A former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Very Rev. Prof. Joseph Obiri Yeboah Mante, has cautioned Ministerial Trainees and Ministers of the Gospel to be mindful of their words and guard against the temptation to speak carelessly in ministry.
Interacting with trainees at the Ramseyer Training Centre (RTC), Abetifi, Prof. Mante warned that increased visibility, confidence, and recognition in ministry often come with the subtle temptation to “talk too much” or say the wrong things. He urged ministers to remain under the guidance of the Holy Spirit at all times, stressing that “Anointing without spiritual and moral discipline is dangerous and toxic.”
The admonition was delivered during a special edition of the Centre’s Moment of Reflection series, where Prof. Mante served as the Most Senior in Residence (MSIR)—an initiative that brings highly experienced ministers and officers of the Church to share wisdom and practical lessons with trainees.
Drawing from the biblical example of Samson, he explained how the Judge’s downfall began with careless speech—first through a riddle at a feast and later through revealing the secret of his strength to Delilah. He noted that many ministers fall into avoidable trouble because of an unchecked desire for attention, affirmation, or fame.
Prof. Mante urged ministers to cultivate discipline, manage their desires, and avoid saying or doing things that compromise their calling. “There are things that are not fasting and prayer matters. Manage your desires before they get you into trouble,” he concluded.
By: Ebenezer Ernest Aveti
