5 Key Takeaways from Pastor Mensa Otabil’s Remarks at Doulos Conference 2025 (Day 1, Opening Session)

Introduction

On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at ICGC Christ Temple East, Teshie-Accra, Pastor Mensa Otabil delivered the opening remarks at the first-ever Doulos Conference.

His speech set the tone for the event, emphasizing its unique purpose: to create an interactive and transformative learning experience for pastors.

He also explained the significance of the word Doulos, a Greek term meaning bondservant, which he believes should shape the identity of Christian leaders. Below are five key takeaways from his message.

1. The Conference is a Learning Experience for the Future

Pastor Otabil acknowledged that this was the inaugural edition of the Doulos Conference and expressed optimism about its growth. “This is the first time we’re doing a pastors’ conference like this, but we expect that it will show us how to do it better in the years ahead, and we’ll learn from this year and improve on it.” His words highlight the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in ministry.

2. A Highly Interactive and Practical Conference

Unlike typical pastoral gatherings that focus primarily on preaching, Doulos Conference is designed to be engaging and participatory. Pastor Otabil stressed the importance of interaction, stating, “There’ll be a lot of question and answer, there’ll be a lot of panel discussion… because ministering to pastors is not the same as ministering to a congregation.” This approach fosters a deeper level of discussion and equips pastors with practical knowledge for their work.

3. True Christian Leadership is Rooted in Servanthood

The word Doulos, meaning bondservant, was a key focus of Pastor Otabil’s message. He noted that early Christian leaders, including Paul, Peter, James, and Jude, identified themselves primarily as bondservants of Jesus Christ. He reminded pastors: “Yes, we are anointed. Yes, we are called… But first of all, you are a bondservant of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This perspective challenges modern Christian leaders to prioritize humility and service over titles and status.

4. The Pathway to Greatness is Through Servanthood

Referencing Jesus’ response to James and John’s mother in Matthew 20:25-27, Pastor Otabil emphasized that true greatness in the Kingdom of God comes through servanthood. He stated, “He who will be great amongst you, let him first be a slave.” This principle contrasts with worldly leadership models that focus on power and recognition, reinforcing that Christian leadership must be defined by humility and dedication to God’s work.

5. The Church Must Return to a Servant-Minded Mentality

Pastor Otabil called for a shift in the mindset of the African church, urging leaders to embrace servanthood rather than seeking personal acclaim. “We are not here to accumulate accolades to ourselves. We are here just to serve the Lord, to do His will, and to fulfill the assignment He has for us.” He emphasized that the essence of ministry is serving God and His people, not seeking titles or positions of influence.

Conclusion

Pastor Mensa Otabil’s remarks at the opening of the Doulos Conference 2025 provided a compelling call to action for Christian leaders.

He urged pastors to embrace a learning mindset, engage in meaningful dialogue, and return to the biblical model of servanthood exemplified by the early apostles.

His message serves as a reminder that true leadership in the Kingdom of God is not about titles but about a deep commitment to serving Christ and His people.