Pastor Warns Against the "Gospel of Me"

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In a recent sermon series, Pastor Preston Stewart of LifeBridge Christian Church in Kingsport, Tennessee explored how our personal expectations can become so concrete that we begin to see them as gospel, law or rule, blinding us to the truth. He calls this the "Gospel of Me" and warns that it leads to perpetual frustration, annoyance with others, and deep dissatisfaction with life.

Why it matters

This "Gospel of Me" mindset prevents people from hearing and understanding God's true calling on their lives. By aligning our expectations with God's Word and reality rather than our own desires, we can clear the line of communication and better recognize the path He has for us.

The details

Stewart uses the example of Jesus' disciples, who could not understand His prophecy about his capture, death and resurrection because their hearts were set on an earthly, political victory. Similarly, we decide how God, our spouse or our career should look, and when reality doesn't match our script, we get "static on the line" rather than hearing God's voice. This self-centered faith makes us miserable because it's impossible to sustain.

• In a recent sermon series

What they’re saying

What’s next

Stewart encourages readers to set aside their "Gospel of Me" for 24 hours and ask God for His perspective instead, ensuring their expectations are aligned with His Word and reality.