Kharis Magazine Beta Edition by Kharis Group

Blending business & ministry in a unique way

Albert & Comfort Ocran ‘Role Models of the Year 2009’

A trip to the famous “Atwea” mountains Bishop Charles Agyin-Asare

GH¢5

The Word Miracle man

www.kharismagazine.com

Marriage News

Family life Jokes

Relationship Biographies

Weddings Articles

Interviews Cartoons

Fire for this generation

A message from the publisher

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid…Romans 6:1-2

N THIS NOTE I say happy New Year to all the wonderful KHARIS fans globally. It is my most heartfelt and intense prayer that the good Lord Himself shall endue each and every one of you with unlimited and superfluous grace (KHARIS) this year. I must humbly submit that God has made “KHARIS” magazine special beneficiaries of His amazing grace and an effective tool to propagate the message of GRACE to this generation and generations yet unborn. The Alpha edition even though was new and the very first of its kind invaded, dominated and miraculously made waves all over the country and beyond. The Alpha edition took off with two overwhelming launches, a TV interview and an extensive circulation that covered Nigeria, South Africa, USA and the UK, all because of the up surging demand. This beta edition however has the central theme “fire for this generation” primarily because I believe strongly that AS CHRISTIANS, WE MUST BOLDLY RESIST the diluted humanistic gospel that teaches us how to cope

with life rather than how to make impact, how to exist rather than how to live and to combat this erosion we must first educate ourselves thoroughly in the school of God’s word. Jesus Christ our example taught us to be salt and light in a decaying and dark world. He never taught us to withdraw ourselves from the world or be inactive in it. He taught us to bring glory to the Father by bearing much fruit. And that is why he even rebuked the man in the Parable of the talents that buried his talent in the ground. In summary Jesus expects us to make impact wherever we find ourselves and in whatever situation. Unfortunately, most Churches have been distracted, disarmed and deceived. Instead of equipping the saints to invade, occupy and influence the world for Christ, many have focused on blessing-only, entertainment-only Randy Osae Bediako and rapture-only. What we need is a wake-up call, what we desperately need is fire for this generation. This edition has however been carefully tailored to suit the central theme and would bless and transform the lives of the many that shall read. If you have comments for the publisher Randy Osae Bediako, please send them to randy@kharismagazine.com or call +233 243 969 404, +233 279 915 224 Visit KHARIS MAGAZINE ONLINE! www.kharismagazine.com

Managing editors note!

OR ENTREPRENEURS AND Christian business men/women the Beta offers you the opportunity to learn more and do better through the introduction of “The trail blazer” the new business segment of the magazine. Meet Albert and Comfort Ocran ‘Role Models of the Year 2009’ and 2009 International Christian Business Excellence (ICBE) award winners in this issue, as they tell their

CONTRIBUTORS

Mrs. Jenniffer Boateng Mr. & Mrs. Duut

story on how they blend business and ministry in a unique way. Kharis Beta has indeed more than you can handle and would ever need. Get ready for all the unlimited surprises waiting for you in the various pages.

Lois Mintah

DESIGN

Luvtouch innovate

+233 24 3117267

luvwayministry@yahoo.com

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Please send your letters, questions, e-mails, articles, contributions and your general comments to info@kharismagazine.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Fondjoimages

+233 24 4237076/+233 26 6 650160 www.fondjoimages.net

CONTENT

The welsh revival Let’s talk Family life The woman Before the altar After the altar Trailblazer(Albert & Comfort Ocran) The new birth With God all things are possible News (Don Moen live in Ghana) International news Warnings Living Like Jesus Behold I come quickly Jokes Kharistoon

Yes, I do

26 43

Biography of Arch Bishop Benson Idahosa

6 9 10 12 14 18 33 36 37 38 40 46 48 50 52 53

THE TEAM PUBLISHER

Randy Osae Bediako

MANAGING EDITOR Lois Mintah

ART DIRECTOR

Osei-Wusu Charles (Luvtouch)

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mr. & Mrs. Mintah Mr. Vincent Acquaah Mr. Joseph Mintah Rev. Dr. Derek Larbi Kizito Nii Amarh Amartey

DISTRIBUTION

Akosua Odame-Darkwa

MARKETING

Anthony Afum-Adjei Awua Steven Nana Owusu Sarpong Darren Deladem Settor Dey

HERALDS

Palgrave Boakye Danquah Dennis Ametepe David Asare Asiamah Kenneth Kofi Kriegger Emmanuel Mandor

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Rev. Dr. & Mrs. Larbi Miss Josephine Gifty Baddoo Mr. Joseph Mintah

The amazing Profile of Bishop Charles Agyin-Asare

Exclusive interview with Helena Rhabbles from U.S.A

The mountain of prayer

A Godless generation and their idols Beta edition 2010

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A history of 1904 and news today

The background

Blaenau Ffestiniog (1887), Dowlais (1890) and Pontnewydd (1892).

Before the 1904–1905 revival the last revival that Wales saw was in 1859, but prior to that change was already afoot. From 1850 onwards the Christianity of Wales was markedly less Calvinistic in form. A generation of powerful biblical preachers ended, as leaders such as Christmas Evans (1838), John Elias (1841) and Henry Rees (1869) died. Prior to the 1904–1905 revival two thinkers came to prominence, the political philosopher Karl Marx with his Communist Manifesto in 1848 and Das Capital in 1867 and the scientist Charles Darwin with his major work the Origin of Species in 1859, both of which arguably posed a challenge to the Christianity of Wales. In the face of hardship the poor quarrymen of North Wales wanted hope and so many modified their preaching 6 KHARIS

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Evan Roberts

Charles Darwin

style to that of social gospel; likewise Christian leaders came to accept the theories of Darwin despite the fact that some perceived them as being in conflict with the teachings of the Bible. Between 1859 and 1904, there were local revivals: in Cwmbran (1866), Rhondda (1879), Carmarthen and

Of all the names that are linked with the 1904 Revival, Evan Roberts is the most well known. At 26 years of age in the Autumn of 1904, he was to become an instant spiritual celebrity in Wales as the local and national newspapers of the day chronicled the spreading Religious Revival. His celebrity status was highlighted by the fact that he was a precious ‘unknown’. He wasn’t even a fully licensed preacher in 1904 – he was merely a trainee attending a grammar school to prepare him for the ministry course. He had left school when only 11years and nine months old to help his father in the local coal mine. Having worked in coalmining for 12 years he then became an apprentice

This involved a struggle between Evan’s way and God’s and as at Gethsemane it meant a conscious choice of “not my will but Thy will be done”.At Blaenannerch on Thursday 29th September 1904 at 9.30 in the morning, Evan took that step – one seemingly insignificant step for mankind yet one that lead to the greater advancement of the Kingdom of God worldwide.

Role of newspapers Mr. Evan Roberts and the revivalists from Loughor

to a blacksmith for over a year. He left that calling when he felt a greater call to reach people for Christ. The only avenue that seemed available to him at the time was the Presbyterian Ministry and it was whilst he was in pursuit of this that God radically changed his plans. Evan Roberts had been a committed Christian from his early teenage years. He had not lived a profligate life – he was a tea-totaler committed to abstinence, a regular attendee and contributor to the on going life of his local church. He was a well-respected Sunday School teacher – someone who prayed publicly in the prayer meeting and rarely missed the other mid week meetings. Friends of his at the time remember him as a committed Christian in word and deed. His private spiritual life also matched his public profession, private prayer and bible study. These were essential components of his spirituality from an early age. But it was in the spring of 1904 that Evan was to experience an even greater feeling of God’s presence. One night he was woken from his sleep and led into a deep communion with God for hours. This experience was to continue every evening for the next few months until he went away to the school at Newcastle Emlyn. This change of scenery had an immediate cooling effect on his spiritual fervor but it wasn’t to last long. Two weeks after arriving at the school, Evan attended a Convention at nearby Blaenannerch and it was here that he received what he termed as

a fresh ‘Baptism of the Spirit’ as he responded to the prayer ‘Bend me oh Lord’. This empowering of the Spirit transformed the young student into a Revivalist with a message for Wales. Within a month he felt compelled to share this message of the reality of God and the possibility of complete forgiveness of sins with his home youth group at Moriah Loughor. Summing up the message in 4 parts, Evan pressed it home to the astonished church 1. Confess all known sin 2. Deal with and get rid of anything ‘doubtful’ in your life 3. Be ready to obey the Holy Spirit instantly 4. Confess Christ publicly By the end of the last week over 60 responded. By the end of the second week Evan had already started on a whirl-wind tour of the South Wales valleys with his team of 5 girl singers and within a year or so 100,000 converts were said to be added to the Welsh Church. What was the secret of this young man’s powerful ministry? I’m sure that there may be many answers including his upbringing, his bible reading, his prayer life etc. Perhaps a concise way of answering the question would be that he was willing to bow to God’s Sovereign purpose for his life. This did include being a teacher of a great Revival but firstly it meant being willing to let God have this Divine way in Evan’s own life.

