As part of his 2-day working visit to the Dunkwa Apostle Area, Lead Apostle Oppong-Brenya celebrated a divine service with members of Twifo Praso congregation in the Central Region of Ghana on May 14, 2023.  The Apostle used the opportunity to eulogize the sisters on the day tagged as ‘Mother’s Day’ and also introduced Apostle Isaac Kofi Annan Mensah to the congregants.  About 140 members gathered for this service.

The Northern Ghana leader based the service on John 14:16-17, “And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that he may abide with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive because it neither sees him nor knows him; but you know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you”, John 14: 16 – 17.

The Advocate and Helper
Jesus begins by assuring his disciples that he will pray to the Father, who will send them another Advocate or Helper. This implies someone who comes alongside to provide support, comfort, and guidance, said the Lead Apostle. Jesus Himself had been the disciples' advocate during his earthly ministry, but now He promises to send the Holy Spirit to take His place.  This promise demonstrates God's love and care for His followers, ensuring they would not be left alone or helpless. The Holy Spirit's role as an Advocate extends beyond mere support; it includes the provision of wisdom, strength, and the fulfillment of God's purposes in our lives.

The Spirit of Truth
Jesus continues by describing the Holy Spirit as the "Spirit of truth." This title emphasizes the Spirit's role in revealing and enlightening the truth of God's Word. In a world full of deception and confusion, the Holy Spirit acts as a guide, leading believers into all truth, explained the Northern Ghana leader.  The Holy Spirit helps us to comprehend the teachings of Jesus, enabling us to grasp the deep spiritual truths contained within Scripture.  He convicts us of sin, prompting us to seek repentance and a deeper relationship with God.  Again, He empowers believers to live out the truth, equipping them with spiritual gifts and enabling them to bear fruit that glorifies God.

The significance for believers today
The promise of the Holy Spirit is not limited to the disciples of Jesus at that time. It is a promise that extends to all who believe in Him today. The Holy Spirit is actively at work in the lives of believers, fulfilling the role of an Advocate, Helper, and the Spirit of truth.  As believers, we can take comfort in knowing that we are never alone in our journey of faith.  We can rely on the Spirit's wisdom and strength when facing challenges, making decisions, and discerning the truth in a world that often promotes falsehood.  Furthermore, the presence of the Holy Spirit transforms us from the inside out, shaping our character to reflect the nature of Christ. The Spirit empowers us to love selflessly, demonstrate kindness and patience, and walk in holiness.

In his concluding words, the Lead Apostle reiterated the remembrance of the invaluable gift we have received as believers—the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. “Do not think of the Holy Spirit as an abstract concept but a personal and active force in our journey of faith.  Let us embrace this promise, seeking a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit and allowing His guidance and power to transform us into faithful followers of Christ”, he added.

The service was assisted by Apostle Isaac Kofi Annan Mensah, Bishop Charles Kesse and Dist. Rector Bismark Nyarko (DR for Jukwa).