Faith
Football Stars Shine With Bold Faith
Faith Facts
- Prominent footballers are boldly sharing their Christian faith both on and off the field.
- Expressions of faith have sparked conversations about the gospel among fans and families.
- Christian conduct among athletes is drawing positive attention even in mainstream media.
Many of the nation’s treasured football players are increasingly outspoken about their walk with Christ, inspiring even those with little interest in football to notice God’s work among athletes.
Their courage in sharing the gospel shines as a beacon, encouraging conversations about faith throughout families, communities, and the wider public.
Players Unafraid to Name Jesus
Arsenal’s Noni Madueke publicly thanked God after an important match, saying:
“First of all I want to thank my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, its just amazing to be fair, first goal couldn’t have picked a better game…”
Gabriel Jesus also expressed gratitude, declaring:
“First of all, I want to say thank you to God, if it was not for God, I am 100% sure I wouldn’t be here with this mentality, with this health, with this belief.”
Lioness striker Michelle Agyeman regularly demonstrated her faith by praying on the field, wearing socks with the cross, and sharing scripture such as:
“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57)
Jurrien Timber, called “Pastor Timber” by Arsenal fans, shares Bible verses before games. He explained:
“They [the verses] just come to me as I am speaking to teammates, to people around me such as family and friends, and I just come up with one that fits for that day or the game. I am just trying to bring the Word in to my thoughts.”
Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo celebrated his engagement by posting:
“I have found the one whom my soul loves” (Song of Solomon 3:4)
Players such as Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku have recently been baptized, prompting renewed interest in the meaning and importance of baptism.
Coverage in major newspapers has increased as teams like Arsenal, nicknamed ‘The Bible Brothers,’ gather media attention for their faith and strong performances.
Goals Turned Gospel Opportunities
The Christ-like character of these footballers is seen by many, including those who do not yet know Jesus.
One Arsenal fan remarked:
“So many of the Arsenal players are showing faith and how it is guiding them; in the way they behave, the way they hold themselves, how they are respectful of their families in the public eye and how they attribute everything to God and their families. Even reflecting on Bukayo Saka and what happened to him a few years ago, when he experienced racial abuse because of the missed penalty at the Euros, it was touching when he said it was his faith that got him through. I remembered that. Every time I see these players talk, they seem like grounded guys who are very honest and transparent.”
Conversations are blooming about what makes these athletes different, opening doors for the gospel and directing hearts toward Christ’s teachings.
As these players walk in faith on the world’s stage, they embody Isaiah 52:7, bringing good news to a watching world and stirring hearts toward God.
Let’s seize this moment, using these examples to boldly share Christ in our own spheres with truth, love, and conviction.