A feature of this revival that was not seen in any other revival prior to 1904 was the role of the media. The Western Mail and the South Wales Daily News, Wales’ daily newspapers spread news of conversions and generated an air of excitement about the Revival that helped to fuel it further. The Western Mail in particular gave extensive coverage to Roberts’ meetings in Loughor. The Western Mail articles were reprinted in book form in 2004 by Quinta Press.

Reflections on the Revival

It is believed that at least 100,000 people made Christian commitments during the movement during the revival, but despite this it did not put a stop to the gradual decline of Christianity in Wales, only holding it back slightly. It has been argued by some conservative Christian historians that the 1904–1905 revival lacked the depth of previous revivals in terms of nurturing the newly converted Christians in biblical teaching. However, many modern Pentecostal (“charismatic”) Christians reflect on this period as being critical in developing a larger understanding of the Holy Spirit in the greater Church, and what it was lacking during this period.

Source: en.Wikipedia.org Compiled by Randy Osae Bediako

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Christianity today

“...and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch” Acts 11:26b. This description of the believers followed the revival that occurred in that region. The Word of God was actively preached to Jews and Gentiles and fellowship was rich; Christ-like traits. So is the Word being preached today? Yes! Are signs following the Word? Yes! Does grace abound? Yes! However, in my view Christianity today is particularly inward looking, focusing more on the “here and now”. There is almost an unpopular sense of the transient nature of our journey, and in that wise only Christianity runs the risk of becoming akin to the pursuit of earthly gain.

Mrs. Linda Larbi (Marketing executive)

I sometimes look at Christianity today with confusion and wonder “Why?” concerning so many questions. The answer of course is simple, and it is the same answer Ezekiel gave to God. The New American Standard Bible says, “He said to me, ‘Son of man, can these bones live?’ And I answered, ‘O Lord GOD, You know.’” (Ezekiel 37:3). If we stand on the knowledge that God knows our fears, our pain, our sorrow, and our questions, we can trust God and follow Peter who says, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

Kevin McCrary (Colgate University U.S.A)

Christianity today has become the acquisition of material wealth rather than spiritual wealth. The hearts of Gods children have turned from seeking him and his kingdom diligently to acquiring and pursuing the temporal riches of this world which simply satisfy our earthly desires. I however believe God is reviving the end time church and restoring the heart of his children back to himself, to a place of true worship where there is no self.

Love Clarkson Ayanful (Pioneer Food Cannery, Tema.)

Oh, what glorious a life, enormous an inheritance and surpassing a power has Father God made available to us. The Father calls, His Spirit beckons and the Son invites today’s Christian to this Higher Life (Zoe). Alas, we look on with blindness, and hear with a deafened ear. The few who responded have been paraded superstars and the rest of the Royal Family live like beggars. This also is another true picture of Christianity Today.

Derrick Boamah ( Youth Pastor Gospel Ambassadors Church, Kumasi) Beta edition 2010

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How to raise godly children

HE GOAL OF EVERY Christian parent in life should not be to rear a “good kid” or have students who are excelling academically, are great athletes, and so forth. The goal is to equip our children, these young saints “for the work of the ministry” (Ephesians 4:12, Mark 10:45). Our goal as Christian parents is to train them to stay on the road of usefulness to God. If, in the end, they are unusable to Christ, they are not handling life spiritually and wisely, both they and we have failed.

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Make sure your children see you submit yourself to the Holy Spirit 1

Make sure to encourage your children to read biographies and autobiographies of Christians of the past. As a young Christian I immersed myself in these books and they were a blessing to my life. We encouraged our children to read these books and it helped them to see how God had worked in other Christian’s lives.

Make sure your children hear you pray, and in your prayer let them hear you calling their name to God. Teach your children how to pray.

Make sure you put God first in your life and giving. Make sure that you explain that all money is God’s money, not just 10 percent. Make sure that you explain giving to the Lord to your children and that your children see you give to the Lord. As your children are given money or work for money, make sure they understand that giving begins at an early age.

Make sure your children see you submit yourself to the Holy Spirit. Encourage them to submit themselves to the Holy Spirit. As the Lord works in your life, it does not hurt the

children to see you come forward in a service and submit yourself more fully to God.

Make sure you share your personal testimony of salvation with your children. Tell them how you got saved. Pray earnestly for your children to be saved and make sure they understand the gospel. Seek to see your children come to know Christ at an early age.

Pastor Terry L. Coomer www.fortheloveofthefamily.com

Make sure you show your children how to do personal devotions and that they see you read the Bible and do personal devotions. Make sure you read and explain the Bible to your children. Your personal, intimate, and real spiritual relationship with God will be the most important influence in rearing your children for God. The second will be conveying to your children the way to have that relationship and for them to have an intimate, personal, passionate relationship with the Lord.

Photography: fondjoimages

The most important thing about rearing spiritual children is for the spiritual parent to get the child’s heart, Proverbs 23:26. You must pray for this daily and work at it. Part of getting their heart is to ask questions. You must make time to communicate. You must draw out what is in the heart. Remember that if you lose your child’s heart, find out where you lost it and make every effort to get it back as soon as possible. Your child’s heart can be lost, hardened, and stolen. These are the three steps every child takes to rebellion. These steps are taken because the parents lose the heart of the child. Beta edition 2010

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Beauty therapy

HERE ARE SO many beauty treatments today. It seems that the world has gone a step forward to enhancing and maintaining the beauty of women. Now it’s not a big deal if your eyelashes are too short, you can just make them long. There are even bust pads to give you the size you have always wanted. The question is, are we satisfied with these therapies? Do they bring out exactly what we are looking for? It seems anytime we look into the mirror, we end up in the salon or cosmetic shop, because the world has now given us a standard for how we should look. The mirror has us going all over the world looking for a way to help us look like somebody else, but if you stop being you, who then would be you! Beauty therapy is important, because we must look nice. But for who? Is it yourself, your spouse, your friends, or society? No matter what we do or how much we try, the standard for what beauty is, would keep on changing. Let’s take the book of Esther in the Bible. Lots of girls were rounded up for a year long beauty therapy, just to spend one night with the king. To see if the king would accept them as queen, but guess what? Only one of them would be accepted. We are all undergoing one beauty therapy or the other because of a kind of throne and we think we must meet a certain standard before we can claim that throne. 12 KHARIS Beta edition 2010

Well, congratulations but I desire a throne from above, not an earthly queen do I want to be, but I want to be queen for the greatest man who ever lived, who formed me and knows all of me. I want to look good for Jesus! I want to be beautiful for Him to behold. It doesn’t matter what the world says, all I want is for him to say that I am beautiful. How can Jesus ay this? “Do not let your adornment be merely outward-arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel-rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of the gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.” 1 Peter 3: 3-4

Jesus knows beauty when he sees it and appreciates it, and his standards do not increase or change as the world’s does. Every one can meet his standards. There is just one way, and just one mirror for you to look into; THE WORD OF GOD. His definition of true beauty is what he has written down for us in the Bible. And we don’t have to apply any make up, as we daily, continually look into it, we become beautiful because we

Jesus knows beauty when he sees it and appreciates it, and his standards do not increase or change as the world’s does

become like him. But we all with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.. 1 Corinthians 3: 18 You see, its not so difficult, therefore as you pack your bag to go out, look into your God given mirror, the Bible, and see if you are beautiful enough to go out each day.

Mirror, Mirror on the wall, who is the most beautiful woman in the whole world...? The woman who looks into the Word of God.

Lois Mintah

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One thing that anyone who wants to take any major decision needs to do is to know him or herself well. One needs to discover his or her identity. •You are unique. •Recognize your strengths and weaknesses •Plan your life. by: Mr. Vincent Aquaah, KNUST

Seek the Will of God before a relationship...

