Lead with Service, Not Authority – David Oyedepo Charges Ministers on Servanthood Leadership

The Founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has encouraged ministers, entrepreneurs, and young leaders to adopt the lifestyle of servanthood as the genuine path to greatness, explaining that leadership in God’s kingdom must be built on service and humility rather than control or position.

He delivered this message while speaking to thousands of attendees from different parts of the world at “The Shift” Conference, organised by Dr. Akin Akinpelu, Lead Pastor of Eden Centre, held at the National Theatre Lagos.

Speaking on the theme “Towards the Emerging of Giants from the Covenant Platform of Servanthood,” Oyedepo explained that true leaders are called to serve faithfully instead of seeking dominance.

According to him, leadership that pleases God is measured by fruitfulness and effectiveness, not by titles or positions.

“Leaders are not called to act as lords but as servants. God rewards those who labour faithfully and produce results. When you choose the path of service, you position yourself for true leadership,” he stated.

He further advised ministers to stay committed to their personal calling and avoid unhealthy comparison with others, noting that comparison often distracts people from their divine purpose.

Oyedepo urged leaders to live as examples to those they lead, remain obedient to God’s direction, and allow divine guidance to shape their decisions.

He also reminded believers that the Christian life is a journey of continuous transformation, describing the kingdom of God as a place of constant growth and progress.

According to him, believers carry the nature of God through redemption, and their mindset must be shaped by the scriptures because thinking patterns influence destiny.

The cleric warned against impatience in ministry and leadership, describing haste as one of the major causes of failure among emerging leaders.

Using his personal experience, he shared that his ministry started with only four members, stressing that great works often begin from small beginnings.

He cautioned leaders not to rush the process of growth, explaining that maturity takes time and cannot be forced.

Oyedepo also emphasised that leaders must remain committed to biblical principles and should not abandon foundational truths, stating that the kingdom of God does not operate on outdated values but on eternal truths.

Earlier, the convener of the conference, Dr. Akin Akinpelu, described the gathering as more than a regular meeting, calling it a prophetic assembly meant for alignment, renewal, and direction.

He explained that the event also marked the unveiling of his book titled “The Agenda,” which he described as a guide for leaders who desire to build with divine wisdom and clarity.

According to him, the upcoming generation of leaders requires more than motivation, as they need guidance, depth, and a strong sense of purpose.

He expressed appreciation for Oyedepo’s presence, describing him as a spiritual authority shaped through decades of dedication and consistent service.

Participants also shared that the conference provided inspiration and direction for emerging leaders.

Pastor Damilola Oluwatoyinbo, Lead Pastor of Kingdom Influencers in Nations, Generations and Systems (KINGS), said the meeting offered practical wisdom for those preparing for leadership responsibilities.

He noted that seeing a father in the faith who has served faithfully for decades gives hope to younger ministers and strengthens their commitment to their calling.

The Shift Conference was organised to strengthen spiritual fathers, guide visionary leaders, and provide fresh direction for the Church and the nation, while aligning pastors and kingdom-driven professionals with their divine assignments across different areas of influence.