PDF Summary:Voice in the Night, by Pastor Surprise

Pastor Surprise Sithole was born into a family steeped in traditional shamanic rituals in Mozambique. In Voice in the Night, he recounts how a supernatural voice at age 15 launched him on a spiritual journey, ultimately leading him to Christianity and a profound dedication to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Sithole shares his life's work establishing churches in Malawi and Mozambique, ministering to refugees through miraculous healings and deliverances from malevolent spirits. He details joining Iris Ministries, marrying Tryphina, and raising four sons amidst world travels spreading the Christian faith. With prophetic visions, Sithole looks ahead to a spiritual awakening before Christ's return, inspiring all to feel God's love.

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• Explore your own belief system by journaling about personal experiences that have shaped your faith or skepticism. Write down instances where you felt a strong belief was challenged and how you responded. This can help you understand the dynamics of faith in your own life and how it can lead to transformation or restoration.

Surprise committed his life to aiding those uprooted by conflict in Mozambique, leading numerous individuals to find solace and faith in Christ.

Driven by deep love for his homeland and a commitment to ease the suffering of his fellow citizens, Sithole chose to leave behind the peace and prosperity of Malawi to return to his origins in Mozambique. The country experienced widespread death, destruction, and displacement as a result of the civil turmoil. His heart broke for those who had lost everything - their homes, families, and even their hope for the future. Pastor Surprise felt a deep spiritual calling to bring a beacon of hope and salvation to those suffering in the overcrowded camps, where illness, starvation, and despair were rampant.

Pastor Surprise delivered a message filled with hope and redemption to individuals who had suffered intense mistreatment. He spoke about the divine ability to mend broken spirits and rejuvenate lives that had been shattered. Sithole's personal encounters with violence and its repercussions empowered him to offer genuine comfort and hope to individuals seeking refuge. He observed that the tenets of Christianity provided solace and strength to individuals who had faced severe trials, as they found consolation and resilience in the divine's love. As their bitterness faded and they became more empathetic, a feeling of optimism began to surface.

Surprise founded a number of places of worship across the Sofala Province, concentrating on catering to the physical and spiritual needs of the displaced individuals.

Amidst the nation's turmoil, Sithole observed substantial indications of the sacred. He established a multitude of religious gatherings in the Sofala Province, drawing in many people who adopted the beliefs and underwent extraordinary healings. Pastor Surprise's spiritual endowment enabled seamless communication in Nhungue, the local language, which helped him establish profound bonds with the indigenous community. The author emphasizes the significance of these places of worship, which were more than just physical buildings; they were centers where believers gathered to offer praise, supported one another in difficult periods, and zealously shared their faith with the nearby populace.

Sithole also shares his endeavors to meet the fundamental needs of individuals displaced from their homes, with a particular emphasis on providing support to orphans, recognizing that without deeds, faith holds no significance. He emphasized that true followers demonstrate their commitment to God by actively supporting the poor and providing relief to those who are suffering. He did his best to supply sustenance, hydration, garments, and refuge, generously offering the meager resources at his disposal while relying on divine provision to fulfill not only his own necessities but also those of others. His dedication to meeting the wide range of needs within his community was demonstrated through tangible acts that personified God's love, drawing many people who were in search of comfort and the hope provided by the Savior.

Practical Tips

• Create a community garden as a space for displaced individuals to find solace and participate in nurturing life. Gardening can be therapeutic and offers a sense of community and belonging. You can collaborate with neighbors to find a suitable space, source seeds and tools, and invite those affected to join in the gardening activities, fostering both a sense of purpose and togetherness.
• Create a photo collage of 'sacred moments' using your smartphone. Capture images that represent peace, hope, or spiritual significance to you. This could be a sunset, a laughing child, or a quiet street. The act of looking for and capturing these moments can help you appreciate the sacred in the everyday.
• Volunteer for a community service project that aligns with the values of your faith. This could involve organizing a food drive, participating in a clean-up day, or offering your skills to help those in need. By doing so, you're putting your faith into action and fostering a sense of shared purpose within your community.
• Start a small-scale donation drive in your community to collect books, clothes, and toys for orphanages. Use social media to spread the word and set up a drop-off point in your neighborhood. This direct action helps meet the immediate physical needs of orphans and can also bring your community together for a common cause.
• Volunteer your time for virtual tutoring or mentoring for children from low-income families. Many organizations offer online platforms where you can help with homework or reading skills. This not only provides educational support but also shows a commitment to improving the long-term prospects of those in need.
• Offer your spare room or couch on a community board for those in temporary need of shelter. Ensure you have clear guidelines and a set period for the stay to maintain boundaries. This can provide a safe haven for someone in a pinch, such as a person escaping domestic violence or a young adult facing a sudden housing crisis.
• Create a 'needs and seeds' journal where you list your own needs alongside the 'seeds' or resources you can offer others. This could be as simple as offering time to listen to a friend or donating unused clothes. By actively looking for ways to help others, you might find that your own needs are met through the goodwill you foster.
• Create a 'Hope Mural' on a communal wall or fence where people can add messages, artwork, or symbols that represent hope and comfort. Provide permanent markers or paint supplies and invite passersby to contribute. This can become a visual representation of community support and a place people visit when seeking solace.

