One of the box office...
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One of the box office smashes of the eighties was a movie entitled, Jewel of the Nile. It was an exciting movie filled with action and intrigue. The plot revolved around a soldier of fortune who eventually became involved in a search for the "Emerald of the Nile." Naturally, he thought this emerald was a priceless gem that would bring him riches. As it turned out, the "Emerald of the Nile" was not a stone at all, but a name of admiration the people had given to this funny little religious guru who could mystify the people with his magic tricks. They had practically deified him because he seemingly possessed mysterious powers.
More than any other area of life, religious leaders are susceptible to the destructive powers of idolatry. Some can be held in such high esteem, that the people literally "worship the ground they walk on." They possess charisma, and their cause seems to be worthwhile; it seems such personality worship is naturally drawn to such persons.
However, it is false worship and it is destructive. Just note the downfall of some of our most prominent clergy over the last two years. The adoration they enjoyed gave them a false sense of pride and power that eventually brought their downfall. Thank goodness Barnabas and Paul avoided such extremes.
More than any other area of life, religious leaders are susceptible to the destructive powers of idolatry. Some can be held in such high esteem, that the people literally "worship the ground they walk on." They possess charisma, and their cause seems to be worthwhile; it seems such personality worship is naturally drawn to such persons.
However, it is false worship and it is destructive. Just note the downfall of some of our most prominent clergy over the last two years. The adoration they enjoyed gave them a false sense of pride and power that eventually brought their downfall. Thank goodness Barnabas and Paul avoided such extremes.
