The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has issued a stern warning to Christians who prioritize material wealth over spiritual growth, describing such a pursuit as “an act of stupidity.”
Adeboye gave the admonition during the 73rd Annual RCCG Convention, themed “The Overcomers,” held at the Redemption Camp, Mowe, Ogun State.
“God does not hate enjoyment,” Adeboye said. “But the body you pamper, shine, and make up will perish one day. Take care of the spirit, for that is what will go to heaven. The body does not want you to be an overcomer.”
He stressed that while prosperity is not condemned by God, the relentless pursuit of wealth through ungodly means — such as lying, stealing, or cheating — contradicts the life of an overcomer.
“If you are pursuing wealth at the expense of your soul, that would be stupidity,” he said. “What happens when you die? How many of those things can you take with you?”
Adeboye described the life of an overcomer as one marked by discipline, sacrifice, and spiritual vigilance.
“To become a champion requires discipline. Remaining a champion requires even more — because every challenger wants your crown,” he said.
The cleric urged Christians to resist the works of the flesh and embrace the Holy Spirit, whom he described as greater than all enemies and challenges.
“Life is war made up of battles,” he noted. “But rejoice — you are not alone. The Holy Spirit, the Almighty dwelling in you, is greater than your enemies.”
Addressing the dual nature of man, Adeboye added, “You are a dangerous composition — both earth and Spirit. The dust pulls us down, while the Spirit of God lifts us up. The overcomer’s life lies in choosing the Spirit.”
Over 15,000 New Ministers Ordained
Earlier in the day, the RCCG ordained 15,831 new ministers: 10,343 deacons and deaconesses and 5,488 assistant pastors.
While deacons and deaconesses were ordained by the laying on of hands, the assistant pastors received both anointing with oil and laying on of hands.
In his sermon titled “Chosen for a Purpose,” guest speaker Pastor Joseph Olaiya, Founder of Living Faith Foundation, challenged the newly ordained ministers to focus on soul-winning and perseverance in ministry.
“You were chosen to bear fruit,” Olaiya said. “There will be opposition, but God will help you overcome. Desire the fruits and gifts of the Holy Spirit — they will make your work easier.”
The day’s events concluded with intense evening prayers, vibrant praise sessions by the mass choir, and a colorful parade by children and teenagers, coordinated by Pastor Foluke Adeboye, wife of the General Overseer.
The 2025 RCCG Convention continues throughout the week, drawing millions of worshippers from across Nigeria and beyond.
