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| Isaac Oyedepo Resigns: What Does It Mean for the Living Faith Church? |
Isaac Oyedepo Resigns: What Does It Mean for the Living Faith Church?
Isaac Oyedepo, the second son of Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder and presiding bishop of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners Chapel, has resigned from his position in the church. According to reports, Isaac Oyedepo stepped down as the Global Youth Pastor of the Youth Alive Fellowship (YAF), the youth wing of the church, barely a month after he was appointed. He also announced his intention to start his own ministry, saying that his God-given mandate is to reclaim a generation and to ensure that this generation sees the fire of God-revival in our generation.
This news has sparked mixed reactions among church members and observers, as some see it as a sign of division and disunity in the Oyedepo family and the church, while others see it as a positive move for Isaac Oyedepo to pursue his calling and vision. Some have also questioned the timing and motive of his resignation, as it came shortly after his father's controversial comments on the COVID-19 vaccine and the Nigerian government.
Isaac Oyedepo is not the first son of a prominent Nigerian pastor to leave his father's church and start his own ministry. In 2014, Pastor Tunde Bakare's son, Olaoluwa Bakare, left his father's Latter Rain Assembly and founded The Citadel Global Community Church (formerly known as The Church at Bethel), which has grown to become one of the fastest-growing churches in Nigeria. Similarly, in 2018, Pastor Sam Adeyemi's son, David Adeyemi, left his father's Daystar Christian Centre and launched The New Church Project (TNCP), a digital church platform that aims to reach young people across the world.
These examples show that there is a generational shift happening in the Nigerian church scene, as more young pastors are emerging with new ideas, methods, and visions for ministry. Some of these young pastors may feel constrained or limited by the structures, doctrines, and traditions of their fathers' churches, and may seek to create their own platforms where they can express their creativity and innovation. Others may simply want to follow their own convictions and passions, without being influenced or overshadowed by their fathers' reputations and expectations.
Whatever the case may be, Isaac Oyedepo's resignation is a significant development that may have implications for the future of the Living Faith Church and the Nigerian church at large. It may also inspire other young pastors who are in similar situations to make bold decisions and pursue their dreams. However, it is important that these young pastors do not lose sight of their primary purpose and mission, which is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and make disciples of all nations. It is also important that they maintain a good relationship with their fathers and mentors, and seek their counsel and guidance when necessary. Above all, it is important that they remain humble, faithful, and obedient to God's will and direction for their lives.