HE CHALLENGE has always been who to go in for and when to start pre-marital relationship, but the solution is in knowing the will of God. To discover the will of God requires first developing a deeper relationship with God. In order to develop such a relationship three things have to be done:

Know More about God

Spend quality time with Him through prayer and the reading of His Word.

Fall in Love with God First

The more one desires himself or herself in God and acknowledges Him, the more he or she receives directions from Him.

Seek Heavenly Counsel

Be sensitive to the promptings of the Inner Counsellor. (John 14:16) because He has access to all hidden 14 KHARIS Beta edition 2010

You are responsible for every decision you make. Therefore accept the responsibility that goes with your decisions and do not rush into taking any decision. Be cautious! The more one feeds his or her spiritman the more he or she becomes spiritual and follows the dictates of the Spirit. On the other hand, if one feeds the carnal man, all of its desires are strengthened and one is bound to follow the dictates of the flesh. When a decision gives you trouble,

You are responsible for every decision you make. Therefore accept the responsibility that goes with your decisions and do not rush into taking any decision. truths and has the capability to direct you to all truth. As we go through the above three there are some questions we ought to ask ourselves. These can help us to test all the options we have.

The Questions

•Will this decision I’m taking violate any principle of God? •Will this decision I’m taking hinder my growth as a Christian? •Will this decision I’m taking further or hinder my service to Christ? •Will this decision I’m taking help or

you have the right to change it. I agree that sometimes our surroundings, family members, friends and the way we feel about certain things can cause us to make some wrong decisions. But thank God that as long as there is life, there is the opportunity to make amends. Ask God for forgiveness (1 John 1:9), accept His forgiveness, ask Him for wisdom and strength to take the necessary bold decision that has to be taken and make amends. Don’t be afraid of starting all over again if you have to. Nowhere is too far to return to get out of danger. We need to be WISE!

Photography: fondjoimages

hinder others in relationship with Christ?

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Photography: Michael Minnow Photography: fondjoimages

Photography: fondjoimages

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Finally!!!

excitement in the ai r time to cut the cake

boogie down praise the Lord!!!

ladies, say cheese the whole crew

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Pictures: www.inmagine.com

by: Mr. & Mrs. Joe Okyere - Mintah

N OUR PREVIOUS article we stated that we would take a look at some problems that arise in marriage “after the altar”. After many years of counseling couples, we have come to the realization that, most of the problems couples face in marriage can be traced back to the very beginning. So in this piece we would expose some of the prevailing challenges and address them accordingly.

Set the right tone from the beginning It is said in the field of football that, the best way to win your match is to take your own referee and lines men to the park. This is accomplished through good training; tactical discipline and a good team selection. When your team is good and on top you don’t need the help of the referee and his assistants to win your game. The tone is set by you, and marriage is no different. Setting the right tone in marriage has a lot to do with your selection process and that will definitely make a great impact on your “after the altar.”

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You should be able to recognize certain things in the other person which answers what you are looking for and then seal the deal. Pray and be on the lookout Let’s look at the illustration of the pearl of Great value that JESUS used in Mathew 13:45-46.“Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a pearl merchant on the lookout for choice Pearl, when he discovered a pearl of great value he sold everything he owned and bought it. (The New living Translation) Every eligible man or woman who wants to marry must take the position of the pearl merchant. Looking for your wife or husband is something that must be undertaken with all the seriousness and purpose of mind it requires, after you have prayed. Don’t be reckless or casual about it. The merchant knew precisely what he wanted and as soon as he saw one he could immediately recognize the pearl that was of high quality and which could fetch a high price. You should be able to recognize certain things in the other person which answers what you are looking for and then seal the deal.

Cut off all other links When you are settled in your spirit cut off all other links. The merchant sold all the pearls he had in other to buy the one which met his considerations. Many marriages have suffered simply because someone did not cut off the old links and allowed them to linger on in the background of the new relationship. The devil will use it as a foothold and mount attacks on your “after the altar” life. Many married men and women continue to make and receive midnight calls outside their marriage and such ones have never enjoyed their marriages. So seal the deal and forget about “what could have been but never became”

Look out for the rest and most intense points in the next issue, stay tuned!

profile

Bishop Charles Agyin-Asare

N THE EVENING OF 22 March, 1962, AgyinAsare (originally called Charles Ekow) was born in Achiase, Ghana, to Andrew Kofi Esar Asare, a soldier, and Elizabeth Arthur, a baker. Born in a Roman Catholic home, Agyin-Asare was nicknamed “dada” and “priest” by family and peers. Agyin-Asare, was very outspoken and intelligent even as a child, and thus was always a good student, in spite of his parents’ divorce in 1971. Being skipped ahead of his normal class, Agyin-Asare went to St. Martin’s Secondary School at the age of 11, where most of his life was altered; over there he indulged in all manner of debauchery, alcoholism and drug abuse, which sooner got him expelled from school. Having a thirst for a Supreme Being and his worship, Agyin-Asare converted to Buddhism and later considered Islam, where he was so devoted that he stopped all he was doing to chant and meditate as the religion required at the specific times of prayer and worship. In 1980, Agyin-Asare was invited to a Pentecostal church, where he was called to the altar after the sermon, and there gave his life to Christ, and at 18 converted to Christianity. This is where the second part of his life was majorly altered. He became a devout Christian, longing always to do the things of God and to minister to people. In 1983, he felt the call of God to do His work, expecting the Acts of the Apostles’ results. During this period, he absorbed himself in books by A. W. Tozer, Andrew Murray, Charles Finney, R.A. Torrey, and

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the like, as well as the biographies and autobiographies of some of the old time revivalists. He cried night and day asking God to give him souls and to form Christ in his body lest he die. Fortunately, in the same year, his cry was heard as Dr. Morris Cerullo held a school of ministry in Accra, Ghana, where Agyin-Asare says he had the mandate from heaven, God told Him, â&#x20AC;&#x153;My boy Charles, I send you out as I sent Moses; go and I would put my words on your lips and take the world for me. I give unto you Power over demons and principalities, heal the sick, raise the dead, preach the Kingdomâ&#x20AC;?. After the commission, he went round the cities and towns, holding miracle campaigns and schools of ministry for leaders and church workers. His gospel campaigns have recorded over 100,000 in a single night, where multitudes of sick and maimed have received their healing. In 1987, by divine instruction, AgyinAsare started a church, World Miracle Bible Church (now Word Miracle Church International), in Tamale in the Northern Region of Ghana. In 1994, he moved the headquarters of the church to Accra, and started another branch of the church.

In 1980, Agyin-Asare was invited to a Pentecostal church, where he was called to the altar after the sermon, and there gave his life to Christ, and at 18 converted to Christianity. Beta edition 2010

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profile

Bishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Family from left: Francis, Charlene, Bishop Charles, mummy Vivian and Selasie

In 1991, Agyin-Asare was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Divinity by Shiloh Ecclesiastical Bible College, London, and consecrated a bishop by Archbishop Malachi Ramsey, Primate of Shiloh Apostolic Church Worldwide, at the Living Springs Chapel International, Great Britain. In 1999, Agyin-Asare earned another doctorate, Doctor of Philosophy in Theology from the Vision International University, Ramona, California, USA.

Bishop being presented with his third doctorate, Doctor of Philosophy in Theology from the Vision International University, USA. Presented by the president, Dr. Stan De Koven. 1999

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H.E. President J.A. Kuffour honours Bishop Charles Agyin-Asare with the Order of the Volta(one of the most prestigious national awards) for being part of those who have helped to champion African Excellence in 2007.

Bishop Charles Agyin-Asare presents his book Enracine to H.E. President Faure Gnassingbe of Togo 2005

Receiving the Honorary Citizen and Goodwill Ambassador to the City of Houston, and the senate of Texas Declaration by a commissioner of the city (Mr. Chris Wilmot) 1999.

On 6th May, 1999, he was named an Honorary Citizen of the City of Houston, USA, and given a Senate of Texas declaration (Senate Resolution No. 841) for his achievement in evangelism and social works all over the world. In 2007, Agyin-Asare was awarded a Member of the Order of the Volta, by President J.A. Kuffour, for his outstanding achievements and helping to champion African Excellence as a religious leader. Agyin-Asare has fellowshipped with and ministered to over 7 presidents and dignitaries of other nations.

