Expressing concern over the rising tide of corruption in the country, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has emphasized that corruption thrives because many Christians, who should stand out as a moral example, have compromised their values. Speaking on the sixth day of the church’s annual convention focused on the theme ‘Heaven,’ Adeboye urged Christians to avoid living double lives and to adhere to the teachings of Christ without wavering.
In his address, Adeboye recounted a personal story about one of his spiritual daughters who was offered a contract worth N3 million. However, she was asked to inflate the contract to N33 million. Adeboye lamented the widespread corruption, saying, “Corruption in Nigeria has become so deep because we Christians, who are supposed to be a peculiar people, are not making any difference. It’s so difficult to even know who is who.”
He went on to emphasize the need for Christians to stand out and uphold their principles, even if it means forgoing opportunities for advancement. “You must be as pure as light, people must be able to see you at a distance and know that this is a candidate for heaven. In your behavior and character, you must be different. If you want to compromise because of promotion, let them take their promotion because you are a peculiar people. The world will hate you because of your standard, but your standard is that of God.”
Adeboye shared another instance where a believer was given a contract to tar a road, only to discover that the road had already been completed. When she reported the error, she was told to collect her payment regardless and give a portion back to those who offered the contract. Adeboye expressed his dismay, noting that corruption would be eradicated if Christians remained steadfast in their faith and refused to compromise, even in difficult circumstances.
Continuing his sermon, Adeboye reflected on a personal experience during the Friday Holy Ghost Service. He admitted that he nearly fell out of God’s favor by attempting to preach a prepared sermon instead of following God’s direction. “Holiness means total obedience to God. I have been sober since yesterday. It took special love from God not to knock me on the head. God wanted to talk, but I wanted to preach a sermon that I had prepared. He told me, ‘You have done fine enough.’ He wanted me to get out of the way. As He was talking, I was interrupting.” Adeboye concluded by warning against acting contrary to God’s will, emphasizing that no one can love the church more than God Himself.
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