Beware of Religion of Convenience – Cleric Urges Christians … As All Nations Christian Ministry Int’l Begins 19th Discovery Convention
The Evangelist News Edition, Friday August 25, 2023. By Tony Udoh
As the world ostensibly drifts towards non-committal worshipping, renowned cleric, and Head Pastor at Firstlove Assembly, Port Harcourt, Rev Simeon Afolabi has urged Christians to beware of religion of convenience.
Rev Afolabi who was Guest Minister at the ongoing 19th Anniversary Discovery Convention of the All Nations Christian Ministry Int’l, said true worshipers must be ready to make some sacrifice and avoid doing it where it is easy.
Speaking on the theme of the convention, “Rebuilding the Terbanacle of David” he said terbanacle is about responsibility to the Lord adding that
the promise to rebuild the Terbanacle of David was because of his deep commitment and sacrifice to God.
Citing 2 Samuel 24:21-25, he made reference to the encounter between Araunah and David where the former freely offered different items as desired by David for sacrifice unto his God, but David rejected saying, “Nay; but I will surely buy it of thee at a price: neither will I offer burnt offerings unto the LORD my God of that which doth cost me nothing.”
Narrating the significance of Terbanacle, he said terbanacle reveals God internal intention, reminds of God’s holiness, reminds of God’s orderliness, and is a pointer to the way of salvation among others.
He said the rebuilding of the Terbanacle of David was prompted by the sacrificial services of David to God and advised Christian to emulate David in praises and sacrifice to God.
While declaring open the convention, Bishop (Mrs) Enobong Essien noted that terbanacle could be seen in different ways including as personal terbanacle, terbanacle of the man of God and could be a sanctuary or an altar.
Bishop Essien who is the spiritual mother of the Undershephered, urged Christians to endeavour to keep themselves clean and holy as a terbanacle of God.
In a welcome remark, the Undershephered of the church and Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno thanked God for the grace which according to him, has seen the church to its 19th anniversary.
He recalled the days of little beginning and the many prophesies for the church and it’s members which have come to pass with many more underway.
Pastor Eno who was very emotional in his thanksgiving to God, appreciated everyone for joining them at the convention and prayed that God will receive their sacrifices and perfect all that concerned them.
The convention which had thousands of worshipers in attendance, featured songs ministration, melodrama, and other presentations portraying the 19 years journey of the church, and the theme of the convention.
