Historical Contexts - Bishopmjmamabolo

1975 – Obedience to the Call of God

In 1975, God spoke clearly to him and instructed him to go. In obedience to this divine calling, he resigned from his employment that same year and left Alexandra Township. Although he owned a house in Alexandra, he willingly left it behind in response to God’s direction.

He returned to Ga‑Sekgopo Village, where he encountered and connected with the late Reverend Jack Ramodike Maponya. This marked an important turning point in his spiritual journey, as he chose obedience to God over personal comfort and security, fully surrendering his life to the call of the Gospel.

 

1976 – 1977

From 1976 to 1977, they worked closely together, faithfully preaching the Word of God and going house to house to spread the Good News of the Gospel. During this time, he planted the Sekgopo Assemblies of God Fellowship, laying a strong spiritual foundation for the church community.

The ministry was guided by the Scripture:

“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.”
— 2 Timothy 4:2

As the church continued to grow steadily, he remained actively involved in teaching Sunday School, nurturing believers in the Word of God and helping to raise disciples who were grounded in faith. His dedication, patience, and commitment played a key role in the establishment and development of the fellowship.

1978 – 1979

During 1978 to 1979, he committed himself to spiritual growth and biblical training, guided by the Scripture:

“Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved, a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, rightly handling and skillfully teaching the Word of Truth.”
— 2 Timothy 2:15

In 1978, he enrolled at the All Africa School of Theology, where he pursued a one‑year Certificate in Sunday School. He successfully completed and graduated in 1979, equipping himself further for teaching and ministry.

In the same year, 1979, he also upgraded his driver’s licence to Code 10 (One Zero), which supported his increasing responsibilities in both ministry and daily life.

 

1980 – 1985

From 1980 to 1985, he continued to serve tirelessly in the work of the Lord. His ministry included preaching the Gospel, conducting house‑to‑house visitations, pitching tents for revival meetings, and teaching Sunday School. During this period, the Ga‑Sekgopo Assemblies of God Church continued to grow and strengthen, both spiritually and numerically.

In 1981, driven by a desire to deepen his understanding of God’s Word and minister more effectively, he registered for a three‑year Diploma in Ministry at the All Africa School of Theology in Witbank. This season marked a significant commitment to theological training while remaining actively involved in church leadership and evangelistic outreach.

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1981

In 1981, during the first conference of the Assemblies of God Fellowship following the split of the Assemblies of God in South Africa, a historic gathering was held at Magaliesburg (Stone Ridge).

During this conference, Joseph Mamabolo and Frans Mafa were pictured together, reflecting fellowship, unity, and mutual growth in ministry. The moment embodied the truth of Scripture:

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
— Proverbs 27:17

This conference marked an important season of spiritual encouragement, leadership development, and strengthening of relationships among ministers, as servants of God learned from one another and sharpened each other in faith and purpose.

14 August 1982

On 14 August 1982, after seven years, God remembered them and blessed the family once again with the birth of a baby boy. He was lovingly named Pholwana John, after his grandfather.

His birth brought great joy to the family, marking a precious addition to their household and a clear demonstration of God’s faithfulness.

As the Scriptures declare:

“Behold, children are a gift from the LORD,
the fruit of the womb is His reward.”
— Psalm 127:3

The arrival of their son was received with gratitude and rejoicing, affirming the Lord’s generous legacy to the family.

22 February 1984

On 22 February 1984, he successfully completed and obtained a three‑year Diploma in Ministry ( Diploma) from the All Africa School of Theology.

His commitment to theological training and faithful preparation for ministry reflected the Apostle Paul’s exhortation to Timothy:

“Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved, a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, rightly handling and skillfully teaching the Word of Truth.”
— 2 Timothy 2:15

This achievement marked a significant milestone in his life and ministry, equipping him more fully to teach the Word of God accurately, serve the Church effectively, and fulfill the calling God had placed upon his life.

08 July 1984

On 08 July 1984, God blessed the family once again with the birth of a baby boy. He was named Maporane Timothy, after his maternal grandfather.

His birth brought great joy to the family, as he was a precious addition to their household and a reminder of God’s continual faithfulness.

