By King Amoah
In a world increasingly muddled by the intersections of faith and politics, Prophet Ben-hail Asante, the founder and leader of the Messiah Is Alive Chapel in Accra, Greater Accra Region, has issued a clarion call to pastors across Ghana.
He argues that the primary mission of clergy is to pray for national leaders and strive for societal transformation, rather than pursuing material gain and political power. His statements come at a time when some pastors have begun to blur the lines between spiritual leadership and political ambition, garnering both attention and criticism.
A Call to Spiritual Responsibility.
In an exclusive telephone interview from Accra, Prophet Asante emphasized the critical role that pastors play in guiding the moral and spiritual compass of society. He underscored that pastors are not merely spiritual figures but integral players in the nation’s socioeconomic development.
“Our duties include following the teachings of Jesus Christ and spreading the message of repentance and salvation,” he stated. This, he believes, is essential for rekindling a relationship with God that ultimately leads to the betterment of the community and the nation at large.
Against Materialism and Political Loyalties.
Prophet Asante expressed strong disapproval of pastors who engage in partisan politics, citing this behavior as detrimental to national unity. He articulated that when pastors operate under the banner of a political party, they inadvertently contribute to division among the populace, undermining the very principles they are called to uphold. “It is unacceptable for pastors to glorify themselves for their contributions to national service while neglecting to glorify God,” he asserted.
His remarks are particularly poignant in an era where the image of clergy members has been marred by those who seek personal enrichment under the guise of divine calling. “Pastors who focus on material wealth and political gains are fake pastors,” he claims, warning that they are driven by “strange spirits” rather than by the spirit of God. Such conduct, he insists, breeds suspicion and leads to deeper social malaise.
The Degradation of Morality and Values.
Prophet Asante further lamented that the current state of disarray in society can be partly attributed to the practices of certain pastors. He pointed out that false doctrines have not only led the youth astray but also corrupted the values of older generations. By diverting from the truths of the scriptures, these pastors encourage rebellion against God, exacerbating the challenges faced by the nation.
He voiced a longing for a return to a time when reverence for God was paramount and righteousness was the guiding principle of everyday life. “Judgment will begin in the church,” he warned, urging pastors to reflect on their stewardship and the impact of their actions on society.
A Vision for Change.
Prophet Asante’s vision for the future is clear, pastors should prioritize their spiritual calling over earthly pursuits. He urged his fellow pastors to abandon what he termed “gambling practices” in favor of promoting goodness through the teachings of the Bible. “We must use the word of God to glorify Him,” he emphasized, advocating for a revival of authentic faith that uplifts society rather than exploits it.
