In recent times, the subject of wealth in the Christian community, especially among church leaders, has sparked intense debate. The conversation was reignited when Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church (also known as Winners’ Chapel), received a Rolls Royce and N1 billion as gifts for his 70th birthday. While some celebrated the gesture as a show of love and respect, others were critical, questioning whether a clergyman should live so lavishly. Amidst this debate, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), weighed in on the matter.
Pastor Adeboye’s comments went beyond defending Bishop Oyedepo and touched on a broader issue: the inevitable criticism that comes with both poverty and wealth, and why it may be better to die rich than poor.
Bishop Oyedepo’s 70th birthday was marked with grand celebrations at the Living Faith Church headquarters in Ota, Ogun State. As a token of appreciation for his years of spiritual leadership, he received a Rolls Royce and N1 billion in gifts. This gesture, however, didn’t sit well with many, as discussions about whether religious leaders should live such affluent lifestyles started circulating in the media and online platforms.
Critics argued that the wealth displayed by Bishop Oyedepo was at odds with the humility often associated with Christian leadership. Some questioned why a man of God needed such an expensive car, pointing out that such extravagance might alienate church members who are struggling financially.
Pastor Adeboye responded to the criticism during a sermon, defending the right of religious leaders and Christians to live prosperous lives. He shared his belief that no matter what a person achieves in life—whether they are poor or wealthy—they will be judged by others. According to Pastor Adeboye, society has a tendency to criticize people in both abundance and lack.
He recounted a scenario familiar to many people: if a Christian, particularly a church leader, dies poor, people will say, “After all your years of serving God, is this how you ended?” He explained that those who are not financially successful may be judged harshly by society, with their faith and commitment to God brought into question.
However, Pastor Adeboye was quick to point out that the opposite is also true. If a Christian begins to prosper, especially in a public way, they will be criticized for being too wealthy. He highlighted how people tend to question religious figures who live in abundance, assuming that wealth and devotion to God are incompatible.
In his message, Pastor Adeboye expressed his belief that it is better to die rich than poor. He explained that since criticism is inevitable, it is wiser to live in abundance and face criticism than to suffer in poverty and still be blamed for it. His argument was simple: no matter the circumstances, people will talk, so it’s better to live a life of wealth and comfort rather than endure unnecessary hardship.
He advised his congregation to consider this when reflecting on their own lives. According to Pastor Adeboye, God does not want His followers to live in lack or be unable to meet their needs. Instead, He desires that they live prosperous and fruitful lives.
Adeboye’s message resonates with what some call the “prosperity gospel,” a teaching that encourages believers to expect financial success as part of their Christian journey. Although this view has its critics, Pastor Adeboye’s stance is clear: wealth is not incompatible with Christianity, and Christians should not be ashamed of their financial blessings.
The criticism surrounding Bishop Oyedepo’s Rolls Royce is just one example of a larger conversation about wealth in the church. For decades, many have debated whether religious leaders should live lavishly or follow a more humble path. In countries like Nigeria, where large populations face economic challenges, the contrast between wealthy church leaders and struggling members can be stark, fueling these discussions even more.
However, Pastor Adeboye’s message brings another perspective. He argues that wealth should not be seen as a contradiction to a person’s faith, but rather as a blessing from God. For him, the real issue is not about whether a bishop should drive a Rolls Royce, but about understanding that criticism will come regardless of a person’s financial state.
Pastor Enoch Adeboye’s response to the criticism surrounding Bishop Oyedepo’s Rolls Royce gift has sparked further debate on the role of wealth in Christianity. He highlighted that both poverty and wealth will attract criticism, so Christians should not feel guilty about living prosperous lives. According to Adeboye, it’s better to face judgment for living in abundance than to struggle in poverty and still be blamed for it.
Ultimately, Pastor Adeboye’s words remind believers that wealth, when seen as a blessing from God, should not be a source of shame. Instead, it should be embraced as a testimony of God’s provision. This perspective challenges traditional views of religious humility, offering a different take on what it means to live a godly life in today’s world.
