Sunday 21st June 2020 will remain in the heart of many New Apostolic brethren who were online to listen and participate in the live stream divine service conducted by Apostle Robert Ashie Kotei (Ghana).

The Bible text was taken from 2 Corinthians 1:24, “Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are fellow workers for your Joy; for by faith you stand.”

The officiating Apostle began the service by wishing all fathers over the world a very happy Father's day celebration and charged them to be responsible Fathers. He enjoined all to do good works and avoid evil works which do not confirm to the image of God.

In his sermon, he explained how the proclamation of the will of Christ by the Apostles can contribute to our joy.

Dominion over your faith. In reference to the text word, the Apostle urged the congregation that, like the time of old when Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Corinthians, the Apostles today and other ministers of God do not have dominion over the faith of the children of God. Their faith is also not controlled by God. Had that been the case, Christianity would have been much easier. God has given us free will to take decisions and act.

The responsibility of the Apostles. The role of the Apostles as stated in the 4th Article of Faith in our creed, reaffirms the fact that the Lord Jesus rules His Church and thereto sent His Apostles, and until His return, still sends them with the commission to teach, to forgive sins in His name and to baptize with water and Holy Spirit. The Apostles and the ministers are ordained to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and the truth. Therefore, we should believe in Jesus Christ, the Apostles whom He has sent.

The things that give joy. The Apostle explained that love, forgiveness as well as seeking wisdom and knowledge give joy. The Apostle said: “Loves gives joy. For out of love comes joy.” He continued: “Forgiveness gives joy.” A forgiving heart is always joyous. He also added that seeking wisdom and knowledge gives joy. “When we ask like King Solomon, God gives us wisdom and blesses us with wealth. Let's ask for knowledge and wisdom, and God will give us other good things.”

Good virtue helps us to live a godly life. In concluding the divine service, Apostle Ashie Kotei referenced the words of Apostle Paul to the Philippians and admonished the congregation to live with good virtues: “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things (Philippians 4:8).”

Apostle Robert Kotei was assisted by the district rector of Accra East, District Elder Ebenezer Adjei.