Bishop Charles Agyin-Asare welcomes His Excellency, Vice President Aliu Mahama to address the National Youth Xplosion organized by the Bishop in 2007.

From Left: Hon. Chambesi(Minister of Lands and Mines, Zambia), Bishop Charles Agyin-Asare, H.E. Enoch Kavindele(Vice President, Zambia) and Rev. Mrs Vivian Agyin-Asare in 2001.

Bishop Charles Agyin-Asare with His Excellency Kofi Annan, Secretary General of the United Nations in 2002.

H.E President Laurent Gbagbo of Cote Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ivoire welcomes Bishop Charles & Rev. Mrs. AgyinAsare and others when the Bishop went to speak at Gbagboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inaugural thanks giving service 2001.

Bishop Charles Agyin Asare praying for President Rawlings on the Emancipation Day Celebration, with him are other leading ministers of the gospel in1998

His Excellency, President John Atta Mills in a handshake with Bishop Charles Agyin-Asare on a visit to the Word Miracle Church International.

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buzz buzz

KHARIS: Woman of God, please tell

us about yourself. Well I was born in the Central Region, Cape Coast to the late Mr Cecil Dudley Mends, and Madam Elizabeth Adwoa Davies. I grew up in Takoradi, with my siblings. We were 8 in number, of which I am the third, 3 boys, 5 girls.

Helena Rhabbles a few other arranged furniture as his drum set. My Sunday school teacher also got it developed in a way as she had me singing in church also from time to time. That was where I had my first audience if I should say, in the Methodist church.

KHARIS: Is singing a talent or

ministry? I might have the talent, but that’s my ministerial calling.

KHARIS: When did you realise you KHARIS: When was the first time

had the gift of singing? I must say that it was Daddy who somehow knew that. He formed a trio band with myself and 2 of my brothers, Robert and Charles. He would place me on a table, as I remember and I would sing and dance, with Robert singing along. Charles on the other hand would be our solo instrumentalist, with the table and 26 KHARIS

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you sang in front of people? That would be at the age of ten, with a group “Tears of Jesus”, an evangelical ministry travelling all over the country at that time. Daddy enrolled me in at that age and that was where I had immense exposure, travelling all over the country at that time. Oh! it was great.

aughters Mummy & d ila & Debra (from left Prisc

KHARIS: How do you come about KHARIS: What do you do there?

your songs? In many ways I must say. You see I started my album with good friends, some inside and others outside the country. Mr. Chidi, a Nigerian friend, was a major contributor to my Nigerian flair in my music as he taught it to me and the whole crew. He was the mediator of most of my sound like Nigerian songs. Kwamena Billson, who was my drummer and manager at that time also wrote some of the songs and Nana Awudzie, another friend, also brought in some songs. I wrote the rest myself, and in very different ways. Most of them I must say were inspired by thoughts of what my family and I have been through. Reflections of past happenings send me far and that’s how I write some of my songs. Some also come about when I consider the promises of God on my life and that of my family, through reading of His word as well as through prophecy. Well the ways are many and all I need is to listen to Papa God.

KHARIS: God na helele...What

does it mean? It simply means God is Wonderful. Its Ibo-Yoruba mixed.

KHARIS: For sometime now we

have not heared from you why? I had to go take care of a few things outside the nation

KHARIS: Why did you leave

Ghana? Papa God called me outside the nation to continue my ministry and now I more than believe it was the right time to leave. I had things to learn and I think by the Grace of God, I have done that.

I am a trained teacher you know, and I though in Services back home, but here, am with the Children’s Lighthouse, Grand Prairie, Texas. I’m also the acting president of the Women’s Aglow Ministry here in Grand Prairie and with that; I have a lot of ministerial work every now and then.

KHARIS:

Are you coming back? Sure, someday, but for now, I have an invitation to come home this year for a program so we’d see how that goes. All I can say for my final return is that, when all my children are married and living on their own, then it will be eminent for me to return home.

KHARIS:

How long have you been a Christian? By the age of 10, I knew Jesus Christ and I had accepted Him as my personal Saviour, but it was at the age of 12 that I was baptised, by immersion and that was when I had a deeper revelation of God for myself. My ministry beginning with the Tears of Jesus at that age made all fit together as God had planned because that was how He unfolded Himself to me and since then i have been walking with Him.

KHARIS: Do you still sing?

Oh yeah, I minister every now and then in different states, especially with the church of Pentecost. I’m stationary with the Liberty Christian Fellowship, here in Texas and in church; I head the Women’s Ministry, as well as the praise and worship team so the Ministry continues. From time to time, I’m invited to different states also to minister in Word.

KHARIS:

What do you think about the Christian music industry in Ghana? Well from the little I’ve heard going on, people are getting in for the money and I think that interrupts the goal of

the Gospel. Mind you it is the same Word of God put in melody. So if people won’t pray into it and would put one and two together and in the end call it Gospel music, then I know the intent won’t be the best. It’s leaving a lot to be desired but I also believe that God is in control.

KHARIS:

Comparing the songs that are coming up in Ghana in this day to the songs in your day, what do you have to say? Well I think for some of us, the difference was and will always be the fact that it is a ministry, whiles for others, it’s an industry. This sets people on different paths, and that’s how some become artists and others ministers.

KHARIS:

Who is your favorite Ghanaian christian musician now? To tell you the truth, I can’t say I have one because I barely know their names. I know of Danny Nettey because he’s personally a friend and I’ve heard of a few others because of my son Eben, who happens to be in the university in Ghana, but a favourite I can’t say. The last time I was in Ghana, which was in 2005, I heard of Nii Okai and a few others. I also met a some new ones but to single out one as a favourite, that would be something I can’t do.

KHARIS: What would you tell your

fans in ghana who do not know where you are and are looking for you... First of all I thank God for their lives because I know they haven’t stopped praying for me. I hear things wherever I go even in the States, like a youth group in California ministered ‘satan don fall for ground ooh, marcha marcha’, when I visited last August. I know they are wondering what happened to Helena Rhabbles, but they should keep me in their prayers like they always have and know that God is yet to do a bigger thing with me. Helena Rhabbles will be back, gidigidi.

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ENERALLY, WE CAN measure the value that people put on something by the amount of patience exhibited when trying to acquire it. We can equally measure the value people place on a thing by the diligence or commitment they attach to it. Today, people are often unwilling to stay very long in a church service, they will rather spend all the time watching football matches, telenovellas, movies, browsing the internet or just chatting. God knows our frame of mind (see Ps.103:14). He knows that when we practice the godly attribute of patience and prayer solely to capture His presence, then we have placed a great value on what is nearest to His heart. However we live in a fast track generation where patience, waiting and prayer have become obscure words. Today’s 21st century believer has joined the fast track system of this world where the word fast precedes everything e.g. fast food, fast track court, fast banking, the fast internet, the fast specification computers and laptops, fast money(sakawa), fast automobiles and 28 KHARIS

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interestingly fast prayer and the fast church services. Everyone seems to be in a hurry and everything seems to be at top speed. Yet believers have not realized the need to retreat patiently and spend ample time with God in order to disconnect from this fast track system and discover the will of God for their lives amidst all the speed and confusion. Patient waiting is a magnet that woos His presence. Waiting expectantly in solitude and prayer fit together like a hand in a glove. Once we learn to tap into this inner spiritual well of quietness and contemplation in the very presence of our Beloved, we will discover a source of peace, strength, and stability that the world knows nothing about. We find this theme in Isaiah. Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives strength to the weary, and to

him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, the vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait on the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary. Isaiah 40:28-31

Waiting may feel like nothing is happening, but the reality is that we are soaking up His presence. Then, when we least expect it, at God’s appointed time He “opens the valve”, and floods of blessing and glory come gushing out of us that we had no idea had even been deposited there. The Big question then is where then can we wait and how can we achieve an effective prayer and waiting in solitude away from all the distractions and heavy schedules around us. Follow me now to some prominent scripture that answers these questions. However our interest here is the verse or verses where Jesus seeks to pray alone or pray with the Brethren but in a serene place.

Today’s 21st century believer has joined the fast track system of this world where the word fast precedes everything e.g. fast food, fast track court, fast banking, the fast internet, the fast specification computers and laptops, fast money(sakawa), fast automobiles and interestingly fast prayer and the fast church services.

