By Eric Otchere I http://www.livingourbible.com I Tuesday 28th April 2026
Introduction
In recent days, two separate incidents in Ghana have stirred intense public debate, drawing attention not only to the substance of disagreement but also to the manner in which dissent is expressed. In one instance, a woman in a Methodist Church setting publicly confronted her pastor over teachings on tithing, while in another, a senior government official criticized the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost over comments on illegal mining, widely known as galamsey. These moments, amplified across media platforms, have become more than isolated controversies; they have become mirrors reflecting the state of communication, leadership, and public discourse in our society.
What makes these stories compelling is not merely the boldness of the women involved, but the deeper lessons embedded in their approach. In a generation where expression is often celebrated without restraint, the question is no longer whether people should speak, but how they should speak. Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 15:1 (NKJV) that “a soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger,” and this timeless truth becomes painfully relevant in moments like these.
Rather than joining the chorus of condemnation or applause, wisdom demands that we pause, reflect, and extract lessons that can shape our conduct, especially in public spaces.
Where They Erred: 5 Critical Mistakes We Must Not Ignore
1. Lack of Civility in Public Discourse
One of the most glaring issues in both incidents was the absence of civility, which is the foundation of any progressive society. Civility is not weakness; it is disciplined strength expressed through politeness, courtesy, and respect. When individuals engage in public dialogue without these virtues, they reduce meaningful conversation to emotional outbursts. The Bible encourages believers in Colossians 4:6 (NKJV) to let their speech “always be with grace, seasoned with salt,” a principle clearly neglected in both situations.
2. Disrespect for Authority
Both women directed their criticisms toward figures in positions of authority—one a pastor, the other a prominent church leader. While disagreement is not wrong, the manner of engagement matters deeply. In Scripture, even when Moses was challenged by Miriam and Aaron, the consequences revealed how seriously God regards respect for authority. Hebrews 13:17 (NKJV) reminds believers to “obey those who rule over you, and be submissive,” highlighting the importance of honor even in disagreement.
3. Poor Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is the ability to manage feelings in a way that produces wise outcomes, yet both situations revealed a breakdown in this critical skill. Instead of reasoning through their concerns, the responses appeared driven by unchecked emotion. James 1:19 (NKJV) instructs us to be “swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath,” emphasizing that emotional restraint is a mark of maturity. When emotions dominate reasoning, clarity is lost, and communication becomes destructive rather than constructive.
4. Absence of Facts and Structured Argument
Another major flaw was the failure to present well-researched, fact-based arguments. In the case of the tithing debate, a scriptural discussion could have been supported with biblical references, while the galamsey issue could have been addressed with data and measurable outcomes. Instead, the arguments lacked depth, weakening their credibility. 2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJV) encourages believers to rightly divide the word of truth, which implies careful study and accurate presentation.
5. Ignorance of the Power of Public Platforms
Both incidents occurred in public spaces, where words carry far-reaching consequences. What may seem like a personal confrontation quickly becomes a societal conversation when microphones and cameras are involved. Jesus Himself warned in Matthew 12:36 (NKJV) that every idle word will be accounted for, underscoring the weight of public speech. In today’s digital age, one statement can define reputations and influence thousands, making caution not optional but essential.
Lessons We Must Learn: 5 Principles for a Better Society
1. Everyone Has a Perspective
The first lesson is simple yet profound: every individual operates from a framework shaped by knowledge, experience, and belief systems. Whether it is a pastor interpreting Scripture or a public official analyzing national issues, perspectives will differ. Recognizing this diversity of thought is the beginning of wisdom. As Romans 14:5 (NKJV) suggests, “let each be fully convinced in his own mind,” reminding us that differences are inevitable but must be handled with maturity.
2. Respect Must Govern All Differences
Respect is the currency of meaningful dialogue, and without it, even valid arguments lose their power. The late Nelson Mandela once noted that one does not win arguments by raising their voice but by strengthening their reasoning. This aligns with Philippians 2:3 (NKJV), which calls us to esteem others better than ourselves. Respect does not mean agreement; it means recognizing the dignity of others even when we differ.
3. Communicate with Clarity and Purpose
Effective communication is intentional, not impulsive. The goal of speaking should be to enlighten, persuade, or correct—not to humiliate or attack. In both cases, the intended message was overshadowed by the method of delivery. Ephesians 4:29 (NKJV) instructs believers to speak words that edify, ensuring that communication builds rather than destroys.
4. Understand the Weight of Public Speech
Public communication is never private, even when directed at one individual. Once words are spoken in a public forum, they become accessible to all and subject to interpretation by many. This reality demands a higher level of responsibility. Ecclesiastes 5:2 (NKJV) warns against being rash with words, reminding us that thoughtful speech is a sign of wisdom.
5. Learn, Grow, and Extend Grace
Perhaps the most important lesson is that mistakes are inevitable, but growth is optional. Instead of destroying those who err, society must create room for correction, learning, and restoration. The response of the Church of Pentecost Chairman who chose forgiveness over retaliation reflects the heart of Christ. Ephesians 4:32 (NKJV) encourages kindness and forgiveness, reminding us that grace is the ultimate expression of maturity.
Conclusion: Turning Controversy into Wisdom
These two incidents serve as powerful reminders that the true measure of maturity is not found in the boldness of our speech but in the wisdom that guides it. In a world increasingly driven by instant reactions and viral moments, the ability to pause, reflect, and respond with grace has become a rare but necessary virtue.
If we fail to learn from these moments, we risk repeating them in our own lives, whether in our homes, workplaces, or public platforms. But if we choose to reflect deeply, guided by Scripture and wisdom, these stories can become catalysts for personal growth and societal transformation. The real question is not whether mistakes were made, but whether we are willing to learn from them.
About Living Our Bible (LOB)
Living Our Bible is a global Christian platform committed to teaching Scripture with clarity, depth, and practical relevance for everyday living. Through articles, devotionals, and teachings, LOB seeks to inspire believers to live out biblical truths with wisdom, faith, and purpose. Visit: www.livingourbible.com
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