Who Is Ezekiel Guti? Biography, Age, Family, Net Worth

Ezekiel Handinawangu Guti (5 May 1923 – 5 July 2023) served as a notable Pentecostal archbishop in Zimbabwe. He was the founder and the president of the Zimbabwe Assemblies of God Africa (ZAOGA), a leading Pentecostal church in Zimbabwe, globally known as Forward In Faith Ministries International (FIFMI). Guti often proclaimed, “this church is not my property – it is God’s.”

Guti’s life began in Ngaone, Chipinge, in the Manicaland Province of what was then Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) on May 5, 1923. He acquired his education at a nearby primary school before proceeding to a teacher’s college. After earning his degree, he dedicated several years to teaching before receiving his calling to ministry.

In 1952, Guti was officially ordained as a minister and began his service at the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) church. By 1960, he had established ZAOGA, which rapidly expanded to become one of Zimbabwe’s largest churches. Guti, known for his charismatic leadership and eloquent preaching, managed to amass thousands of followers.

ZAOGA prospered under Guti’s guidance, not only in Zimbabwe but internationally. The church established branches in over 180 countries and states, including more than 2,000 churches in South Africa alone. Guti also played a crucial role in founding several Bible colleges and educational institutions.

Despite his accomplishments, Guti remained a figure of controversy, with his ministry frequently scrutinized by other Christian leaders. Regardless, he retained popularity among his followers, who revered him as a prophet and a man of God. Guti passed away on July 5, 2023, at the age of 100, survived by his wife, Eunor, and three children.

Guti’s legacy is diverse. Although he was a competent leader who built a thriving church, he also faced allegations of financial misconduct and power abuse. Yet, his importance in Zimbabwean Christianity is undeniable, and his ministry continues to influence millions worldwide.

Beyond his responsibilities as a church leader, Guti also contributed to numerous social and philanthropic causes. He founded several orphanages and schools and fervently advocated for the rights of the underprivileged and marginalized. Moreover, Guti was a prolific author, penning over a dozen books on Christian living. His life and ministry, filled with both controversies and triumphs, speak of a complex and paradoxical individual, but there’s no disputing his status as one of Zimbabwe’s most impactful religious leaders.

How old is Ezekiel Guti?

Ezekiel Guti, born in Ngaone, Chipinge, in the Manicaland Province of what was then Rhodesia (present-day Zimbabwe) on May 5, 1923, reached the age of 100 in 2023. Unfortunately, he passed away on July 5, 2023, in the same year. Despite his passing, Guti’s influence remains strong. He was a strategic thinker and the founder of Zimbabwe Assemblies of God Africa (ZAOGA), one of the biggest Pentecostal churches in Zimbabwe. In addition to his leadership roles, he was a prolific author, having written over a dozen books centered on Christian living.

Guti’s life and leadership were defined by a blend of controversy and triumph. He was a multifaceted and sometimes paradoxical personality, but it’s undeniable that he was among the most impactful religious leaders in Zimbabwean history. I firmly believe that Guti’s legacy will continue to motivate and influence individuals for many future generations. His messages of hope and love remain pertinent in today’s world, and his efforts to nurture the Christian community will persist in yielding positive results.

How tall is Ezekiel Guti?

Ezekiel Guti was a man of impressive stature, standing at 185 centimeters (6 ft 1 in) and weighing in at 86 kilograms (190 pounds). His height and weight fell within the average range for a man of his age and physical constitution. Although Guti’s physical attributes were not necessarily extraordinary, they were reflective of his overall wellness and vitality. He was known for his dynamic and energetic nature, frequently engaged in preaching and extensive travels. His significant height and solid build exuded an aura of leadership, contributing positively to his influential role in the ministry.