Surprise's bold preaching and openness to engaging with spiritual entities significantly contributed to the swift expansion of his church community.

Throughout his ministry, Sithole demonstrated a radical faith that was contagious. He delivered his message with steadfast certainty and determination, imploring people to forsake their life of sin and dedicate themselves entirely to following Jesus. He courageously proclaimed the reality of eternal damnation and stressed the urgent need for people to pursue absolution, cognizant of the risk many ran of being eternally separated from the Divine. Pastor Surprise delivered his sermons with intense passion and unwavering belief, sharing insights from his own encounters with the divine and his firm belief in the truth of the Gospel. His profound dedication to spiritual matters fueled his fervent proclamation of faith.

As Surprise journeyed to distant villages to share the Christian message, he was safeguarded and sustained by divine favor.

Sithole’s ministry was not without risk. He ventured into remote villages, navigating through dense forests, arid deserts, and conflict-laden zones, courageously putting his own well-being on the line to bring the message of the gospel to people who had never heard it before. He encountered aggressive gatherings, rebels, soldiers, and criminals, all while his belief in spiritual protection against danger remained steadfast. He also encountered periods of hunger, thirst, and fatigue, depending on divine sustenance to fulfill his necessities.

He narrates various instances where divine intervention played a crucial role in his miraculous rescue from life-threatening situations, his liberation from seemingly impossible dilemmas, and his sustenance by divine means. He endured the chaos of bullets flying, landmines detonating, and a violent upheaval. He encountered deadly snakes and crocodiles, emerging unscathed. Sithole's journey fostered a deep-seated trust in the unwavering safeguarding and support bestowed by divine providence. He recognized the significance of depending on the strength granted by spiritual direction instead of his personal abilities. Pastor Surprise's steadfast determination, despite numerous challenges and dangers, became stronger due to his belief in a higher power, demonstrating how the divine can protect and support those dedicated to its heavenly purpose.

Context

• Traveling to distant villages can involve overcoming logistical challenges such as transportation, language barriers, and securing resources for both travel and sustenance.
• Traveling through such environments can expose individuals to health risks, including tropical diseases, dehydration, and exhaustion. Without proper medical facilities, even minor health issues can become serious.
• The isolation and stress of working in challenging environments necessitate a high level of psychological resilience and adaptability.
• In conflict zones, rebels and soldiers may be suspicious of outsiders, viewing them as potential threats or spies. This can lead to tense encounters, especially in areas where control is contested.
• In many cultures, the idea of spiritual protection is intertwined with local beliefs and practices, which can include the use of amulets, prayers, or specific rituals intended to ward off evil or danger.
• In many religious communities, acts of kindness and support from others are viewed as expressions of divine sustenance, where the community acts as a vessel for divine provision.
• This involves being freed from complex or seemingly unsolvable problems. In religious contexts, it is often believed that divine insight or intervention provides solutions or paths forward that were previously unseen or unavailable.
• Navigating such dangerous environments often requires a combination of survival skills, local knowledge, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• In many African cultures, encounters with dangerous animals are often seen as spiritual tests or signs. Surviving such encounters might be interpreted as a sign of divine favor or protection.
• Missionaries often face significant risks when traveling to remote or hostile areas. Historically, many have reported experiences of divine protection, which they attribute to their faith and mission.
• Divine providence is the belief that God governs the universe and provides for its needs. This concept reassures believers that they are part of a larger divine plan.
• This is the belief that a higher power actively guides and protects individuals, often seen as a source of comfort and courage in dangerous or uncertain situations.
• Miracles are often cited as evidence of divine intervention. These events, which defy natural explanations, are seen as direct actions of a higher power to aid those on a spiritual path.

