The General Overseer of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), Pastor Mensa Otabil, has challenged African nations and their people to let strategy rather than proximity define their important relationships. 

He stressed that your best friend, your national ally or your church does not need to be the one right next to you; but may involve some travel to find the right one that fits God’s purposes for your life. 

“Many of us are living a life of convenience, but proximity should not be the most essential factor in our relationships, but strategic considerations”, he declared.

Pastor Otabil made these declarations during his sermon on the opening night of the 2023 edition of ICGC’s Greater Works Conference. 

The sermon entitled, ‘In the Valley of The Dry Bones’ discussed Ezekiel 37 where God speaks to the prophet Ezekiel to prophesy to the dry bones in the valley to come to life.

This was against the backdrop of a very difficult situation in the nation.

He traced the three-part process of transformation: the first was when the bones were gathered and insignificant in a place of defeat.

The second was when the bones began to strategically gather, with each one connecting to the right one, but still remaining inactive.  

The third, and most important stage, was when the breath of God was released and the dry bones came to life and became a mighty army. 

Pastor Otabil juxtaposed this with the situation of Africa and stated that the continent of Africa will arise again despite what may seem to be impossible circumstances around the continent. 

He declared, “I believe the dry bones of Africa and the dry bones of the black man will rise again and our nations will be significant again.” 

He further declared, “I see a day on this continent of Africa where we will have an army of captains of industry, new inventors and ideas coming up from here.” 

He lamented the systemic brain drain where highly-skilled Africans migrate in their numbers abroad to utilize their skills to build other countries, instead of deploying them on the continent. 

“It may be a temporary situation but Africa’s best brains must come back with science, technology and innovations to build our continent”, the theologian stressed.

Pastor Otabil has consistently preached and encouraged African Renaissance in his sermons over the years. Monday’s message was in keeping with his declared vision of an Africa that will and must be better through its people. “Africa is a big deal to me”, he intimated. 

Pastor Otabil’s sermon was the highlight of a power-packed night of eclectic praise, worship, dramatic arts performances and prayer to officially open the 2023 Greater Works conference at the ICGC Christ Temple East campus at Teshie. 

The Greater Works conference will continue throughout the week till Friday, August 4.

For day two, the conference, host will speak again and welcome Pastor Mathew Ashimolowo for the morning and evening sessions, which will also feature a host of inspiring ministrations.