Matthew 14: 23: “And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray; and when the evening was come, he was there alone.” So before he joined his disciples Jesus sought a place to pray. What was/is the significance of the mountain as a place to pray? Also was the evening a better time to pray than mid-day? What about the power of the Morning Prayer? But he was there alone. What does this mean? Is there something unique about prayer when you are alone in the Spirit? Mark 6: 46: “And when he had sent them away, he departed into a moun-

A view of the mountain from a distance

Over 500 stairs to climb en route to the top of the mountain

tain to pray.” Again we see the mention in scripture of Jesus praying and a mountain was his choice of a place to pray. Will we go to a mountain retreat to pray? Will the brethren seek the solitude and serenity and peace of prayer? Will God hear a prayer called out in peace?

Where is your prayer place, where is your mountain? Do you have trusted saints that you can take with you in the hour prayer?

John 6: 15: “When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.” At Luke 9: 28-36 we see Jesus transfigured on the mountain.

Ghana is blessed with such a “prayer mountain” that serves the purposes of waiting on God in spirit and in truth and if you have not visited this tremendous and awesome sight yet, don’t worry because Kharis has painstainkingly decided to bring the “Atwea” mountains to you... Randy Osae Bediako

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Welcome to the Camp 2

Camp 1

The first camp you meet on your way to the top

Camp 3

The first camp that came into existence on the Atwea mountain also known as the Methodist camp

Temporal wooden structures serving as the resting place for campers

Camp 4 The crevices of camp 4

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Atweaâ&#x20AC;? Mountains Camp 5 The place of abode for the camp owner

The place of worship

Temporal resting places

Camp 7

An extremely serene environment

a prayer altar

Camp 8 Also known as the presbyterian camp

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trailblazer trailblazer

Blending business & ministry in a unique way

Albert & Comfort Ocran

S IT POSSIBLE FOR a person to excel in today’s fast-paced world of business and yet stand firm as a Christian? Is it possible to be an entrepreneur, a banker, a lawyer, a mechanic, a doctor, a manager and yet love the Lord and serve Him in all things?” This is the question that runs through the minds of many all around the world. The answer is an emphatic YES!!! It is definitely possible. We at Kharis believe that the service of Christ is not something to be taken in addition to our life; it is our life. Christian businessmen and women need to first prove that it is possible to combine faith and business at the highest level and also to bring honour

and glory to the name of the Lord. That is the surest way to attract God’s blessings and promotion on any business endeavour. It is in this light that we have decided to bring you the amazing success story of a Christian couple that has made an overwhelming impact in their chosen fields of business… It all began when Mr. Albert Ocran, who is the C.E.O of Combert impressions, spent a long vacation in his grandmother’s village of Agogo in the Eastern Region during his secondary school days. Albert observed his young cousin go through the entire process of cutting palm fronds, weaving baskets and selling them in the market. He was captivated by the proBeta edition 2010

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trailblazer trailblazer

Although business ideas or solutions originate in various ways, their source is God who created us in His image and placed in each of us His creative ability. cess and the satisfaction with which the market women made full payment for the baskets. At that point, a passion for business was ignited in Albert. He learnt the art of basket weaving from his cousin and made his first sale within a week. This began a journey that involved a number of other ‘experiments’ in business; some of which were successful while others failed woefully. The key lesson learnt in all this was to always strive to meet a need and be rewarded for the effort by fulfilled customers. In his final year at the University of Ghana, Albert registered a business partnership with a friend that focused on the production of wall hangings, which they sold on campuses. Comfort, who later became his wife, was a key marketing agent. The first official office of this promising business was a baking room. After five years of operation, Coby n’ Cobby wound up in 1994. However, Albert and Comfort were not ready to give up the idea of running a business. A year later, their persistence, determination and the grace of God pushed them to give birth to Combert Impressions, a printing business. At the inception of Combert, Albert and Comfort could not rent an office so they accepted to ‘perch’ with a relation who kindly agreed to share his office. The couple had nothing but a small computer in 1995 when the business took off. By dint of hard work and perseverance, the business moved through three different locations till it set up its own office complex at Kanda in 2005. Today, Combert Impressions is widely recognized as a premium quality print service provider and the market 34 KHARIS

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leader in motivational publishing in Ghana. Operating from its exquisite offices in Accra, Combert Impressions has positioned itself as a full service provider, offering design, editorial and print services to clients. Their products include the printing of books, corporate stationery, magazines, newsletters, research reports, publicity/promotional materials, funeral stationery and others. Combert is governed by a 5-member board of directors and run by strong management team with over 40 team members. Albert and Comfort Ocran are the principal shareholders and executive directors. Speaking to Kharis, Albert emphasized that as Combert celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2010, it remains committed to its mission “to be the most dependable service provider in the printing industry in West Africa through the use of relevant skills, technology and our unique approach to customer satisfaction.” Albert and Comfort also run Legacy & Legacy, a human capital development firm which engages in corporate training, motivational conferences and the publishing of their books. The couple currently has co-authored twelve (12) books on leadership, business, success and career development including the best-selling “The Lord, Madiba & The Eagle.” Their flagship conference is the annual ‘Springboard Road Show’ that travels nationwide at the beginning of each year empowering people to realize their dreams and fulfill their God-given potential. They also host ‘Springboard’ a motivational seminar dubbed the ‘virtual university’ on Joy FM every Sunday at 7pm. Albert and Comfort are active in the Lord’s work and serve under Dr.

Albert Speaking at Springboard 2010 in Kumasi

Mensa Otabil at Christ Temple of the International Central Gospel Church. They were voted as the ‘Role Models of the Year 2009’ by the Young Professionals Youth Coalition. They also won three awards at the maiden International Christian Business Excellence (ICBE) Awards 2009. They both admit that this has simply

been by the grace of God. According to them, their greatest fulfillment comes from the testimonies of people, whose lives have been transformed by the various arms of their work and ministry. They are also convinced that anyone who submits to God’s purpose can achieve great things in life to the glory of God. Albert & Comfort

are blessed with three lovely children, Joojo, Naana & Nhyira. Although business ideas or solutions originate in various ways, their source is God who created us in His image and placed in each of us His creative ability. –Albert Ocran

Albert & Comfort at Springboard in Bolga

YPYC Awards Albert

Comfort Ocran speaking on Springboard Road Show in Wa

Albert & Comfort with Minister Rashid Pelpuo and Andy Okrah of YPYC

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Recap of Last Lesson i Man was created with the capabil-

ity of moving on to a higher form of spiritual life

ii The human life is the highest form

of life on the earth. But the highest life ever is called ETERNAL LIFE. ZOE is the Greek word for that.

iii

Eternal life is the very life and nature of God. In the garden of Eden, it was symbolized by the tree of life.

iv Adam sinned and to solve the

problem of sin, God promised a seed. The seed went through various prophecies till it became flesh in the person of Jesus.

New Lesson

So Mary gave birth to a God-Man if you like. This is what is called the INCARNATION. That is God becoming flesh. The results of Mary’s acceptance of the SEED was IMMANUEL(Isaiah 7:14). It simply means Man and Elohim the creator in One Body. The Incarnation is a fact that has been attacked by the enemies of God. Anyone who doesn’t believe it is an enemy of God (1John 4:2-3). So the SEED, WORD took on human flesh and He was given the name Jesus, a name which was one of the commonest Hebrew names at that time but would later be glorified and crowned as the name above all 36 KHARIS

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names(Philippians 2:9-10). The seed had to take on human flesh to make it possible for others to also inhabit God. He took upon Himself sinless flesh. Just as the bronze snake of Moses had the body of a snake but didn’t have it’s poison.(Numbers 21:9) So also Jesus took the form or body of man but He didn’t have the sin Na-

On the cross, when the soldier pierced Him with a spear, blood and water came out. The blood was typified by the blood of the Passover lamb (Exodus 12:7,22) and the water was typified by the water that flowed out of the smitten rock(Exodus 17:6, 1Corinthians 10:4). The blood formed the fountain for the washing away of our sins and

Just as Adam slept and God used his rib to produce Eve, so also the last Adam had to die for God to use His divine life to form His bride (the Church) for Him. ture. Remember it wasn’t the sperm of a man that produced Him. The ultimate destination of the seed was the spirit of mankind. Therefore it was necessary for Jesus to die. His death would provide two things. First of all, it would provide His perfect blood to wash away our sin. Secondly it would provide the processed seed which contains the God kind of life for the regeneration of mankind and the building of the church. This was prefigured by the sleep Adam went through to produce Eve. Just as Adam slept and God used his rib to produce Eve, so also the last Adam had to die for God to use His divine life to form His bride(the Church) for Him. The analogy of the grain of wheat dying to produce much fruit applies to the death of Christ. (John 12:24). One grain(Jesus) dying to produce many grains(believers) to make one bread(the church)(1Corinthians 10:17).

the water became the fountain of life. Therefore His death terminated the old creation and His resurrection perfected the new creation. His bones were not broken. The bones signify His divine life. Though His physical life was touched, his divine life was untouched. So the processed seed is the personal Spirit of Jesus. When He died on the cross, this Divine part was committed into God’s hands(Luke 23:46). But His Soul which is His unique personal Spirit comprising His Divinity and His Humanity was made sin(2Corinthians 5:21), went into Hell(Acts 2:27-31), suffered the just punishment of sin for man(Romans 6:23, Hebrews 2:9), conquered and defeated the devil(Hebrews 2:12, Colossians 2:15), and was born again(Acts 13:33). Thus after being born again, He became the first begotten from the dead (Colossians 1:18). This is what the new birth is all about. It is the receiving of the Life of God into our Spirits.

