The Assemblies of God Ghana has thrown its support behind President John Dramani Mahama following reports that Lincoln University in the United States has withdrawn plans to confer an honorary doctorate on him.

This development is said to be linked to his stance on LGBTQ issues, which has drawn mixed reactions.

The Ghana Embassy in Washington, D.C., confirmed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday, March 24, revealing that Lincoln University had communicated concerns raised by a group about Mahama's perceived position on the anti-LGBTQ bill currently before Ghana's Parliament.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, March 25, by its general secretary, Rev. Ernest Birikorang, the church described the university’s decision as one that should not be viewed as a slight on President Mahama, but rather as a badge of honour.

“Lincoln University’s decision does not dishonour, but rather honours President Mahama and the Assemblies of God, Ghana, to which he proudly belongs,” the statement said.

READ ALSO: Lincoln University cancels Prez Mahama’s honorary doctorate conferment over his anti-LGBTQ stance

Drawing on scripture, the church likened the situation to a passage in the Bible, stating that it “resonates with the biblical scenario in Acts 5:41, when ‘the apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name of the Lord.’”

The Assemblies of God, Ghana, further indicated that within its leadership and membership, the reaction to the development had been one of celebration rather than disappointment.

“Currently, within the leadership and membership of Assemblies of God, Ghana, there is nothing but joy, joy unconfined because our members have been found worthy of global disdain for their ironclad stand against LGBTQ+ practices,” the statement added.

The church also reiterated Mr Mahama’s previously stated views on homosexuality, recalling that ahead of the 2024 general elections, he had described it as “spiritually or biblically forbidden,” morally degrading, and culturally unacceptable.

According to the statement, that position “has remained resolute and unshakable.”

The Assemblies of God, Ghana, urged its members, particularly those in public service and the private sector, to take inspiration from Mr Mahama’s stance and remain steadfast in their beliefs.

“Assemblies of God Ghana urges all its members serving in the public or private sectors to be encouraged by this spectacular example and to never compromise their spiritual principles or moral values under any circumstances,” it noted.

It further called on Christians across the country to intensify prayers.

“We further ask our members in particular, and the Christian community in general, to pray with intensity and tenacity so that the nation may avoid the sins of LGBTQ+ and others, which carry inestimable consequences,” the statement concluded.