Jesus doesn’t belong on the cross – Korede Bello

Popular Nigerian singer Korede Bello has opened up about his personal journey of faith, revealing that he was born into Islam before later embracing Christianity through personal study of the Bible.

The singer shared his thoughts in a reflective video posted on his Instagram page, where he addressed Christian beliefs surrounding Jesus Christ, stressing that Christ’s crucifixion is complete and should not be repeatedly emphasised at the expense of the resurrection.

“Does Jesus still belong on the cross? Before you crucify me, please be aware that I am a Christian and Christ has already died for me,” Bello said. “He has already been crucified for me, so there’ll be no need for that.”

Bello clarified that his message was not to downplay the importance of the cross but to highlight the significance of the resurrection in Christian faith.

“Am I saying the cross is not important? No,” he said, explaining that his reflection came during a moment of prayer when he realised that Jesus is no longer on the cross but seated beside God the Father.

“I was praying and looking at the cross when it hit me that He’s no longer on it. When I think Jesus, I think my identity is seated right next to the Father,” he added.

The singer cited biblical teachings, including Apostle Paul’s statement that faith is futile without Christ’s resurrection, noting that Christianity should centre on the risen Christ rather than solely on the image of crucifixion.

Bello also revealed that his decision to become a Christian was personal and not influenced by religion or social pressure.

“I was not born a Christian. I was born a Muslim. I had to study the Bible myself, not for religious reasons but for personal reasons,” he explained.

He expressed concern that many believers remain fixated on the cross, arguing that faith and identity should be rooted in Christ’s resurrection and ascension.

“Our faith and identity are in the Christ who has ascended and is right next to the Father. Staying on the cross is like nailing Christ over and over again,” Bello said.

The singer further emphasised love as the true mark of Christian identity, quoting Jesus’ teaching that people would recognise His followers by the love they show one another. He also described communion as the proper act of remembrance, noting that Jesus instructed believers to remember Him through the breaking of bread and drinking of wine.

Bello concluded by encouraging Christians to live renewed and Christ-like lives, urging them to reflect love, growth and spiritual maturity.

“Be well, be safe, be renewed, and be Christ-like. Think mega,” he said.