If you have watched one of Jennifer Lopez's action-packed films, you have seen the individual on the left. Yes, that is her hired stunt double. Often, celebrities in the film industry hire out their extravagant moves to those more agile, and able to perform what they cannot. Whether it be age, agility, or a contractual agreement, most stars are not solely responsible for the super-hero image the public retains. Bone structure, clothing, and hair allows for an identical viewing experience...from a distance. But upon closer review, major differences are exposed.
In Acts 8, we find a sorcerer named Simon. For years he has performed "miracles," enchanting and enslaving the people of his city. In fact, his performances were so convincing that "from the least to the greatest, they all gave heed saying, this man is the great power of God." Of course, Simon was aware he was not, in fact God, nor did his power originate fro the Most High. Simon implies that he is "some great one." Not God; certainly close though. Yet, from a distance, the stunts he pulled looked so similar, they were mistaken as identical. That is, until a man named Philip enters the scene.
Philip's message and miracles were directly from God. Those once mesmerized by the power of Simon are now following after the actual power of God. The message brought by Philip was so convincing that even Simon converted to Christianity. As he saw the apostles laying hands on the converts, and the Holy Ghost moving upon those people, he desired that same power. His tricks did not compare to the real thing, and if he was to enhance his own image, he would require this supernatural power.
A simple walk through Facebook and your local news outlet will reveal a generation of "Simon's" under the banner of the local church. Stunt Double Churches. We watch the body of Christ host extravagant stunts that no doubt attract the media and draw local attention, but under the surface lack substance. Facebook and Twitter posts read "CHECK OUT WHAT WE'RE DOING!" "LOOK AT OUR PASTOR." "SEE WHAT WE'VE ACCOMPLISHED!!" These churches are not carrying the fire of the Holy Spirit, they have lit their own torch with strange fire. Yes, the miracles look like something Jesus would do, sound like something Jesus would do, but upon close inspection, are nothing more than solicitations for increased self image. How dare we hashtag #GloryToGod in what we have made all about us!
Here are some things to watch for in a stunt double church.
1. Do not mistake Holy Spirit movement with generated hype.
The movement of the Holy Spirit is pure, and always draws attention back to himself. Yes, it's exciting, but excitement does not equal Holy Spirit. Go with me to any sports activity. There you will find the lifting of hands, dancing in the aisles, shouting, singing, and a buzz-filled air that is contagious. Sure sounds like the makings of a great church service, but in actuality it is entirely void of God's presence. Sad that many cannot distinguish between the two.
2. Stunt Double churches thrive on attention.
Attention is attention, whether positive or negative. As long as the church's or pastor's name is trending on twitter or buzzing in the local paper, the church is "doing something." Some churches, like "Hillsboro Baptist" enjoy the spotlight pointed at public protest, while some bask in the accolade of public service. "Watch this video as our pastor eats 237 goldfish while walking 500 miles in his bare feet. " #GloryToGod WOW! Check out war Fox5 said about our church! #GloryToGod
3. Stunts always have to be topped.
The point of a stunt is to exhibit some extreme behavior! It wouldn't exactly be a stunt if it was "less than" what you did the year before right?! It has to grow! It has to get bigger! When a genuine movement of God takes place, it is unique and powerful every time. While the outcome of a Holy Spirit encounter may produce various mathematical figures in terms of salvations or decisions, a move of God is unequivocal to any number. It cannot be manufactured, therefore it cannot be improved upon. At what point do stunt double churches draw the line for "enough."
4. Stunts are personality driven.
Stunt double churches are always always personality driven. If the personality is unable to perform, the stunt loses its luster and following. A healthy church is driven by a passion for the Word of God, a personal relationship with Jesus, and a devoted love to the organization Christ gave his life for: the church. All too often the masses follow a stunt master, who will not surrender his pulpit or prominence for fear of people leaving. This fear is valid, for if that pastor surrendered his preaching ministry to another of the staff for any length of time, his shallow followers would vacate in search of another Simon the sorcerer.
5. Generated excitement is only temporary.
Truth: Watching J.Lo's stunts in some of those movies are pretty incredible; but I didn't chose the movie to see that dude....I came to see J.LO! This same principle applies to the Christian. The "radical fundraisers" and "powerful promotions" of the stunt double churches are great, and seem to be "of God." But when I find a community of believers where God REALLY shows up, that's what I want to totally buy into. Yeah, stunts attract some great media attention, but how much growth did you get from that? Oh, that's right....none. And in two weeks, that story will be out of print and out of mind. On to the next stunt!
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