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Miracles, Signs and Wonders as God's accreditation of authentic Christianity and Ministries – Why I believe in Pastor David Ibiyeomie & Salvation Ministries (4)
By Dr. Lewis Akpogena
Do signs and wonders prove whether a man is of God or not? Dolemite two parts post entitled: “Salvation Ministries Port Harcourt A Fraud?” in Nairaland website questioned the authenticity of the miracles wrought through God’s Servant Pastor David Ibiyeomie and he disputed the number of people who attended and watch the 5 Nights of Glory 2015? In my many years of ministry I have seen scores of genuine healings and other supernatural manifestations of the Holy Spirit. Miracles produced by the power of God indeed bear witness of Christ's reality and are still a vital part of His ministry plan for today's church (Heb. 13:. Certainly, there are men of God who have been greatly used in gifts of healings, miracles, and other such manifestations. However, signs and wonders by themselves, cannot necessarily prove whether a man is of God or not. Signs and wonders were "among" the identifying characteristics that accompanied the ministry of Jesus and His Apostles (2 Cor. 12:12, Acts 2:22), but would not have authenticated their ministry without the combination of other traits. The Bible says that signs will inevitably follow believers (Mark 16:17). But again, without the other evidences of Christianity, miracles ALONE, cannot confirm the authenticity of believers. The rest of that passage says that the Lord worked with them, confirming the Word through the accompanying signs (Mark 16:20). You see, signs, wonders and miracles are really intended to bring confirmation to "the Word, the Lord Jesus Christ," not necessarily the believers. Whenever God truly performs miracles, it is intended to bring credibility to the Gospel and to glorify Jesus Christ. Jesus specifically warned that the claim of performing miraculous or wonderful acts of ministry in the name of the Lord is not proof of a man's spiritual authenticity. As remarkable as it seems, in the day of judgment there will be some professed miracle workers that the Lord will say that He never knew. "Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name? And then I will declare to them, I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!" (Matt. 7:22-23). (See also 2 Cor. 11:13-14). It is a dangerous thing to assume that a man is of God, solely on the basis of apparent signs and wonders, for the following reasons:

(1) How can you ascertain the genuineness of a miracle? The appearance of miracles can be cleverly fabricated. Not long ago, Christian leaders were stunned when an investigator publicly exposed a respected, well-known evangelist for staging phony miracles. The evangelist had a reputation for calling people out of a congregation by the word of knowledge and would appear to supernaturally know personal details such as their disease, their name or even their address. Shocking evidence was uncovered how the evangelist's wife would move through the audience and interview persons about personal details, and then use a miniature electronic transmitter to communicate this with her husband, who had a tiny receiver in his ear. The investigator had discovered the radio frequency used, and tape recorded the actual voice of the evangelist's wife as she described the illnesses and details to her husband on the stage. They were caught red handed. The pretense was over. In another incident several years ago, a small-time preacher was curiously known to always ask people to take off their shoes before praying for them. It was eventually revealed that he had wired the outer casing of his microphone with a small electrical voltage and wore rubber soled shoes. When he would lay hands on people who were standing on a well grounded concrete floor, they would receive a light electrical jolt to make them think that it was the power of God. The preacher was protected from voltage by his insulated shoes. But even before electronic gadgets, charlatans were exposed for hiring pretenders to throw down crutches, jump out of wheel chairs, or give false testimony of some great miracle. Many sincere Christian people find it difficult to believe that there could be such deliberate deceptions, especially by those who use the name of Jesus. But this is exactly why deceivers are able to fool the believers. They take advantage of the sincerity of naive people who simply don't know the Biblical way to spot false prophets.

(2) Genuine miracles sometimes occur in spite of counterfeit preachers. It would seem reasonable to conclude that all alleged miracles performed by phony preachers must also be fabricated. But this is not so. One of the biggest unsolved mysteries is why genuine miracles have occurred in association with alleged preachers who have been proven to be fakes. Many people can still remember the ministry of "Marjo," the famous Pentecostal "boy" preacher of the 1950's. He was just a child when his parents taught him to memorize and preach eloquent, Biblical sermons. Because of his youth and the claim of great miracles which followed his ministry, he was a novelty to the church world and attracted great crowds to hear him preach the Gospel. During those years, many considered him to be a rising young prophet and would drive for miles to be prayed for by the boy evangelist. Numerous people were saved and healed in his meetings. When Marjo came of age, he shocked the world by revealing that his years as the boy preacher had only been a masquerade, a scheme invented by his parents to make money. Indeed, the attraction had raked in big profits. Marjo admitted that his participation had never been more than a scam forced upon him by his parents. He had never sincerely believed the things he had been taught to memorize or say. Ironically, Marjo eventually went to Hollywood where he remains as an actor to this day. But left behind from this shrewd deception were scores of people who actually came to Christ through the Gospel which Marjo preached. Genuine healings were proved and documented which had occurred in Marjo's crusades. Though his ministry was fraudulent, amazingly, the Gospel messages which he memorized and preached had an unexpected effect. God genuinely "confirmed His Word with signs following," even though the messenger was a fake. The souls who were saved and miracles which occurred were never an approval of the boy preacher, but were the confirmation of the power and truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ! To us, it might seem better for God to withhold miracles from being connected with spurious and unholy figures, but to do this would be an injustice to the integrity and truth of His Word. Besides, if we had to wait around for preachers to become perfectly Holy, we might never see miracles. God's Word will bring faith (Rom. 10:17), and wherever there is faith in God's word, signs will follow. Signs and miraculous answers to prayer will follow them that believe (Mark 11:24).

This point was made clear in scripture when Peter and John came across the lame man begging for alms at the beautiful gate. They had no money to give him, but they offered something else of greater value. They commanded him to rise and walk through the name of Jesus! Incredibly, the crippled man stood to his feet and began to leap, praising God for his healing. Those who witnessed this miracle were astonished, and were undoubtedly in awe of the Apostles. But Peter immediately shot down any misdirected impressions of credit. So when Peter saw it, he responded, "Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?" (Acts 3:12). The Apostles disavowed that this healing had anything to do with their own power or holiness, but was due to faith in the name of Jesus (Acts 3:16). But whose faith? The lame man's or the Apostles? This is another one of the mysteries. Many people may sometimes assume that the faith comes from the "anointed" preacher or the person doing the praying. But in reality, it could be the faith of the sick person, the congregation, or the combination of them all.

