By Ann Weaver.
Several months ago, a very popular pastor and professor was exposed for committing the sin of adultery. Within hours, the social media of thousands of Christians was blowing up with this news, and everyone was shocked, saddened, and appalled.
Not only that, but many people were astounded that he could sin in this way. Many wondered how such a prominent man, who had written so many theological books and pastored for so many years, could do such a thing. Yes, everyone knows that infidelity is a terrible sin. But to think that he, such an influential pastor, could have done such a thing? How particularly horrific that was!
Sadly, the way this man was condemned is not uncommon. Yes, adultery is wrong. Yes, it’s crucial that he should repent. And yes, all leaders are held to a higher standard of living than others, since everyone’s eyes are on them. (James 3:1) But as a sort of “Christian celebrity,” it’s sad to say that his sin was condemned much more harshly and quickly than it may have been for anyone else.
Why? Because for many, he was placed on a mental pedestal. He was held up as being almost unable to sin, and so it was extra shocking when his sin was discovered. People forgot that this pastor is only human like the rest of us.
It’s not to be denied that he did sin, and he should repent and ask for forgiveness. But it is not as if his sin was greater than anyone else’s would have been in the same case. He did not sin more just because he is more popular than we are.
Now, this was an extreme case of popularity, sin, and condemnation, but there are many others who we may hold on lesser pedestals in our minds. During this age of the internet, anyone can build their own platform and find themselves raised above others in people’s minds.
This is a dangerous spot for both the revered and the ones who are revering. The exalted person gains a high view of themselves, and the people causing this begin to romanticize the other person’s life. This causes us to compare the small amount of the other person's life that we see and our own lives. Discontentment creeps in, along with resentment that the other person seems to have it all together. But in reality, they're no different from you.
While there’s nothing wrong with admiring others (within reason) and listening to their advice, it’s important to make sure we’re not placing them above the possibility of sin. As we heed and accept their words, let's remember these five points:
1: We are all sinners.
Every one of us is a sinner. Whether in the public eye or not, none of us are less sinful than our neighbors. (Romans 3:23) Each of us was born in sin and none of us have done better works than someone else to get us a special place in heaven. The people that seem so perfect online still raise their voices, have idols of the heart, and fall into temptation. They were not made extra-special just because they're on the other side of your screen.
2: They aren’t the final authority on any subject.
On blogs or social media, it’s easy to think that the other person knows everything, and that’s where our extreme admiration stems from. But that’s not the case. They're learning, just like you. They share insights and want to hear your thoughts as well. They may have learned more on a certain topic than you have, but you probably know more than them in another subject. These people only sound like they know it all because they don’t talk about what they don’t know!
3: “Pedestal-ing” hurts them, too.
When people place someone on a pedestal, it puts the exalted person in a dangerous spot as well. It puts them in a place of feeling superior, whether realize they’re feeling that way or not. When people overcommend someone, it's easy to start feeling invincible. If they allow the feeling to grow, it will harm both parties greatly. It's important for them to be reminded by a family member or friend (in gentle, kind words) that they're human too, to remind them of their imperfection.
4: There are things you don’t see.
Even the most open and honest of internet influencers don’t share everything going on in their lives. Not only might they not wish to, but there’s no reason to. Because of that, you’re not going to hear about every petty annoyance or every boring day they go through. And if you don't know every nuance in their lives, your comparisons don't express every side of the story and are then invalid.
5: God is the only one who’s perfect.
Never lose sight of this truth above all others. No matter how great you think a certain individual may be, we are nothing compared to the greatness of God. He is the only one you should be revering, the only one you should raise up above any others. (Psalm 145:3) Instead of allowing us to become idols in your heart, turn your focus to God and shift your reverence to Him.
In the end, remember that influencers and public figures are simply people—no one special. They're just people who have decided to share their thoughts so that others can benefit or enjoy them. Whenever a screen can be difficult to see past, recall these five points, and keep your focus on the One who does deserve your praise! (Revelation 4:11)
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