Surprise's personal life encompasses his union and kin.

Surprise was granted a prophetic vision that predicted he would be united in matrimony with Tryphina.

Sithole's yearning for a life partner was fulfilled through a manifestation of his profound trust in divine direction. During a journey accompanied by fellow clergy in a conveyance, Pastor Surprise experienced a vision where a chalkboard was divided into two parts, one tinted pink and the other blue. Sithole describes experiencing this vision thrice, yet even after seeking clarity through prayer, its significance continued to elude him. As they traveled in the truck, the other pastors were joking about who he might marry when he had an epiphany that he would identify his future spouse by her distinctive rose and blue attire.

Surprise contemplated matrimony once Tryphina had finished her schooling.

In Mozambique, Sithole observed a young student wearing pink and blue on her way home. An irresistible pulse within him urged him closer to her. He unorthodoxly announced his need for her assistance as his secretary to aid in documenting his life's narrative. She courteously turned down his proposal but suggested introducing him to an acquaintance, even though his sudden proclamation was slightly amusing to her. As the next day dawned, Sithole was alone and became increasingly convinced that she was the companion chosen for him by divine will.

However, their path to marriage was not without its challenges. Sithole respected her desire to finish her schooling and, true to his word, journeyed to the faraway, strife-torn area to meet with Tryphina's father. Tryphina's father rejected his proposal right away when they first met. After dedicating himself to intense prayer, Sithole underwent a significant shift in perspective, which resulted in the recognition of his advancements with the understanding that the marriage would take place subsequent to the completion of Tryphina's academic pursuits. He maintained his support for Tryphina, honoring her pursuit of education by allowing her to finish her studies before moving forward.

Context

• Mozambique has experienced periods of conflict and instability, which might affect personal and family decisions, including marriage and education.
• The "irresistible urge" could be understood through the lens of human psychology, where initial attraction can be intense and compelling, often driven by subconscious factors.
• The act of asking someone to document one's life can symbolize trust and a deep connection, indicating that the person is seen as integral to the storyteller's journey and legacy.
• The suggestion to introduce him to someone else could reflect a polite way to deflect the proposal, adhering to social norms of courtesy and indirect communication.
• The idea of being chosen by divine will often involves a personal revelation or spiritual experience, where an individual feels a deep, unexplainable certainty about a decision or path.
• Sithole's respect for Tryphina's education indicates a level of maturity and selflessness, showing his willingness to prioritize her personal growth over immediate personal desires.
• The emphasis on Tryphina completing her education highlights the growing value placed on education for women in many parts of Africa, reflecting broader social changes and aspirations for empowerment.
• There may be societal expectations regarding the appropriate age or stage in life for marriage, which could affect a father's initial reaction to a proposal.
• Completing education can lead to better job opportunities and financial stability, which are important factors in building a secure future together.

Surprise and Tryphina have four sons, whom they have named Enoch, Lovey, Israel, and Blessing.

Sithole's union with Tryphina, along with his spiritual pursuits, was marked by deep conviction and unwavering reliance on spiritual fortitude and protection. They brought up their four sons, whom they named Enoch, Lovey, Israel, and Blessing. Their lives at home, however, were fraught with challenges and peril. Tryphina often took on the responsibility of both running the household and nurturing their child alone, as Sithole's extensive travels often left her with limited resources. Persistent challenges included the scarcity of nourishment and the absence of secure and comfortable living conditions. Their dedication necessitated significant personal sacrifices as they served a higher spiritual purpose.

Surprise's family has faced numerous perils and obstacles, yet divine intervention has safeguarded them throughout.

Sithole shares several instances where it was evident that his family was safeguarded by a higher power. During a walk, he recounts a distressing incident where assailants wielding long, sharp knives attacked him, Tryphina, and their daughter Lovey. They narrowly escaped by finding sanctuary within the residence of a gang leader confined to a wheelchair! As the attackers approached their limit, determined to commit murder, the distant sound of police sirens caused them to disperse. A five-hundred-liter water tank plummeted through the ceiling of their home mere moments after Tryphina had shifted their infant son, Israel, from his crib, fortuitously preventing a disastrous event. Throughout these trials, Sithole's unwavering faith, shared by Tryphina, remained intact. Their belief in constant divine oversight remained steadfast, and such experiences reinforced the trustworthiness of the sacred promise to safeguard the faithful.

