This sermon from Apostle Allison Smith Conliff discusses the spiritual challenges of the last days. She warns the congregation against narcissism, greed, and boastfulness, urging believers to prioritize divine truth over intellectualism or material wealth. The message emphasizes the importance of moral integrity in modern times, touching on topics such as modesty, faithfulness in marriage, and the dangers of alcohol and sensual pleasure. Apostle Conliff highlights that true Godliness is revealed through conduct and character rather than outward religious displays. She encourages her listeners to seek God's presence to overcome past sins and to remain discerning about whose teachings they follow. The message concludes with a call to rekindle a passionate love for God and to maintain self-control in all areas of life.

Key Points:

A primary challenge of the current era is the rise of narcissistic behavior and intense self-focus. Apostle Conliff observes that people have become "lovers of themselves," prioritized by a desire to gratify the flesh. This manifests as:

• Boastfulness and Arrogance: Individuals often boast about things they do not even possess to make others feel inferior and to showcase themselves as "better".
• Lack of Self-Control: This is seen even in communal settings, such as "thanksgiving" services, where people may fight over food or show a lack of respect for the sacrifices others have made to provide.
• Gossip and Betrayal: The "last days" are characterized by malicious gossip and people becoming traitors, even within their own homes or towards those they serve.

Apostle Conliff warns that many are "selling themselves" or leaving Christianity entirely because they are compelled by greed. While she acknowledges that money is a necessity for living, she stresses that it should not be one's "first love". She notes a trend where social status is determined by wealth, such as the "card clique" versus the "cash clique", and warns against treating others as "nothing" based on their financial standing.

The Apostle identifies a breakdown in traditional values and virtues, specifically regarding modesty and sensuality:

• Fashion and Immodesty: She argues that "fashion will kill some believers" who fail to see where morality ends and immorality begins. She specifically critiques the trend of "cut out" clothing, which she likens to walking with one’s own "air condition system," noting it can be a stumbling block for others.
• Sensual Pleasure: Modern society is "overloaded" by sensuality through the internet, WhatsApp, and the media. This challenge extends to adults who become "hooked" on games, shows, or inappropriate content because they have the "privacy" to do so.
• Intoxication: Apostle Conliff expresses concern over believers and even ministers who consume alcohol and engage in "reckless" behavior at social events like weddings, arguing that any form of intoxication hinders one's ability to honor God in a "conscious state''.

A major spiritual challenge is the tendency to hold to a "form of outward Godliness" while denying its true power. Apostle Conliff describes this as "religion" rather than a true relationship with Christ.

• Inconsistency: Many claim faith, but their conduct, such as living without order or engaging in "fire Friday" activities with alcohol, nullifies that claim.
• Vulnerability to False Doctrine: She warns of people who "worm their way into homes" to captivate women who are "morally weak and spiritually dwarf". These are often individuals who have not dealt with their past sins or impulses, making them susceptible to doctrines that are not of God.
• Relational Compromise: Believers are challenged to maintain their standards in relationships, warned not to be "best friends" with those who are "Anti-Jesus" because two cannot walk together unless they are in agreement.

Rec. Date: 27th June, 2024