Football or Faith? Jamaican Pastor Warns of Watching the World Cup

A Jamaican churchman is attracting attention after urging Christians to avoid watching the FIFA World Cup. He argues that the tournament could distract believers from their faith and even jeopardise their salvation.

According to The Jamaica Star, Godfrey Jesse Williams, a Seventh-day Adventist, said Christians should refrain from watching World Cup matches because sports can consume time and devotion that should be directed toward God.

Speaking with The Jamaica Star, Williams said he believes many Christians become overly invested in sports, making it difficult for them to give God the attention he requires. He also cited biblical scripture, including 1 John 2:15, to support his position that believers should avoid becoming attached to worldly pursuits.

Williams described sports as promoting competition, pride, and emotional reactions that he believes run contrary to Christian values. He pointed to memorable moments from past tournaments, including Germany’s 7-1 victory over Brazil at the 2014 World Cup, as examples of the emotional highs and lows generated by sports.

Williams admitted he was once a passionate sports fan, following basketball star Michael Jordan, the Chicago Bulls, football icon Lionel Messi, and Spanish club Barcelona before deciding to step away from sports to focus more on his faith.