PG CAUTION Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t try this at home

Mathew 19:26

Beloved, whatever challenges you are facing, just be still and know that God is able.

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news

Don Moen live in news

Ghana

Described as one of the most influential gospel singers in the world, 59-year-old evangelist and American singer has over 13 albums and an impressive selection of singles to his credit, including the ever popular â&#x20AC;&#x153;God will make a wayâ&#x20AC;?. Beta edition 2010

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T WAS AN ALL blissful and glorious atmosphere when the internationally acclaimed King of Praise & Worship ministered powerfully in two public concerts on the 12 and 13th of December 2009, at the Independence Square and the Accra International Conference Centre in an outstanding event organized by Functions Ghana.

Reverend Joe Beechem simply did not know what to do with himself, sometimes going down on his knees, or throwing his hands up as though he was trying to grab something divine , or bury his forehead on the floor, while a few chairs away. Bishop Charles Agyin-Asare and a host of others were either swinging their whole bodies in rhythmic flow with the music that piped down at them from the stage or either clapping their hands to praise God. The music that filled the main auditorium was flowing from the trained hands and voice of the King of Praise and Worship, Don Moen and his band. Don’s wife Laura was not left out of the excitement as she tried to interestingly emulate some Ghanaian dance steps she had seen some of the audience do. Patrons left the event truly fulfilled and wishing for more, after Don Moen took everyone on a celestial journey through some of his songs, fresh and old. The response to each song was simply amazing. An equally fulfilled Don Moen, who laced the night’s performance with prayers and good wishes that Ghana would grow from one blessing to the other, yielded with a firm promise to return again next year. He was first in Ghana in 2007 to perform during Ghana’s golden jubilee celebration of independence.

Story by Isaac Yeboah/Myjoyonline.com

Present to grace the occasion on the second day at the international conference centre were gospel musical icons like Pastor Josh Laryea and Reverend Joe Beechem. Beta edition 2010

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news news

TV evangelist

Oral Roberts died at 91

.S. EVANGELIST ORAL ROBERTS, who rose from an obscure tent revivalist to become one of the world’s most recognized religious figures, with a televised ministry attracting millions of followers, died on Tuesday 15th December, 2009. He was 91. The charismatic Pentecostal evangelist died of complications of pneumonia in Newport Beach, Calif. He had been hospitalized after a fall on Saturday. Roberts was married to Evelyn Lutman Fahnestock (April 22, 1917 - May 4, 2005) from December 25, 1938 until her death from pneumonia in a Southern California hospital at the age of 88. At the height of his influence in 1985, Roberts headed a religious, educational and communications enterprise based in Tulsa, Okla. The Oral Roberts Evangelistic Association and Oral Roberts University employed more than 2,300 people and earned $110 million US in annual revenue. The youngest of four children of a poor travelling Pentecostal preacher, Roberts overcame tuberculosis at age 17 and credited this for his decision to become a preacher himself. The rise of his ministry coincided with the development of television. He began his TV career in 1954 by filming his worship services. By the 1960s and ‘70s, he was reaching millions of people around the world. Beta edition 2010

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In 1963, he founded Oral Roberts University. The campus is a Tulsa landmark, with its gold-painted space-age buildings and a 61-metre prayer tower. Students at the school are required to sign a pledge not to lie, curse, drink, smoke, gamble or have sex outside of marriage.

He came out of retirement in 2007 and was succeeded by his son, Richard, who took over his ministry and the presidency of Oral Roberts

University but later Richard Roberts resigned from the university. Rebecca, Roberts’ oldest child, and her husband, Marshall Nash, died in a plane crash in 1977. His youngest son, Ronnie Roberts, died of a selfinflicted gunshot in 1982. Roberts is survived by his daughter, Roberta Potts, Richard Roberts, 12 grandchildren and several greatgrandchildren.

CBC News

To advertise with us or to contribute to the sustainability of this life transforming Christian magazine, please contact us on

+233 24 3969404, +233 24 3019239 Email: info@kharismagazine.com Alpha edition 2009

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When he was eighteen months old he was left on a rubbish heap to die. He was rejected by his father, sent to work on a farm as a servant and was denied education until he was fourteen years old. Bini member of Pastor Okpo’s small congregation. As a young convert he became very zealous in winning souls and in conducting outreaches in villages around Benin City. He was called to the ministry in a night vision from the Lord. “I have called you that you might take the gospel around the world in my name, preach the gospel, and I will confirm my word with signs following,” said the voice from heaven. The room was filled with the presence of God as Benson fell to his knees beside the bed: “Lord, wherever you want me to go, I will go.” He prayed on through the night, renewing his vows to God and interceding for his people who were yet to hear the message of salvation.

ENSON ANDREW IDAHOSA was born in Benin City on September 11, 1938 of poor pagan parents. He was a sickly infant who was always fainting. As a result of his constant illness his father ordered the mother to throw him in the dust bin. When he was eighteen months old he was left on a rubbish heap to die. He was rejected by his father, sent to work on a farm as a servant and was denied education until he was fourteen years old. His education was irregular due to the poor financial status of his parents. He later took correspondence courses from Britain and the United States while working in Bata Shoe Company. His conversion was dramatic and his calling supernatural. He was converted by Pastor Okpo on a football field one Sunday afternoon while playing soccer with his teammates. Thus, young Benson became the first

After his call, Benson launched into ministry work preaching from village to village the gospel of Jesus Christ with great power and anointing. More people confessed Christ as their Savior, and more healings occurred as he prayed for the sick and raised the dead. Benson Idahosa eventually became the archbishop and founder of Church of God Mission International Incorporated with its headquarters in Benin City, Nigeria. He established over 6,000 churches throughout Nigeria and Ghana before 1971. Many of the ministers he supervised pastored churches of 1,000 to 4,000 people. He was also president of All Nations for Christ Bible Institute, president of Idahosa World Outreach and president of Faith Medical Centre. He held positions in numerous organizations including the college of bishops of the international communion of Christian churches and the Oral Roberts University in Oklahoma. Idahosa earned a diploma in divinity from Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas, Texas, which he attended in 1971, a Doctorate of Divinity in 1981 from the Word of Faith College, New Orleans and a Doctor of Laws degree from Oral Roberts University in March 1984. He also received other degrees from the International University in Brussels, Belgium. Archbishop Benson Idahosa and his wife Margaret Idahosa were blessed with four children.

