Satellite TV and the Church in Africa

Yes, God gives many gifts. The gift of healing for example. But do I need to travel to a specific place to experience those gifts? Do I need to know people who know certain “special” people so that Jesus would heal me? Do I have to give money so that I could get healed? Do I have to give money so that I will get back more? 

I observe all these things when I watch some satellite ‘Christian’ TV programs in Africa. I have struggled with this topic for a long time but decided I could not keep my thoughts to myself.

Television, like other media platforms can be used to share the gospel with many. But the effectiveness of the TV platform is limited as it is mainly one way communication. TV is very useful to broadly sow the gospel. You can add texting, phone calls and social media platforms to increase the effectiveness. But the problem is NOT using Christian TV, but it becomes a problem when you use Christian TV to replace the physical church. 

When you read a good book you get wisdom and information from the author. Even when the writer inspires you, in most cases it's impossible to consider the author your friend or your pastor. Because pastoral ministry is about shepherding the people known to the pastor. 

The satellite TV programs are often filling people’s minds with confused theology and spiritual practices. Often the Christian programs suggests that whatever you hear and see on TV, is what God is saying. But we should listen carefully. Sadly I see preachers on TV who have selfish desires to become idols themselves. They use the platform for selling almost everything. 

The first church in the book of Acts was known for:

1. Their love for one another
2. They were bold in sharing the Good news
3. They were devoted and fervent in their prayers  
4. They were filled with the Holy Spirit.

My prayer is that we too will be known for our love, care and sharing the Good news of Jesus Christ.

Some years ago my friend invited me to an early Sunday morning service at his church. We finished the service around 10am and it was too early to go for lunch so he took me to another church that started 10:30am. I must admit I didn't listen to a single statement as my mind was full from the first service. I needed time to soak it in and reflect on it. After the second service we had lunch and my good friend suggested we attend an afternoon service in another church. I could not believe it. I declined. 

I see that same principle when I see people switching channel after channel to hear from God. How do you grow and become a disciple like that? What type of fruit do you bear? 

For me when a sinner, like me, comes to know God and becomes a child of God, that is a huge miracle. I am a miracle! I am a child of God.
I don’t have to spend money to see a miracle. I don’t have to wait until my mobile number is mentioned. The greatest miracle was when God became Emmanuel, and showed His unfailing love through Jesus Christ. 

I love preaching the gospel to myself. If the gospel does not satisfy me, then nothing else would! 

Lee Strobel describes John 1:12 like this and I agree with him. 
Believe + Receive = Become a child of God John 1:12 

Three things you can do 

1. Embrace a healthy church community: “For where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them”. Matthew 18:20 NIV
2. Have your priorities in place: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33 NIV
3. Use all media platforms for God’s glory and to help the body of Christ grow.

Are you a Miracle of God? Read my story of how God answered my mom's prayer here.
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