Beware personality-driven religion.
Jn 5:39-43 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life. I receive not honour from men. But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. LESSON - The Jews had changed the law of God into a man-made religion. From among the ranks of the Jews arose the Pharisees, many of which had drawn large numbers of followers. When Jesus came on the scene, he began to challenge their prominence as well as their religion. As we near the end times, we are seeing a return to this type of man-based religion. Beware pastors and teachers who seek to obtain celebrity status. Their “feel good” teaching is not changing lives, not pointing to Jesus as the ONLY way to God, and not preaching pure salvation. The Bible said this would happen. 1 Tim 4:3-4 “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” Look for teaching which challenges your “status quo” walk and spurs you on to higher degrees of personal holiness and a deeper love for Jesus.
~Mike