The existence of Christian celebrity is a given in American culture.  It is often accepted and celebrated without being questioned.  Is it good for the kingdom of God?  Does it fit with the way of Jesus?  We seldom ask these questions.  This is especially damaging because the perceived benefit of Christian celebrity attracts so many pastors who will never achieve it and moves their attention away from their God-given tasks to building a platform.  I know because I wrestle with it myself.  In the past couple weeks people are starting to talk honestly about the issue.  Instead of talking about it myself I’ll just direct you to some others who have done it well.

The Dangerous Pursuit of Pastoral Celebrity by Bob Hyatt

The Evangelical Industrial Complex and the Rise of Celebrity Pastors, Part 1  by Skye Jethani

When Jesus Meets TMZ  by Rachel Held Evans

Glad we’re finally talking about this openly and I hope it leads to something productive.