A special day it was when once again, the prepared children of Kumasi Apostle area presented themselves before the Holy altar to take their confirmation vow on 1st May 2022 at Kumasi Central Congregation. A vow to renounce satan and all his works and ways and remain faithful to the Lord till the end. Lead Apostle Samuel Oppong-Brenya was full of gratitude, and he asked for the Lord’s blessings for the Sunday School and Confirmation class teachers, parents and ministers for their patience in grooming the little ones till the stage where they are ripe to take on the full responsibility of their life of faith.

The Bible text for the divine service was read from Hebrew 13:15-16: “Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. But do not forget to do good for such sacrifices God is well pleased”

The Lead Apostle reminded the congregation about the grace of God for the past months, His provisions and angelic protection. “Let us continue to follow and trust the Lord despite the challenges of the time” he added.

Sacrifice of praise
The Lead Apostle explained how sacrifices with the blood of animals were used by people of the old covenant to atone for sins committed. He described how it became a norm to indulge in sinful acts because they knew they could provide animals for sacrifice for their sins. They were not willing to do that which was worthy before the Lord. “But Jesus prefers righteous living to the sacrifice of animals. By His once brought eternally valid sacrifice, He instituted a new order and as explained by Apostle Paul, we are required to use the fruits of our lips to praise God”.

The fruit of our lips
The Lead Apostle also explained that by the sacrifice of Christ, we are to speak the truth to our neighbour rather than swear in an attempt to embellish the truth, bless instead of curse, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, shelter those who have no place to lay their heads if you have the opportunity. “Do onto your neighbour what you expect him to do unto you. We must serve like the good Samaritan who offered help to that victim who suffered in the hands of the wicked. These are worthy sacrifices of praise we have to offer”.

Do good always
Lead Apostle Oppong-Brenya mentioned that doing good to our neighbour is the best sacrifice that is pleasing to the Lord. “Serve the Lord, take care of your home, your wives, husbands and your children. Let your good deeds be evident so that one can see you as their saviour. Let some say that if it not been for you, their life would have been miserable”.

To the 38 confirmands, the Lead Apostle admonished them to remain humble and be obedient to their parents and the elderly. “My soul will be sorrowful should I hear that because you have now been confirmed, you want to assume full responsibility for your lives and won’t submit to your parents any longer. Go and bear good fruits and offer the sacrifices of praise which is the fruits of your lips. May the Lord deal well with you, Amen,” he concluded.