Context

• The family's ability to maintain faith and composure in the face of danger reflects a broader narrative of resilience and hope often found in stories of survival.
• The idea of finding refuge in a gang leader's home highlights the unpredictability of safety and protection, suggesting that help can come from the most unlikely sources.
• The timely arrival of police sirens in critical situations can be seen as fortuitous, especially when it results in the prevention of harm or escalation of violence.
• The incident suggests potential structural issues in the home, such as weak ceilings or poor construction, which could have contributed to the water tank falling.
• Throughout history, many communities have faced threats from violence and instability. In such environments, faith can serve as a source of hope and resilience, providing a framework for understanding and overcoming adversity.
• The belief in divine oversight can have a significant psychological impact, offering comfort and reducing anxiety by fostering a sense of being cared for by a benevolent force.

Surprise's deep love for his family is evident, even as he has dedicated his life to extensive itinerant ministry

During his extensive evangelistic travels, it was apparent that Sithole held deep love for Tryphina and their children. He was grateful for Tryphina's unwavering support and understanding, especially as she adeptly managed the responsibilities associated with their household and familial obligations. He speaks of the profound happiness he experiences upon savoring the moments spent with his children upon his return. His impact remained significant through his steadfast dedication to protecting the well-being of those dear to him, even in his absence.

Surprise has harmoniously managed his familial duties alongside his vocation to evangelize and establish congregations globally.

The author acknowledges the significant influence his ministry has exerted on the lives and prosperity of many families. He acknowledges that Tryphina endured hardships, such as residing in inadequate housing and exerting great effort to provide for their growing family, while also primarily nurturing their children by herself because of his frequent absences, a time characterized by her vulnerability to numerous dangers. He also shares the emotional toll that his frequent departures took on their relationship and the guilt he felt, being aware of the challenges she endured in his absence. However, he also emphasizes the significant part played by Tryphina in supporting his ministry, frequently joining him on perilous trips to spread the Christian faith. They strove to raise their children with a profound commitment to spirituality and a readiness to assist the people in their local areas. Surprise and Tryphina consistently demonstrated steadfast commitment to their familial obligations as well as to their ministerial duties, despite facing obstacles and the need for personal sacrifices.

Practical Tips

• Create a family activity that aligns with your professional goals to involve your loved ones in your vocation. If your work involves writing or speaking about certain topics, you could start a family blog or podcast where everyone contributes, turning it into a shared project that promotes togetherness and understanding of your work.
• Create a "ripple effect" challenge for yourself by performing one small act of kindness each day and tracking the outcomes when possible. This could be as simple as complimenting someone, offering assistance, or sharing useful information. Keep a log of these acts and any feedback you receive to visualize the spreading impact of your actions.
• Develop a skill that can be done from home and requires minimal investment, such as gardening, sewing, or basic home repairs. Use online tutorials and free resources to learn and then apply these skills to improve your living conditions or create goods that can be used or sold for extra income. This not only provides a sense of accomplishment but also can lead to tangible improvements in your daily life.
• Invest in home security measures to reduce feelings of vulnerability when you're by yourself. This could include installing motion-sensor lights, security cameras, or smart locks. These tools can provide peace of mind and act as a deterrent to potential threats, offering a modern solution to the kind of dangers someone like Tryphina might face.
• Start a ritual of leaving behind handwritten notes or small mementos for your partner to find after you've left. This could be as simple as a note tucked into their wallet or a small gift hidden somewhere in the house. The idea is to create a tangible connection that your partner can hold onto in your absence. For instance, you might leave a note inside their favorite book on the shelf, sharing a memory or expressing how much they mean to you.
• Create a buddy system with a friend where you both commit to supporting each other's personal projects or goals. This mutual support could involve regular check-ins, sharing resources, or providing constructive feedback. It's a way to practice being a reliable support system, similar to how Tryphina was for Surprise.
• Start a weekly reflection ritual to assess how well you're balancing your personal sacrifices with your obligations. Take 10 minutes each Sunday to jot down the key obligations you met that week and any personal sacrifices you made. Reflect on whether the balance feels right and what you might adjust for the coming week. This could involve realizing you've missed out on personal downtime and deciding to delegate a task to make space for it next week.

