Cult of personality/ superstar culture: your Christian perspective?

Question

Conversation starter only:

I realize this is not technically a "R&S" question, but it's one for which I want to hear answers from Christians:

When, exactly, did this culture of "superstardom," your "fifteen minutes (seconds?) of fame" and the "cult of personality" become so mainstream?

More to the point, what would you say is the proper Christian response to it?

To further elaborate, why should a Christian follow every twist and turn in the latest drama in the lives of Angelina Jolie; Paris Hilton; Oprah; 50 Cent, or whomever the latest media darling might be?

As a Christian, I know that, ultimately, like all mankind, they will stand before God to be judged. I know their celebrity status will mean nothing.

I also know it's not a "sin" to read about the latest trip to rehab for Britney/ Lindsay etc., but honestly, do you pray for these poor lost souls, ignore them or, like the rest of the world, just stand on the sidelines like voyeurs into their life tragedies?

EDIT: I should say that I really don't read of follow these things. Naturally, sometimes, there is a screaming headline about the latest celebrity adoption of a foreign child that might attract my attention, but otherwise, I'm just not into reality TV (Discovery Channel excepted) or the world of the paparazzi.

Now my wife, on the other hand... she's GOT to have her "Star" fix every weekend, just to see who's wearing what!

;)

Answer 1

I think it is sad that there are people who follow the lives rich and famous as they do. Just waiting for that one droplet of information to fall from the water bucket of the press to quench that thirst.

My life doesn't revolve around Hollyweird. The writers strike isn't going to affect me as there are many other more important things that can be done (i.e. - play with the children, spend time with the wife, Bible study, go for walks, work out, etc.)

As a Christian, I don't think w should be that wrapped up into any earthly thing. Think of all the good that could be done if the time invested in keeping up with all of that was put into helping others.

Keeping up on current events is one thing. Making it a lifestyle is another and IS effectively putting another god before God.

Answer 2

I don't really remember it when I was younger, or even when I was a teenager...but then again, I've never cared much for stars. They're just people like us, you know? I've met people who are every bit as gorgeous as some of the stars are, and can act or sing just as well.

While it's interesting to see what the stars are wearing, I've stopped paying attention because a lot of their "classy" outfits are most definitely NOT. A little bit of cleavage or thigh is okay, but a lot of the dresses now go too far.

I don't pay attention to what the stars are doing, and I think the rest of us should butt out. I don't think it's right that their most private pain is made public.

And yes, I do pray for them. Constantly.

Answer 3

I really feel kind of sorry for some of these celebs. Yes, they chose this lifestyle and the lack of privacy comes with. however, why does the world have to know what kind of mouthwash they use or get pictures of them relaxing with their children. The paparazzi are ridiculous in their attempts to get pictures. If we stopped buying the papers and photos, would they quit taking them? All I can do is pray for them, that they will find peace.
(I don't read the tabloids either)

Answer 4

Actually we are to do all things that give glory to God. Does reading gossip columns in any way giving glory to God. I don't think so. We have to choose things or use our time wisley. (reading material, tv , and our down time ) We as christians are suppose to pray for the lost, the govermetn, the electives the sick etc.,. I hope this is what your looking for.

Answer 5

Jesus, The Ultimate Cult Superstar.
Long after Brittany, Hilton and Lohan are dead and buried the Christians will still be arguing over whether Jesus died a virgin or not.