The Power of Influence

A new Barna survey shows that roughly 4 out of 10 Americans, when asked to identify the most influential Christian leader in the U.S. today, were unable to come up with a name.   Those that could mentioned Billy Graham as the most influential - at 19%.   About half of that number - 9% - said that the Pope was the most influential.    Following behind were: Joel Osteen (5%), Charles Stanley and Joyce Meyer (at 2%), then a variety of individuals – including pastors, ministry leaders, authors, politicians, and other public figures – who are considered the highest ranking Christian leaders by 1% of U.S. adults each.  These include: Franklin Graham, George W. Bush, T.D. Jakes, Oprah Winfrey, James Dobson, and Maya Angelou.

Now, while it is not my aspiration to be named by even 1% of respondents in a Barna survey, I think it should be the ambition of all of us to be influential.   I submit that we're all called to be leaders, to some degree - so we can be challenged to live lives that are worthy of being followed.    The apostle Paul, in writing to the Corinthians, said in chapter 11:  1 Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. 2 I praise you for remembering me in everything and for holding to the teachings, just as I passed them on to you.



He challenged the Ephesians to be imitators of Christ...if we are imitators of Christ, then we will be able to set an example of Godly behavior that others can be confident in following.   He elaborates in Ephesians 5:
live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person--such a man is an idolater--has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.

Many young people today are influenced by popular music stars.   Last night, the American Music Awards were handed out in Los Angeles, and congratulations to Casting Crowns, the winner of the Contemporary Inspirational category.   Taylor Swift was the big winner, including artist of the year.   She won 3 trophies, as did a British singer named Adele.   I was glad to see that the Pop/Rock Album award went to Adele, who has admittedly took a different direction than the overly sexualized appearance and lyrical content that is indicative of pop stars such as Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, and Rihanna.   In fact, Adele's album, "21" beat out Lady Gaga's "Born This Way" and Rihanna's "Loud" in that category.   Now that's not an endorsement of Adele's lifestyle or music, but it's refreshing to see someone that has a different approach to what is commonly seen in the music industry do well.  Truly, she brings an element of "music" to the American Music Awards, which has its own issues with inappropriate performances and artists who rely on sensuality and shock to sell records.

So, what kind of influence are you?   Are you intent on reflecting the character of Christ, knowing that people are watching - not millions, like watched the AMA's last night, but as few as one other person, who needs to see the light of Christ and be encouraged.