Ezekiel Guti was born on May 5, 1923, in Ngaone, Chipinge, in present-day Zimbabwe. His life changed dramatically in the 1930s during a profound spiritual encounter in the forest near his birthplace. Troubled by his mother's teachings about the punishment awaiting sinners, young Ezekiel sought deliverance, crying out to the Creator, 'If you are there, save my soul.' In response, an angel appeared to him with a simple but powerful message: 'Fear not, sin not.' This encounter marked the beginning of a remarkable journey.
Divine Calling Through Baptism
After this divine experience, Ezekiel pursued his faith with fervor. Between 1948 and 1949, a pivotal moment came when he was baptized in Salisbury (now Harare) following a dream where a man explained the significance of baptism to him. This event was further confirmed by his sudden ability to speak in tongues, a sign of God's presence.
Founding ZAOGA Under Gum Tree
Ezekiel's ministry began to take shape as he preached in Mbare and later in Highfield, where he faced opposition and was eventually expelled. Despite these challenges, he persevered, trusting in God's guidance. On May 12, 1960, under a humble gum tree in Bindura, Zimbabwe, Ezekiel founded the Zimbabwe Assemblies of God Africa (ZAOGA), also known as Forward in Faith Ministries International (FIFMI).
Global Ministry Impact and Legacy
Through God's provision and Ezekiel's unwavering dedication, ZAOGA FIFMI expanded to over 168 nations. He established seven Bible colleges and authored over 113 books. His ministry was marked by miraculous events, such as the healing of Jaison in Murambinda, who was born mute but received his voice after prayer.
Ezekiel always emphasized that his work was not his own but God's. 'This church is not my property – it is God's,' he declared, urging leaders to teach others about Jesus, the one who sent him. Through his life and ministry, Ezekiel Guti displayed a profound reliance on Jesus, who transformed his life and used him to impact nations.