As the Scriptures declare:

“Behold, children are a gift from the LORD;
the fruit of the womb is His reward.”
— Psalm 127:3

This blessing strengthened the family and filled their home with thanksgiving and praise to God.

October 1985

In October 1985, he attended the Assemblies of God Fellowship National Annual Conference, which was held in Magaliesburg at YFC C.Y.A.R.A.

The conference served as a significant gathering for leaders and ministers within the fellowship, providing a time of spiritual renewal, fellowship, encouragement, and vision. It strengthened unity among believers and reaffirmed the commitment to preaching the Gospel and advancing the work of God across the nation.

                                          From right: Pastor Joseph Mamabolo and Pastor Isaac Ramahlo (middle).

                                                       From right: Pastor Mphela; from left: Pastor J. Mamabolo

 

1986 – 1990

The Call and the Mission

In 1986, God spoke to him with a clear instruction:
Leave Sekgopo Assemblies of God and go to Ga-Dikgale to plant a church.

It was not an easy command. The journey ahead was uncertain, the responsibility great, and the sacrifice real. Yet he chose obedience. He listened to the voice of God, he believed it, and he acted on it.

This reflects the message of James 1:23–25, which teaches:

“Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.
But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.”

He was not only a hearer of the Word — he was a doer.
And because he obeyed what God commanded, God blessed him and the work of his hands.

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The Beginning in Ga-Dikgale (Marobala)

Upon arriving in Ga-Dikgale (Marobala), he found an abandoned building — unused, neglected, and without purpose. But where others saw a ruin, he saw a future sanctuary. He restored it and dedicated it to the Lord.

Then he began the true work of a servant:
house-to-house evangelism, walking through Marobala, preaching the Gospel, praying for families, and sharing the message of salvation.

Through his obedience and dedication, a spiritual light began to shine in Marobala.
Hope grew.
Faith took root.
A fellowship was born.

This marked the establishment of Dikgale Assemblies of God Fellowship — a beacon of light birthed through obedience, sacrifice, and unwavering faith

 

 

03 November 1986: A Gift from God

On 03 November 1986, God blessed the family once again with the birth of a baby girl, whom they named Tumelo Faith. Her arrival was a great source of joy and thanksgiving, as she was truly seen as a precious gift from the Lord.

The birth of Tumelo Faith reminded the family of the truth found in Psalm 127:3:

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him.”

Indeed, children are God’s gracious gift and a powerful testimony of His faithfulness. Tumelo Faith’s birth marked a joyful addition to the family and a celebration of God’s generous legacy through the fruit of the womb.

 

1987

In 1987, he continued to preach with unwavering dedication, moving from house to house, sharing the message of Jesus and offering hope to every family he met. During this period, he played a pivotal role in forming a Come-Together Fellowship of Churches, uniting congregations such as Bethany Pentecostal Church, International Assemblies of God, and the Assemblies of God Fellowship. Among the leaders who stood with him were the late Rev. Jack Ramodike Maponya, the late Pastor Patrick Lebepe, and the late Pastor Seale.

This unity strengthened the bond between churches in Ga-Sekgopo and Dikgale, leading to remarkable spiritual growth as new souls were added to the Kingdom. He valued fellowship deeply and always ensured that photographs were taken, especially with family, preserving precious memories for generations to come.

                                                 Pholwana John, Tumelo Faith & Maporani Timothy

20 November 1988

God blessed them once again with the birth of a baby girl, whom they named Mpho Gift. Her arrival brought great joy to the family, as she was a precious addition and a visible sign of God’s generosity and faithfulness.

The family celebrated this blessing in the light of Psalm 127:3, which reminds us:

“Children are the Lord’s best gift; the fruit of the womb is His generous legacy.”

Indeed, Mpho Gift was received with gratitude and joy, cherished as a beautiful gift from God and a blessing to the entire family.

February 1989

He was invited to speak at the wedding of John and Grace Lebepe, as a close friend of John Lebepe, the younger brother of the late Pastor Patrick Lebepe. It was a meaningful moment, marked by joy, friendship, and spiritual reflection.

During his message, he shared wisdom from Scripture, quoting Proverbs 18:22:

“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.”

