Nathaniel Bassey responds to criticism of ‘Hallelujah Challenge’

Renowned gospel artist Nathaniel Bassey has urged his followers to avoid turning their passion for faith into an “unholy obsession.”

He emphasized that knowing him or other young servants of God does not determine one’s standing as a Christian.

In a message shared on X, Bassey reminded his audience that faith is not about personality worship. He referenced Romans 12:3, which warns against thinking too highly of oneself.

According to him, being unaware of his work or that of other gospel ministers does not make anyone less of a believer.

Faith is not about popularity

Bassey stressed that Christianity is not measured by familiarity with specific religious figures. “There are many Christians who have never heard of me or my music. That does not make them any less Christian,” he wrote.

He added that no one should feel superior based on their level of exposure to certain ministers. “I am not the best thing since sliced bread. I do not even see myself that way. Thinking otherwise would be placing myself on a pedestal, which I should not,” he explained.

Quoting Romans 12:3, he reiterated, “For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.”

Respecting different worship practices

Bassey also addressed the Hallelujah Challenge, a popular online worship session he hosts. He clarified that participation in the challenge is not a requirement for being a Christian.

“Not joining the Hallelujah Challenge does not make anyone less of a believer. People should connect with whatever strengthens their faith,” he wrote.

Using an analogy, he compared faith expressions to fruit-growing conditions. “Apples do not grow everywhere. That does not mean places without apples are bad. It just means apples do not thrive in those environments,” he said.

Bassey cautioned against judgment between those who participate in the challenge and those who do not. “Those who join should not look down on those who do not. Likewise, those who do not should not judge those who do,” he stated.

He supported his argument with Romans 14:3: “Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.”

A call for unity

The singer explained that his message was prompted by ongoing discussions where he had been tagged in various conversations. He typically avoids commenting on such matters but felt the need to offer clarity.

“Let every man abide where he is called,” he quoted from 1 Corinthians 7:24, urging believers to stay true to their faith in their unique ways.

Despite his cautionary message, Bassey reaffirmed his commitment to the Hallelujah Challenge. He announced its return after a short break, inviting followers to join. “HC is back tonight for Day 7. Let’s gather before our Father at the altar to offer our praises. No wahala! Only Hallelujah!” he declared.

With this message, Bassey reinforced the importance of unity in faith, discouraging religious elitism and reminding believers to focus on their personal relationship with God rather than external recognition.

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