(3) Supernatural gifts are irrevocable. Many theologians believe that spiritual gifts are initially given only to Godly, Spirit-filled people. But later, if they become corrupt, or even deny the faith, God will not withdraw the gift. Support for this idea comes from scripture which states, "For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable" (Rom. 11:29). If this interpretation is correct, this would be further explanation why signs and wonders might accompany false prophets, and further evidence why we should never use miracles, alone, as a way to identify true men of God. Others hold the opinion that spiritual gifts are never actually given to individuals as their possession. This view is that the gifts are given only to the "body of Christ." While God uses men to display the "manifestations" of His Spirit, yet they are not the property of the man. In this case, God might use whatever vessel is available, despite its impurity, because of His love and desire to bless the body. It's not to the credit of the man, but to the credit of God who loves His people and would do anything to bless them. Does the presence of fake mean genuine miracles and those been used by God like Pastor David Ibiyeomie make the miracles, signs and wonders wrought in 5 Nights of Glory fake? No, of course! The Miracles, Signs and Wonders wrought through Pastor David Ibiyeomie during, after 5 Nights of Glory up till now are genuine work of God’s grace, Spirit and Power of God.

On the number of persons who attended and watch the 5 Nights of Glory 2015 runs into 100s of millions worldwide. It is not a matter of Dolemite’s Alexa.com IT marketing tool analysis. We are here talking of what the Almighty God did by the power of the Holy Spirt through Pastor David Ibiyeomie in bringing multitude in millions all over the world through cable satellite, internet, Radio, Television and other media devices to watch and participate in the five days Church services. The little, deceptive mind of Dolemite and his likes, computer electronic device is incapable to ascertain what God is doing. It is only spiritual minded individual with spiritual endowment and discernment could be granted such knowledge. No chemical test and scientific device can understand the mystery and the workings of God, the Holy Spirit. It is a knowledge to much for carnal and unsaved minds like Dolemite. God is aware and allow the presence of falsehood and false miracles hence, God instruct Believers, to “test the spirits” (1 Jn. 4:4) and “hold on to what is good” (1 Thess. 5:21). As we reported the attendance and participants were: “2015 - 5 NIGHTS OF GLORY - “And it came to pass” ..as the multitude pressed about David Ibiyeomie to hear the word of God” (Luke 5) from the day 1 till day 5 of 2015 Five Nights of Glory powered by the Holy Spirit at Salvation Ministries held and transmitted from the Headquarters of Salvation Ministries, Plot 17B Birabi Street, GRA Phase 1, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria to all over the world through cable satellite network Television, Radio, internet and many other electronic devices. 162 Countries hooked on and watched the transmission from 9.553,764 points that IT experts estimate that over 100 million people watched and participated in this global outreach tagged “5 Nights of Glory 2015” There was nothing like it in the history of religious gathering not even the secular event that such number of people are reached at each service. It is unprecedented and the unfolding happenings each day of the event was awesome and eventfully great. Never seen in this way”.

“Yes! The 5 Nights of Glory 2015 was another season of God’s visitation. The programme took place in over 60 satellite Churches and over 350 viewing centres in Nigeria, Bayelsa, Uyo, Asaba, Abuja, Lagos, Warri, Aba and more from 19th to 23rd January 2015. The attendance was unprecedented. Ministers of the gospel of Jesus Christ came from all over Nigeria and other parts of the world graced the event. Prominent amongst them was a serving State Senator who came with other men of God from United States of America, Senator Anthony C. Muse. Participants also came from Canada, Germany, Ghana, Brazil, South Africa, Italy and other European countries. Some men of God from Nigeria were Apostle ZillyAggrey, Bishop Elkanah Hanson, Bishop Dan Onuorah, Pastor Sunny Cookey, Commanding Bishop W. W. Bunting, Rev. K. J. Ogan and many others including Bible School classmates of the presiding Pastor and host Pastor David Ibiyeomie and Mama, Pastor Peace Ibiyeomie were also in attendance. And as Pastor David Ibiyeomie began “to do and teach”,” the power of the Lord was present to heal” (Acts 1:1 cp Luke 5:1, 17 that “many of those who heard the word” and “believed” and saved were over five thousand people at each day service. Through the hands of Pastor David Ibiyeomie the acts of the Holy Spirit replicated that many signs and wonders were done among the people. Believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitude of both men and women. So that sick folks were brought to streets, viewing centres and every satellite centres that through word of knowledge, prophetic word declaration and shadow of Pastor DavideIbiyeomie many came under the power of God, slayed in the Spirit and healed”.

“The miraculous healing and the display of the power of God as Pastor David Ibiyeomie ministered in the power of the Holy Spirit, “the power of resurrection” a special revelation from God to his servant and the blessed mantle “handkerchief” healings were replicated as it was recorded in Acts 19:11-12: “by the hands of Paul, so that even handkerchiefs or apron were brought from his body to the sick and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them” Following this report is cocktail of testimonies of some of the miraculous healings among them many HIV positive report turned negative (with medical proofs) “SS” genotype turned “AA” with medical proofs. Creative miracles like unequal leg or hand growing to be equaled, the dead raise to life among many others. Each day was marked by ministration of the word, healing session and the prophetic by the anointed man of God, Pastor David Ibiyeomie. The teaching session each day was taken from John 3:16 and entitled: Day 1 – Unveiling the Power of John 3:16 – Love, Foundation of Dominion. Day 2 – Unveiling the Power of John 3:16 – The Power of Vision. Day 3 – Unveiling the power of John 3:16 – The Power of Faith. Day 4.Unveiling the power of John 3:16 – The Giving Dimension. Day 5 – Unveiling the power of John 3:16 – Salvation. Details of these messages has been published into a book titled: The Power of John 3:16 by Pastor David Ibiyeomie. The 2016 Five Nights of Glory is scheduled for 18th to 22nd January 2016. Photo News of some of the scene of ministrations and attendance follows. Never before was anything like this that the impact of the Holy Spirit empowered meeting continued after the event across the globe as many testimonies abound thereafter. To God be the glory”. Report by Dr. Lewis Akpogena(08033399821)

