“And from those who seemed to be influential (what they were makes no difference to me; God shows no partiality)—those, I say, who seemed influential added nothing to me.” Galatians 2:6

We live in a time of platforms and personalities.

Followings. Likes. Retweets. Applause.

It’s easy to get caught up in the rise of celebrity pastors—men and women with remarkable gifts, powerful voices, and undeniable influence.

And let me say this clearly:

That influence is not inherently wrong.

God has raised up many faithful leaders in our generation—some of whom are well-known—and I’ve personally been deeply impacted by their teaching, integrity, and love for Christ. Praise God for them.

But here’s the caution:

Popularity is not purity. Influence is not infallibility.

Even the most gifted leaders are still just people. They are not above correction, immune to temptation, or exempt from accountability.

Paul knew this.

In Galatians 2:6, he speaks of those who were “influential” in the early church—not with bitterness or suspicion, but with perspective. He wasn’t intimidated by their stature or swayed by their reputation, because God shows no partiality.

God is not impressed by followers, platforms, publishing deals, or conference invites.

He exalts the humble and brings low the proud.

He used Peter, a fisherman. Paul, a persecutor. Mary Magdalene, once possessed. Lydia, a merchant.

And He used His Son—the man of sorrows, despised and rejected, who had no form or majesty to attract us to Him.

And yet… Christ is the cornerstone.

Not because He looked impressive. But because He was faithful.

We need to remember this in the church today.

We should honor those who lead well, but never idolize them.

We should learn from the wise, but never place them on pedestals.

God’s greatest victories have never depended on our talent, but always on His power.

He gives the same Spirit to the known and the unknown, the platformed and the obscure.

And Jesus told us plainly:

“Whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.” (John 14:12)

Not because we are better.

Not because we are “favorites.”

But because He empowers us to fulfill our part of the Great Commission.

So here’s the pastoral charge:

Stop trying to impress God.

He’s not looking for favorites.

He’s looking for the faithful.

You don’t need a microphone or a million followers to be used by Him.

You need a heart surrendered, a gospel worth fighting for, and a readiness to obey wherever He leads.

Suffering? That doesn’t mean He’s displeased.

Blessing? That doesn’t mean you’re His favorite.

He makes the rain fall on the righteous and the wicked.

He humbles kings and lifts up the broken.

His ways are higher. His purposes are sure. And He will be glorified.

So hold firm to the gospel.

Fight whatever battles He sets before you.

And let your life be about His glory—not your platform, your pride, or your preference.

He shows no partiality. And that… is really, really good news.