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Photography: fondjoimages

HE BIBLE GIVES an account of a generation called the “Joshua Generation” a bold group of spiritually aggressive and faith filled reformers who turned their world upside down for God. It’s the group that went in to possess the promise land. These are the ones who vowed that our household would serve the Lord… Another account is giving in the New Testament about a generation of fire brand, non compromising Apostles in the book of Acts who violently and faithfully swept their gentile generation into the Kingdom of light leaving them no option to remain pagan… Yet quite amazingly regardless of the state of emergency in Christendom today i have heard many Christians confidently declare that we are a similar breed of these generations if 44 KHARIS

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not the exact epitome, Quite often than not we have heard this message continually preached in sermons and heralded in high praise throughout Pentecostal and Charismatic churches…the big question is, does this generation have the tenacity and characteristics of a fire brand generation? Do we have the zeal and passion like our predecessors in the book of Acts? Are we moved by the lost souls and decadence all around us? Does the church preach the kingdom of God or money? Are we the end time vibrant army? Are we ready for the second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ? Are we really the so-called Joshua Generation? Let’s consider the account of Joshua’s days. The Bible says after the Joshua generation died there arose another

generation; a generation that did not

follow god, May be this rings a bell,

because you and I know that our generation can easily qualify for that

generation after Joshua, that Godless generation…prophecy confirms that this generation is highly deceptive and dangerous basically because, men are lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self- control, brutal, lovers of evil, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of Godliness but denying its power…always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth…(2 timothy 3:1-9). These are unfortunately the elements that characterize our generation. The Prophet Samuel wrote, “And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord and served Baalim. And they forsook the Lord God of their fathers which brought them out of the land of Egypt and followed other gods, of the gods of the people that were round about them, and bowed

themselves unto them, and provoked the Lord to anger. And they forsook the Lord and served Baal and Ashtoreth. And the anger of the Lord was hot against Israel and he delivered them into the hands of spoilers that spoiled them and he sold them into the hands of their enemies round about so that they could not any longer stand before their enemies” (Judges 2:10-14). Who or what were these “idols of the people” that enslaved the children of the greatest warriors in history? What are the gods and idols of our time today? If idols or gods are objects of adoration that take our attention and time from God then this generation has more than Baal and Ashtoreth’s to worship. This generation unfortunately worships a wide range of idols

such as mobile phones, laptops, cars, buildings, money, clothes, jewelry, the internet, sex, fashion trends, hip hop or hip life and all secular music just to mention a few… are we eventually fulfilling the prophecy about the last days? Are our children and grandchildren in grave danger? Should we blow the trumpet of warning in Zion? Let the end time church Arise and take this generation for Jesus, Let the Watchmen cry down fire for this generation, Let the laborers speedily harvest, let the priests and intercessors cry for revival. OH! Lord we need your GRACE (KHARIS) more than ever…

CAUTION Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the

world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever. 1 John 2:15-17

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INTRODUCTION… People who truly love you, especially enough to be willing to die in your stead and actually do, do not characteristically go out of their way to unduly scare you. It is the reason why Jesus use of words and phrases like “WATCH”, “BEWARE”, “WOE TO YOU”, “VERILY,VERILY I SAY UNTO YOU” and, “IT WILL BE BETTER FOR YOU” should be given some significant weight of attention. This column will focus on the cautionary words of JESUS to those he loved to DEATH. Consideration will also be given to cautionary words of the early apostles as they continued in the LOVE ministry of JESUS…

“WHO WARNED YOU TO FLEE FROM THE WRATH TO COME” John The Baptist.

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VOLUME 1. “But woe to you who are rich for you have received your consolation. Woe to you who are full, for you shall hunger. Woe to you who laugh now, for you shall mourn and weep. Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for so did their fathers to the false prophets.” Luke 6:24-26... Now anyone will struggle to find a partypooper or funbuster better than these statements of JESUS. Now don’t forget that he is the same one who said that he had a problem with

beatitudes is what precedes this statement (blessed are the poor.....blessed are you who hunger....blessed are you when men hate you.....-LUKE 6: 2022). The problem with the beatitudes though, as one bible commentator put it is that most Christians regard the beatitudes as some ethereal maxims to aspire to , but not to actually experience. This sad situation is a formidable obstacle in appreciating the substance of Christ’s teachings. The above statement under discussion will sound quite anticontemporary Christian culture because contemporary Christian culture does not embrace the beatitudes as a serious and real way to live. JESUS

contemporary Christian culture does not embrace the beatitudes as a serious and real way to live his generation because JOHN THE BAPTIST came not eating and he was accused of having a demon whilst HE came eating and drinking and earned a reputation as a glutton and winebibber (MATTHEW 11: 18,19). From his own account He must have partied “some” to earn such a name even if it was maliciously coined. You have to realize though, the context in which JESUS made the above statement. It was in the context of BLESSINGS!. What has been quaintly called the

seems to strongly suggest that there is a level or measure of discontent that a Christian must willingly accommodate not grudgingly but excitedly. In fact he says and I quote, “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy! For indeed your reward is great in heaven...”- LUKE 6: 23. The inordinate pursuit of comfort in wealth, mirth and prestige this side of heaven for a Christian increases your odds of making it. The man who loves us more than words can say and died to prove it says BEWARE! Just trying to soften it, but he actually said, “woe to you...”

To you who prides in If you have excessive earthly comforts of desire for the things material acquisitions that are present and temporal, you will To you who boasts lose the things that in a good name and are celestial and influence within high eternal - THOMAS a social circles KEMPIS To you who leaves no stone unturned in the quest for emotional gratification To you who flippantly substitutes your God with your belly. A certain fixation on spiritual utopia borders on eternal jeopardy and the loving master sends a clear message. i.e. WOE! Remember, that it was because Jesus looked at him and LOVED him that he asked the rich young ruler to sell all he had and give to the poor (... then JESUS, looking at him LOVED him, and said to him.....) MARK 10: 21. Alas that kind of love was too dear for the young man but can you afford it......

When Paul shared in his letter that he was replied “MY GRACE IS SUFFICIENT FOR YOU” the inference was that God was leaving that thorn in the flesh in it’s place and Paul was to carry on valiantly with sufficient grace and

Do not set your sights fixedly on riches, fun and ease for these are not necessarily the hallmarks of the sure way to HIS PROMISED REST.

the thorn (See 2 CORINTHIANS 12 :7-10). We have had many sterling saints in our generation and generations past with unexplainables....the retarded child, the chronic illness with no genetic predisposition and the list could go on and on. However, neither height nor depth, nor things present nor things to come…….. shall separate us from the love of GOD that is in Christ Jesus (ROMANS 8 ; 38,39)… The beautiful attitudes (beatitudes) do really save us. A wrong aim or focus is quite frequently the reason for being on the wrong path. The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye (focus) is good the whole body will be full of light but if your eye (focus) is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. (MATTHEW 6: 22, 23). How my friend is your eye’s focus? Do not set your sights fixedly on riches, fun and ease for these are not necessarily the hallmarks of the sure way to HIS PROMISED REST. Heed my friend this warning of love....”WOE TO.......”

Rev. Dr. Derek Larbi

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KHARIS 47

NDEED TO LIVE is Christ and to die is gain…We cannot live for what we can’t die for. For unto us it is given on the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him but also to suffer

men He has created. He, being a high priest and the judge of our souls yet was judged by the hatred of men so

Instead of a kingly crown, they put a crown of thorns for His sake (Romans 8:17). We upon His head. His must hold on to the torch which has been bare back was made an handed over to us by erosion of blood with deep cuts of whips faithful men out of much pain and suffer- and smote Him on the ing. Some were stoned head. He was pierced others were whipped on the side with a sword and given vinand still others were egar instead of refreshskinned and fried all for the sake of a wor- ing water to ease His thirst and painfully thy cause… some martyrs nailed. After all this gave their lives in exchange for what they believed in. Nothing could He was left naked separate them from the love of Christ even as they were killed all day long as to be mocked at and sheep for the slaughter. Through it all hanged on a cross as a they conquered by their persistence curse just for us. and in-depth love for God. Jesus was their true example…He was beaten by fragile

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wicked and mean.

Jesus paid the price and paid all of it in pain, agony and in much rejection even of The

Father. As he cried out loud, “Eloi Eloi lama sabacthani (Father, Father, why has Thou forsaken me)?”(Matt 27:46). Beloved the price of our son ship was Christ Jesus the only begotten of The Father. He was crushed for our iniquity and bruised for our transgression and the chastisement of the church was upon His shoulders. As a wonderful counselor and Prince of Peace, Jesus, had the government of the world upon His shoulder. This was possible because He also carried the sins of the world upon His shoulders. He never gave up until He completed the task. He endured every bit of the betrayal and persecutions. He received evil and pain from men but gave out good. And after all He said, “IT IS FINISHED” and commended His soul in the hand of The Father. Likewise we also cry Abba Father just as The Spirit beareth witness with our spirit that we are the children of God, heirs and joint heirs with Christ; If so be that we suffer with Him that we may be glorified with him.

