The Most Reverend Dr. Paul Kwabena Boafo, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church, Ghana has urged Ministers of the Gospel to live in a manner worth emulating, as true disciples of Jesus Christ.
He said they were to carry out Ministry not for personal gains or worldly recognition but rather, serve God with wholehearted devotion and integrity.
The Presiding Bishop gave the advice on Sunday, June 27 during the Commendation and Commissioning Ceremony for 59 Ministers (52 males and 7 females) to commence their probation as Deacons.
In order to prevent crowding at one venue, the 59 Ministers were divided into three groups for the event to happen concurrently at Mt. Olivet Methodist Church, Dansoman, Most Rev. Kwesi A. Dickson Memorial Chapel, Adjiringano and Bethel Methodist Chapel, Tema Community 8.
He quoted from 1 Peter 5:2-35, “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not Lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”
Rev Boafo said Christianity was currently under intense attack partly because of the UnChristlike character portrayed by some Pastors.
“Sadly, most Pastors of late do not enter Ministry with the right motives but rather for ‘shameful gains’. They parade about as superstars and act in a very domineering manner.”
“You are under God’s authority and can’t live anyhow. The work of the Ministry is a calling and not a means to enrich yourself.
You’re not to lord over people but to rather be a worthy example to all and reflect the character of Jesus Christ,” he said.
He said Church leaders or Pastors were to care for the needs of their Congregation and protect them from troubles both within the Church and without.
The Presiding Bishop said they were also to continually feed the Church with only God’s Word and no other doctrine.
“We live by only one Book-the Bible and that is what you should preach. God’s Word will protect the Church from heresies.
Jesus is the Bread of Life; feed your congregation with the Word lest they die of hunger. If you serve God well, He will reward you accordingly,” he said.
