A church member has sparked online outrage after accusing his pastor of exploiting him financially. The man claimed that he personally purchased paint and completed a full painting job for the pastor’s house, only to be denied payment afterward. The incident was highlighted in a video that quickly went viral on social media, drawing reactions from Nigerians who questioned the pastor’s integrity and ethical conduct.
The church member explained that he was approached by the pastor to handle the painting work, and he gladly accepted the task, investing his own resources to complete the project. However, when he asked for compensation upon completion, the pastor allegedly dismissed him, claiming that his reward would come in heaven, not on earth.
Man confronts pastor over unpaid work
In the video, the church member confronted the pastor, questioning the fairness of being denied payment for labor and materials he personally provided. He highlighted the irony in the pastor’s words, pointing out that while he promised heavenly rewards, the pastor recently purchased 30 hectares of land, seemingly contradicting his spiritual teachings about earthly wealth and divine recompense.
The member shared his frustration, saying that it was unreasonable to expect him to finance the project without any compensation, especially when all the paint and materials came from his own pocket. He expressed disappointment in the pastor’s approach, suggesting that it undermined trust and honesty within the congregation.
Public reaction and discussion
The video sparked widespread debate online, with many users criticizing the pastor for allegedly exploiting members of his congregation. Some netizens expressed sympathy for the man, arguing that spiritual rewards should not replace fair and ethical treatment for work done. Others highlighted a broader issue in some religious communities, where financial transparency and accountability are often questioned.
Several viewers also commented on the disparity between the pastor’s claim that rewards are in heaven and his recent acquisition of substantial land, suggesting that the actions did not align with the moral guidance typically expected of church leaders.
Church member’s account
He recounted in his words: “Pastor say make I come paint him house, I use my money go paint pastor house. After I finished painting his house, I came and met pastor so he can pay me my money. Pastor said my reward is in heaven. I called pastor Emma, na heaven I paint or your own house? Upon say na my money I use buy paint. The pastor wey talk say our reward dey heaven stand for earth, but he buy 30 hectares of land.”
His testimony has led to a heated discussion about accountability and fairness within religious institutions, with many urging church leaders to honor commitments made to members who offer their time, labor, and resources.
Watch video below …
“Pastor asked me to come paint his house, I used my money to buy the paints and painted the house. I went to him for my payment after I was done painting and he told me my reward is in heaven”👀👀[/p>
—Church member cries out pic.twitter.com/9C8uQmsA6k[/p>
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) December 4, 2025