The President of the Association of Christian Theologians (ACTS), Professor Kunle Macaulay, has expressed disagreement with the General Superintendent of Deeper Life Bible Church, Pastor William Kumuyi, over his recent remarks on church succession.

In his speech titled “My Successor,” Pastor Kumuyi stated that church leadership succession should be determined by God rather than human decision. He cited biblical examples, such as Joshua succeeding Moses, to emphasize divine selection over structured human planning. Kumuyi also urged Deeper Life leaders to rely on God’s guidance rather than expecting him to personally appoint a successor.

However, Macaulay challenged this stance, arguing that there is a fundamental difference between biblical Israel and the modern Christian church. He emphasized that while Judaism was centered on a specific nation, Christianity is a broader movement that requires structured leadership transitions.

According to Macaulay, Christian leaders have a responsibility to train and mentor successors to ensure continuity. He pointed out that for over a century, both Orthodox and Pentecostal churches in Nigeria have adopted leadership succession plans, and failure to do so often leads to crises and mismanagement.

He referenced past leadership struggles in Nigerian churches, including cases where the absence of a clear succession plan resulted in chaos after a leader’s death. Macaulay stressed that while spiritual guidance is crucial, practical steps—such as leadership training, academic seminars, and mentorship programs—are essential for sustaining church growth.

He also expressed concern about dedicated church workers being sidelined in leadership transitions, stating that relying solely on “divine selection” without structured planning could discourage long-term commitment.

Macaulay concluded by emphasizing that the strength of Nigerian churches depends on the quality of leadership, urging church leaders to be proactive in preparing for the future.