Surprise worked closely with Rolland and Heidi Baker within the framework of the Iris Ministries organization.

Surprise's relationship with the founders of Iris Ministries, Rolland and Heidi Baker, was forged through a series of visionary dreams he had.

Sithole's collaboration commenced through a sequence of events that were divinely arranged. The sermon focusing on profound love and unwavering belief that Pastor Surprise heard at a church meeting deeply moved him. Sithole underwent a profound transformation in his spirituality when he became aware of the support given to Mozambique's orphans by Iris Ministries, yet the magnitude of this transformation was not instantly clear to him. Weeks later, his life took a new turn after experiencing two vivid dreams in which Heidi Baker emerged, encouraging him to engage with their religious endeavors. Sithole describes how the vividness and forcefulness of his dreams assured him of divine direction, leading him to leave his pastoral responsibilities and travel to the central headquarters of Iris Ministries located in Maputo.

Surprise now holds the position of International Director of Pastors at Iris Ministries, where he is responsible for guiding the organization's swift expansion.

Upon reaching Maputo, Sithole found himself suddenly immersed in a critical situation. The Mozambican government closed the childcare facility run by Iris Ministries on the grounds that it offered assistance without obtaining the necessary governmental authorization. The children at the home were deeply troubled by the thought of having to leave, dreading the separation from the one they lovingly referred to as "Mama Aida." During this tumultuous period, Sithole felt divinely inspired to escalate his involvement in the evangelistic work led by a different organization, solidifying his resolve to follow this calling. He rapidly ascended to a global leadership role overseeing pastors, a responsibility he still maintains.

Context

• The organization places a strong emphasis on evangelism, which involves spreading the Christian faith through various outreach activities, often in challenging environments.
• The role may require navigating complex political and cultural landscapes, especially in regions where religious activities are closely monitored or restricted by governments.
• Many countries, including Mozambique, have strict regulations and licensing requirements for operating childcare facilities to ensure the safety and well-being of children.
• Authorization is crucial for ensuring that organizations are accountable and transparent in their operations, which helps maintain trust with both the government and the communities they serve.
• Separation from familiar caregivers and peers can lead to emotional distress and anxiety, affecting the children's mental health and well-being.
• The term "Mama" is a term of endearment and respect in many cultures, indicating a maternal figure who provides care and support.
• In many religious traditions, divine inspiration refers to a profound sense of guidance or calling believed to come from a higher power. This often motivates individuals to pursue specific actions or missions that align with their faith.
• Iris Ministries is known for its humanitarian and evangelistic work, particularly in Africa. The organization focuses on providing aid, education, and spiritual guidance, often in challenging environments.
• Effective leadership in such roles can lead to significant growth and expansion of the organization's reach and influence, impacting communities worldwide.

Surprise has collaborated intimately with Rolland and Heidi Baker, drawing inspiration from their profound dedication and empathetic approach.

Sithole and the Bakers passionately commit themselves to the dissemination of the Gospel and to embodying God's compassion through deeds with tangible results. He discusses their extraordinary partnership, marked by joy, wit, and a shared commitment to following the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Sithole holds the Bakers in high esteem for their deep spiritual insight and empathetic nature, traits he has strived to embody in his own approach to spiritual guidance. He accompanied them on numerous evangelistic trips to remote and hazardous regions, witnessing significant transformations that included both spiritual renewal and the restoration of health. Sithole illustrates the way in which individuals who were frequently marginalized, such as the poor, the sick, and those afflicted by demonic presences, were embraced with open arms by the Bakers, showcasing a powerful example of how divine mercy is manifested.

Surprise has experienced supernatural protection and provision through his collaboration with Iris Ministries.

Throughout his time with Iris Ministries, Sithole frequently observed a multitude of divine interventions and support. He recounts overcoming extreme poverty, widespread famine, rampant disease, and governmental resistance by relying on prayer and steadfast belief. He credits the swift expansion and achievements of his ministry to a combination of diligent effort and commitment, as well as his dependence on divine empowerment. He shares tales of inexplicable restorations, liberations, and supplies, ascribing such remarkable occurrences to the divine strength that becomes apparent through steadfast dedication to belief. He emphasizes that their dedication to practicing their beliefs, despite formidable obstacles, has allowed them to witness extraordinary demonstrations of spiritual power.

