Founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has revealed a personal vow he made to God—to build 1,000 churches before his time on earth is over.
The revered preacher made the revelation during a recent sermon to his congregation at Winners Chapel. He shared the story of how he made the commitment long before he had any personal wealth or even a bank account.
“Before I had the first bank account, I said, ‘Jesus, if you ever bless me, I want to be part of building new churches,’” he told the congregation.
Now one of Nigeria’s most well-known Christian leaders, Bishop Oyedepo said the vow came from his desire to leave behind a lasting spiritual legacy. According to him, it’s not just about preaching the gospel, but also about building places where people can come together to worship.
“I told Jesus, I don’t want to come to heaven without a thousand churches built in your name,” he said.
Oyedepo used the opportunity to encourage his members to also reflect on their own service to God. He challenged them to use their resources, no matter how small, to support the work of the church and help others.
“Some may even have buses that are doing nothing on Sunday, but they won’t bring them out,” he said, referring to those who could help transport worshippers to church but choose not to. “Because, ah, N2,000 per half litre. If it’s in your heart, go put it in your heart.”
He added that real commitment to God should be visible in people’s actions, not just words.
“Can I tell you something? Everybody’s a reflection of where he belongs,” he said. “It’s time you start reflecting what happens in here.”
Bishop Oyedepo is known for his strong teachings on faith, personal responsibility, and prosperity through service to God. His ministry, which began in 1981, has grown into one of the largest Christian movements in Africa, with thousands of branches in Nigeria and abroad.
Living Faith Church, headquartered in Ota, Ogun State, operates the massive Faith Tabernacle, which once held the Guinness World Record as the world’s largest church auditorium.
Oyedepo’s focus on infrastructure and faith-based development has inspired many of his followers to take active roles in church building and community projects. His vow to build 1,000 churches adds to a legacy that already includes schools, universities, hospitals, and numerous outreach programmes.
Though he did not say how many churches have already been built under this vow, his message was clear: living a life of purpose and service starts with commitment—and keeping your promises to God.
As he concluded his sermon, the bishop urged his members to “wake up” and become active reflections of their faith in everyday life.
