How should we respond when others seek Jesus for entertainment, not truth? Herod’s Shallow Fascination Luke 23:8: “When Herod saw Jesus, he was greatly pleased... hoping to see some sign.” • Herod’s interest centers on spectacle, not submission. • He treats Jesus like a court performer, satisfied only if dazzled. • Scripture records no repentance, only curiosity that dies when the show never starts. A Repeated Pattern in Scripture • John 6:26: “Truly, truly, I tell you, you are looking for Me... because you ate the loaves.” Crowd seeks another free meal rather than the Bread of Life. • Acts 8:18-20: “When Simon saw the Spirit given... he offered money… ‘May your silver perish with you.’ ” Simon tries to purchase power for personal prestige. • 2 Timothy 4:3-4: “For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine… They will turn their ears away from the truth.” Entertainment replaces endurance in truth. God’s Evaluation of Empty Curiosity • He exposes motives (John 2:24-25). • He refuses to satisfy fleshly fascination (Luke 23:9 records Jesus’ silence before Herod). • He warns that superficial seekers risk hardening their hearts (Hebrews 3:15). Our Heart Posture Toward Spectacle-Seekers 1. Discernment • Proverbs 26:4-5 holds tension: avoid playing the fool’s game yet expose folly when needed. 2. Compassion • Jesus fed and taught multitudes even knowing many walked away (John 6:66). 3. Clarity • Present the gospel plainly; do not dilute truth to keep an audience (Galatians 1:10). 4. Firmness • Peter’s response to Simon warns against monetizing the miraculous (Acts 8:20). Practical Ways to Respond • Point beyond wonders to the Wonder-Worker. – Share testimonies that highlight Christ’s character, not just dramatic outcomes. • Keep Scripture central. – Faith comes by hearing the word of Christ, not by spectacle (Romans 10:17). • Model steady obedience over flashy moments. – Consistent holiness contrasts sharply with consumer religion. • Invite deeper engagement. – Offer Bible reading plans or small-group studies, encouraging seekers to move from curiosity to commitment. • Maintain gentle respect. – 1 Peter 3:15: “Always be ready to give a defense... with gentleness and respect.” A Final Reminder The goal is not to entertain but to exalt Christ. When crowds chase novelty, steady eyes on the crucified and risen Lord guard both message and messenger from drifting into showmanship. |
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