Other Perspectives

• Relying on anecdotal accounts of divine intervention does not provide a reliable method for addressing issues like poverty, famine, and disease, which typically require practical and systemic solutions.
• Governmental resistance is often overcome through negotiation, policy change, or reform, which are typically the result of political activism and advocacy rather than spiritual practices alone.
• The role of individual and collective human agency in the success of a ministry is significant and can sometimes be overlooked when attributing achievements to divine empowerment.
• The tales might be exaggerated or altered through the process of storytelling, which can often enhance the perceived miraculous nature of events.
• Correlation does not imply causation; the occurrence of positive events or outcomes in the context of dedication to beliefs does not confirm that these outcomes were caused by spiritual power.

Surprise's global outreach and his aspirations for what lies ahead.

Surprise traveled extensively, disseminating Christian teachings and founding faith-based communities across regions where over seventeen different languages were spoken.

After becoming part of Iris Ministries, Sithole's missionary work has extended internationally, impacting individuals across various nations worldwide. Pastor Surprise has preached about divine love and salvation across a spectrum of settings, from large church gatherings to small groups in remote areas, and has engaged with diverse groups of people in bustling cities as well as in isolated jungle settings. Sithole writes of encountering various challenges during these travels - navigating unfamiliar customs, overcoming language barriers, and confronting cultural misunderstandings. His steadfast dedication to leading others to comprehend Jesus remained unshaken, even when faced with mockery and misunderstandings.

Surprise experienced an extraordinary event that allowed him to speak in languages he had not learned.

A particularly extraordinary aspect of Sithole's ministry is his capacity to communicate in many languages, despite not having formally studied them. He narrates his experience of being supernaturally granted the ability to speak these languages exactly when circumstances required it. Surprise shares his story of being admitted to a Bible college situated in South Africa. Despite his limited English skills, which are usually required, he was allowed to register for the course. During the interview, Sithole was surprised by the praise for his English proficiency, having believed that they had been communicating entirely through Portuguese. He possessed the gift of language without realizing it. He shares experiences of being endowed with spiritual energy, which empowered him to disseminate Christian teachings and remarkably, to elucidate the dreams and visions others had.

Practical Tips

• Start a dream journal with the intention of recording any instances where you dream in a different language or understand one that you haven't learned. Dreams can sometimes reflect subconscious knowledge or mimic extraordinary cognitive events, providing insights into the untapped potential of your mind.
• Use a language learning app to set daily challenges that require you to respond to prompts or engage in conversations in the language you're learning. Choose an app that allows you to speak your answers rather than typing them, to better simulate real-life conversations and improve your spoken proficiency.
• Volunteer to mediate a discussion among friends or colleagues on a topic you're not an expert in. This will challenge you to use language to facilitate understanding and find common ground, revealing your capacity for communication in real-time situations.
• Create a personal blog or social media page dedicated to sharing uplifting stories and lessons you've learned that resonate with spiritual teachings. By doing this, you're not only practicing your communication skills but also potentially inspiring others, much like spreading spiritual teachings in a modern context.

Surprise was granted prophetic insights foreseeing a substantial spiritual awakening beginning on the African continent and spreading worldwide.

Throughout his ministry, prophetic visions and dreams that predicted future occurrences and provided direction have steered Sithole's endeavors, which he regards as divine revelations. Pastor Surprise was deeply moved by a vision where flames began in South Africa, spread throughout the continent, and continued towards Jerusalem. He observed the proliferation of fires advancing towards Jerusalem, which began in numerous countries across North America, Europe, and Asia. He observed a vast multitude, perhaps numbering in the millions, progressing beside the fires, praising God for the return of Christ and the establishment of His reign on Earth. Sithole was profoundly motivated by a vision that affirmed the imminent return of Jesus, compelling him to urgently share the gospel with those who had not embraced it yet.

Pastor Surprise feels a strong obligation to reach out to individuals who have not yet embraced their faith, firmly believing that the return of Christ is imminent.

