Apostle Allison Smith Conliff delivers a message on the necessity of spiritual intelligence and total commitment to God. Using the Book of Ephesians as a foundation, the Apostle warns the congregation against being deceived by false doctrines and worldly distractions. She emphasizes that believers must lead a sacrificial life, specifically highlighting the importance of fasting and prayer to gain authority over demonic forces. Apostle Conliff also addresses current global events and biblical prophecies, urging listeners to display the character of Christ in their daily lives. Ultimately, it serves as a call for Christians to move beyond religious rituals and demonstrate the miraculous power of God through faithful, holy living.

Key Points:

Personal doctrinal knowledge is considered essential because it acts as a spiritual safeguard; the sources state that "if we don't know the doctrine, people will sell us anything and we will buy it". In a modern landscape where "crazy doctrine" is easily accessible via the internet, having a personal understanding of the doctrine of Christ prevents believers from being "hoodwinked" or pressured by false teachings.

Here is why personal doctrinal knowledge is vital for protecting one's salvation and spiritual life:

• Discerning False Faiths and Interpretations: Knowledge of specific scriptural truths allows believers to dismiss deceptive claims. For example, the Apostle notes that some faiths teach that only 144,000 people are going to heaven, but a deeper doctrinal study reveals that this number refers specifically to 12,000 from each of the twelve tribes of Israel, rather than the Gentile church. Knowing that one is already "saved" and "sanctified" prevents them from giving "airplay" to these deceptions.
• Identifying Manipulative Practices: Personal knowledge of God’s character protects believers from ministers who may preach heresies or false doctrines for financial gain. The Apostle warns against "buying" prophecies, noting that any pastor charging for a prophecy is likely "living beyond their means" rather than following the example of Jesus.
• Rightly Dividing the Word: Wisdom and understanding are necessary to "rightly divide the word of truth". This involves understanding the context of scripture, such as the cultural background of the Corinthian church, to avoid misapplying biblical instructions in modern settings.
• Avoiding Spiritual "Nonsense": Without a foundation in the Word, believers may be led astray by "nonsense" preaching or "crazy doctrine from on the net". Some modern practices, like commanding "fat bellies" to go in during prayer, make the church a "laughing stock". Personal doctrinal strength allows a believer to know when it is "time to move from that table" and stop consuming ungodly information.
• Living the Word Consistently: True doctrinal knowledge is not just about reading but living the word. This consistency protects the believer's testimony, as some people may sound spiritual in church but remain "nonspiritual" in their outside lives. Engaging personally with the "best book" (the Bible) helps a person overcome fears and receive "downloads from heaven" directly rather than relying solely on a preacher.

Believers must be "intelligent" in their faith and to seek "wisdom and understanding"from the Holy Spirit to navigate a season where God demands a "god-fearing and a sacrificial life".

Rec. Date: 25th April, 2024