Referring to the wisdom of King Solomon, he emphasized that when a man finds a God‑fearing wife, he truly finds favor from the Lord. His message encouraged the couple to build their marriage on faith, love, and reverence for God.

These are some of the photographs he took with his family in April 1989. They capture precious moments shared together and reflect the deep love and care he had for his family. Family meant everything to him, and he treasured creating memories with them.

 Because of the vision that God placed in his heart, God continued to use him powerfully. Marobala was no longer the same—the people responded to the call of God, and many lives were transformed. God worked through him, using his hands and his obedience to bring lasting change to the community.

During that same year, he involved his family directly in the work of the ministry. He took his son, John Mamabolo, and his daughter, Mosibudi, to Ga‑Dikgale, where we helped by making bricks and renovating the church. It was a time of sacrifice, unity, and hands‑on service, teaching us the importance of obedience, hard work, and commitment to God’s vision.

 

1990 - 1992

He also extended his ministry into schools, demonstrating his passion for shaping young lives through the Word of God. He regularly visited Mantsha Primary School, where he preached to both children and teachers and prayed for them during morning assemblies. His presence and spiritual contribution left a lasting impact on the school community.

This influence was later acknowledged in a Letter written by the Principal of Mantsha High School, which highlighted the valuable contribution he made to the school from the early 1990s through to 2000. The letter stands as a testimony to his consistent commitment to spiritual guidance, moral development, and community upliftment within the education system.

In 1990, his ministry further expanded to Motsheudi High School, where he worked alongside the Student Christian Representative (SCR). Through this platform, he participated in prayer sessions and preaching, ministering to students and encouraging them to grow in faith, discipline, and Christian values

He continued to dedicate his car to the work of God, using it faithfully to support the renovation of the church. His vehicle became a tool for ministry and service.
Below is a photograph of the brothers offloading sand from his bakkie, a powerful picture of unity, sacrifice, and practical commitment to building God’s house.

These are some of the photographs taken in Mafefe during a time of fellowship and ministry, featuring Pastor MJ Mamabolo, Pastor Hlobejane, and Pastor Ketz. The pictures reflect unity, partnership in the Gospel, and shared commitment to the work of God.

Here are some photographs of his family, Tumelo and Mpho, taken at Ga‑Dikgale Church, Marobala. These images capture special moments of family life and worship, reflecting their close involvement in the church and their shared commitment to serving God together.

05 October 1992

God blessed them once again with the birth of a baby girl, whom they named Khutso Peace. Her arrival brought great joy and thanksgiving to the family, as she was received as a precious gift from the Lord and a joyful addition to the household.

This blessing reflected the truth of Psalm 127:3, which says:

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.”

Indeed, Khutso Peace was welcomed with love and gratitude, a beautiful reminder of God’s generous legacy and faithfulness to the family.

 

🚗 1992 — The Stolen Nissan Datsun and a Test of Faith

In 1992, a painful and unexpected trial struck the family. His Nissan Datsun 1980 model, the very bakkie he used faithfully for the work of God, was stolen. The timing made the loss even heavier — the engine had just been repaired and modified that same month, restoring the vehicle to full strength for ministry.

Early one morning, when the family woke up, the bakkie was gone. Stolen in the quiet of the night. The shock was overwhelming. This was the only transport they relied on to travel the 20 km to and from church. Losing it felt like a direct attack on the mission.

Many believed the enemy thought that by taking the car, he would discourage him, silence his preaching, and stop the work of God. But instead of breaking him, this trial only strengthened his resolve. He continued preaching, continued visiting homes, and continued serving — proving that no stolen car could steal his calling.

🌱 1992 — Planting Moduane AGF Church

In 1992, despite the challenges he faced — including the painful loss of his ministry bakkie earlier that year — he pressed forward with unshakable faith. That same year, he planted the Moduane AGF Church, fulfilling the Great Commission with courage and obedience.

He lived out the words of Matthew 28:19–20:

“Therefore, as you go, disciple all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you each and every day until the end of the age.”

