General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has issued a stern caution to Christians, urging them not to chase material wealth at the expense of their spiritual lives.
Speaking at the 73rd Annual Convention, themed “The Overcomers,” Adeboye told a vast audience at the Redemption Camp in Mowe, Ogun State, that true victory in Christ requires prioritizing the soul over worldly gain.
“God does not hate enjoyment,” he acknowledged. “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.”
Pastor Adeboye noted that while prosperity is not forbidden by God, it becomes a spiritual trap when pursued through immoral means like lying or cheating.
“If you are pursuing wealth at the expense of your soul, that would be stupidity,” he warned. “What happens when you die? How many of those things can you take with you?”
He described the life of an overcomer as one defined by spiritual discipline and a deliberate resistance to fleshly desires and worldly allure.
“To become a champion requires discipline. Remaining a champion requires even more — because every challenger wants your crown,” Adeboye emphasized.
Encouraging believers to stay rooted in faith, he declared, “Life is war made up of battles. But rejoice, you are not alone. The Holy Spirit, the Almighty dwelling in you, is greater than your enemies.”
He further reflected on the duality of human nature. “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.”
Earlier in the day, the RCCG marked a significant milestone in its ministerial expansion by ordaining 15,831 new ministers, comprising 10,343 deacons and deaconesses, and 5,488 assistant pastors.
The ordination ceremony was conducted through the laying on of hands, while assistant pastors also received anointing with oil, signifying their spiritual readiness and responsibility.
Delivering a powerful charge to the newly ordained ministers, President and Founder of the Living Faith Foundation, Pastor Joseph Olaiya, preached a message titled “Chosen for a Purpose.”
He encouraged them to remain committed to evangelism and unwavering amid the trials of 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.”
As dusk fell, the evening plenary session commenced at 7 p.m., igniting the auditorium with spirited prayer sessions and powerful praise led by RCCG’s mass choir.
The Old Arena, Redemption Camp’s iconic three-million-capacity venue, was packed with worshippers from across Nigeria and around the globe.
Adding a splash of joy and color, children and teenagers staged a lively parade coordinated by Pastor Foluke Adeboye, wife of the General Overseer, a heartwarming highlight of the day.
The RCCG’s convention continues throughout the week, drawing millions of believers under the banner of its inspirational theme, “The Overcomers.”
