Why the Church must communicate truth clearly, responsibly, and compassionately, by Apostle Tonye

For more than three decades, Apostle Oliver Tonye has travelled across Nigeria and beyond proclaiming one central message: Jesus Christ still saves, heals, and transforms lives. He is the founder of Jesus Heals the Sick Ministries, the Apostolic Centre, which is a training centre, preparing believers to walk like Jesus did and the International Network of Apostolic Voices. He is an author, teacher, conference speaker, and the current Publicity Secretary & Director of Digital Media of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Lagos State. He has become one of the respected voices advocating biblical healing, church unity, and revival in our day and time. In this exclusive interview with LYDIA ENYIDIYA EKE, he speaks about healing, revival, leadership, his service in PFN Lagos, and the future of the Church. Excerpts:

Apostle Tonye, many people know you as a healing evangelist. How would you describe your calling?

My calling is first to preach Jesus Christ. The gospel, by its very nature, is a message of healing or restoration, physical Healing is a component of it; it points people to Christ. When Jesus healed the sick, His ultimate purpose was reconciliation between God and humanity. Reconciliation is healing a fractured relationship, isn’t it? Healing in all its forms is the heartbeat of our ministry.

Why has healing remained central to your ministry?

Because healing reveals God’s compassion and nature. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus healed because He loved people. We preach the whole gospel, and the whole gospel includes salvation, healing, restoration, and discipleship.

Have you witnessed remarkable miracles during your ministry?

Absolutely. Over the years, we have seen people testify of freedom from chronic pain, migraines, emotional trauma, addiction, and many other conditions after prayer. We have also seen broken families restored, and many people surrender their lives to Christ. For me, however, the greatest miracle is when someone is genuinely born again, which to me is the highest expression of healing.

One of your most talked-about missions was in South Africa. What happened there?

Actually, I have been to South Africa on a number of occasions. This particular one was an unforgettable experience. We ministered across several churches and communities. People encountered God in extraordinary ways.

We have a unique relationship with a ministry there, Practical Christianity Ministries led by Dr Ifeanyi ^ Lerato Wosu. This relationship has really enabled our ministry there.

Can this be captured in description?

Oh yes. Many gave their lives to Christ, believers were revived, and there were numerous testimonies of healing and deliverance. But what blessed me most was the opportunity to point people to Jesus consistently rather than merely seeking miracles

Critics often question divine healing. How do you respond?

I don’t argue with people. Healing belongs to God. We simply obey the direct instruction of the Lord Jesus to take his healing power to this generation and the revelation of Scriptures by praying for the sick. At the same time, I have always maintained that faith and medical science are not enemies. God has given wisdom to medical professionals, and we should appreciate their work. Prayer and responsible medical care are not mutually exclusive.

Beyond healing ministry, you have played important leadership roles within PFN Lagos. Tell us about that journey?

Serving the Body of Christ is a privilege. I currently serve as the Publicity Secretary & Director of Digital media of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Lagos State, where my responsibility includes communicating the vision, programmes and activities of the fellowship, promoting unity among Pentecostal churches, and ensuring accurate representation of PFN in the media

What have been some of PFN Lagos’ major achievements in recent years?

PFN Lagos under the leadership of Pastor Yemi David and his team have worked intentionally to strengthen unity among churches, build trust, empower young people and women, and organise leadership development programmes. The fellowship also encourages civic responsibility and expands humanitarian interventions, including medical outreach and relief support for vulnerable communities. The fellowship has also strengthened its public communication and engagement with the Gospel.

Communication has become critical in today’s Church. How important is your role as Publicity Secretary?

It is extremely important because perception shapes influence. The Church must communicate truth clearly, responsibly, and compassionately. Our role is to ensure that the voice of the Church reflects the heart of Christ while promoting unity among believers.

Besides PFN, what other platforms do you use to impact the Church?

Through Jesus Heals the Sick Ministries, The International Network of Apostolic Voices, ministers’ conferences, healing schools, publications, and leadership mentoring. I also write books and teaching materials that help believers understand healing, Scripture, and the need to follow Jesus in a personal way.

You have authored several publications. Why is writing important to you?

Books preserve truth. A sermon may be forgotten, but a book can continue speaking for generations. My desire is to equip believers with sound biblical teaching that strengthens their faith.

What concerns you most about the church today?

We must return to Christ Himself. Sometimes, we become fascinated by programmes and personalities while neglecting discipleship. The Church must raise mature believers who know the Word, walk in love, and demonstrate the character of Christ.

What advice would you give young ministers?

Love God sincerely. Follow Jesus. Build character before pursuing influence. Remain teachable. Never make ministry about personal fame. Preach Christ faithfully, serve people with humility, and let God promote you in His own time.

In conclusion, what legacy do you hope to leave behind?

I want people to remember that I pointed them to Jesus. If generations after me know Christ more deeply, preach the gospel more faithfully, and minister God’s compassion to the hurting, then I will have fulfilled my assignment.