1 Timothy 5 says that church leaders who serve well are worthy of double honor. And I think it's helpful to distinguish what that means versus what our culture often turns into celebrity.
Just last week, a video went viral poking fun at some megachurch pastors. What was interesting to me wasn't the satire, but how quickly many rushed to defend what I'll call the antics of some, not all. In the rush to protect personalities, we often miss deeper questions. For example, are we honoring faithful leadership, or have we baptized celebrity culture?
Honor was never meant to be hype. We should be cautious about creating an environment where pastors become brands and our sermons become content. Instead, honor says, "Thank you for faithful care." Celebrity says, "Make me feel inspired." Now, I'm far from a celebrity pastor, but my sense also is that honor helps sustain the ministry and work of the church. It helps create space for healthy leadership, accountability, and faithfulness. Celebrity, however, often consumes it. It demands constant growth, bigger moments, and endless visibility, often while ignoring more challenging and convicting aspects of our faith. 
Notice in today's passage that honor is right next to accountability. That's a way to keep our focus where it should be. When leaders are elevated to untouchable figures, speaking the truth becomes harder. But when leaders are honored as servants, not idols, the church remains rooted in Christ and not in our personalities.
The church today does not need bigger stars or famous faces. It needs deeper faithfulness. It doesn't need viral moments but a commitment to form disciples.
Where do you fit into all this? Well, help us pray that we learn to honor well, speak truth in love, and build a church shaped by Christ rather than by celebrity.
Stay blessed...john | 
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