Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has shared a deeply personal story that underscores the importance of divine guidance and spiritual consistency.
Speaking during the June edition of the RCCG Holy Ghost Service, themed “Destined for Greatness (Part 2),”Pastor Adeboye revealed a stern warning he once received from God—to never leave RCCG or risk the life of his firstborn child. The service was held in the early hours of Saturday at the Redemption City of God in Ogun State.
As he ministered on the topic of divine direction, Pastor Adeboye addressed the increasing trend of “church-hopping,” particularly among younger Christians. Referring to a sermon earlier delivered by his son, Pastor Leke Adeboye, he urged believers to remain rooted in the place God has assigned them.
Reflecting on his early walk with Christ, Pastor Adeboye shared how tempting it was to join other prominent ministries that were flourishing at the time. But a divine encounter changed his course.
“When I got born again, there were three major ministries that were making waves, and they were very good. There were different temptations to go from one to another. But God said to me, ‘Son, I brought you here. This is where you will stay. The day you leave this denomination, your firstborn will die,’” he recounted.
Despite his academic stature as a university lecturer, Pastor Adeboye recalled how God led him to submit to a spiritual mentor who had no formal education.
“My father in the Lord didn’t go to secondary school, not even primary. But God said this is where you will stay,”he said.
At that time, the RCCG headquarters was a humble building located in Ebute-Metta, Lagos—far from the expansive, global ministry it has become today. Yet, Pastor Adeboye obeyed, trusting God’s instruction over worldly attractions.
He warned Christians against making decisions based on trends or personal convenience, encouraging them instead to prioritize divine placement.
“Discover where God wants you to stay, and stay there,”* he advised.
Importantly, Pastor Adeboye emphasized that his message was not intended to promote RCCG above other churches.
“I am not saying we are better than any other denomination,” he clarified.
His message serves as a reminder that spiritual growth and divine purpose are often found not in popular movements, but in obedience to God’s specific direction.