 

These verses were not just Scripture to him — they were his life assignment. With no car, no resources, and no guarantees, he continued preaching, teaching, and gathering souls. The planting of Moduane AGF became a testimony that nothing could stop the work of God when faith is alive.

The church grew from humble beginnings into a spiritual home for many, built on prayer, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel

1993 - 2016

🚘 1993 — A New Car, Even if It Was Small

In 1993, he managed to buy another car — this time a private vehicle, not a bakkie. Even though the car was very small for him and the whole family, there was no other option. He accepted it with gratitude and used it faithfully.

The car may not have been ideal, but it became the only available transport for ministry, family responsibilities, and travelling to church. Once again, he proved that the size of the vehicle did not determine the size of his calling. He continued serving God with the same passion, using whatever was in his hands.

This season showed his humility and determination: no matter the challenge, he kept moving forward.

🚗 He Refused to Be Limited

Even though the new car was small and not ideal for a growing family, he continued using it for the same ministry work he once did with the bakkie. He refused to let the size of the vehicle limit his calling. Whether the car was big or small, comfortable or not, he kept travelling, preaching, visiting homes, and serving the church with the same passion.

What mattered to him was not the car — it was the mission.
He showed everyone that when God gives you a purpose, you move forward with whatever is in your hands. His commitment remained unshaken, proving once again that no obstacle could stop the work of God in his life.

✨ A Man Who Never Stopped — Working, Preaching, Teaching

He continued faithfully in the calling God placed upon his life. He never stopped preaching. He never stopped teaching. No challenge, no setback, and no season of difficulty could silence the fire God had put in him.

He lived out the spirit of 1 Corinthians 4:12, which says:

“We work hard with our own hands to feed ourselves. When people insult us, we ask God to bless them. When people treat us badly, we accept it.”

 

This Scripture was not just a verse to him — it was his lifestyle.
He worked tirelessly with his own hands to provide for himself and his family. He refused to depend on anyone. He believed that a servant of God must be diligent, humble, and hardworking, both spiritually and practically.

Even when people misunderstood him, insulted him, or treated him unfairly, he responded with grace. He blessed those who spoke against him. He accepted hardship without bitterness. His strength was not in material things — it was in his faith, his character, and his unwavering commitment to the Gospel.

Through every season, he remained a living example of perseverance, humility, and obedience to God.

October 1993

🌄 Assemblies of God Fellowship – National Annual Conference, Magaliesburg (YFC CYARA)

One of the memorable spiritual milestones was the Assemblies of God Fellowship National Annual Conference held at Magaliesburg YFC CYARA. This gathering brought together dedicated servants of God from across the region, including:

• Pastor Mphela – AGF Lebowakgomo
• Pastor Ramahlo – AGF Femane
• Pastor Tobejane – AGF Mafefe
• Bishop M.J. Mamabolo – AGF Dikgale
• Pastor Rakopa Matswi – AGF Matswi

It was a time of unity, revival, and spiritual impartation — a moment where leaders strengthened one another and renewed their commitment to the Gospel.

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🔥 A Faith Passed Down — A Gift Kept Ablaze

This precious memory brings to mind the words of 2 Timothy 1:5–7, which speak so clearly to the legacy of faith and the calling upon his life:

“I remember your genuine faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded now lives in you also.
And the special gift of ministry you received when I laid my hands on you — keep that gift ablaze!
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.”

These verses perfectly describe the spiritual heritage he carried — a faith that did not begin with him, but flowed through generations, strengthened by prayer, sacrifice, and obedience.

He honoured that heritage by keeping the gift of ministry ablaze, never allowing fear, discouragement, or hardship to silence the calling God placed upon him. He served boldly, loved deeply, and walked with spiritual wisdom.

 

 

1993

There was no electricity in our house, so he hired Mr. Senyolo, an electrician, to do the wiring for the entire home. After Mr. Senyolo completed the work, he paid him with the car. From that moment on, we were left without a vehicle.

He never stopped preaching the Gospel. Even without a car, he continued traveling to Ga‑Dikgale—about 30 km away—using public transport. And the Church continued to grow, for God was adding to the Church those who were being saved.

