By Elsie Appiah-Osei, GNA
Accra, Jan. 04, GNA – Reverend Emmanuel Osei Bediako Dinkunim, the Lead Pastor of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) Seekers Temple, has emphasised the timely and urgent importance of prioritizing God’s kingdom in the lives of Christians.
Speaking on the theme: “God’s Kingdom,” he said the theme was important to Christianity because that was the center of what Jesus taught.
In a stirring sermon on Sunday, New Year’s first Church service at the Church premises, Bohye-Mangolane, Accra, Rev. Osei Bediako Dinkunim explained that the kingdom was within Christians, as Jesus mentioned, meaning that Jesus was amongst them and the kingdom of God was in the heart of the believer, saying, believers could only perceive this in their hearts and not by physical observation, as the Pharisees thought.
“As we receive the kingdom, it comes by receiving Jesus into your heart as your Lord and saviour. As one follows and grows in Christ, it starts to manifest in our words, actions, and character,” he stated.
In 2026, the general theme for ICGC is- Kingdom.
In his sermon, Rev. Osei Bediako Dinkunim stated that the theme declared by the General Overseer, Dr. Mensah Otabil, was one of the most important themes the Church has had.
He said, “Jesus taught his followers to pray the Lord’s prayer, “Our Father, ……….’Thy Kingdom Come’ and this Jesus mentioned in his teachings to seek the kingdom of God first……”
“All these were indicators that the message of the Kingdom is very important to Christianity, citing Luke 17:20-21 and John 3”, he added.
He said, “The kingdom of God is not just a destination, but a journey of transformation.”
As the new year unfolds, Rev. Osei Bediako Dinkunim led believers to surrender to God’s rulership, trusting in His power and authority to transform their lives.
“The kingdom of God is within us, and it’s a journey of transformation. Surrendering to God’s rulership is key to experiencing His power and glory.
“God’s kingdom is not just a destination but a way of living,” he advised.
He urged the congregation to take time to reflect on their lives and priorities by surrendering their minds, hearts, and lives to God’s rulership.
“Trust in God’s power and authority to transform your life,” he encouraged.
In an interaction with the Ghana News Agency, some of the Church members said the message had resonated with them and they were seeking to deepen their faith and to experience the fullness of God’s power and glory.
“I am not just receiving a part of God’s power; I am receiving the fullness of Him, and it’s up to me to let it manifest in my life,” a Church member said on condition of anonymity.
In Christianity, the new year is a time for spiritual reflection and renewal. While many believers see it as an opportunity to recommit to their faith, set spiritual goals, and seek God’s guidance for the year ahead, some Christians mark the occasion with prayer, fasting, and worship services.
The new year is a time to reflect on God’s faithfulness in the past year and trust in His sovereignty for the year ahead.
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei