The Rise of the Cult of Personality
Susan Cain traced the evolution of American society from one that valued inner character, to one that goes after external personality. It seems less important that you are morally upright, than you have a charming personality.
This explains the rise of Hollywood and sports stars. It also explains the phenomenon of the mega-churches in Singapore, built almost upon the personality of their pastor. Are the rapturous congregations of these churches really valuing what wisdom comes from the pastor's mind, or are they just enraptured by his presentation?
Would he, the pastor, gain a similar following if he did not use any theatrics during his sermons? Or if his worship team were not so glitzy? Are people buying into the real message, or are they enjoying it like they do a good movie?
Some may even argue that there is nothing wrong with the use of any method to get people to come to God, but I think there is a fundamental difference. Some even say that people may go to church for all the wrong reasons, but may all get transformed by God. However, what if the basic connection is already flawed?