Christian Pitfalls: Popularity

they loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God.

John 12:43 (ESV)

How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?

John 5:44 (ESV)

A man of many companions may come to ruin.

Proverbs 18:24 (ESV)

Woe to you, when all people speak well of you, for so their fathers did to the false prophets.

Luke 6:26 (ESV)

Popularity is a posh pitfall: an attractively disguised temptation that quickly becomes a bottomless hole. Consider the souls most likely to trip:

  • Insecure souls, seeking validation.

  • Ambitious souls, seeking high positions.

  • Political souls, seeking election.

  • Conniving souls, seeking excess profit.

  • Twisted souls, seeking cult-like followers.

  • Angry souls, seeking to lead an “army”.

  • Arrogant souls, seeking “pawns” for the plans.

  • “Social” souls, seeking online sponsorships.

  • Celebrities, seeking money and fame.

God warns us against popularity. Consider two ways Jesus refused it:

  1. He refused a crown by the hand of men– walking away from the frenzy of fans.

  2. He revealed the costs of discipleship– not just perks, but the sacrifice and pain.

Actors, models, and  talent for Christ:

Does your desire to find an audience and to share the talents that God gave you… run the risk of seeking fans more than Him?

I can truly say, no, I don’t think so– at least not in the rising stars I’ve known. Because in you, I see maturity, courage, and faith– unrelated to age.

You’re savvy enough to know you need fans, but wise enough to seek God’s applause first.

If you maintain this path, some degree of popularity (fame) WILL chase you down. That’s what blessings do! In them, be gracious– and glorify God.

Christian Pitfalls: Popularity  (Part 42)

NOTE: God is my Ghostwriter. If what I write is good, it’s from God. You may see notes to 'Actors, Models & Talent for Christ.' If you think you're not in show business, think again. Shakespeare said, 'All the world's a stage and all its men and women merely players.’ Mostly true. But you're not merely players. You are messengers and ambassadors for the King of kings.

Carey Arban