When I look at the New Testament teachings about how to best do this "christian living" thing, what the apostles wrote and what of course what Jesus said, I have always found that their statements countered the culture of the world we live somehow.
The concepts of turn the other check, when someone ask something to give them more, to forgive your enemies. It is an endless list of contradictions to the way the world recommends and acts. Even I would say counter many times to our nature and intuition.
It is for me what helps set apart Jesus teaching from all other religious leaders.
He never seemed to just teach what was expected or was already accepted, it was supposed to be better!
Then something like what I saw in the last week happens.
And something inside me says, "hey this can't be right???"
I will link the video I saw below, but in case the link doesn't work, let me paint the picture for you.
It shows two men riding in a horse drawn carriage into a lavish venue arrangement.
People dressed as angels wave their fake wings.
Both men are dressed in finery with one wearing what appears to be a crown and robe like he is a king.
And then the "icing" on this whole visual cake is there is announcer who proclaims and I quote, "A man of God makes a glorious entrance. The man of God of the universe!"
I have a strong reaction to this video.
It strikes me as being something that is completely opposite of how Jesus taught us and especially leaders should act. In my opinion this is dangerous and wrong!
It takes respect into what many could construe as idol worship.
Scripture clearly teaches concepts and patterns for removed from what is shown here.
He must increase and I must decrease. John 3:30
Humble yourself so that he can lift you up. 1 Peter 5:6
God responding to a contrite heart. Psalm 51:17
God opposing the proud! 1 Peter 5:5
Leaders should serve. Matthew 23:11-12
Can I encourage you to not be tricked to live as the world lives and how these so called leaders operate? Let the challenge of Jesus teaching, what the apostles and early church taught, challenge your being and give you a better way to live for Him.
Something to think about...
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