We must make The Holy Spirit the vice chancellor of our will, the provost of our prayer lines and the dean of our word study life We have prevailed because the price has been paid so there is a cause to stay in this victory forever. We must

make The Holy Spirit the vice chancellor of our will, the provost of our prayer lines and the dean of our word study life. The Holy Spirit pleads our cause. He does more perfectly and effectively than we can ever do. Finally always remember there is a “cloud of witnesses” (note: not crowd). These witnesses as symbolically represented as a cloud are the heroes of our faith. They are our inspiring examples and proof of the worthiness of our Lord and Master Jesus. The Greek word

translated witnesses in the origin of the English word translated ‘martyr’ and means testifiers (They bear testimony of the power and efficiency of our faith in God).

not walking, time of sounding aloud the trumpet and not a whispering. Let’s arise the day of awakening is now. This is the dawning of a new day… THE DAY OF HIS POWER!!!

So move on, don’t give up, carry your cross daily and follow JESUS. Fix your eyes on the price, knowing that when you see His face, you shall be like Him, exalted and glorified.

And always remember’ the confessor’s faith’, the apostles order, the prophets scroll, the evangelists message, the teacher’s word, the pastor’s nurture will all heighten in this era. I’m glad Kharis has come as such a time as this to impact today’s generation with the power of the WORD and expose the truth to the world.

For the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared to the glory that will be revealed in us. We are living in the day of His power! No doubt about that… This is the era of his manifest presence and regime of the end time army recruits.

Kizito Nii Amarh Amartey (President, Campus Christian Family – KNUST)

The time of running and

Beta edition 2010

KHARIS 49

in the e r a e w t a h t e Signs that prov last days… end of time.

the very close to are being fulfilled. re a e w t a elieve th signs that I strongly b y itself, ost evident m e th f o one taken b e ch m a so E . re le a e ib Her y the B er, the evirophesied b en all togeth k ta t u b Most were p f, o e enough pro might not b pelling! dence is com

dge le w o n k f o h t w The gro nd e e h t t a e t a r would accele of time ing to the

iel pertain hecy in Dan p ro p n w o n ur time. A well k fulfilled in o g n ei b is e end of tim se and men e shall increa g d le w o n K “ (Daniel 12:4 ) nd fro.” KJV a to n ru ll a sh y slowly, growing ver s a w rs ea y for many thousands Knowledge entially. For n o p ex g in the fastest row 0 years ago, but now is g 5 1 s a t n ce a horse l as re the back of n o of years unti s a w n o nsportati ankind has mode of tra um. Now m im x on. a m h p m y to the mo a w e th n or about 25 o Edmund, 25,000 mph to Norman g traveled over in rd o cc A y, with ence! fic Compan ti en What a differ ci S d n the Edmu sibility of Founder of et, the acces rn te In e bably th nd doubling pro is computers a e g d le w o n the year and k y 73 days by er information ev le b u o nd will d every year a 2020.

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the f o n io t a r u t a s The near ge a u g n la y r e v e gospel to tribe and people ingdom will

el of the k all nd this gosp “A 4 :1 testimony to 4 2 a . s a d rl (Matt o w in the whole me.” be preached e end will co th reached en th d n ust first be p m nations, a el sp o g e “And th Mark 13:10 s.” to all nation el flying in another ang w sa aim to I en Th ospel to procl g l a Rev. 14:6 “ n er et e tribe, he had th ery nation, ev to midair, and -h rt ve on the ea those who li d people.”). language an LL rated, and A et en p n ee b s have now next two ALL nation ched in the a re e b l il w this ups history that language gro in e m ti t rs the fi newsletyears. This is possibly be fulfilled! A uld ell known prophecy co ker of the w ea sp e th m at the fro dicated that in ter received , en tt ri W Manila, It is seminars (in c TV program ti is el g n a 000 ev 750,000 two ACTS 2 Ghana), over , si a ise m u K d an aptisms. Pra b 0 0 ,0 0 Philippines 8 er ded with ov people atten the Lord!

THE IN S S E N S S E L D O G DAYS

LAST

that in the realize this, t u B “ ,7 -5 en will be 3:1 come. For m ant, II Timothy l il w es m ti cult rrog last days diffi ers of money, boastful, a , v lo , teful, unholy ra g n u lovers of self , ts n re to their pa s, without disobedient licious gossip a m ck, g in iv forg eacherous, re tr , d o o g f unloving, un o rs lovers brutal, hate rather than re su self-control, a le p f o they , lovers ess, although n li d o g less, conceited f o ing to a form ys learning and never of god; hold a its power; alw e of the truth.” have denied ledg to the know e m co to le ab , read a ed television reed and h tc a w s a h who rporate g For anyone rement to co eir front door, ti re a st lo , newspaper outside th y our just walked r o , n o n fulfilled b ti p ee u b s a corr h y ec ties this proph rrupt; our ci co en ft o it is obvious re a signs proOur leaders ty, and neon generation. li ta ru b e, Age h crim re. The New ics tu a n are filled wit ss le d o s of myst r sinful, g claiming ou sing number ea cr in in s g ey are brin ned ones. Th Movement te h g li en e l people in be th d influentia n a who claim to d te ca u uth. most ed ing in real tr ck la st o some of the m e and yet th our societies,

AY W A G IN L L A F ( Y APOSTAS ) FROM THE FAITH

says that it explicitly ir sp e th t u ith, :1-3 “B y from the fa a w a I Timothy 4 ll fa l il es of es some w and doctrin s it ir sp l in later tim u tf seared in tion to decei ocrisy of liars paying atten yp h e th f o s on, men mean branding ir a demons. By h it w s a om nscience abstaining fr te ca o v their own co d a d n red marriage a ratefully sha g e b to who forbid d te God has crea the truth.” foods which ve and know ie el b o h w in by those ecure and more o m g in m o da, day are bec terfaith agen in e g A Churches to w e N tion. bracing the way to salva ly n menical, em o e th s a Christ ia and a and denying y correct med ll ca ti li o p e th mosexualGiving in to embrace ho e v a h ey th preach ety, lifestyle and corrupt soci te a n er lt a truth eptable ce of God’s la p ity as an acc in e is m tald compro e environmen s Th . d tolerance an rl o w ent lure tion of the w Age movem for the salva e N e th in h in past t wit earth, belief er ist movemen th o m f o nizing worship while demo a rm them into a a K d n rnation, a gave us as lives, reinca e meat God th t ea ld u o ow all those wh dies. t for our bo en m sh ri u o n

, T C A F E H T O T S T N I O P E C ALL EVIDEN D THE WORLD AS N A E M I T O T T T THA U O B A S I , T I N W O N WE HAVE K ND!!! E N A O T E COM out for a lf. God calls se im H to le for Jesus, in ive His peop r testimony ei ce re th to to n o in a g ld uthority, a ut to come nce to His a Him and ho o ie b to a ed b ce is o n st d ie ri n h ed a b Jesus C ose God mplete o ? Will you ch will be in co re a p re p u o y people who ill ice is yours. to come. W ty? The cho ls ri o ia tr th f u o a s e it it sp ce to and deferen or the Beast

Compiled by

Randy Osae

Bediako

Beta edition 2010

KHARIS 51

a cheerful heart is good medicine...

Proverbs 17:22

Service for an animal

A rich young farmer named Kwame lived alone in the Ghanaian countryside except for a pet dog he has had for a long time. The dog finally died and Kwame went to his church pastor, saying “pastor, the dog is dead. Could you possibly have a burial service for the poor creature?” Pastor Jonathan told the farmer “No, we can’t have services for an animal in the church, but I’ll tell you what, there’s a new denomination down the road, and I can’t really tell what they believe in, but maybe they’ll do something for the animal.” Kwame said “I’ll go right now. By the way, do you think GH¢5000 is enough

Which sermon to deliver? One beautiful Sunday morning, Samuel, a priest, announced to his congregation: “My good people, I have here in my hands, three sermons...a GH¢ 100 sermon that lasts five minutes, a GH¢ 50 sermon that lasts fifteen minutes, and a GH¢10 sermon that lasts a full hour.

“Now, we’ll take the collection and see which one I’ll deliver.

Why didn’t you tell

to donate for the service?” Pastor Jonathan replied “

me the dog was a Christian?”

NamesomethingtheGovernment can do to help the church A minister was asked by a politician, “Name something the government can do to help the church.” The minister replied,

Cartoon by: 4HEEM

Ghana cedi notes.”

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“Quit making one

Cartoon by: 4HEEM

Beta edition 2010

KHARIS 53

Romans 12:21