The General Overseer of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), Pastor Mensa Otabil, has issued a strong caution to individuals contemplating migration to Europe.
In a recent sermon titled “The Great Commission 1: Go,” part of a three-part series, he referenced the biblical passage in Matthew 28:16-20, where Jesus instructs his disciples to spread the Gospel. Otabil highlighted a significant shift in global evangelization dynamics, emphasizing a remarkable reversal in the dissemination of Christianity.
Addressing his congregation, Otabil underlined a notable change in the spread of Christianity. He noted that while Europe was once the epicenter of Christianity, it is now witnessing a phenomenon of ‘reverse evangelization,’ with Africa emerging as the new hub of spreading the Gospel.
“We in Africa have become the primary bearers of the Gospel, while Europe, which once brought us the Gospel, is now lacking it. This reversal is occurring worldwide, with Africa leading the charge in spreading Christianity,” he said.
Drawing parallels to biblical warnings, Otabil cautioned against neglecting one’s spiritual roots in times of prosperity. He described Europe as a “sinking ship” on the brink of collapse, attributing its decline to a departure from religious beliefs.
“Europe and the Western world are rapidly declining because they have forsaken the God who made them prosperous. Those seeking refuge there are essentially boarding a sinking ship,” Otabil warned.
Predicting the decline of Western dominance, Otabil attributed it to what he termed “apostasy” – a departure from religious belief. He stressed that civilization, rather than being a solution, is contributing to their downfall.
“America and Europe will no longer be the superpowers they once were because they have turned away from their source of strength. The Bible refers to this as apostasy,” he explained.
Otabil urged a reevaluation of missionary efforts, emphasizing that Africans now have a responsibility to spread Christianity globally.
“As we contemplate the Gospel, our focus should not be on receiving it from others but on sharing it with the world. Jesus’ command to ‘go to the nations’ applies to every group that lacks knowledge of the Gospel,” he emphasized.
Otabil’s sermon offers a thought-provoking reflection on the spiritual landscape and its ramifications for global dynamics.
