In a powerful message dated 17 January 2026, revered Nigerian cleric Pastor W. F. Kumuyi delivered a convicting call for believers to examine their hearts and abandon traditions that ensnare genuine faith. The General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry emphasized that true seekers of salvation are not offended by God's word but are transformed by it.
The Danger of Religious Offense and Rigidity
Pastor Kumuyi pointed out that only the religiously rigid take offense when confronted with the truth of God's word. He cited biblical examples like Zacchaeus and the woman caught in adultery, who accepted correction because they desired salvation. He contrasted this with the disciples who humbly received Christ's teaching that they must become like little children to enter heaven.
"If we desire to get to heaven, the truth about salvation and holiness will not offend us," Kumuyi stated. He issued a stern warning that any religious person, preacher, idea, or principle contradicting the core doctrine of salvation by grace through faith in Christ would be rooted out. This includes influences that make the church nominal and prayer-less.
The preacher drew parallels to the Ephraimites and Pharisees of old, who remained adamant in transgression despite divine warnings, leading God to give up on them. He described such rigid leaders as "blind leaders of the blind," destined for a fall and ultimate rejection.
The Triumph of Unwavering, Guided Faith
Shifting to the solution, Pastor Kumuyi highlighted the critical importance of faith for total transformation. He focused on the biblical account of the woman of Canaan whose daughter was tormented by a devil. This woman, he explained, manifested the kind of faith that produces results.
"She came to Jesus for a definite purpose," Kumuyi recounted. Despite Jesus initially ignoring her and his disciples urging him to send her away, she refused to be discouraged. Her persistence is presented as a key lesson for the New Year: do not allow difficulties or negative people to dissuade you from your God-given purpose.
Humility and Persistence in Prayer
Even when Jesus responded that it was not right to take the children's bread and give it to dogs, the woman's humility shone. She replied, "Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table." This humble disposition, coupled with tenacious faith, moved Christ to action.
"Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour," Kumuyi quoted. He urged believers to approach God with similar great faith and without distraction in their hearts, promising that such faith secures divine answers.
Pastor Kumuyi concluded by encouraging respect for God-ordained leadership and the right heart attitude. He affirmed that demonstrating unwavering faith in Christ leads to reproducing great results in one's life, urging a steadfast commitment to God's kingdom over ensnaring traditions.
Further scriptural readings referenced include: Matthew 15:3,6,9,12-14; Matthew 23:25,28,33; Galatians 1:14, 23-24; Romans 12:1-2; Hosea 4:17; and Matthew 15:21-28.