Pastor Sithole is driven by his vision of a worldwide spiritual awakening, which fuels his passion for disseminating Christian teachings and establishing new church communities. Pastor Surprise firmly believes that a major resurgence in spiritual consciousness is on the horizon, with divine forces globally leading people to Jesus and preparing believers for His return. Pastor Surprise is motivated by a deep-seated belief in sharing the Christian faith with those who have not yet experienced it, readying church members for effective evangelism, and inspiring believers to live holy and committed lives, with the goal of expanding the influence of the divine kingdom on Earth.

Context

• Encouraging believers to live holy and committed lives aligns with the Christian doctrine of sanctification, which involves growing in spiritual maturity and moral integrity.
• The idea of Christ's return has permeated various aspects of culture, including literature, art, and media, often depicted as a time of transformation and judgment.
• Throughout history, there have been several notable spiritual awakenings, such as the Great Awakenings in the 18th and 19th centuries, which were characterized by widespread religious revival and increased church attendance.
• Establishing new church communities can face challenges such as cultural resistance, legal restrictions, and the need for sustainable leadership and resources.
• Such a resurgence could influence societal values, potentially leading to movements for social justice, environmental stewardship, and community building based on spiritual principles.
• This phrase implies a process of conversion or spiritual awakening where individuals come to accept Jesus Christ as their savior, a central tenet in evangelical Christianity.
• Some Christians look for specific signs or events that they believe are indicators of the approaching return of Christ, such as geopolitical events, natural disasters, or societal changes.
• Pastor Surprise's motivation aligns with the evangelical Christian tradition, which emphasizes the importance of spreading the gospel and converting individuals to Christianity.
• Establishing mentorship programs within the church can provide ongoing support and guidance for members as they engage in evangelistic efforts.
• Commitment in this context refers to a dedicated adherence to religious practices such as prayer, worship, and community service, which are seen as essential for spiritual growth and maturity.
• The concept of expanding the divine kingdom on Earth is rooted in Christian eschatology, which often emphasizes the establishment of God's rule and presence in the world through the actions and faith of believers.

Surprise continues to lead Iris Ministries as it grows, overseeing the creation of over fifteen thousand new congregations throughout Africa.

Pastor Sithole continues to play a pivotal role in the broad proliferation of Iris Ministries across the African continent. He is instrumental in guiding, equipping, and sustaining spiritual mentors and leaders of various congregations across the continent. He commits his life to fortifying congregations by spreading the gospel, offering support to individuals who require assistance, and demonstrating divine compassion through tangible deeds during assorted assemblies, teaching moments, and individual guidance sessions. He is dedicated to a life of service to the Divine and to his fellow people.

Surprise seeks worldwide acknowledgment of the divine magnificence before Christ comes again.

Pastor Sithole commits his existence and ministerial work to ensuring that the magnificence of God is acknowledged and comprehended worldwide, striving to fulfill this objective before Jesus Christ returns. He firmly believes that only the Christian Good News can address global issues like poverty, disease, injustice, conflict, and despair effectively. He views his mission as collaborating to create a realm on earth that exemplifies justice, tranquility, ethical values, and happiness, consistent with heavenly precepts. The pastor is wholeheartedly committed to the worldwide endeavor of creating disciples, as instructed by the Great Commission, and he firmly believes that God is actively assembling a vast congregation of followers from all corners of the globe in these last days. He calls upon all believers to join together in this endeavor, boldly proclaiming a message of optimism and salvation to those who have yet to feel the warmth of divine affection.

Other Perspectives

• The urgency of spreading acknowledgment before an event like the return of Jesus Christ may not resonate with those who prioritize immediate worldly concerns over spiritual or religious ones.
• Conflict resolution and justice are complex fields that typically involve diplomacy, legal frameworks, and sometimes military interventions, which may not be directly related to religious teachings.
• Efforts to establish a realm based on specific religious precepts might not be inclusive of those who adhere to other faiths or no faith at all, potentially leading to exclusion or marginalization of non-believers.
• The strategy of global discipleship could be perceived as a form of cultural imperialism, imposing one set of religious beliefs on diverse cultures that have their own spiritual traditions.
• The concept of divine gathering is a matter of faith, not empirical evidence, and thus is open to personal interpretation and skepticism.
• Some may argue that the concept of divine love is subjective and can be experienced and interpreted in many ways outside of the Christian framework.