Nigerian author and social media influencer, Reno Omokri, has weighed in on controversies surrounding the birthday gift of two Rolls Royce vehicles to Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners Chapel.
The extravagant donations, which have sparked backlash given the harsh economic conditions in the country, has drawn mixed reactions.
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In response to critics, Omokri compared the situation to a biblical account in which Jesus Christ defended Mary, the sister of Martha, after she anointed him with expensive ointment.
Omokri cited Matthew 26:11, where Jesus rebuked Judas Iscariot for questioning the act, saying, “The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me.”
Omokri argued that those who criticise the church members’ generosity would likely have done the same to Jesus for accepting the gift of the ointment. He urged individuals upset with the posh gift to channel their energy into addressing poverty directly by contributing to feeding, housing, and educating the needy.
Additionally, Omokri highlighted significant welfare programs run by Living Faith Church Worldwide, noting that its budget for assisting the poor surpasses the social security spending of any Nigerian state, except Lagos.
“It is prideful to dictate how others should spend money they earned without your help,” Omokri remarked, defending the church members’ decision to honour their pastor. He further emphasized that instead of questioning their actions, critics should recognise that Oyedepo has taught many of his followers the principles that helped lift them out of poverty.
Omokri concluded by stating that the pastor, who is not responsible for the current economic struggles in Nigeria, deserves even more recognition and gifts, including the Rolls Royces.
Netizens react:
@Blessing: “First time, I agree with you. Well said, they should channel their energy to changing Nigeria’s economy and not men of God. Well articulated sir”
@Isiaka: “You’re very right! I wonder why some people feel that they should dictate how others spend their hard earned money. The Man of God deserves his reward as a good Shepherd who labored so much daily for the Sheep”
@John: “The Bible say in Psalm 82:5 they do not know, nor do they understand; they walk about in darkness; All the foundation of the earth are unstable. God bless you for telling them the truth.”
@Peter: “I don’t support you on this one sir, however they always have tactical way of supporting their actions and inaction with scriptures … The world is more than just a religion.”
@Simon: “Their criticism can’t change neither stop who’s God has blessed…the church keep moving forward. Sir Reno omokri thank you for saying the truth for the body of Christ.”