Kumuyi Issues Stern Warning Against Rebellion in Church Leadership

Lagos, Nigeria – Pastor William Folorunsho Kumuyi, General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, has delivered a strong message on the importance of spiritual discipline and submission within the church. Addressing members during a recent sermon, the respected cleric warned against attempts to challenge or interfere with divinely ordained leadership, stating that such actions disrupt spiritual order.

In his address, Pastor Kumuyi drew a pointed analogy between church leadership and air travel, emphasizing that just as passengers trust their pilot to safely guide them midair, believers must allow their spiritual leaders to lead without confrontation or control.

“We must understand—you do not fight your shepherd, your pastor, or your pilot. He is guiding us to heaven,” Kumuyi declared.

In what many regard as a rare public rebuke, the pastor stated that he would not tolerate attempts—whether from members, staff, or even close associates—to influence or dictate his spiritual direction.

“I say it publicly—any church member, staff, my son, daughter, or anyone attempting to control me is rejected,” he said. “Even someone who is supposed to be learning under me—if they seek control, they are rejected.”

Kumuyi explained that the rejection was not personal, but rather a necessary step to protect the church’s spiritual foundation and divine mandate. His remarks appeared to be directed not only at dissenting voices among church members but also at internal leaders who might seek to sway decisions under the guise of counsel or familiarity.

He further warned against the danger of becoming too familiar with spiritual leaders, noting that such closeness often breeds disrespect and spiritual rebellion.

The sermon has resonated with many within the Deeper Life community, who view his stance as critical for preserving doctrinal integrity. However, it has also sparked renewed conversations about how church institutions should navigate the line between pastoral authority and institutional accountability.

As debates around leadership, submission, and governance continue to shape modern church discourse, Kumuyi’s message underscores the enduring tension between spiritual autonomy and collective responsibility.

Source: Excerpts from Pastor W.F. Kumuyi’s sermon as reported by Church Times Nigeria.