Standing on the Word in the Age of Influencers

Should Christians follow influencers who promote false ideas but sound solid most of the time?

This is one of the most pressing questions facing believers today. In an age dominated by podcasts, YouTube channels, Instagram reels, and TikTok theology, countless Christian influencers are shaping how people think about God, the Bible, and the Church. Many of them sound biblical. Some even quote Scripture, affirm historic doctrines, and promote spiritual growth. But hidden among the truth, there are dangerous distortions.

Paul warned the Corinthian church about false apostles who disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. He wrote, “Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness” (2 Corinthians 11:14–15, ESV). That warning still applies today. Just because someone has a large platform, uses theological language, and sounds sincere does not mean they are faithfully handling God’s Word.

One of the most subtle dangers is the mixture of truth with error. A teacher who is entirely false is often easy to identify. But someone who sounds biblical 80% of the time and inserts false ideas in the remaining 20% can be far more dangerous. The average listener may not catch the error and may gradually become desensitized to false teaching. Over time, this leads to doctrinal confusion, spiritual compromise, and a weakened view of the authority of Scripture.

For example, some influencers affirm biblical marriage but blend it with contemplative spirituality or therapeutic language rooted in emotionalism. Others teach helpful Christian living principles but also promote self-help philosophies that center the Christian life around personal fulfillment rather than dying to self and following Christ.

Romans 16:17 says, “Watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught. Avoid them.” Paul is not saying to be quarrelsome or to attack people recklessly. He is calling for vigilance and separation from those who distort the truth. It is not harsh or unloving to walk away from a voice that leads you away from Christ. It is wise, and it is biblical.

Following an influencer is not just about entertainment. It is a form of discipleship. The people you consistently listen to are shaping your convictions, worldview, and spiritual life. That is why we are commanded to test everything (1 Thessalonians 5:21), to examine the spirits (1 John 4:1), and to hold fast to sound doctrine (Titus 1:9).

So what should Christians do? Surround yourself with teachers who are faithful to Scripture, who exalt Christ, and who walk in integrity. Choose content that strengthens your understanding of the Bible, not voices that confuse or contradict it. And when someone promotes false teaching, even if they sound solid most of the time, step back. The truth is too precious, and the danger is too great.

In a world of constant noise, clarity matters. The Church needs less celebrity and more faithfulness. We need men and women who are grounded in God’s Word, not chasing clicks. We need truth, not trendiness.

Let us be watchful, rooted, and unwavering, for the sake of our souls and the glory of Christ.

Reflect:

• Are the voices you listen to pointing you to Christ and His Word, or toward personal empowerment, feelings, or vague spirituality?
• Have you allowed compromise in your feed or podcast subscriptions in the name of balance?

Further Study:

📚 Read: The Joy of Biblical Discernment in a Confused Age

📖 Read: Marks of a Biblically Faithful Church

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