Miracles Still Happen: God is still in the business of miracles. I believe that the greatest miracle of all is that of converting a blind sinner to see their sin and to change the human heart; from one of serving the god of this world to seeing their own sin and the need of a Savior in Jesus Christ. The miracle of human conversion is actually greater than any healing miracle because this brings eternal life in Christ. A healing miracle is only temporary. The person healed will eventually die but the one that is born-again has inherent eternal life that can never be lost and that person can live with God for eternity, never to die again (John 3:16). Pastor David Ibiyeomie exhibit high level integrity and in every case of miracle wrought he employed scriptural methods void of gimmicks and acknowledge God as the doer. All the miracles, signs and wonders l witnessed and documented in audio, video and pictures were manifested publicly in the open. It was not a show off. They were the acts of God’s grace through the Holy Spirit. Subsequent part of this series will be a presentation of some of the miracles in pictures, video and medical reports attesting to the authenticity of the miracles. Hebrews 2:4 looks back on the time when the apostles brought the gospel to this people and says, "It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard him [i.e., apostles], while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his own will." Only doubters and the unbelieve that contest and dispute the authenticity of the extraordinary miracles being wrought through God’s Servant Pastor David Ibiyeomie. Not done, read next part. To encounter God and experience Miracles, Signs and Wonders as Pastor David Ibiyeomie ministers @ Salvation Ministries, Plot 17 Birabi Street, GRA Phase 1, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria or worship online: "http://www.smhos.org/" or worship @ Salvation Ministries Aleto Satellite Church, Bolingo Hall, 2 Aleto Road, Nchia Eleme, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. You are blessed for life “May God increase your greatness and comfort you on every side” (Ps. 71:21). You are loved and appreciated. Have question you may call: 08033399821 or write akpogena@yahoo.com. Stay blessed.





Dr. Lewis Akpogena, a Christian Devotional Writer/Minister,
Education Management and Media Consultant write from Port Harcourt

Miracles, Signs and Wonders as God's accreditation of authentic Christianity and Ministries – Why I believe in Pastor David Ibiyeomie & Salvation Ministries (3b)
By Dr. Lewis Akpogena




The gift of the Spirit to the nations is through PETER; God specifically chose him (Acts 15:7-. It is also important to remember, the Jewish Christian community had a very difficult time “accepting” the fact that GENTILES were coming into the Church (if you just skip over this fact, you are ignoring an extremely important reality of the first century church); that was the Jewish culture of the day. In Acts chapter ten, the Lord actually had to deal with Peter himself regarding this issue (Acts 10:9ff); thus the Lord had to reveal to him in a vision that Gentiles were now no longer unclean or unholy (Acts 10:28) — that in every nation (including Gentiles) the man who fears God and does what is right, is welcome to Him (Acts 10:35). Jesus is now Lord of ALL! (Acts 10:36). The Lord needed to confirm His message through Peter and the Apostles, that they might authenticate this truth; after all, they were the apostolic leaders (Jewish) of the Church. Hence, in Acts chapter ten (Acts 10:44ff), while Peter was speaking to the Gentiles, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were listening to the message… and all the circumcised Jewish believers were amazed, “because the gift of the Holy Spirit had also been poured out upon the Gentiles!” God was now bringing salvation to the “entire world!” no longer was He now just dealing with the Jews. The “substantiating evidence” was that these new Gentile believers spoke in tongues just like the Jews did at Pentecost! (cf. Acts 2:1ff). Think about it — how else would the Jews have ever really known that the Gentiles had now been indwelled by the Holy Spirit? Speaking in tongues was a critical “sign gift” that was needed when the gospel was first being spread to the Gentile world (Acts 1:; that was the “corroborating sign” that God gave to the Jewish leaders of the Church as the gospel spread through the then known world — be it Jerusalem (Acts 2:3-4)… Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:14-17)… or the other parts of the world (Acts 10:44-48). You might recall the Acts 15 “Council at Jerusalem” — this council was held to determine whether or not Gentiles needed to “first be circumcised” (become Jews) in order to be saved; i.e., they must first put them-selves under the law of Moses and be circumcised. Paul & Barnabas vigorously opposed this teaching by a group of Judaizers, and Peter likewise supported them and witnessed to the fact that God had bestowed the Holy Spirit upon the Gentiles just as He had the Jews, making them pure “by grace and faith alone.” The head of the Jerusalem church, James (a brother of Jesus), concurred with the apostles and the issue was permanently resolved (cf. Mk 6:3; Acts 12:17; 15:13ff). There is another passage that needs to be discussed that is frequently misinterpreted — in Acts 19 when Paul came upon a group of twelve disciples in the city of Ephesus on the Aegean Sea (across from Athens), he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” And they said to him, “No, we have not even heard whether there is (emphatic!) a Holy Spirit.” And he said, “Into what were you baptized?” And they said, “Into John’s (emphatic!) baptism” (Acts 19:1-3). Here was a group of disciples who had repented of their sins under the ministry of John the Baptist (Mk1:4), but word had not yet come to them that “the Christ” had already come and died and been buried, and rose from the dead and ascended back into heaven… and that the “Holy Spirit” had fallen upon all of the believers [in Jerusalem] on the Day of Pentecost… so they had not yet received the Holy Spirit; that is, they were not yet “indwelled by the Holy Spirit.” Remember, they were nearly a thousand miles from Jerusalem, so word of Christ’s coming had not yet reached them. They had been told by John the Baptist to “believe in Him (Jesus) who was coming after him” (Mk 1:7-, so when the apostle Paul explained about Jesus, “they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul laid hands upon them, the Holy Spirit (emphatic!) came on them, and they began speaking with tongues and prophesying” (Acts 19:4-6). Once again, when people came to faith in Christ in the early Church “they received the Holy Spirit and the corresponding gift of tongues like the others” — thus, the presence of the Holy Spirit was being powerfully manifested in their lives; this was a “supernatural sign” that the Holy Spirit did indeed come upon them… how else would they have known at this juncture in the church? The New Testament had not been written… they were still living during the “time of the apostles.” 16:7-8, 16:13-14; Rom 8:15-16). Carefully note the “contextual difference” between the two time periods.