1994 - 1995

“Therefore, as you go, disciple all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” — Matthew 28:19–20

He lived this Scripture with his whole life. He taught, trained, and equipped people—faithfully and consistently. That is what he did, and that is what he continued to do.

Many of those he discipled are now Doctors, Teachers, Professors, Engineers, and professionals in many fields. The impact of his ministry is still visible today. The Dikgale Assemblies of God Fellowship Sunday School, along with its dedicated teachers, stands as a living testimony of the seeds he planted and the lives God transformed through his obedience.

He continued to preach the Gospel faithfully, following the instruction from above:

“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” — 2 Timothy 4:2

Nothing stopped him. He kept preaching the Gospel in schools, clinics, and every place where people needed the Word of God. His ministry reached young people, families, and entire communities.

Below is the letter from Kgola Ka Leleme High School, a testimony to the impact of his dedication and obedience to God’s calling.

In 1995, he planted Makgoba Assemblies of God Fellowship, and Pastor Francinah Malowa was later ordained to lead the church. His work was rooted in the Great Commission:

“Therefore, as you go, disciple all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you each and every day until the end of the age.” — Matthew 28:19–20

He lived this Scripture with unwavering commitment. Planting churches, raising leaders, and equipping believers was not just his calling—it was his life’s mission

Another letter came from Sekgopo Clinic, addressed to Pastor M.J. Mamabolo. This letter stands as yet another testimony of the impact he made through his ministry. His commitment to preaching the Gospel—whether in churches, schools, or clinics—touched lives far beyond the pulpit. Everywhere he went, he carried the message of hope, healing, and salvation.

A further testimony to his leadership and ministry comes from the Secretary of Dikgale Assemblies of God Fellowship, T.F. Mamabolo, who wrote a formal Reference Letter addressed to Bishop M.J. Mamabolo. This letter reflects the respect, trust, and appreciation the church had for his service, his character, and his unwavering commitment to the work of the Lord.

October 1995

He Wrote his vision on the paper,  Soul wining and counselling ministry was lunched it was called Life In Christ Ministries ( LICM) and  he was the founder. Pro 11:30  The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. here is the Letter

He wrote his vision on paper, and from that vision the Soul Winning and Counselling Ministry was launched. It was called Life in Christ Ministries (LICM), and he was its founder. His heart was always for souls, and his ministry reflected the wisdom of Scripture:

“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.” — Proverbs 11:30

LICM became an extension of his calling—reaching the lost, counselling the broken, and strengthening believers. Through this ministry, many lives were transformed, restored, and redirected toward Christ.

Here is the Letter.

December 1995

There was a celebration to mark the unity and fellowship of the “Come Together of Churches.” This joyful gathering was held at the International Assemblies of God Church in Sekgopo. It was a meaningful occasion that celebrated unity among believers, cooperation between churches, and gratitude for what God was doing through their shared ministry.

 

In Januray 1996

He later joined World Outreach International, a global missions movement committed to evangelism, discipleship, and church planting. Below is his Credential, confirming his recognition and affiliation with this international ministry network

Here is the letter from SAPS, confirming his visit to the prison. This stands as yet another testimony of his commitment to reaching every soul, even those behind bars. His ministry was not limited by walls, distance, or circumstance—he carried the Gospel to places where hope was needed most.

He served as the Chairperson of the Northern Province Assemblies of God Fellowship, providing leadership, guidance, and spiritual oversight to churches across the region. During his tenure, he wrote an official letter to Radio Lebowa—now known as Thobela FM—to announce the upcoming Easter Conference.

Below is the letter, a testament to his dedication, administrative excellence, and commitment to uniting the Body of Christ for worship and fellowship.

He did not have a car, yet he travelled tirelessly—going from one place to another, one prison to the next, one school to another school, one clinic to the next clinic, and from one hospital to another—preaching and teaching the Word of God. His commitment to the Gospel was greater than any obstacle. Distance did not stop him. Lack of transport did not stop him. He carried the message of Christ wherever souls needed hope.

Below is the picture taken at the prison with the Police, the Prison Warden, the inmate, Pastor M.J. Mamabolo, Pastor Malaka, and Pastor Theo Bareth—a powerful reminder of how far his ministry reached.