Recently, I’ve caught myself judging a few online content creators for being what I’d call “too Christian.” You know the ones: the influencers who post cringey TikToks lip-syncing to worship music, the Instagram reels filled with hyper-aesthetic Bible journaling, or the ever-popular “get ready with me” videos that seamlessly transition into a three-point sermon. At first glance, it’s easy to roll your eyes and scroll past, assuming these posts are all surface-level spirituality wrapped in trendy filters and catchy captions.
I’d see these influencers in the wild and immediately form a judgment. I’d think, “There’s no way this is authentic. They’re just performing for likes.” But one day, while silently hate-watching yet another TikTok sermon, I felt a twinge of conviction.
Why was I so quick to judge?
It hit me that my judgment might not have been about them at all. Maybe I was projecting my own insecurities about how I’ve been sharing (or not sharing) my faith. Maybe, deep down, I envied their boldness — even if their delivery wasn’t my style. And who am I to say God can’t use a 60-second video to reach someone scrolling late at night?
When I paused to reflect, I realized the issue wasn’t them; it was me. Why did I feel the need to gatekeep how the Gospel should be shared? That’s when I started asking myself some tough questions that they helped reframe my perspective:
What Do These Feelings Reveal About Me?
Am I annoyed because their enthusiasm for Christ highlights areas where my own faith feels lackluster? Are their bold posts convicting me about my reluctance to share my beliefs in public? Is my criticism more about protecting my comfort zone than about genuine concern for authenticity?
Is This Person Being Used by God?
Are these influencers’ posts reaching people I never could? Is their content making someone feel seen or loved in ways I’ve overlooked? The reality is, God’s message doesn’t need my approval to work—it’s bigger than my preferences.
Am I Trying to Live a Comfortable Faith?
Sometimes it’s easier to mock than to step out in faith ourselves. Andy Mineo’s lyrics come to mind: “I talk about Jesus, all the Christians love me / I walk like Jesus now they wanna judge me, ain’t it funny?” Am I holding onto a faith that’s palatable and easy, or am I willing to embrace the discomfort that comes with standing out?
Is This Person on the Same Mission, but Serving in a Different Way?
Just because their ministry looks different doesn’t mean it’s wrong. Am I dismissing their calling because it doesn’t fit my expectations? As Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians, “If all were a single member, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.”
Is This a Personality Difference?
Some people are naturally outgoing and expressive, while others are more subdued. God can use both types to further His kingdom. Am I letting my personal preferences cloud my view of their genuine passion?
Is This Person Transformed by Christ?
If their actions reflect the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—then who am I to question their methods? Instead of looking for flaws, I should celebrate the ways they’re living out their faith.
Is it Christ in Them That I’m Resenting?
Jesus was often judged for not fitting the religious mold of His time. Could it be that I’m uncomfortable with how these influencers’ boldness reflects Christ’s radical call to be different from the world?
Is This Person Put in My Life to Push Me Closer to Christ?
What if their content, as much as it irritates me, is actually meant to challenge me? Maybe God is using my discomfort to highlight areas where I need growth or humility.
Judging others is easy. What’s harder is pausing to examine the why behind those judgments. These influencers, with their pastel-colored posts and carefully curated hashtags, may not be everyone’s cup of tea. But who am I to say their efforts aren’t making an impact?
Instead of rolling my eyes next time I see one of their videos, I’ll try to pause and ask myself: Am I scrolling with a critical heart, or am I willing to let God surprise me through unexpected messengers? After all, the Gospel is for everyone—even those of us prone to judging it with a side of sarcasm.