The Purpose of Miracles: Jesus performed miracles to “validate His person and message;” conversely, the apostles who were called to proclaim the new teaching of Jesus, were also validated by God with signs and miracles just like Jesus (cf. Acts 2:22; 2:43; 5:12; 14:3). Paul writes, “The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with all perseverance, by signs and wonders and miracles” (2 Cor 12:12); these miracles validated their leadership, thus qualifying them to “pen the words of Scripture” so that we might confidently come to know the revelation of God (2 Pet 1:21; Lk 1:70). The apostles were men commissioned for a unique role in a particular time period for the Church; they never preached signs and wonders to attract the multitudes, nor did they ever announce a signs and wonders meeting or a healing crusade, and they never allowed signs and wonders to be amplified above their message. The miracles performed by the apostles merely attested to the validity of their apostleship, thus substantiating the truth of their message about Christ. The “preaching of the Gospel” was their commission, not the performing of miracles or healings. The book of Hebrews says that signs were used to “confirm” the word of God (Heb 2:3-4). Keeping the context in mind, Jesus said that these demonstrations in power were “SIGNS” (Mk 16:17-18), and Paul reminds us that signs are for the “JEWS” (1 Cor 1:22). Israel began with signs (Rom 4:11; Ex 4:8, 9, 17, 23, 28, 30; 7:3; 8:23; 10:1-2; 13:9; 31:13, 17; Deut 4:34; 6:22)… Israel lived by signs (Deut 11:18; Josh 4:6; 1 Sam 10: 7; 2 Kg 19:29; Is 7:14; 38:7, 22; Ezek 4:3; 20:12, 20)… and Israel demanded signs from Christ (Mt 12:38; 24:3).

In a word, the purpose of signs, wonders and miracles was “authentication” — Jesus demonstrated on numerous occasions that He indeed was the “Anointed of God” (i.e., the Messiah / Christ) by performing signs, wonders and miracles (cf. Acts 2:22). Why else would anyone have believed in Him? Throughout the course of history numerous people have claimed to be the “Messiah”… but only Jesus Christ demonstrated that He truly was the Messiah, by performing wonders and miracles that only One from God could perform (Jn 10:37-38). Think about it for a moment: “Why would you believe or disbelieve someone who claimed to have a new revelation from God?” Would you simply believe him because you “know him”? or that he appeared to be a “nice person”? or that “others believed him”? Or would you insist on “more evidence than that”? Hopefully, you would insist on more evidence. Well that was the case in the early church; there were numerous voices making all kinds of heretical claims, and it was absolutely critical that these voices be disproved. Therefore Jesus and all of the apostles “demonstrated their authenticity” by performing extraordinary miracles (2 Cor 12:12) — thus “substantiating their message.” Keeping the foregoing in mind, following are a number of passages in the New Testament that help us focus on the “purpose” of those supernatural gifts identified as the “SIGN GIFTS” —

Acts 2:22 — Peter raised his voice saying, “Men of Israel, listen to these words: Jesus the Nazarene, a man attested to you by God with miracles and wonders and signs which God performed through Him in your midst, just as you yourselves know.” 2 Cor 12:12 — Writes Paul to the church at Corinth: “The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with all perseverance, by signs and wonders and miracles.” Heb 2:3-4 — “How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? After it was at the first spoken through the Lord, it was confirmed to us by those who heard, God also bearing witness with them, both by signs and wonders and by various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit according to His own will.” 1 Thes 1:5 — Writes Paul: “Our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit will full conviction; just as you know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake.” Mark 16:20 — “The twelve disciples went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the word by the signs that followed.” 1 Cor 2:3-4 — Paul said to the Corinthian church, “I was with you in weakness and in fear and in much trembling, and my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.” Matt 11:2 — “When John the Baptist who was in prison heard about the works of Christ, he sent word by his disciples, and said to Him, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for someone else?” John 2:11 — “This beginning of His signs, Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory.” John 4:48 — “Jesus therefore said to him, “Unless you people (remember, He’s talking to Jews here) see signs and wonders, you simply will not believe.” John 10:25 — Jesus responded to the Jews saying, “I told you, and you do not believe; the works that I do in My Father’s name, these bear witness of Me.”John 10:37-38 — Jesus said, “If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me; but if I do them, though you do not believe Me, believe the works; that you may know and understand that the Father is in Me, and I in the Father.”John 20:30-31 — At the end of his gospel, John writes: “Many other signs therefore Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.”

Acts 14:3 — “Paul and Barnabas spent a long time in Iconium speaking boldly with reliance upon the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting that signs and wonders be done by their hands.” Rom 15:18-19 — Paul writes, “I will not presume to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me, resulting in the obedience of the Gentiles by word and deed, in the power of signs and wonders, in the power of the Spirit; so that from Jerusalem and round about as far as Illricum I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.” 2 Thes 2:8-10 — Paul writes, “Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming; that is, the one whose coming is in accord with the activity of Satan, with all power and signs and false wonders, and with all the deception of wickedness for those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth so as to be saved.” Satan seeks to emulate Christ that people might follow and believe him instead. 1 Cor 1:22 — Paul writes: “Indeed, Jews ask for signs, and Greeks search for wisdom.” 1 Cor 14:22 — So then writes Paul, “Tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe, but to unbelievers (Acts 2:1-11); but prophecy is for a sign not to unbelievers, but to those who believe.” The implication of these verses suggests that the PURPOSE for the sign gifts (signs, wonders and miracles) was to AUTHENTICATE the messenger and thus SUBSTANTIATE his message. Obviously, there was a need for God’s spokesmen (prophets, apostles, pastors, evangelists, teachers & believers) to be authenticated, and the means by which God authenticated them was through the performance of signs, wonders, miracles and powers. The happenings, miracles, messages and various testimonies and mammoth crowd that attend the 5 Nights of Glory globally attest to the credibility of God at work in and through Pastor David Ibiyeomie and Salvation Ministries hence l believe. Not done, read next part. To encounter God and experience Miracles, Signs and Wonders as Pastor David Ibiyeomie ministers @ Salvation Ministries, Plot 17 Birabi Street, GRA Phase 1, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria or worship online: "http://www.smhos.org/" or worship @ Salvation Ministries Aleto Satellite Church, Bolingo Hall, 2 Aleto Road, Nchia Eleme, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. You are blessed for life “May God increase your greatness and comfort you on every side” (Ps. 71:21). You are loved and appreciated. Have question you may call: 08033399821 or write akpogena@yahoo.com. Stay blessed.





