A growing phenomenon within the ranks of churches, large and small (but mostly large), is the cult of personality.
What is a cult of personality?
It’s when a person becomes the center of attention rather than Christ; an individual looms larger than a mission; a figure is given more status than the organization itself.
Sometimes this “cult” is so egregious it’s hard to believe, such as reports from some churches that staff must rise when the pastor enters the room, aren’t allowed to look him in the eye, can never talk to him or engage him unless he takes the initiative, or must refer to him by title and never simply by his first name…
...all in the name of giving appropriate “honor.”
Puh-leeze.
Beyond such ridiculous antics, the greater dilemma is how many attenders of such churches would adamantly deny that a cult of personality is being intentionally fostered.
To read the rest of this post and offer your comment, click here.In times of widespread opportunity, the distance between gods and mortals closes, the monuments shrink closer to human size and the centrality of celebrities in the culture recedes. (Packer, The New York Times)
more...The notion of death is so mysterious and enormous that, in many cases, it seems easier just to lock it away, although it has a way of escaping and sneaking up on our peripheral vision. (McCartney, The Telegraph)
more...Countries around the world, including allies of the United States, have used laws on blasphemy and apostasy to suppress political opponents, the State Department said on Monday in an annual report chronicling a grim decline in religious freedom that has resulted in rising bigotry and sectarian violence. (Myers, The New York Times)
more...The Supreme Court has agreed to revisit the issue of church-state separation and decide whether a town council can begin most of its monthly meetings with a prayer from a Christian pastor. (Savage, Los Angeles Times)
more...
You know how to swim. You know how to ride a bike. Do you know how to Bible? As in, "How do I believe the Bible?", "How do I read the Bible?", "How do I interpret the Bible?," and "How do I apply the Bible?" These are often the most common questions about the Bible, but ones were often timid to ask.
Starting April 27/28, and continuing throughout the month of May, senior pastor Jim White will explore all things related to the "how to" aspects of the Bible.
Click here to see this product and more.



