Losers: Eccentrics?

In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying:

“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make His paths straight.’ ”

Now John himself was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey.

Matthew 3:1-4 (NKJV)

The dictionary defines “eccentric” as “slightly strange and unconventional; behavior out of the ordinary.” Surely, John the Baptist was eccentric.

In the Old Testament, certain prophets did some remarkably eccentric things. For instance, God ordered…

  • Jeremiah to wear “yoke-bars” as he spoke.

  • Isaiah to prophesy without clothes.

  • Hosea to marry a prostitute.

Actors, models, and talent for Christ:

The world encourages conformity: doing “normal” things with people “like you.” The world likes to divide us into herds,

  • By nation, culture, color, and net worth;

  • By education and occupation;

  • By accomplishments, politics, and faith.

The world DOESN’T like its herds to mingle, so stepping up or out is difficult.

Unfortunately, non-biblically…

The Church also preaches “conformity”. When they mean “conformity to Jesus”, I get it and wholeheartedly agree.

When they mean conformity to their rules,  to “safe” and “normal” walks, paths, and careers, I unequivocally disagree. Because the Bible doesn’t read that way.

Therefore, when Christians disagree with your path, as risky, selfish, or unusual, Remember 5 things:

  1. If God gave you this calling, God’s got you!

  2. Well-meaning naysayers will turn around.

  3. Belittling naysayers will be proved wrong.

  4. Every Bible star was “unusual”.

  5. God is not “normal”… and you’re not either!

Losers: Eccentrics (Part 28)

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