Dr. Lewis Akpogena, a Christian Devotional Writer/Minister,
Education Management and Media Consultant write from Port Harcourt

Miracles, Signs and Wonders as God's accreditation of authentic Christianity and Ministries – Why I believe in Pastor David Ibiyeomie & Salvation Ministries (3)
By Dr. Lewis Akpogena


Does God Do Miracles Today? Yes! For those who believed and through the Ministry of the Holy Spirit on those who believed. Doubters like Dolemite can’t experience this heritage of the Christian believers or understand the mystery of how God works through the Holy Spirit to bring about these experiences. God authenticate Jesus’ Ministry with signs, miracles and wonders. Jesus promised same will happen to the Ministry of the Christian believers as it did happened to his disciples and early apostles in the early Churches. “Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know”(Acts 2:22). “15And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. 19So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. 20And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen” (Mark 16:15-20). “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. 13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it”(John 14:12-14). Does God lie? No. Has His power to do miracles and authenticate His servants’ message with miracles, signs and wonders ceased withy changing times? No. The problem is with religious people and theologians who interpret God’s word with their logics and philosophy based on human reasoning.

The three main questions with which the theologian occupies himself when dealing with a particular passage are these: 1) What is the “context” of the passage? 2) What does the passage “say”? and 3) What does the passage “mean”? And these three questions must be answered in that order. Regarding the “context,” there is the immediate context of the paragraph in which a particular verse is found; then there is the greater context of the book in which it is found; and ultimately, there is the context of all of Scripture. It should be noted, if one is not certain of the “context” of a particular passage, or what a passage really “says,” then he cannot be certain as to what it “means.” The problem with most Christians is that they don’t take the time to do their homework (including many in ministry), and are inclined to quickly focus on the “meaning” of a passage before doing the tough preliminary work; that is, before examining what the “context” is and determining what the passage actually “says.” The truth of the matter is, once you have answered the first two questions, the third is relatively easy. Lastly, remember, we’re dealing with the inerrant, infallible, written word of God” (not a human document), that was written in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek, but has now been graciously given to us in the English language through the profoundly difficult task of translation. It should be comforting to know that thousands of theologians have contributed to the incredible text that we now have in our hands today. Before launching into the topic at hand, let me just say that after several years of living and learning, I believe I can offer a fairly “learned perspective” on the issue of signs, wonders and miracles. My prayer is that you will find the following study an encouragement to your faith.

The Day of Pentecost: On the day of Pentecost nearly 2,000 years ago, the Holy Spirit came to “permanently dwell” in the hearts of all believers and give them “gifts” that they might minister to and enrich other peoples lives (cf. Acts 1:5, 8; 2:1-12; Lk 22:26; Jn 14:23; Rom 8:9; 1 Cor 3:16; 6:19; 12:7-11; 2 Cor 6:16; Col 1:27; 1 Jn 4: 13). During the formative years of the Church, all of the believers were essentially “Jewish” (more on this later), and the “gift of tongues” was given to these Jewish believer that day as an “evidential manifestation” that indeed the Holy Spirit had now taken up residence within them — that was the “sign” to indicate such. Obviously this new dispensation was not one to which they were accustomed, so they were given “unquestionable evidence” of the Holy Spirit’s presence in their lives (i.e., the Church, the body of Christ).
The Importance of “Context”: The Bible is “God’s inspired Word to mankind” (2 Tim 3:16) — it is the story of human history and God’s plan of redemption. Here’s a brief overview: It begins with the creation and sub-sequent fall of man… the diabolical sinfulness and destruction of man by sending a worldwide flood… the reestablishment of man on the earth and God’s choice of a man named Abraham through whom He would ultimately bring salvation to the world… the call of a people for His name’s sake (descendants of Abraham; the nation of Israel) to be a witness of His righteousness and peace… the apostasy of Israel and her failure to follow God… the raising up of prophets to foretell the coming of an Anointed One (the Messiah) to redeem sinful man… the miraculous birth of God’s Anointed One (Jesus Christ)… the proclamation of the Kingdom of Heaven by Jesus and His followers… the rejection of Jesus by the Jewish people, and His subsequent crucifixion… the resurrection of Jesus and the formation of the Church that included Gentiles in the believing community… the development of the Church as the people of God in the world… and the foretelling of the end of the age and the making of a new heaven and a new earth where all of God’s people will dwell forever with Him in eternity future. Throughout certain stages of human history, God chose to “miraculously intervene” and communicate new revelation to the world, that man might turn from his sin (repent) and turn to Him and live a life of righteousness and faith. All four gospels give a “historical account” of the events and teachings of Jesus that occurred during His time on earth — the Greek grammatical constructions the authors used when writing these gospel accounts state things as “unequivocal facts” (not opinions); that’s one of the significant advantages of the Greek language. The supreme purpose of all Scripture, according to the apostle Paul, is to instruct its readers “for salvation” (1 & 2 Timothy).

When Jesus came into this world, He was born into a Jewish family in the Jewish city of Bethlehem, and was raised in the Jewish city of Nazareth. His three year earthly ministry, which began at the age of thirty, was confined to the land of Palestine, and dealt with the “JEWISH PEOPLE” (the nation of Israel). The “GENTILE WORLD” would not become an integral part of God’s work until at least twelve years after the ascension of Jesus into heaven. If you fail to keep this fact in mind (i.e., the context of the earthly life and ministry of Jesus) when reading the gospels, you will stumble over a number of passages and ultimately misunderstand them. The Old Testament and the nation of Israel is the “context” (the foundation) that underlies all of the gospels; so without a basic understanding of God’s work in the world from creation to the birth of Christ, you will seriously limit your understanding and appreciation of much of what Jesus taught in His earthly ministry. Sadly, there are many in the Church today who completely ignore the Old Testament — they treat it as if it no longer has any significant application to the believing community. Brothers and sisters in Christ, the Old Testament is an integral part of your Bible. It should be understood that all the “Scriptural quotes” of Jesus and the apostles are from the Old Testament, and it only by understands the “context” in which these quotes were originally given, that one is able to fully understand their New Testament application. The great reformers stated over and over again that “context,” far and away, was the most important principle that needed to faithfully be adhered to when interpreting Scripture.

