What Public Officers Can Learn From Kumuyi At 82

By Banji Ojewale

THE international journalist, Baffour Ankomah of Ghana, is reported to have recorded the lengthiest interview session with Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi, General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, DCLM. As editor of the London-based New African monthly magazine, Ankomah ran voluminous portions of his encounter with the revered Nigerian churchman in October 2006, revealing more than a treasure trove of the life and times of Kumuyi.

The Ghanaian newsman said what he served the public, old and new takes on Kumuyi, was bereft of the trappings you witness between the intrusive reporter and his evasive newsmaker, between a predator and his potential prey, or between a dispassionate journalist and an equally disinterested figure. The reporter was intentional in his bid to secure an uncommon interview with an uncommon man. He got it, but at a price: he travelled with Kumuyi across West Africa, following and studying the man of God as he preached to hundreds of thousands of the poor and enthusiastic folk who wanted to benefit from his prayers and messages of salvation, hope, restoration, healing and deliverance.

I believe Ankomah desired an archival (historic) product (interview) to emerge from his peregrinations with Kumuyi, which he grabbed, because to date, there are few journalistic publications, if there are at all, that have captured a near-bubbly picture of the clergyman and his evangelistic work. The work is more than a reflection of the activities of Deeper Life Bible Church and its founder, leaders and members. Naturally, you can’t labour on an enterprise like this without profusely addressing the person of Kumuyi, his background, his associates and his followers.

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But of what use are your literary travails over a great public figure if they don't, ultimately, push for an agenda to transform lives and change society, if they don't teach that those who read of the greatness of the subject should be inspired to be like him or her? Why do we go to extreme ends to write (auto)biographies, if the goal isn’t to build a better society through the emulation of the eminent lives of these citizens?

Writings aren't for the pleasure of their creators; they are for society to gobble and gain from. They're out of the writer's control once they escape from his fingers. The consumer takes over for good or bad. His takeaway decides the impact of the book or publication (or broadcast).

In the case of the Ghanaian editor, his takeout came at the close of his long introduction to the interview with Kumuyi. He wrote: ‘’Pastor Kumuyi…has positioned himself, and run his life in such a dignified manner…As such he wins respect everywhere he goes. Church leaders are rarely held in such high esteem. The irony is that he is such a humble man you would never think he is the one so regarded…by national leaders. His humility, in fact, is quite disarming!

His selflessness, too, means that he draws no salary for the work he does, even though some of his junior pastors who are full-time (ministers) are paid for their service… Pastor Kumuyi does not touch money…The church takes care of his upkeep…In a way, Pastor Kumuyi reminds me of Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah. Like Nkrumah, Kumuyi has no property to his name, even though he is the leader of a mammoth organisation…What a challenge!"

There are apposite lessons. First, when we examine Kumuyi, we must be less awed by the superstructure of the Church God used him to found. We must focus more on the integrity, incorruptibility and inflexibility that have been his driving precepts as a servant of God and leader of men. Otherwise, we shall unwittingly pigeonhole the man with those who also have created mega Christian assemblies without the critical attendant moral undercurrents.

Secondly, Kumuyi's pact with God dictates his relationship with man and everything associated with this world. In that case, he disavows the material in order to bow to the spiritual. Number 3: Kumuyi has developed a backbone that stands him from the crowd; once he has taken a decision he believes is Biblical and not dissonant with the prescribed righteousness of Heaven. His sing-song is, Others may I cannot.

All those who have met the man never fail to observe these traits. Those who haven’t met him but do write on him from secondary sources or by watching (or listening to) him preach can't also escape a whiff of these attributes. But, as I said earlier of great personalities, our reflections on them are not to be caged in books; they must project into our lives.

That’s when our heroes and heroines would be fulfilled that when they pass on, their outstanding deeds wouldn't pass on as well. We would have taken the baton from them for the race to continue towards a goal for the improvement of mankind.

At a time Nigeria is witnessing a new crop of persons at the helm and with promises of a new beginning, I invite our public office holders and the political class into the world of Pastor Kumuyi. Overseeing that world is a God Who loathes leaders who are not servants of the led. He desires leaders who wouldn't be leeches. This God wants Spartan helmsmen whose practical discipline would infect the entire citizenry.

Many today are overwhelmed by the gigantic strides of Deeper Christian Life Ministry which started 50 years ago in August 1973 with only 15 persons. The resplendent spectacle they behold refers them to Kumuyi, the man at the root of the whole story.

But he in turn reroutes his stunned admirers to the Great Originator of what is petrifying them. Kumuyi tells them that they must rather adore the God Who gave him the gifts he has deployed over the decades to get the Church to this blazing height.

What we gather from Pastor Kumuyi, then, as we mark his 82nd birthday on June 6, 2023, is simply that the God Who gave him First Class in Mathematics at the University of Ibadan, Who made him learn at the feet of an unyielding atheist without becoming an atheist, Who is still giving His servant in his advanced age grand evangelism strategies such as the current revolutionary brand, Global Crusade with Kumuyi, GCK, will heartily offer our policy makers exceedingly more endowments to govern selflessly if they also embrace His laws and fear Him as Kumuyi has done.

Happy Birthday, Beloved Shepherd!

