FAITH: Christian papier-mâché giants

Definition: Papier-mâché is, “paper mixed with glue or flour and water that can be shaped to make decorative objects or models that become hard when dry.” It is also synonymous with the words “unreal” and “artificial.”

It is sad but true, we are witnessing a distressing increase of papier-mâché giants in Christian ministry. These are Christian men and women in prominent positions whose lives are a mixture of ingredients which are shaped into decorative models of influence, impact and inspiration. Yet, somewhere along the path of religious stardom their hearts became hard and their souls became dry. We are living in a culture where pride has replaced humility and immunity has replaced accountability. That which is preached, written and sung in public is not practiced in private. We have chosen to place the artificial on our platforms and programs and assign the real saints to sitting in the audience.

The news broke this week of yet another prominent Christian admitting to an eight-year affair with a married woman. The rippling effect is felt across the waters of both the secular and spiritual world. His marriage of 55 years is a testimony to commitment, but not faithfulness. He wrote down thoughtful and touching words on faith and grace which he failed to live up to. His books, which helped millions confront their doubts and hardships, have now created doubts and hardships for his wife.

The influence of our papier-mâché giants is enormous. Their moral and ethical failures erode the trust that church goers have in their spiritual leaders and that Christian young people have in their musical celebrities. As someone has observed, “It casts a dark shadow over every message they have ever preached,” and I add every song they have ever sung. We know that [all] humans are flawed and infected with a sin nature. As we read the words of Jesus in Luke 12:48, “…. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more,” we are reminded that with the call to serve Him comes the obligation to obey Him.  

The lure of fame and influence most often distorts the priorities of our papier-mâché giants. They establish a massive fan base, hawk their wares, produce extensive podcasts, dine with the movers and shakers more than they do with their own families. As a result, they become legends in their own minds, thus making them vulnerable to temptation and moral compromise. While they personally rationalize their secret sinful lifestyles they cannot justify their practices in the presence of a holy God. Our papier-mâché giants most often confess their transgression after being confronted, repent after being reported, and seek forgiveness after the fact. Luke 8:17 applies to all of God’s children, “For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light.”

And yet, praise God, He does forgive when we confess with a broken heart and repent in tears of regret. God and God alone can create a clean heart and renew a steadfast spirit and restore the joy of His salvation to a contrite child of His. However, forgiveness does not cancel the consequences of our choices. There is indeed a high price to be paid for low living. This is an important lesson for anyone chosen for a unique role in God’s kingdom to understand.  

The vast majority of Christian evangelists, pastors, professors, denominational leaders, and entertainers practice in private what they profess in public. They are people of authenticity and integrity which are essential ingredients in the life of every Christian leader. So sad that the habitual papier-mâché giants are void of both virtues. 

Dr. Jerry Drace is on American Family Radio weekdays at 4:20 PM (CT) and on Sundays at 5:35 PM (CT) with his wife, Becky. Check out their resources for the family at HopefortheHome.org. His book, “44 Ways to Strengthen Your Marriage” offers biblical principles and timely advice for dealing with the challenges and trials of life. You may order these and other resources by contacting them at: hopeforthehome@juno.com.