Being as the missionary work of Paul to the Gentile world did not take place until some twelve years after the ascension of Jesus into heaven… the early church up until that point was essentially JEWISH, and consisted of about 20,000 Jewish believers; many of whom had been scattered and dispersed throughout Judea and Samaria (the diaspora – Acts 8:1, 4). Though liberal commentators radically disagree with the number of people who were becoming Christians (they compare the Bible’s claims with other historical movements over the years, as if that is the measuring stick), Scripture gives us a number of indicators that the numbers were vastly higher than are admitted by the liberal antagonists (cf. 1 Cor 15:6; Acts 2:41; 2:47; 4:4; 5:14; 6:7). Historians tell us there were about one million Christians in the Roman Empire by AD 100 (World Christian Encyclopedia, 1982), and the vast majority of them being Gentiles… by the year AD 300 the number of Christians had increased in the Roman world to over five million. When Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity in AD 313, the total number of Christians throughout the empire rose to nearly ten million in just a few years. Back to the topic at hand — the writer Luke tells us that those who had been scattered because of persecution in the early church, “spoke the word to no one except to the Jews” (Acts 11: 19). It was only after that that some men began speaking about Christ to the Greeks in the city of Antioch (Acts 11:20-26), and that Barnabas and Paul (Acts 13:9) preached the gospel to them there for about one year — incidentally, it was at Antioch where the followers of Christ were first called “Christians” (Acts 11:26). It should also be noted that Paul and others conducted much of their ministry in the “Jewish synagogues” of each community where they were doing gospel outreach (cf. Acts 13:5; 13:14ff; 13:43; 14:1; 15:21; 17:1, 17; 18:4, 19, 26; 19:8; 22:19; 26:11).

In the first chapter of Acts, just prior to His ascension into heaven (Acts 1:9-11), the Lord Jesus said to His disciples, “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and throughout the entire world” (Acts 1:8; cf. Mt 28:19; Mk 16:15; Rom 10:18). And then in Acts chapter eight, we read about the conversion of a number of Gentiles in Samaria (Acts 8:4-13) — “when the Jewish apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria (emphatic!) had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John who came down and prayed for them, that they (i.e., the Gentiles) might receive the Holy Spirit; for He had not yet fallen upon them — then they laid hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit” (Acts 8:14-17). It is important at this point to remember that while Jesus was on earth, He exclusively focused His ministry on the Jews, because it was to the “lost sheep of the house of Israel” to which the Father sent Him (Mt 15:24); that was the Father’s immediate ministry for His Son. It was only after the resurrection that Jesus commanded His disciples to take the Good News of salvation to the rest of the world (Mt 28:19-20). Prior to the crucifixion when Jesus was ministering with His disciples, He sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of heaven to the Jewish people — He specifically told them, “Do not go into the cities of the Gentiles, or enter into the cities of the Samarians (a mixed race of half-breeds, half-Jews and half-Gentile, who were detested by the Jews), rather go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Mt 10:5-7). So at this time, the disciples were not to proclaim the kingdom message of salvation to non-Jewish people — that day would come, but not until Jesus completed His ministry among the Jewish people. Keep in mind, the redemption of the whole world has always been in God’s plan (Gen 12:3); remember, His chosen people Israel were called to be “a light to the Gentile nations and bring salvation to the ends of the earth” (cf. Acts 13:47; Is 42: 6; 49:6: 60:3; 62:1-2) — the problem was they failed to obey their calling.

Let’s return to the “salvation of the Samarians” in Acts chapter eight — when the news of the Samaritan revival came to Jerusalem, they sent the Jewish apostles Peter and John to see first hand what had actually occurred. It is interesting to remember, the two brothers James & John earlier wanted Jesus to “call down fire from heaven to consume a Samaritan village” (Lk 9:54), confirming the extreme hatred that existed between the two people groups… but it is now a new day! When Peter and John arrived and witnessed what had taken place, they prayed for them that they might “receive the Holy Spirit” (Acts 8:15). Here is some important contextual information — the Lord made the solemn promise to Peter and the Apostles that the “Keys of the Kingdom” to open the door of salvation to all mankind would be placed in their hands (cf. Mt 16-18-19; 18:18); this promise was not made to Philip (Acts 8:5ff) or any others… though Stephen and Philip and a few others were commissioned by the apostles personally (they were called apostolic delegates), and were also given the ability to perform miracles (Acts 6:5-8; 8:5-6). As the gospel message proceeded outward in accord with the commission that was given to them (Acts 1:… in every instance God had sovereignly used Peter and the Apostles as the instruments through whom the Holy Spirit was introduced to these believers (cf. Acts 2:14ff = Judea; Acts 8:14ff = Samaria; Acts 10:28, 44-48 = Gentiles).

Miracles, Signs and Wonders as God's accreditation of authentic Christianity and Ministries – Why I believe in Pastor David Ibiyeomie & Salvation Ministries (2)
By Dr. Lewis Akpogena

What is the purpose of Miracles, Signs and Wonders? Does Miracles, Signs and Wonders authenticate Christianity and Christian Ministries? If God authenticates Christian Ministries and Ministers’ Messages, Is what God doing through Pastor David Ibiyeomie any different? From Church history as we shall see there were people like Dolemite who question the number of people who gave their lives to Christ, attended Church meetings and the authenticity of the miracles wrought b6y the apostles and Ministers of God. People like Dolemite exist because some Christian believers are not doing enough research and communicate biblical truths to expose the fraudulent activities of people like Dolemite. What really took place at the 2015 5 Nights of Glory event? I herein reproduce excerpt from report in Excellent Glory News Bulletin Newspaper May/June Edition 2015: “2015 - 5 NIGHTS OF GLORY - “And it came to pass” ..as the multitude pressed about David Ibiyeomie to hear the word of God” (Luke 5) from the day 1 till day 5 of 2015 Five Nights of Glory powered by the Holy Spirit at Salvation Ministries held and transmitted from the Headquarters of Salvation Ministries, Plot 17B Birabi Street, GRA Phase 1, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria to all over the world through cable satellite network Television, Radio, internet and many other electronic devices. 162 Countries hooked on and watched the transmission from 9.553,764 points that IT experts estimate that over 100 million people watched and participated in this global outreach tagged “5 Nights of Glory 2015” There was nothing like it in the history of religious gathering not even the secular event that such number of people are reached at each service. It is unprecedented and the unfolding happenings each day of the event was awesome and eventfully great. Never seen in this way”.

