The General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor William F. Kumuyi, has clarified why he will never hand over leadership of the church to any of his biological sons. In a recent statement that has stirred conversation across the Christian community, he stated that the church belongs to Christ, not to him or his family.
“It’s Jesus’ Church, Not Mine”
Pastor Kumuyi emphasized that Deeper Life is a divine institution, not a personal or family inheritance. According to him, “The reason why I will never hand over Deeper Life church to any of my biological sons is that the church doesn’t belong to me. It’s Jesus’ church. Nobody has right to hand it over to his son.” The 83-year-old cleric stressed that leadership in God’s house must follow spiritual order, not bloodline.
A stand against “dynasty” succession
His comment comes amid ongoing debates in Nigeria’s church circles about “dynastic succession,” where founding pastors pass pulpits to children or relatives. Kumuyi’s position draws a clear line: ministry leadership is a calling, not a birthright. He argued that handing over based on family ties would contradict biblical patterns where God raises leaders according to purpose and character, not genetics.
How Deeper Life chooses leaders
The pastor explained that Deeper Life has structures in place to identify and raise leaders through years of training, character formation, and spiritual gifting. Succession, he said, will be determined by God through the church’s board and leadership organs, not by personal declaration. The focus remains on continuity of doctrine, holiness, and mission rather than family legacy.
Reaction from members and observers
The statement has drawn praise from many church members and Christian leaders who see it as a model of humility and stewardship. Supporters say it reinforces trust that the ministry will stay mission-focused after its founder. Others see it as a challenge to churches where family succession has created division and questions about accountability.
Legacy over lineage
For Pastor Kumuyi, the goal is not to build a family name but to finish a God-given assignment. By refusing to treat Deeper Life like personal property, he’s signaling that the church’s future rests with Christ and the body of believers He raises. Ten decades of ministry, millions of converts, and a global presence later, his message is simple: the work continues, but the Owner remains Jesus.
