The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has called on Christians to exercise restraint and wisdom in their speech, stressing that words possess the power to either build or destroy, to reflect one’s faith or betray it.
Delivering a sermon titled ‘Be Careful What You Say’ on Sunday, July 13, 2025, during a thanksgiving service held in honour of the newly elected President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Mr Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor, and his national executives at the Alajo Central Assembly of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Nyamekye urged believers to ensure their speech reflects the dignity and responsibility of their identity as children of God.
‘A worthy walk is one that reflects the Christian’s exalted position as a member of God’s community,’ he stated, adding, ‘We are not called to live for ourselves. Our words and actions must bring glory to God.’
Drawing from Mark 15, Apostle Nyamekye highlighted the example of Jesus Christ, who, though falsely accused, chose silence over self-defence.
‘The tongue is restless; it always wants to speak,’ he said. ‘But Jesus gave no reply. That silence wasn’t weakness; it was strength. Sometimes, silence is the loudest proof of your confidence in God.’
He encouraged Christians to cultivate patience and quietness, describing them as essential allies in emotional discipline.
Quoting Luke 21:19, he said, ‘To possess your soul, you must have a calm and controlled spirit. If you truly want to manage your emotions and remain in control, embrace patience and quietness.’
Apostle Nyamekye warned that speaking without forethought could cause irreparable harm, not only to others but also to oneself.
‘Your words reveal your intent. You and your words are one. What you say can either pave the way for success or entrap you in needless conflict,’ he cautioned.
Referencing Job 15:6, he added, ‘Your own mouth can condemn you; your lips will testify against you. That’s why you must ask: What do I want to say? When should I say it? Where should I say it? And how?’
He reminded the congregation that people often remember words more than appearances or titles, saying, ‘People won’t hate you for what you wear. They’ll hate you for what you say. Even if you speak the truth, where and how you say it can make it wrong.’
Apostle Nyamekye also urged believers to be discerning about their audience. Citing 2 Samuel 18:19–20 and Esther 1:16–17, he underscored the importance of timing and context.
‘Whenever you wish to speak, consider who is present. Your audience matters. Your timing matters. Truth spoken out of season can be as harmful as a lie,’ he pointed out.
In a final caution, he described the tongue using the biblical imagery found in James 3, calling it ‘a fire,’ ‘a deadly poison,’ and ‘a restless troublemaker.’
Among those present at the service were Mrs Mary Nyamekye (Wife of the Chairman), Apostle Vincent Anane Denteh (Executive Council Member and PEMEM Director), Apostle Dr Deudonne Komla Nuekpe (Executive Council Member and La Area Head) and his wife, Juanitta; Apostle Dr Brigadier-General Benjamin Godson Kumi-Woode (Director General of Religious Affairs, Ghana Armed Forces); Rev Dr Lawrence Tetteh; Pastor Atto Rockson; and Rev Hilda Ashie.
Also in attendance were Hon. Kwame Asare Obeng (MP for Gomoa Central), Nana Kweku Dei (former GJA President), Mr Yaw Opoku Agyemang (Director of Radio, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation); some members of the GJA, traditional rulers, and well-wishers.
Report by Emmanuel Nana Nsiah, Kumasi
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