Ezekiel Guti biography

Ezekiel Guti is an intriguing character in Zimbabwean history. Born in 1923 in a modest village within Manicaland Province, his childhood was characterized by financial struggles and difficulties. As the eldest of three siblings, with a polygamous farmer for a father who was often away, Guti was obliged to work from an early age to assist his family. In 1948, Guti underwent a profound spiritual awakening. He was baptized in the Holy Spirit, and began preaching the Gospel soon after. Rapidly, he attracted a group of followers, which culminated in the foundation of the Zimbabwe Assemblies of God Africa (ZAOGA) in 1960.

Under Guti’s stewardship, ZAOGA flourished. Presently, it ranks among the largest Pentecostal churches in Africa, boasting over 3 million members. Guti was a charismatic figure, recognized for his compelling sermons and healing ministry. Moreover, he was a visionary leader who facilitated ZAOGA’s transformation into a global ministry.

Guti’s legacy, however, is not without controversy. He faced accusations of being a cult leader and exploiting his adherents, but he also had a substantial number of supporters who regarded him as a prophet and a man of God. His heritage is indeed complex and multifaceted. He was a man of profound faith and conviction, yet he was also an imperfect human. His life and ministry provide a captivating glimpse into the evolution of Christianity in Africa.

Guti’s story is particularly unique for its ability to bridge the gap between traditional African religions and Christianity. While he was deeply rooted in the Shona culture of his upbringing, he simultaneously embraced biblical teachings, providing him a distinct outlook on the interplay between faith and culture.

Another remarkable element of Guti’s narrative is his swift ascendancy to prominence. He transitioned from a relatively obscure figure in the 1960s to the founder of one of Africa’s largest churches within a few years. This rapid rise underscores his charismatic appeal and innate capacity to engage with individuals. Guti’s life and ministry continue to be scrutinized and debated in contemporary times. Despite being a complex and controversial personality, it is indisputable that he significantly impacted Africa’s religious dynamics.

What is Ezekiel Guti’s Nationality?

Ezekiel Guti was of Zimbabwean nationality. Born in the countryside village of Bikita, Zimbabwe, on May 5, 1923, his nationality plays a pivotal role in appreciating the environment and context that shaped him into an influential religious leader.

Situated in Southern Africa, Zimbabwe is a nation celebrated for its diverse cultural tapestry, storied past, and dynamic traditions. Guti’s Zimbabwean nationality underscores his profound ties to this country and its populace. His upbringing in Zimbabwe exposed him to the nation’s rich cultural heritage, societal intricacies, and the trials confronted by its people.

Ezekiel Guti career

Ezekiel Handinawangu Guti was a distinguished Zimbabwean Pentecostal archbishop. He is recognized for founding and presiding over the Zimbabwe Assemblies of God Africa (ZAOGA), a leading Pentecostal church in Zimbabwe that is globally known as Forward In Faith Ministries International (FIFMI).

Guti was born in the village of Guti, Mhondoro, in what was then Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) in 1923. He received his education at a local mission school before taking up work as a bricklayer. His conversion to Christianity occurred in 1947, and he embarked on his journey as a preacher soon after. By 1952, he had founded ZAOGA, which swiftly expanded to become one of the largest churches in Zimbabwe.

Known for his evangelical skills and captivating preaching, Guti was a charismatic individual who could connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, he was a prolific writer, producing various books and pamphlets on Christian living. Under his guidance, ZAOGA transformed into a significant influence in Zimbabwean society. The church went on to establish schools, hospitals, and other social welfare facilities, and it has played an important role in the nation’s political landscape.

Despite his contributions, Guti was a figure of controversy. He faced criticism for his authoritative leadership approach and his emphasis on material prosperity. Nonetheless, he was widely respected for his dedication to evangelism and his efforts to assist the impoverished and marginalized. Guti passed away in 2023 when he was 99 years old. He is survived by his wife, four children, and numerous grandchildren.

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What is Ezekiel Guti’s Net Worth?

Ezekiel Guti, based on our research, has an estimated net worth of $205 million. This substantial wealth primarily originates from his successful tenure as the Pentecostal Archbishop of Zimbabwe.