By King Amoah
In a thought-provoking interview, Elder Enoch Ofori Jnr, the Head Pastor of the Association of 7th Day Pentecostal Assemblies, addressed the growing concern over the proliferation of false prophets in Ghana.
Speaking from the church headquarters in Kumasi, he asserted that a genuine prophet is marked by an unwavering commitment to truth and a boldness that transcends societal pressures.
His comments (reaction ) come at a time when prophetic declarations are rampant, particularly during election seasons, often distorting the true essence of prophetic ministry.
Elder Ofori Jnr began by asserting that genuine prophets act as authentic spokespersons of God, delivering messages without fear or favor.
“A true prophet stands firm in speaking the truth about prophetic matters, regardless of the resistance they face,” he proclaimed.
He indicated that in a world increasingly muddied by misinformation and deceit, transparency and authenticity of issues especially on religious affairs should be more prioritized.
In an exclusive interview with the media, Elder Ofori Jnr did not shy away from addressing the impact of false prophecies on society. He described many current prophecies in Ghana as suspect, emphasizing that not every proclamation claiming to be from God is genuine. “God has warned us that in the end times, many false prophets would emerge and deceive many,” he remarked.
This biblical caution is more than timely; it serves as a stark reminder to exercise discernment when encountering prophetic claims.
The Elder was particularly concerned about the specific motivations behind many prophecies, especially as they relate to Ghana’s pressing issues such as corruption and illegal mining, known locally as ‘galamsey.’
He pointed out that some self-proclaimed prophets failed to address critical national concerns, opting instead for easy or sensational messages that resonate more with popular sentiment.
“Many of these so-called prophets shy away from warning the authorities about true dangers facing our country,” he lamented.
Historical Context and Scriptural Validation:
Citing the biblical narrative from 1 Kings 13, Elder Ofori Jnr illustrated how false prophets, throughout history, can lead even true prophets astray. He drew attention to a particular incident where a false prophet managed to deceive a true servant of God, resulting in tragic consequences.
“False prophets, he observed can be more wicked than Satan himself,” he warned, underscoring the seriousness of failing to discern truth from deceit in prophetic ministry.
He argued that true prophecies are not arbitrary but must be rooted in scriptural context and divine inspiration. “Prophecies should not simply flow haphazardly; they require biblical backing,” he emphasized.
This insistence on scriptural evidence serves as a safeguard for congregants, encouraging them to scrutinize prophetic utterances against the teachings of the Bible.
Encouraged by his fervent commitment to truth, Elder Ofori Jnr urged church members and all Ghanaians to be discerning in their spiritual journeys.
“Do not simply believe your pastors based on personal outlook or charismatics, rather, study their attitudes and teachings to ensure they align with biblical principles,” he advised.
In conclusion,Elder Enoch Ofori Jnr’s clarion call is one of vigilance and courage. In a landscape where prophetic voices are abundant yet often misleading, his exhortation to embrace truth, uphold biblical standards, and support genuine ministry could serve as a much-needed compass for many.
