Is Bishop David Oyedepo the Richest Preacher in the World? – What Pastor Poju Oyemade Revealed
The question of who the richest preacher in the world is often stirs conversations both within and outside church circles. One name that constantly surfaces in such discussions is Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners’ Chapel) and Chancellor of Covenant University.
Recently, during a sermon titled “Boldness in Confession”, Pastor Poju Oyemade, Senior Pastor of Covenant Christian Centre, Lagos, shared an interesting story that highlights not only Bishop Oyedepo’s wealth but also the mindset and boldness that many believe set him apart.
The American Curiosity About Oyedepo
While recounting his experience in the United States, Pastor Poju mentioned having lunch with his friend, Reverend Keion Henderson, a well-known American preacher. In the middle of their discussion, Reverend Henderson leaned over and asked a striking question:
“Is Bishop Oyedepo the richest preacher in the world? What do you think? I think that man is richer than everybody here in America.”
Pastor Poju admitted that his friend’s observation was not far-fetched. What intrigued Reverend Henderson was not just Oyedepo’s physical possessions but the way he speaks.
“He doesn’t even talk like there’s any lack,” Pastor Poju explained. “From the very beginning, even when he had nothing, his words carried unusual faith and confidence.”
The Power of Confident Speech
Pastor Poju went further to illustrate Oyedepo’s boldness. He recalled how someone once built a house in ministry and invited people to celebrate. When Bishop Oyedepo stepped in, he looked around and casually remarked:
“This is not a house by reason of what I will build.”
To most people, that kind of statement might sound arrogant or unrealistic. But for Oyedepo, it was simply a confession of faith. Years later, the results of such declarations are evident in his life, ministry, and impact.
Another example Pastor Poju cited was at the 1987 Holy Ghost Convention. Oyedepo walked up and said:
“I understand something happened yesterday, but I was not there. My presence makes a difference.”
Poju recalled being shocked at that level of confidence. But looking back today, those words and attitudes have translated into undeniable results.
Is Bishop Oyedepo Truly the Richest Preacher in the World?
While Forbes and other publications have ranked Bishop Oyedepo as one of the world’s wealthiest preachers, wealth in the kingdom is not only about money. It encompasses influence, impact, legacy, and the ability to transform lives.
- Financially, Oyedepo oversees a global ministry with universities, schools, publishing arms, and the Faith Tabernacle—one of the largest church auditoriums in the world.
- Spiritually, his teachings on faith and prosperity have shaped millions worldwide.
- Philosophically, his boldness in confession—speaking things into existence—has inspired countless ministers and believers.
So, whether or not he holds the official title of “richest preacher”, one thing is clear: Bishop Oyedepo’s wealth—both seen and unseen—is deeply connected to his unwavering faith and fearless declarations.
Key Lessons From Pastor Poju’s Story
- Your words shape your world – Oyedepo’s example shows that bold declarations of faith eventually manifest in reality.
- Mindset matters more than environment – Great men and women do not allow their environment to limit their dreams.
- Consistency pays off – What Bishop Oyedepo declared decades ago is what the world sees in his ministry today.
Final Thoughts
The conversation between Pastor Poju Oyemade and Reverend Keion Henderson is more than just a discussion about wealth—it is a reminder of the power of faith, boldness, and confession.
Whether or not Bishop Oyedepo is the richest preacher in the world, his life demonstrates that true riches are birthed from a mindset of abundance, confidence in God, and fearless speech.
