The Deeper Christian Life Ministry, also known as the Deeper Life Bible Church, is an international Pentecostal denomination headquartered in Gbagada, Nigeria. Its origins date to 1973, when William Folorunso Kumuyi, then a mathematics lecturer at the University of Lagos, began a Bible study group with 15 students.
In 1975, while continuing to lead his independent Bible study group, Kumuyi was expelled from the Apostolic Faith Church. The decision reportedly stemmed from his preaching on the baptism of the Holy Spirit without credentials the church considered necessary. Following this separation, his ministry continued to grow. By 1982, the group had expanded to several thousand participants, leading to the formal establishment of the Deeper Life Bible Church as a distinct denomination.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the ministry extended its presence across sub-Saharan Africa and later into the United Kingdom. From there, it expanded further into Western Europe, Russia, India, and North America. This growth followed a structured approach to discipleship and emphasized uniform worship practices centered on biblical teaching rather than expressive or prosperity-oriented traditions common in some Pentecostal circles.
Over time, the ministry has faced scrutiny regarding its internal discipline and leadership structure. Critics and former members have raised concerns about the strict behavioral expectations imposed on adherents and the influence exercised by senior leadership. These practices extended to guidance on personal decisions, including dress, hairstyles, media consumption, and social interactions, all framed around adherence to scriptural interpretation as defined by the church’s leader.
During the late 20th century, the church maintained a cautious stance toward modern technology, including television, which leaders viewed as potentially harmful to spiritual development. This position, combined with a centralized organizational structure and strong leadership authority, contributed to perceptions of the church as inward-looking and tightly controlled. The ministry later adjusted aspects of its engagement with technology and public outreach. In 2021, it launched the “Global Crusade with Kumuyi” (GCK), using digital platforms to reach international audiences.
These events attracted millions of physical and online participants across Africa, Europe, North America, and Australia. By 2025, attendance at the Lagos headquarters reportedly exceeded 65,000, while total Nigerian membership surpassed 800,000 across approximately 5,500 branches.
Key Sources:
Anderson, A. (2001). African reformation: African initiated Christianity in the 20th century. Africa Research & Publications.
Eyoboka, S. (2009, October 10). Refreshing Times at Deeper Life as Kumuyi Launches Satellite TV, Relaxes Stringent Marriage Conditions. AllAfrica.com.
Ugbodaga, K. (2018, April 24). Deeper Life unveils billion naira headquarters. PM News.
Encyclopedia of Cults, Sects, and New Religious Movements 