In what ways can we ensure our faith is grounded in Christ, not man? Setting the Stage: Simon’s Influence “and they all paid attention to him, from the least to the greatest, and they said, ‘This man is the divine power called the Great Power.’” (Acts 8:10) The crowds in Samaria were dazzled by Simon’s sorcery. Their admiration slipped into misplaced devotion, crediting a mere man with divine status. This snapshot warns us how easily enthusiasm can drift into idolatry when our eyes leave Christ. Identifying the Danger of Human-Centered Faith • Charisma can masquerade as authority. • Miraculous signs, though impressive, are not infallible indicators of God’s endorsement (cf. Deuteronomy 13:1-4). • Unquestioning loyalty to leaders risks replacing the Lord with personalities, movements, or traditions. • Trusting any “great power” besides Jesus inevitably disappoints (Jeremiah 17:5-6). Practical Steps to Root Our Faith in Christ 1. Stay Word-saturated • Daily reading anchors discernment (Psalm 119:105). • Test every teaching against Scripture (Acts 17:11). 2. Cultivate Christ-centered worship • Songs, prayers, and sermons that exalt Jesus keep focus where it belongs (Colossians 1:18). 3. Prioritize personal communion • Private prayer and obedience guard against living off second-hand spirituality (John 15:4-5). 4. Value humble leadership • Seek mentors who point away from themselves toward the Savior (1 Peter 5:2-4). 5. Embrace the Gospel’s sufficiency • Salvation, identity, and purpose rest on Christ’s finished work, not human approval (Ephesians 2:8-9). Scripture Cross-References that Guard Our Focus • 1 Corinthians 3:11—“For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” • Hebrews 12:2—“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.” • Colossians 2:6-7—“Therefore, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him…” • John 10:27—“My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” • Galatians 1:10—“If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Living It Out Personally and Corporately • Examine motivations: Am I seeking applause or obedience? • Invite accountability: Allow trusted believers to challenge any leader-worship tendencies. • Celebrate Christ’s work in others without elevating them above the Lord. • Keep the cross central in teaching and testimony so every gathering echoes, “Not to us, but to Your Name be glory” (Psalm 115:1). |
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