Afriyie-Ankrah to clergy: Preach a gospel that builds nations, not just churches
The Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations, Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, has called on the Church to preach a balanced gospel that not only saves souls but also transforms nations through integrity, diligence, and compassion.
Delivering the keynote address at the ninth Graduation and Ordination Ceremony of the Brian Jones School of Ministry & Leadership Institute in Accra, Afriyie-Ankrah spoke on the theme “The True Power of a Balanced Gospel.”
He said the gospel of Jesus Christ was never intended to serve as a message of mere comfort, but as a divine force capable of transforming societies and shaping moral character.
“The gospel that changed societies was one of conviction, character, and commitment to righteousness,” he stated. “It teaches that integrity is worship, diligence is divine, and that true prosperity comes through honest labour, not shortcuts.”
He stressed that the early Church influenced nations because it preached a message rooted in conviction rather than convenience. “Throughout history, the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ has proven to be more than a message of personal salvation—it is a divine force for the transformation of nations,” he declared. “The gospel that changed Europe and shaped civilisations was one of conviction, character, and commitment to righteousness—not convenience or comfort.”
Afriyie-Ankrah urged the clergy to return to the full counsel of God, promoting a gospel where faith meets responsibility, prayer inspires productivity, and anointing is anchored in integrity. “The gospel that builds nations,” he noted, “is one that renews the mind, reforms conduct, and rebuilds societies. It is a gospel that calls every believer—whether in the pulpit, parliament, or marketplace—to live by righteousness, diligence, and compassion.”
Conveying the warm regards of President John Dramani Mahama, the envoy commended the Brian Jones School of Ministry for nurturing men and women of faith, purpose, and leadership. He added that President Mahama’s Reset Agenda and 24-Hour Economy vision resonate with gospel values of hard work, moral responsibility, and social transformation.
“Ghana and Africa need leaders who can combine spiritual integrity with practical wisdom—leaders who can heal divisions, uplift the weak, and build bridges across faiths and communities,” he said.
Afriyie-Ankrah also praised Pastor Brian Amoateng, Founder and President of the Institute, and his team for their efforts in training value-driven leaders whose impact extends beyond the Church into wider society.
He concluded with a call for the Church to reclaim its position as the moral compass of the nation. “If we preach not just the gospel of miracles but the gospel of meaning—of truth, work, and compassion—then righteousness will once again exalt our nation,” he affirmed.
On behalf of President Mahama, he congratulated the graduating class and commended the Institute for nine years of transformative service to the nation and the body of Christ.
