That is an excellent quote from Tozer! How apropo!

A quote from Tozer should give pause to all who minister with “celebrity” type people.

“How eagerly do wee seek the approval of this or that man of worldly reputation. How shamefully do we exploit the converted celebrity. Anyone will do to take away the reproach of obscurity from out publicity-hungry leaders: famous athletes, congressman, world travelers, rich industrialists; before such we bow with obsequious smiles and honor them in our public meetings and in the religious press. Thus we glorify men to enhance the standing of the Church of God, and the glory of the Prince of Life is made to hang upon the transient fame of a man who shall die.” AW Tozer, The Pursuit of Man (Camp Hill: PA, Christian Publications Inc., 1950) 44.

The church uses these people like whores when we think they have a “real profession” yet will cast them outside the gates when their theology or language falls short of expectations.

Timmy, I agree – share about Jesus with those who are talking about this, but seeking to “weigh in” on what is actually going on with Mike spiritually is pure sophistry.

Here’s what I think we need to avoid: the twin towers of uncritical acceptance and hyper-critical skepticism. If Vick is a true believer, he will slowly begin to change (perhaps not so slowly). If he is a false professor, it will be pretty evident to the watching world.

This is true. I know that my thoughts may sound as though I am being somewhat naive and gullible, but when it comes to those two ditches, I would rather err on the side of being merciful and gracious than judgmental and skeptical. I know my own heart, and how I so often focus more on the person rather than the power of the gospel to save.

I think this is a really important issue, one that should be discussed from a gospelcentric perspective. The weirdness of our culture is that through the power of media and raw athletic talent, someone like Michael Vick has a platform and a microphone to mention Jesus to millions and millions of people. And no doubt, this mass of people are talking about it. And so should we. I just hope that we have something different to offer in the conversation because of the grace of Jesus Christ in our lives. We are given a moment in time this week and the immediate future where everyone in popular is discussing what it means to “find Jesus.” I pray that by God’s providence and through Vick’s terrible situation, folks hear about the cross work of our Savior to redeem sinners who are just as guilty before God as Vick is before our watching world.

On another note about celebrity salvations – I didn’t realize that Stephen Baldwin was a professing Christian. Granted, I don’t know his whole story, but apparently he accepted Christ not long after 9/11 and has since been involved with a number of ministries. Father-in-law just got the Dungy book – can’t wait to read it.

Regardless of who claims they know Jesus, our job is to pray for these people. We may not know their heart, but God does.