For all the perceived imperfections of Celebration Church, pray for us. We are trying our best I’d like to think that it will matter more to every true Jesus lover that we are getting the most important things right; - Teachings are strictly Christ centered - Members love each other - People are truly knowing Jesus better and excited about the gospel. Part of our mission statement as a church is to disciple people excited about God, His message, and His church. I’m glad we’re achieving that. I could also argue that it is a huge testimony that you can tell our members just by their tweets. For even when Peter tried to keep his anonymity, it was said: "Surely you also are one of them, for your speech betrays you." Matt 26:73. (See also Acts 4:13, 11:26) The problem is that a brand of Church where you keep your anonymity and ideologies has been popularized. That brand of Church where the only thing that ties you to the Church is that you actually attend. So when people see Church done in a way I’d argue to be the Bible way, they have an issue with it. The word Church (grk- ecclesia) literally means ‘called out’ gathering. Faith in Jesus calls you out and into a community of saints. It is impossible to do Church the Bible way without, in some sense, losing your ‘individuality’. This doesn’t mean you can no longer think for yourself. It simply means that you begin to think biblically and have a Christian world view. And guess what? A group of people who share the same ideology, mission and fellowship may seem cult-like to you. This is exactly why unbelievers coined the name Christian to describe a behavioral pattern and excitement of a group of people identified with Christ. The name Christian was originally derogatory. Issues of people crossing the line in admiration isn’t new either. “As Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. But Peter lifted him up, saying, "Stand up; I myself am also a man." Acts 10:25-26. (see also Acts 14:11-15). I could argue that a Church that doesn’t have to deal with this might be doing things the wrong way. Just like Peter and the early saints, God will help us to continue to help people never to cross the line. But trying to constantly shame people for being excited about their Church and Pastor is unkind. Sometimes the motives also seem suspect. Why Celebration Church? Which Church more than ten thousand members strong doesn’t share these attributes? Being excited about your Church is not idolatry Being excited about your Pastor is not idolatry. (Paul literally said: “Be imitators of me as I am of Christ” 1 Cor. 11:1) Placing anything or anyone above God is idolatry. Being grateful for someone who helped you get closer to God isn’t. If all of these still seem too much for you, please find a Church that works better for you. It’s one thing to not understand or to even dislike our excitement. But to constantly try to pick on people for it seems suspect to me. Ultimately, God has our score card. He sees all and will judge all.