“Yes! The 5 Nights of Glory 2015 was another season of God’s visitation. The programme took place in over 60 satellite Churches and over 350 viewing centres in Nigeria, Bayelsa, Uyo, Asaba, Abuja, Lagos, Warri, Aba and more from 19th to 23rd January 2015. The attendance was unprecedented. Ministers of the gospel of Jesus Christ came from all over Nigeria and other parts of the world graced the event. Prominent amongst them was a serving State Senator who came with other men of God from United States of America, Senator Anthony C. Muse. Participants also came from Canada, Germany, Ghana, Brazil, South Africa, Italy and other European countries. Some men of God from Nigeria were Apostle ZillyAggrey, Bishop Elkanah Hanson, Bishop Dan Onuorah, Pastor Sunny Cookey, Commanding Bishop W. W. Bunting, Rev. K. J. Ogan and many others including Bible School classmates of the presiding Pastor and host Pastor David Ibiyeomie and Mama, Pastor Peace Ibiyeomie were also in attendance. And as Pastor David Ibiyeomie began “to do and teach”,” the power of the Lord was present to heal” (Acts 1:1 cp Luke 5:1, 17 that “many of those who heard the word” and “believed” and saved were over five thousand people at each day service. Through the hands of Pastor David Ibiyeomie the acts of the Holy Spirit replicated that many signs and wonders were done among the people. Believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitude of both men and women. So that sick folks were brought to streets, viewing centres and every satellite centres that through word of knowledge, prophetic word declaration and shadow of Pastor DavideIbiyeomie many came under the power of God, slayed in the Spirit and healed”.

“The miraculous healing and the display of the power of God as Pastor David Ibiyeomie ministered in the power of the Holy Spirit, “the power of resurrection” a special revelation from God to his servant and the blessed mantle “handkerchief” healings were replicated as it was recorded in Acts 19:11-12: “by the hands of Paul, so that even handkerchiefs or apron were brought from his body to the sick and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them” Following this report is cocktail of testimonies of some of the miraculous healings among them many HIV positive report turned negative (with medical proofs) “SS” genotype turned “AA” with medical proofs. Creative miracles like unequal leg or hand growing to be equaled, the dead raise to life among many others. Each day was marked by ministration of the word, healing session and the prophetic by the anointed man of God, Pastor David Ibiyeomie. The teaching session each day was taken from John 3:16 and entitled: Day 1 – Unveiling the Power of John 3:16 – Love, Foundation of Dominion. Day 2 – Unveiling the Power of John 3:16 – The Power of Vision. Day 3 – Unveiling the power of John 3:16 – The Power of Faith. Day 4.Unveiling the power of John 3:16 – The Giving Dimension. Day 5 – Unveiling the power of John 3:16 – Salvation. Details of these messages has been published into a book titled: The Power of John 3:16 by Pastor David Ibiyeomie. The 2016 Five Nights of Glory is scheduled for 18th to 22nd January 2016. Photo News of some of the scene of ministrations and attendance follows. Never before was anything like this that the impact of the Holy Spirit empowered meeting continued after the event across the globe as many testimonies abound thereafter. To God be the glory”. Report by Dr. Lewis Akpogena(08033399821)

Herein is the Photonews as captured and recorded by Excellent Glory News Bulletin team of reporters.




Not done, read next part. To encounter God and experience Miracles, Signs and Wonders as Pastor David Ibiyeomie ministers @ Salvation Ministries, Plot 17 Birabi Street, GRA Phase 1, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria or worship online: "http://www.smhos.org/" or worship @ Salvation Ministries Aleto Satellite Church, Bolingo Hall, 2 Aleto Road, Nchia Eleme, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. You are blessed for life “May God increase your greatness and comfort you on every side” (Ps. 71:21). You are loved and appreciated. Have question you may call: 08033399821 or write akpogena@yahoo.com. Stay blessed.





Dr. Lewis Akpogena, a Christian Devotional Writer/Minister,
Education Management and Media Consultant write from Port Harcourt

Miracles, Signs and Wonders as God's accreditation of authentic Christianity and Ministries – Why I believe in Pastor David Ibiyeomie & Salvation Ministries (1)
By Dr. Lewis Akpogena


In Nairaland web page online, l read through one Dolemite two parts post entitled: “Salvation Ministries Port Harcourt A Fraud?” This series in several parts as God enables me is my personal response to refute series of falsehood being dished out by the said Dolemite and his likes online worldwide. I have in the past in keeping with God’s mandate to “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine” (2 Tim. 4:2) because, “1Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. 3Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 4Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. 5Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things? 6And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. 7For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. 8And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: 9Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, 10And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: 12That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 13But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: 14Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. 16Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, 17Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work” (2 Thess. 2:1-17).

“1I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; 2Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.3For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.5But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.6For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.7I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 8Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. 9Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me: 10For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. 11Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.12And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus. 13The cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments. 14Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: 15Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words. 16At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. 7Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. 18And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. 19Salute Priscilla and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. 20Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletus sick. 21Do thy diligence to come before winter. Eubulus greeteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren. 22The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with you. Amen” (2 Tim. 4:1-22).

