The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has raised alarm over what he describes as troubling signs of moral decay and cultural clashes, exemplified by the arrest of one of the church’s pastors abroad.
In a sermon delivered during the church’s monthly thanksgiving service held at the RCCG Throne of Grace, Lagos on the 1st of December 2024, and broadcast to parishes worldwide, Pastor Adeboye revealed that the pastor in question was apprehended for addressing an audience with the phrase, “Ladies and gentlemen.”
This seemingly innocuous greeting was flagged as discriminatory for failing to acknowledge all genders recognized in the host country’s culture.
Pastor Adeboye, whose message centered on the theme “My Father’s House,” expressed his dismay, linking the incident to signs of an impending end of times.
“The end is nearer than you think. Things are getting worse, and this is a wake-up call,” he cautioned.
He elaborated on the situation, saying, “Some people reported him for discrimination, asking, ‘What about those who are neither ladies nor gentlemen?’”
The clergyman further illustrated the erosion of moral values with another shocking account a woman who referred to her dog as her husband. Describing the scenario, Pastor Adeboye said, “When asked about her spouse, the woman claimed, ‘I took him to the vet before coming. He doesn’t talk,’ referring to her ‘husband’ as a dog.”
Pastor Adeboye’s sermon resonated as a clarion call for Christians to stand firm in their faith amid growing global moral ambiguity.
“Those of you already in Christ, take this matter seriously. Do not let anyone weaken your stand. God is holy. Those still playing church singing, clapping, and enjoying things without genuine commitment remember, Jesus is coming back. The devil wants to harvest you, but you must not give him the opportunity. I want to see you in my Father’s house,” he urged.
In addition to these concerns, Pastor Adeboye has been vocal about cultural trends infiltrating the church, particularly regarding appearances.
During the RCCG’s 72nd annual convention in August, themed “Heaven,” he condemned the adoption of braided hair among men and heavy makeup or false eyelashes among women in church settings.
He firmly stated that such styles would no longer be tolerated on RCCG altars.
His address reflected his unease with these evolving fashion choices, emphasizing the importance of maintaining reverence and simplicity in the house of God.
The convention, which took place from the 5th to 11th of August, 2024, at The Redemption City, Mowe, Ogun State, served as a backdrop for Pastor Adeboye’s unwavering commitment to preserving the sanctity and values of the church amidst a rapidly changing world.