02/10/2023
CHRISTIAN SUFFERING AND FAITH:
THE LEGACY OF APOSTLE DR. NTUMY
7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. 8 We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyedâ 10 always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. 11 For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesusâ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. 12 So then death is working in us, but life in you.
2 Corinthians 4:7-12
The Christian journey bears a striking resemblance to John Bunyan's literary masterpiece, "The Pilgrim's Progress." In this allegorical tale, Christian, the protagonist, faces an array of obstacles and temptations. Moreover, he experiences rejection, betrayal, and disappointment from family and friends, which reflects a harsh reality we sometimes struggle to acknowledge. In a similar vein, believers may find themselves afflicted, just as Job did, or persecuted, akin to the early Christians living in a morally decadent and corrupt world. There is a common misconception that having faith in the Lord and leading a righteous life guarantees a trouble-free existence.
However, reality often defies such expectations. Suffering entered the world as a consequence of sin and disobedience, both the sin of Adam and individual wrongdoing. Therefore, we must not live in denial of this fact and think that God has disappointed us when we face challenges in life. Sometimes, these occurrences could be a result of sin, negligence, disobedience to God, etc. However, sometimes it is none of the above. Like the story of Job, God can allow believers to go through the throes of life. Like Jesus in the boat with the disciples when there was a raging storm, it will seem He is asleep. But if God doesnât calm the storm, He definitely gives the grace for us to go or navigate our way through it. This aligns with the faith of Apostle Dr. Michael Kwabena Ntumy, former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, who exemplifies an unwavering faith in the Lord.
His faith mirrors that of the four Hebrew menâShadrach, Meshach, Abednego, and Danielâ (Daniel 3:14-18, 6:10-20). His journey, marked by suffering, can be likened to Job's, which illustrates unyielding belief and trust in the Lord, regardless of circumstances.
We must say that even if God will not save us, we will still believe and refuse to kowtow to this world's evil and corrupt systems in the face of strong opposition and affliction.
Apostle Dr. Michael Kwabena Ntumy encountered the spectre of death on multiple occasions. Notably, during his missionary work in Liberia, he was held hostage at Flamingo Camp - The Camp of No Return. The experience was harrowing, marked by violence and loss of life. Those who survived endured severe deprivation due to inadequate food. Nevertheless, they were ultimately delivered, underscoring the biblical truth that "many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all" (Psalms 34:19).
His journey into paralysis presented another formidable trial, one that might have compelled many to withdraw from full-time ministry. He underwent surgery to address a spinal curvature causing excruciating lower back pain and hindering his ability to stand for extended periods. The surgery resulted in tetraplegia paralysis, rendering him partially paralysed. Yet he remained undeterred. Despite his condition, he continued his ministry work, editing numerous books for the Church and even typing a book with one functioning hand, titled "Reflections: Taking A Second Look At Life" while on the sickbed in Germany. He demonstrated that even when physical limitations restrict mobility, one's words and prayers can transcend these boundaries.
His unwavering commitment to his ministry, supported by a steadfast, loving, and Proverbs 31 woman, serves as a powerful testament to faith in God. His example encourages believers not to serve God only when circumstances are favourable but also in the face of challenges. As Job aptly questioned, "Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?" (Job 2:10). Believers should not base their relationship with God on a transactional premise. He once said, âThe man of faith is never defeated in life; for when he does not receive the answer to his prayer, he receives the grace to do without itâ. This resonates with God's response to the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:9 when Paul beseeched God thrice to remove a thorn in his flesh. God said, "My grace is sufficient for you; My strength is made perfect in weakness." Should the believer forsake the faith because God allowed the storm? Certainly not.
For it is written, âAnd we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.â (Romans 8:28). What have you done for the Lord while your feet and hands are all active? Sometimes, we give so many excuses. The complex and sophisticated nature of our world today has plunged many into giving a lot of excuses, either for their disobedience towards God, refusal to be fully committed to his work or taking responsibility for their spiritual growth. The âI am busy syndromeâ is metastasizing like a gangrene, making the faith of many wax cold. Misconceptions about the prosperity gospel can also foster disillusionment when circumstances do not align with expectations. As believers, we must cultivate an unwavering faith in God in the face of the throes of life. When you feel like giving in to the pressures and pleasures of this world or giving up because you think God has disappointed you, look at Aps. Dr. Michael Kwabena Ntumy and emulate his faith. Indeed, he has been poured out like a drink offering.
Martha Ntumy, Apostle Dr Michael Ntumy
