Cody Gakpo told the world "I belong to Jesus". His unashamed faith is an example to us all

When Cody Gakpo lifted his shirt to reveal the words “I belong to Jesus”, it stirred something powerful — and not just in the stadium for Liverpool fans. For those who follow Christ, it was more than a goal celebration. It was a moment of boldness. A declaration. A reminder that even on the biggest stages, Jesus is still worthy of our public allegiance.

In today’s climate, expressions of Christian faith often come under scrutiny. We live in a world that champions authenticity — until that authenticity points to Jesus. Cody’s simple message has sparked media attention, conversation, and perhaps even controversy. But this is exactly why his action matters.

Faith Shouldn’t Be Hidden

There’s a growing pressure on Christian athletes to keep their faith away from the pitch, to tuck it away in private prayer or generic Bible verse references on their socials but not to make a “scene.” And yet, we’re not called to be silent followers. Jesus said, “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven” (Matthew 10:32).

When someone like Gakpo — at the highest level of football — boldly says, “I belong to Jesus,” it speaks louder than any sermon. It tells the world, “This is who I am. This is where my identity lies.”

What if the shirt said something else? Let’s be honest: if that shirt had read “I belong to myself” or promoted a brand or cause the world deems acceptable, would he be facing the same scrutiny? Probably not. That’s the tension we live in — one where faith in Christ still provokes discomfort, even offence, in public spaces.

And yet, this isn’t new. The apostles faced it. I’m sure Kaká even faced it. Countless Christian athletes have faced it. But every time someone chooses to stand for Jesus, they’re drawing a line in the sand: I won’t bow to culture — I bow to Christ.

Football Is a Platform, Not Just a Profession

As a professional player, I know the pressure that comes with the game — performance expectations, media attention, and the constant evaluation of who you are on and off the pitch. But in the midst of it all, football is a God-given platform. It’s a stage where lights shine bright, and souls are watching — especially the next generation.

That’s why moments like Gakpo’s matter so much. They show young Christians that it’s not only okay to be vocal about your faith — it’s necessary. We need role models who aren’t just great at football but are grounded in Jesus. Players who don’t just cross themselves after scoring but are truly living surrendered lives.

We don’t all have to wear undershirts with messages, but we’re all called to make our faith visible. Whether it’s how we carry ourselves, the way we speak, or how we treat teammates, the goal is the same: to reflect Jesus clearly.

Living Ready

The theme for our community, Ballers in God, this year is “Living Ready,” based on Matthew 24:44: “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” That means ready to meet Jesus, yes — but also ready to represent him at any moment.

Even if it’s the last game of the season. Even if it costs you endorsement deals. Even if the world doesn’t clap. Because at the end of the day, we’re not just footballers — we’re ambassadors of a greater Kingdom. Be encouraged. Be unapologetic.

To every believer reading this — on the pitch, in the stands, or far from the game — let Gakpo’s act of courage stir something in you. Let it remind you that faith was never meant to be convenient. It was meant to be costly.

Be unapologetically you in Christ. Speak when it’s uncomfortable. Stand when it’s easier to sit. Represent him when others stay silent. Jesus didn’t die in secret — so why should we live that way?

To every Christian athlete, influencer, artist, and professional: use your platform for Jesus. Don’t let fear rob the world of your witness. Because someone is always watching. And that someone might just meet Jesus because you weren’t afraid to say, “I belong to him.”