Many churches continue to struggle because of a gap between what is preached and what is lived. At the 2026 Southern Africa International Lectureship, African Christian College alumnus Norman Ndou challenged church leaders to close that gap by leading lives marked by integrity, honesty, and true godliness.
A graduate of African Christian College, Norman returned to his hometown of Venda in South Africa after completing his studies. He committed fully to ministry as a preacher. Over the years, he gained experience serving churches. He currently serves as a minister at Tshidimbini Church of Christ, where he has faithfully labored for many years.
When a preacher delivers a message, his wife should be able to say “Amen” not out of obligation, but as a genuine testimony that his life at home reflects what he proclaims in public.
Norman Ndou, ACC Graduate.
The lectureship brought together hundreds of believers from across Southern Africa, including Eswatini, Lesotho, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, and South Africa. As the keynote speaker on Sunday, Norman preached with boldness and conviction. He began in an unexpected yet powerful way by inviting Sikhumbuzo Matisa, an African Christian College staff member, to sing “Hlengiwe,” meaning “I am saved.” The song set a reflective tone, grounding his message in the reality of personal salvation and devotion.
Norman’s message from Joshua 24:15 and titled “For me and my family, we will serve the Lord,” served as a strong conclusion to the lectureship. He challenged leaders to recognize that the gospel must first take root at home before it can be effectively proclaimed in the church.
He noted that when a preacher delivers a message, his wife should be able to say “Amen” not out of obligation, but as a genuine testimony that his life at home reflects what he proclaims in public. This statement drew strong affirmation – especially from the women present, whose ululations expressed agreement and conviction.
In a moment of striking confidence and accountability, Norman invited others to seek testimony about his life from his wife and church elders. He expressed assurance that his ministry has been consistent both in public and in private.
As the conference came to a close, many attendees left feeling renewed and challenged. There was a visible sense of encouragement and conviction among the participants, a clear indication that seeds of transformation had been planted. Leaders departed with a renewed commitment to serve with integrity and to embody the message they preach.
Seeing graduates like Norman Ndou serve faithfully on significant platforms across the region strengthens African Christian College’s commitment to equipping men and women for excellent service in the Kingdom of God.