Have you noticed the thousands of social media influencers competing to be your source of truth? They’ve all got some secret bombshell that’s hidden from the public. Be suspicious of everyone exposing a conspiracy, blowing a whistle, uncovering a scheme, or sharing a theory. Start with me.
Never just accept what I’m telling you. Always check and double check and if you confirm that I’m right, don’t assume that will be the case next time. I don’t make mistakes deliberately but that doesn’t matter. Bad information causes damage even when it’s accidental.
Social media has streamlined the cult-making process. It used to take decades to build a following of devoted acolytes. You had to pass out pamphlets, rent a meeting hall, and convince everyone to wear matching tracksuits. Now, all it takes is a ring light, a cell phone, and a dramatic “Listen up, folks…”
Dozens of influencers have massive numbers of minions who accept every outrageous thing they say. They don’t need proof, logic, or coherence. Just confidence. The modern algorithm rewards charisma more than accuracy, and sincerity is mistaken for credibility. Confident communication makes insane ideas seem plausible.
It’s so easy to slide from “content creator” to “cult leader” without noticing the difference. You start by sharing opinions which gradually become ‘revelations.’ You become convinced you’re are the only person who understands what’s really going on. Everyone (except you) is covering up the truth. Then you start selling vitamins and telling your followers to prepare for civilization’s collapse.
I don’t want disciples. I’d rather have friends. So, here’s a radical proposal: don’t trust me. Test what I say. If you agree, know why. If you disagree, know why. Verify what you hear from everyone, including the people who seem to be on your side. Especially them.
(2 Peter 2:1) But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.
