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| Image: Facebook |
A Nigerian man identified as Asonumaka George Wakama has stirred controversy online after openly criticizing Pastor Nathaniel Bassey’s widely followed Hallelujah Challenge, describing it as a publicity-driven initiative that lacks scriptural foundation.
George’s remarks, shared on Facebook, have generated mixed reactions across social media platforms. While some users agreed with his perspective, others accused him of misunderstanding the purpose of the challenge, which has become a major online worship event attracting thousands of believers globally.
According to George, the Hallelujah Challenge—an online praise and prayer session led by gospel singer and pastor Nathaniel Bassey—is more of a spectacle than a spiritual experience rooted in the Word of God. He claimed that it encourages fleeting emotional excitement rather than promoting genuine Christian growth or repentance.
He wrote: “…Indeed the Hallelujah Challenge has sparked intense debate, with many questioning its authenticity and biblical basis. Critics argue that it’s mere bombast and fanfare, devoid of sound gospel teachings. Worship without a solid foundation in the gospel is nothing more than emotional manipulation, akin to the excitement generated by sports, games, or music concerts. A closer look at the Bible reveals no precedent for believers gathering for an ‘Alleluia challenge.’ In fact, the Bible emphasizes the importance of sound doctrine and apostolic teachings. Without these, we’re left with empty rituals and superficial experiences. Honestly the pursuit of emotional highs without a deepening relationship with God is fleeting and unfulfilling. Decades of fanfare and spectacle have yielded little in terms of genuine spiritual growth, with many still trapped in dead works and legalism. Repentance from dead works is elementary (Hebrews 6:1), and those bound by legalistic practices are cut off from Christ (Galatians 5:1, 4). The Bible warns against preachers who distort the gospel, labeling them accursed (Galatians 1:6-9). True spirituality is rooted in sound doctrine, not emotional experiences or superficial practices…”
The outspoken critic further argued that such mass worship gatherings resemble concerts or entertainment events that merely generate emotional highs, adding that the focus of true worship should be on cultivating spiritual maturity and scriptural understanding.
George went on to accuse Pastor Nathaniel Bassey of turning the Hallelujah Challenge into a brand promotion rather than a genuine spiritual revival. He cautioned participants against joining the sessions, claiming that the initiative benefits the host more than the worshippers.
In his words: “To this end my candid advise, don’t waste your time adding to the brand publicity stunt of a gospel singer. He’s creaming off making so much money on this Alleluia challenge stuff at the expense of depriving you of your sleep and health. Don’t be party to it.”
His post has since drawn a wave of reactions, with some defending Pastor Bassey’s long-standing reputation for promoting worship and prayer through music, while others agreed that many modern religious movements risk prioritizing fame and entertainment over faith and sound doctrine.
The debate surrounding George’s comments continues to gain traction, underscoring the ongoing tension between emotional expressions of faith and the call for deeper, doctrine-based spirituality in contemporary Christianity.
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