My authority is based on God’s mandate from the Scriptures cited above and personal experience/testimony have tasted and practiced “evil” before conversion under satanic cults/occultism now “in Christ” the “goodness of God”(Ps. 34:8 - O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him). By the grace of God l am trained Education Management/Media Consultant and Clergy. I received Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour 26th February 1976, received several secular and religious education in Nigeria, United States of America, Netherland and Singapore, etc. Studied and practiced occultism before l received Christ under Jesus Christ, l am in good position to stand to be corrected on this matter. I believe my Pastor/Mentor Papa Pastor David Ibiyeomie and the Church Salvation Ministries. Whereas Dolemite based his condemnation on his knowledge of IT and research. The Bible, God’s word is my authority, the foundation of all truth. IT knowledge is humanistic knowledge that is transient truth in part that cannot not stand eternal truth of God’s word that is infallible and endures forever (see Jn. 17:17, 1 Cor. 13:9-12, 1 Peter 1:23-25). I was in the 2015 Five Nights of Glory services and witnessed and captured all happenings in my ipad video/audio recordings as against Dolemite falsehood. AS prophetic scriptures cited noted Dolemite like Alexander the coppersmith who opposed Apostle Paul’s Ministry Dolemite has condemned himself to destruction standing against the truth of God and opposing God’s Servant Pastor David Ibiyeomie and Salvation Ministries. He is trying to misinform by his unethical practice of journalism. His experience attending the 5 Nights of Glory and reportage is from a bias mind that is full of delusion lacking spiritual knowledge and interpretation. Pastor David Ibiyeomie never said 9 million people watch from Internet data/centres rather his IT professionals told him and he duly related it to the more than 50 thousand people gathered in the headquarters beside over 136 viewing centres in Rivers State, Bayelsa, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Abuja and all over Nigeria that over 9 thousand points watched from different cities/countries of the World. That from IT interpretation that runs into millions of people. That from IT experts that is one single event that has never happened in Church history. This has been confirmed by other great men of God in UK and USA. Alexa.com referred to by Dolemite is a computer marketing tools that analysis market performance as against the claim of determining data of attendance and viewers of events. How does the number of viewers and attendance at the said 5 Nights of Glory change the truth of Millions of people saved worldwide as result of the power of the Holy Spirit working through Pastor David Ibiyeomie wrought Miracles, Signs and Wonders?


Did Dolemite not see live at the headquarters physically those who testified with medical proofs HIV positive turning negative and genotype SS turning AA? Were the miracles not real? Or the satanic delusion that took over Dolemite blinded him from seeing the testifiers and the medical doctors who came out to read out medical tests reports? A carnal mind cannot understand the deep things of God. The unsaved Dolemite cannot understand the miracle working power of God at work through Pastor David Ibiyeomie and in Salvation Ministries. They are mystery beyond his deceptive mind clothed with false IT knowledge For unbeliever and unsaved Dolemite the miracles and multitude that came out to receive Jesus Christ and those who testified about the miracles are not real (1Cor.2:10-16, Rom.8:1-10). It is this deception that Dolemite is propagating that will destroy him if he refuses to repent and apologize. I am going to show and report what took place in the said 5 Nights of Glory and what God did through Pastor David Ibiyeomie from biblical records of how Miracles, Signs and wonders attest to Christianity and Ministry of Pastor David Ibiyeomie. Reportage of data of viewers/attendance, testimonies of miracles, signs and wonders and much more.

Biblical rationale: “Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know”(Acts 2:22). “Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. 7And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 8And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. 9And all the people saw him walking and praising God: 10And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him. 11And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering. 12And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk? 13The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go. 14But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; 15And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. 16And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all…. 7And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this? 8Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, 9If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; 10Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 11This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. 12Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. 13Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. 14And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it”(Acts 3:6-16, 4:7-14). “And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: 12So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them” (Acts 19:11-12). “For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed, 19Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ”(Rom. 15:18-19)
Belief in miracles lies at the heart of the Christian faith. Without the miracle of the resurrection, Christianity would have long sense passed from the scene. Understanding the role of miracles in the birth and spread of our faith is essential for today’s Christian. Unlike the modern world, the ancient world was not suspicious of miracles. Ancient people not only typically believed that supernatural powers existed, but that they intervened in human affairs; so miracles did not present a problem to the early Church. By definition, a miracle is an action that runs counter to the commonly observed processes of nature. In the Old Testament they are viewed as a direct intervention of God in human affairs. The most significant miracle in the OT is God’s parting of the Red Sea in delivering the children of Israel out of Egypt. This miracle is the centerpiece of Hebrew history and OT religion, and is a demonstration of God’s power and love in action. This emphasis on miracles as the “redemptive activity of God” is continued in the NT, where they are an integral part of the proclamation of the good news that God has acted on man’s behalf, and has entered into human history in the person of Jesus Christ. The central miracle of the Christian faith is the resurrection of Christ three days after His crucifixion. It is presented by Paul as the keystone of the Christian faith (1 Cor 15). The phenomenon of the “Eucharist” (i.e., “Communion”) would be unexplainable without the knowledge of the risen Christ. Without the miracle of the resurrection the early Church would not have come into being. The Bible teaches that miracles are more than mere wonderful works, they are “signs,” but they are only signs to those who have the spiritual discernment to recognize them as such. Without the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, they only appear to be extraordinary “wonders.”
Since Scripture is “divinely inspired & originated with God” (2 Tim 3:16; 2 Pet 1:21), “no prophecy or teaching of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation” (2 Pet 1:20); in short, there is only one accurate interpretation of Scripture… not two, not three, not four, just one. So if there are two or three opinions on what Scripture says, someone is obviously misinterpreting Scripture — one of them may be right, but all of them cannot be right. The issue comes down to the very nature of “truth” itself — there is only one truth — though each of us may be prejudicially inclined to believe a particular school of thought, our bias should not ultimately determine what is actually “true” in our minds; especially when it comes to Scripture. So a particular text rightly understood, is God’s interpretation, not man’s — those individuals whom God used to write the Scriptures were “moved by the Holy Spirit” (2 Pet 1:21), and the every word they penned was “God breathed” (1 Cor 2:13; 2 Tim 3:16). God did not simply give a general outline or some basic ideas to writers, and then let them phrase them as they pleased… so when we interpret what they wrote, we have to show more maturity than to simply let our prejudicial bias determine what Scripture actually says and what it does not say. Remember, there is enough information out there in the world today to “satisfy one’s ignorance on any subject” (be it theology, politics, racism, etc.), so it is important to “carefully examine all of the evidence on some issue” before committing to a particular interpretation. As human beings we all have a tendency to subscribe to that body of knowledge that agrees with our innate bias without doing our homework and insuring the highest degree of integrity possible. Not done, read next part. To encounter God and experience Miracles, Signs and Wonders as Pastor David Ibiyeomie ministers @ Salvation Ministries, Plot 17 Birabi Street, GRA Phase 1, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria or worship online: "http://www.smhos.org/" or worship @ Salvation Ministries Aleto Satellite Church, Bolingo Hall, 2 Aleto Road, Nchia Eleme, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. You are blessed for life “May God increase your greatness and comfort you on every side” (Ps. 71:21). You are loved and appreciated. Have question you may call: 08033399821 or write akpogena@yahoo.com. Stay blessed.





Dr. Lewis Akpogena, a Christian Devotional Writer/Minister,
Education Management and Media Consultant write from Port Harcourt