I must confess I find it difficult to comprehend why the Ghanaian media subjects Nigerian Prophet T.B. Joshua to such intense scrutiny, usually highlighting reports of contentious nature. Whenever Joshua’s issue is raised, it tends to be encased in controversial arguments amidst strongly opinionated individuals who stand vehemently for or against the popular cleric, using internet forums and news sites to launch their often distasteful invectives. For instance, why Asabee’s apparent membership at The SCOAN should elicit such strong reactions and denunciations is startling. What actually confounds me is the volume of foul-mouthed persons who condemn the man of God to hell and back whereas their insinuations appear to be founded purely on generalised speculations and doctored media reports. For God’s sake, the man has a television station that is readily available across Ghana and Africa called Emmanuel TV. Decency demands investigation before jumping to the whims of political heavyweights who purposely paint the prophet in a bad light because of his cordial relationship with Prof Mills.

I challenge all Joshua’s myriad of critics to study Emmanuel TV before arriving at a conclusion founded on political and often heretical hearsay. No right-minded person would deny the fact that many supposed ‘pastors’ are flaunting that sacred name for personal gains and fame, denting the image of Christianity thereby. But to view T.B. Joshua as such because of his dodgy Nigerian counterparts would also be an erroneous verdict. What I personally witness week-in and week-out on Emmanuel TV is practical Christianity in the rawest and purest form. I see needs met, problems solved, lives changed, homes reunited, hopes restored and the power of satan broken in countless lives. Joshua takes care of the widows and orphans, delivers the oppressed and depressed, heals the sick and afflicted and gives the glory to God for it all. His pin-point prophecies are always accurate and the power of God accompanies every facet of his ever broadening ministry. If prominent Ghanaian personalities are visiting the man, should we not rejoice that they are seeking God and not the witchdoctors, occultists or ritualists? After all, the Zimbabwe Prime Minister Tsvangirai was in The SCOAN earlier this month and the many reports I read praised his decision to seek God’s face. Let not rumours and propaganda lead us to irreverence for God’s servants.

*Tawia Acheampong*