To climax the week-long rally at Abeka on Gospel Sunday, Presiding Elder Joseph Obiri-Yeboah delivered a powerful and heartfelt message titled Make Jesus Your Friend, drawing from John 11:1-28, 38-44. He began by asking the congregation if Jesus is truly their friend and reflected on the critical role friends play in our lives. He noted that friends can either build us up or tear us down, as decisions and advice from a friend can transform or ruin our lives. Elder Obiri-Yeboah emphasized that Jesus, as a friend, is completely reliable—His counsel is trustworthy, tested, and secure. If we believe, we will see the glory of God.
He then reminded the congregation of the friendship between Jesus and Lazarus, citing verse 3 of the passage. He posed the question: Are you a friend of Jesus? When you call on Him, will He respond? He assured that if we build a friendship with Jesus, He will respond when we call. Referencing Romans 5:8, he emphasized that God loves us dearly, even while we were still sinners, and that no matter the depth of our sins, Christ’s love remains constant.
He also urged the congregation to look to Jesus first when in trouble, just as Mary and Martha sought Him first. He challenged believers to ask themselves whom they turn to in times of difficulty, warning that as Christians, they cannot place trust in charms or amulets. True protection and help come from Jesus, not from any fetish sources.
Elder Obiri-Yeboah reminded the church that although we may not always understand the timing of Jesus, we must trust Him. He assured that Jesus will not let us down, and His name will be glorified in our situations. Quoting John 14:1, he encouraged the congregation to let not their hearts be troubled.
Transformation, Ps. Eghan explained, involves both the conversion of souls and the conversion of society. As individuals within the church, each believer is unleashed to be a change agent in their community and sphere of influence, channeling growth and transformation outward.
In his conclusion, he reflected on John 11:9, explaining that walking in God’s light will keep us from stumbling. He prayed that the Lord would help the congregation not to stumble and fall, and urged them to believe in Christ, referencing John 11:25.
Add a Comment