I Rejected the Richest Guy in Church—Here’s Why I Don’t Regret It: Episode 21
EPISODE 21: Cracks in the Crown
The first crack didn’t come from me.
It came from Deacon Olumide.
It was after Wednesday midweek service. The crowd had thinned, and people were chatting outside when I overheard the first whisper.
“I’m not saying he’s guilty. I’m just saying… something feels off.”
That was Deacon Olumide.
Elder. Quiet. Observant. Never quick to speak.
He stood near the offering stand, arms crossed, eyes fixed on Charles—who was smiling his usual smile and shaking hands like a campaigner.
“Brother Charles,” the deacon called, voice calm but loaded.
Charles turned, still smiling. “Yes, sir?”
“You joined this church barely six months ago, right?”
Charles nodded. “Yes sir.”
“And in that time, you’ve given generously, volunteered tirelessly, and even proposed to one of our sisters publicly.”
People turned. Heads tilted slightly. Conversations died.
Charles’ smile faltered for half a second.
“Yes sir. I believe in service and commitment.”
The deacon nodded slowly. “Commitment is good. But there’s something deeper than being visible. It’s called accountability.”
Charles blinked.
Deacon Olumide continued, “Tell me, Brother Charles… who disciples you? Who knows your walk with God outside this building?”
A chill swept through the air.
That question pierced something.
Something Charles hadn’t prepared for.
He chuckled, trying to play it off. “I’m accountable to God first, sir. And of course, Pastor…”
“I didn’t ask about God or titles. I asked—who knows you?” the deacon said again, firmer this time. “Not the version you show. The real you.”
Silence.
The pastor, standing nearby, shifted uncomfortably.
“I’m just saying…” Deacon Olumide added, “we’ve seen charisma before. We’ve seen gifts. But character? That one takes time to reveal.”
Charles looked around. The air had changed.
He smiled again, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “Sir, if there’s any concern, I’d be happy to sit with you privately.”
“Oh, we’ll sit,” the deacon said. “Soon. Very soon.”
And just like that… it began.
The image started to crack.
Not with scandal.
Not with noise.
But with quiet questions and uncomfortable truths.
Later that night, Grace sent me a message:
“The Spirit has stirred something. Be still. Watch.”
And I did.
Because I knew what was coming.
And this time… it wasn’t going to be hidden.
To be continued…
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