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Confusing the Messenger with the Master

We’re great disciples – that’s the problem!

Many Christians are really good at following someone – imitating them, paying close attention to their teachings and praising them verbally and with their actions.

This is a great thing when the person we are following is Jesus; it is not such a good thing when the person we are following is someone else. A recurring issue I see among Christians, including myself at times, is attaching ourselves to a Christian mentor (famous or not), leader, speaker or musician and becoming a disciple of that person. All too easily, we become “starstruck,” in awe of this person who delivers amazing content, seems to have all of the answers and does not struggle with the things that trouble us. Suddenly we want to dig up every message this person has ever preached and know details about his or her family and even what he or she orders at Starbucks.

Don’t get me wrong – I believe that God places people in our lives who he uses as vessels to speak to us and to get our attention. I’m very thankful for the small group leaders, ministers and speakers who have been a part of my life. However, it is dangerous to idolize or follow anyone other than Jesus – even when the person is a “Christian” and someone who has served as a spiritual authority figure for us.

We can thank God for speaking through these people, but let’s always remember that it is God alone who deserves all glory and honor.

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2

"You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being." Revelation 4:11

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