Pastor William Kumuyi, the 83-year-old General overseer of Deeper Life Bible Church, has firmly told his congregation that discussions about his succession are premature and unwelcome.
During a recent Bible study session, Kumuyi addressed what he described as growing pressure from some church members for him to name a successor.
The veteran pastor made it clear he has no plans to step down anytime soon.
Kumuyi recounted how one member had repeatedly spoken about the need for succession planning.
In response, he turned to his congregation and asked directly: “Are you tired of me?” The question prompted a loud, unanimous “No” from the audience.
He specifically criticized a young preacher who had twice declared that “there is no leadership without a successor.”
Kumuyi called these comments inappropriate, saying: “I felt that was too much, especially since your father is still here. God will give a successor at His own time.”
The pastor drew clear lines about who controls his ministry decisions. “I reject any member—whether you are a worker, choir member, or security person—who tries to control me,” he stated.
“I won’t even take that from my wife because I am the head of the home.”
Kumuyi warned against attempts to weaken his resolve or push him toward retirement. “Don’t try to kill my conviction. It will only make me resist you,” he told the congregation.
While acknowledging that he regularly allows talented members to preach, Kumuyi emphasized that choosing his successor “is in the hands of God.”
He expressed concern that calls for succession planning might indicate dissatisfaction with his leadership.
“If God gives you a pastor who is still very active at this age, and you are asking for a successor, it makes me think you are tired of seeing me around,” he said.
The pastor concluded with confidence in his position: “When the time comes, God will choose a man after His own heart. Don’t try to drive me away, even though I know you cannot.”