Ojewale is a writer in Ota, Ogun State

OLAADEGBU:


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On this momentous day, we gather to honor and celebrate the 82nd birthday of a man whose life has been an inspiration to millions around the world – Dr. W.F. Kumuyi. Born on June 6, 1941, in Erin-Ijesha, Osun State, Nigeria, Dr. Kumuyi has devoted his life to faith, service, and spreading the message of love, hope, and salvation.

As the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Dr. Kumuyi has touched countless lives through his powerful preaching, teaching, and exemplary leadership. What sets him apart is his unwavering commitment to the principles of Christianity and his determination to live a life of integrity and holiness.

Dr. Kumuyi's journey in faith began at an early age when he discovered the transforming power of the Gospel. Growing up in a Christian family, he experienced the love and grace of God firsthand. However, it was during his university years that his faith took a significant turn. He encountered the teachings of holiness and righteousness, which ignited a passion within him to live a life fully dedicated to God.

After completing his studies in mathematics at the University of Ibadan, Dr. Kumuyi pursued theological training at the Nigerian Apostolic Church Theological Seminary. It was during this time that he began to delve deeper into the Scriptures, seeking a profound understanding of God's Word and a personal encounter with Him.

In 1973, Dr. Kumuyi founded the Deeper Christian Life Ministry with just 15 members. Little did he know that his humble beginnings would pave the way for a global movement that would impact lives across continents. The ministry's core message revolved around the importance of personal holiness, Bible study, and fervent prayer.

Dr. Kumuyi's dynamic preaching style, infused with an unwavering passion for God's truth, captivated audiences. His sermons, rooted in biblical principles, challenged believers to deepen their faith, pursue a holy lifestyle, and cultivate an intimate relationship with God. His teachings resonated with individuals hungry for spiritual growth, and as a result, the ministry experienced rapid expansion.

Under Dr. Kumuyi's guidance, the Deeper Christian Life Ministry has grown into a thriving organization with millions of members worldwide. The ministry's headquarters in Lagos, Nigeria, serves as a spiritual hub, with branches spanning across various countries. These branches, led by devoted ministers and workers, continue to propagate the ministry's vision of raising disciples who are committed to holiness and fervent in prayer.

One of the hallmarks of Dr. Kumuyi's ministry is his emphasis on the study and application of God's Word. Recognizing the transformative power of the Scriptures, he encouraged believers to engage in deep and systematic Bible study. This emphasis birthed the popular Deeper Life Bible Church, which published the Deeper Life Bible Commentary – a comprehensive resource that provides valuable insights into the Scriptures.

The impact of Dr. Kumuyi's ministry is not limited to spiritual matters alone. His commitment to service extends beyond the pulpit. Recognizing the needs of the less privileged and marginalized, he established numerous educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and social outreach programs. These initiatives have provided quality education, medical care, and support to thousands of individuals who would otherwise have limited access to such resources.

Through the establishment of schools and colleges, Dr. Kumuyi aimed to equip young minds with knowledge and character formation rooted in biblical values. These educational institutions have become centres of excellence, imparting wisdom and fostering academic and moral development among students.

Additionally, Dr. Kumuyi's compassion for the sick and needy led to the establishment of healthcare facilities and medical outreach programs. The Deeper Life Medical Centre, for instance, provides affordable and accessible healthcare services to underprivileged communities, ensuring that they receive the medical attention they desperately need.

Furthermore, Dr. Kumuyi's commitment to social outreach extends to addressing societal issues such as poverty, drug addiction, and human trafficking. The ministry actively collaborates with local and international organizations to create awareness, provide rehabilitation programs, and support survivors of these injustices. Through these efforts, Dr. Kumuyi demonstrates that the love of Christ extends beyond the walls of the church and compels believers to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

As Dr. Kumuyi reaches the milestone of 82 years, it is evident that his impact continues to reverberate across generations. His leadership and vision have fostered a global community of believers united in their pursuit of a closer relationship with God. Through his humility, wisdom, and compassionate spirit, he has become a father figure and mentor to many.

In an age marked by moral decay and societal challenges, Dr. Kumuyi's unwavering commitment to righteousness and godly living is a shining example. He reminds us that faith is not merely a set of beliefs, but a way of life that should influence our actions, relationships, and decisions.

Dr. Kumuyi's life serves as a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and the transformative work of God. His journey from a small village in Nigeria to an international ministry leader is a testament to the extraordinary things that can be achieved when one surrenders their life to God's guidance and purpose.

Throughout his life, Dr. Kumuyi has faced numerous challenges and obstacles. Yet, his unwavering faith and reliance on God have enabled him to overcome these hurdles with grace and determination. He has shown that age is not a barrier to pursuing God's calling and making a lasting impact.

Dr. Kumuyi's personal character is marked by humility, simplicity, and a genuine love for people. Despite his global influence, he remains approachable and down-to-earth, always willing to lend a listening ear and offer words of encouragement. His humility serves as a powerful example for believers, reminding them to embrace a servant-hearted attitude and to prioritize the needs of others above their own.
As we celebrate Dr. W.F. Kumuyi's 82nd birthday, let us honor his legacy by embracing the principles he holds dear – love, humility, righteousness, and service. May his life continue to inspire us to live lives that bring glory to God and make a positive impact in the world around us.

Happy 82nd birthday, Dr. W.F. Kumuyi! May God continue to bless you abundantly and grant you many more years of health, joy, and spiritual fruitfulness. Your dedication to faith, your unwavering commitment to service, and your profound impact on lives across the globe will forever be cherished and celebrated.