Why Bishop Abioye Should Not Retire: There Is No Retirement From God’s Calling

By Kester Ezuma

In light of the discussions about the potential retirement of Bishop David Abioye, I feel compelled to voice my opposition to this notion. The idea of retirement in the context of God’s work does not align with biblical teachings or the examples set by the patriarchs and early preachers of the gospel. Retirement is a concept tied to secular professions, where individuals withdraw from active service due to age or time served. However, the work of God is not bound by these limitations. It is a lifelong commitment, from which one can only “retire” when called to eternal rest by the Lord.

Biblical Evidence: The Patriarchs Served Until the End

Throughout scripture, we find clear examples of God’s servants continuing their mission until their final breath. The Bible does not prescribe a time for retirement from spiritual duties. Let us consider the examples of key figures who served until death.

Moses: The Bible shows that Moses led the Israelites until the day of his death. He was 120 years old when he died, yet even at that advanced age, he remained vigorous. “Moses was a hundred and twenty years old when he died, yet his eyes were not weak nor his strength gone” (Deuteronomy 34:7, NIV). Moses never sought retirement from his role as leader of God’s people; he was fully committed to his calling until the end.

Joshua: Moses’ successor, Joshua, also exemplified the endurance of divine calling. Joshua was called to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, and he continued in this role without withdrawing from his duty. At the end of his life, Joshua reaffirmed his service to God, saying, “But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15, NIV). Even in old age, Joshua remained steadfast in his leadership and service.

Apostle Paul: The New Testament also provides a vivid example in the life of the Apostle Paul. Paul’s ministry did not end because of age or hardship. Rather, he proclaimed, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7, NIV). Paul continued to preach, teach, and serve until he was martyred for his faith. He understood that the work of God was not something one could retire from.

Apostle John: John, the beloved disciple, continued his service even in exile on the island of Patmos, where he received the revelation that became the book of Revelation. He served God until the end of his life, underscoring the fact that there is no “retirement” in God’s calling.

God’s Calling Is Eternal

The Bible makes it clear that those who are called by God are expected to serve Him for life. In Romans 11:29, it states, “For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable” (ESV). God does not retract His calling based on age or external circumstances. His anointing remains on the individual as long as they are faithful to their mission.

Moreover, 1 Corinthians 9:16 emphasizes the urgency of the calling: “For when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, since I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” Bishop Abioye, having been a vessel for God’s message for decades, cannot simply step aside as if he were leaving a secular job. His calling is sacred and continuous until his final day.

The Example of Early Preachers:

Early Christian leaders, like the Apostle Peter, also continued their ministries until death. Tradition holds that Peter was crucified for his faith, still ministering to believers even in his last moments. The early church fathers followed the same example, understanding that spiritual leadership was a lifelong commitment.

The great evangelist Charles Spurgeon, even in his declining health, never ceased to preach. John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, preached until the age of 87, emphasizing the principle that one’s service to God is until death.

The Dangers of Secularizing God’s Work:

The concept of retirement from ministry comes from a secular understanding of labor and rest. However, God’s work cannot be placed in the same category as civil service or other worldly professions. A person can retire from earthly tasks, but they cannot retire from their divine mission. As we see from the examples of Moses, Paul, and other patriarchs, their work continued until God called them home.

For Bishop Abioye, stepping down at this point would not only limit his impact but would also go against the biblical principle that the anointing of God remains until the very end. As Proverbs 16:31 says, “Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life” (ESV). His wisdom, experience, and understanding of God’s word are more valuable than ever, and this is not the time for withdrawal.

Conclusion:

I firmly stand against any notion of Bishop Abioye’s retirement. The Bible is replete with examples of God’s servants fulfilling their duties until death. Bishop Abioye, as a leader and teacher, has been called to serve the Church, and that service does not expire with age or time. His influence and impact should continue for as long as God allows him to labor in the vineyard except that he has underlying illness he wouldn’t reveal. Otherwise, let us support him in remaining steadfast in his calling, for indeed, God’s servants only retire when they are called to eternal glory. Hallelujah!

•Amb. Dr. Kester Ezuma (MBA) is
Founder/President: Infinite Christian Network
Email: infinitechristiannetwork@gmail.com

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