745-7163 SCARBOROUGH: 1355 Warden Ave. Tel: (416) 755-1948 / (905) 417-3388 DOWNTOWN TORONTO: 721 Bloor Street West, Unit 102, Toronto, ON Tel: (905) 417-6100 AJAX: 682 Monarch Avenue, Units 8 & 9, Ajax ON L1S 2G9 Tel: (416) 284-5103 MARTINSON YEBOAH ASSEMBLY: 267 Matheson Blvd. E. , Mississauga, ON L47 1X8 Tel: (905) 890-6894 / 905-901-9874 PEEL PIWC: 267 Matheson Blvd. E. , Mississauga, ON L47 1X8 Tel: (905) 890-6894 / (905) 814-5406 OTTAWA: 360 Kirkwood Rd #101, Tel: (613)798-0905 / (613)-695-0125 MONTREAL: 8586-10th Avenue Tel/Fax: (450) 629-9693 QUEBEC CITY: Tel : (418) 614 6136 SHERBROOKE: Tel: (514) 268 8490 HAMILTON: 1047 Barton St. E Tel: (905) 296-5278 / (905) 545-8672 VANCOUVER: #1, 12318 - 84th Avenue, Surrey, BC V3W 0N2 Tel: (604) 507-7725 / (604) 572-7833 CALGARY: #2, 3510-27 Street NE Tel: (403) 695-9813/ (403) 250-9303 RED DEER: 4808 Center St. NE, Suite 8 Tel: 403-230-7610 EDMONTON: Tel: (780) 641-2512 LONDON, ON: 679 Dundas St. West Tel: (519) 457 – 7815 / (226) 663 - 8479 WINNIPEG, MB: Tel: (204) 668-4398 SASKATOON Tel (306) 979-8329 OAKVILLE: Tel: (905) 813-7412 WINDSOR: Tel: (519) 419-2493 Aps. & Mrs. Miah with some of the brethren in Saskatoon 12 PENTECOST HERALD • October 2009 website: www.pentecost.ca • email: [email protected] Testimonies, articles, poems, etc. are welcome from all brethren whether in English or French. Please submit them to the Editorial Board at [email protected] Prières de faire parvenir vos témoignages, articles, poèmes, et autres contributions qu’ils soient en anglais ou en français à l’adresse courriels suivant : [email protected]