Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has come to the defense of the Rolls-Royce and other lavish gifts presented to Bishop David Oyedepo of the Living Faith Church during his 70th birthday celebration.
Adeboye spoke following the birthday event when Oyedepo received a Rolls Royce and a financial gift of N1 billion, sparking mixed reactions among Nigerians.
Critics raised concerns about the extravagant nature of the gifts, particularly the luxury vehicle, questioning whether such opulence aligns with Christian values. In response, Pastor Adeboye addressed the controversy in a video that has since gone viral.
In his defense of the gifts, Adeboye emphasized that society often judges clergymen unfairly, whether they live in poverty or abundance. He explained that it is better to die wealthy than in poverty, as both situations would attract criticism regardless.
“Someone gave a bishop a car and some people got very upset, asking how a bishop can be driving a Rolls Royce,” Adeboye said. “As if being a bishop means you must die of hunger.”
The respected cleric went on to highlight the societal pressures faced by Christian leaders, stating, “If you die poor, people will blame you. They will say, ‘After all those years of serving God, this is how you end?’ But if you live in abundance, they will still attack you. So, which of the two do you choose?”
Watch the video below of Adeboye defending the Rolls Royce gift to Oyedepo.
“Someone gave a bishop a car and some people got very upset that how can a bishop be driving a Rolls Royce? As if once you are a bishop you must d!e of hunger”
~ Pastor Adeboye defends Rolls Royce gift to Bishop Oyedepo.
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— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) October 5, 2024
Adeboye’s comments reflect a broader debate within Nigeria’s religious community regarding wealth, prosperity, and the role of religious leaders in navigating these issues. While some argue that wealth should not be flaunted in ministry, others believe that blessings in the form of material wealth are part of God’s promise to His faithful followers.
Adeboye concluded by advising his followers to focus on their personal journey with God, stating that judgment will come regardless of one’s material status. His words are seen as a direct endorsement of the belief that spiritual leaders can enjoy the fruits of their labor without fear of societal backlash.
