Veteran Ghanaian gospel musician Stella Aba Seal has sparked conversation in the Christian community after drawing a sharp distinction between a “gospel singer” and a “Christian singer.”
Speaking on Accra-based No.1 FM’s Live Worship Show, the renowned songstress explained that while the two terms are often used interchangeably, they do not necessarily mean the same thing.
According to her, the word “gospel” simply means “good news,” and anyone can sing about good news—even if they are not grounded in the Christian faith.
“Gospel means good news. Anybody can sing about good news,” she stated.
“It is possible for someone who is not a Christian to take words from the Bible and put them into a song.
Because gospel music is popular and Ghanaians love it, someone may decide to package a track just to fit into the market.”
Stella Aba Seal cautioned that performing gospel music does not automatically make a person a born-again Christian.
She stressed that true Christianity goes beyond singing religious lyrics and requires spiritual grounding and transformation.
“If you are truly grounded in Christianity, it will reflect in the way you talk, the way you live your life, and how you treat people,” she said.
“You will show love. You will not be pompous. When the Spirit of God is in you, it changes you.”
The celebrated musician acknowledged that some individuals in ministry may still be growing in their faith, describing them as “a work in progress.” However, she urged believers to be discerning and prayerful.
In a surprising remark, Stella Aba Seal added that not everyone in pastoral leadership may genuinely be Christian, emphasising the need for prayer and spiritual support.
“Some pastors are not even Christians,” she said. “We should pray for those who are not strong in the faith.”
