Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), recently shared a disturbing story about the arrest of one of their pastors abroad. Speaking during the church’s monthly thanksgiving program at the Throne of Grace, the RCCG national headquarters in Ebute-Metta, Lagos, Adeboye explained that the pastor was detained after addressing a gathering with the phrase “ladies and gentlemen.”
The arrest occurred when the pastor, in what appeared to be a routine greeting, referred to his audience using gender-specific terms. According to Pastor Adeboye, the pastor’s use of the words “ladies and gentlemen” led to accusations of discrimination, as some individuals claimed the phrase excluded those who do not identify as male or female.
“This is a wake-up call,” Pastor Adeboye stated, expressing his deep concern about the rapid decline in moral values worldwide. He emphasized that such an event was an alarming sign of the changing social dynamics in many parts of the world.
“The end is nearer than you think,” Adeboye warned the congregation, urging them to take heed of the growing moral crisis. He continued, “Things are getting worse, and this is a wake-up call. One of my pastors abroad was arrested, and his offence was simply addressing a gathering as ‘ladies and gentlemen.’ Some people reported him for discrimination, asking, ‘What about those who are neither ladies nor gentlemen?’”
The controversial incident highlights the increasing sensitivity to gender identities and the growing societal shift away from traditional norms. Adeboye’s revelation shed light on how even the most basic expressions of identity are now scrutinized, illustrating the broader challenges facing many communities globally.
In addition to the arrest, Pastor Adeboye recounted another unsettling story during his sermon, which further illustrated the moral decline he perceives. He described a woman who, when asked about her husband, referred to her dog as her spouse.
“She was asked about her husband, and she replied, ‘I took him to the vet before coming. He doesn’t talk,’” Adeboye said. “When asked who her husband was, she described a very handsome dog. Brethren, we are closer to the end than ever before.”
This troubling anecdote was shared to emphasize the extent of moral disarray in society. According to Pastor Adeboye, the woman’s actions were symbolic of a larger cultural shift where values once considered fundamental are being disregarded or redefined in increasingly bizarre ways.
Adeboye used these stories as examples of how Christians should remain steadfast in their faith amid growing societal pressure. He urged believers to hold firm to their beliefs, warning that the moral decline of the world should not cause them to waver in their commitment to Christ.
“Those of you already in Christ, take this matter seriously,” he urged. “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.”
He reminded the congregation that the increasing moral challenges in society are part of a larger spiritual battle. “The devil wants to harvest you, but you must not give him the opportunity,” Adeboye cautioned. “I want to see you in my Father’s house,” he added, emphasizing the importance of preparing spiritually for Christ’s return.
The sermon was a stark reminder to the RCCG congregation about the urgency of remaining faithful in an increasingly secular world.
