The desire for fame is a complex issue that requires wisdom and discernment. On one hand, fame often brings influence, wealth, and attention. But on the other hand, the Bible warns about the dangers of seeking glory for oneself rather than for God. Here is an overview of key biblical principles regarding the desire for fame and recognition:
Pride and arrogance
The desire for fame can easily lead to pride and arrogance, which the Bible strongly warns against (Proverbs 16:18, James 4:6). When our primary goal is to bring glory to ourselves rather than to God, it reflects the sin of pride that seeks to elevate self over God. The antidote is cultivating humility and remembering that all we have is a gift from God (1 Corinthians 4:7).
Idolatry
Another danger of seeking fame is when it becomes an idol that we worship. The first of the Ten Commandments is to have no other gods before the Lord (Exodus 20:3). But when our quest for fame takes priority over our relationship with God, it risks becoming a form of idolatry. We are called to seek first God’s kingdom rather than the temporary treasures of this world (Matthew 6:33).
Vanity and emptiness
The book of Ecclesiastes warns that striving after fame and significance apart from God is vain and futile. “Meaningless! Meaningless!…Everything is meaningless” is its refrain (Ecclesiastes 1:2). Apart from God, any achievements and accolades we gain will be empty and transient rather than deeply fulfilling (Ecclesiastes 2:11). Lasting meaning and purpose is found in relationship with God.
Servanthood over self-promotion
Jesus Christ modeled servanthood over self-promotion. He repeatedly told his disciples that “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26). The early Christians took this call seriously and lived humble, sacrificial lives serving others (Acts 2:45). Self-promotion has no place in Christian discipleship. Our calling is to lift up Christ rather than self (John 12:32).
Stewardship over selfish ambition
The Bible encourages wise stewardship of all God has given us, including abilities and platforms (1 Peter 4:10). For some, this may include a public life. But the driving motivation makes all the difference. Selfish ambition is wrong, but seeking to steward influence for gospel impact is vastly different from prideful seeking of fame for its own sake (James 3:16, 1 Corinthians 9:19).
Avoiding hypocrisy and pretense
Jesus strongly cautioned against hypocrisy born out of a desire for human praise and acclaim (Luke 20:46). Pretending to be someone we’re not compromises integrity. Fame often requires contrived personas. But God desires we live authentically, not as people-pleasers but God-pleasers, with model integrity (Colossians 3:23).
Countering culture’s values
Our culture elevates fame and celebrity. But Jesus called his followers to an alternate kingdom ethic characterized by humility, service, and sacrifice. “My kingdom is not of this world,” he reminded Pilate (John 18:36). As Christians, our values should align with Christ’s upside-down kingdom rather than the culture’s.
Avoiding manipulation and opportunism
Unfortunately, the quest for fame often leads people to use and manipulate others for their own advancement. Jesus strongly opposed such worldly maneuvering for position and power (Luke 22:25-27). Declaring ourselves “slaves” of all, we are called to avoid political jockeying and self-centered opportunism in pursuit of influence or renown.
Examining motives and stewardship
Rather than categorically saying fame is evil, for some it may be a question of appropriate motives and responsible stewardship. “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God,” Paul wrote (1 Corinthians 10:31). If we handle fame wisely and humbly, without compromising godly values, it can be used for greater gospel impact. But that requires sobriety and vigilance (1 Peter 5:8).
Avoiding idolizing people
As Christians, we must remember that no human being deserves idolization or glory. “Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory,” the Psalmist declares (Psalm 115:1). Paul warns against elevating Christian leaders as objects of worship (1 Corinthians 3:4-9). All glory belongs to God alone. Famous people still battle sin and need God’s grace like everyone else.
Ambition for God’s glory
Rather than self-glorification, believers are called to ambition and zeal for God’s glory alone (Romans 12:11, 1 Corinthians 10:31). Spurgeon stated it this way: “Ambition, when it is for God and his glory, when it is to do more, to know more, that we may minister more and that Christ may be better known – that ambition is a flame lighted at God’s own altar.”
Humility and faithfulness
At the end of the day, God cares far more about our humility and faithfulness than any worldly acclaim (Matthew 25:21). Those who served well with what God entrusted to them, out of love and reverence for him, will hear “Well done, good and faithful servant!” We can rest securely in God’s love and calling rather than chasing the shifting winds of human praise.
In summary, fame has legitimate dangers that require caution. But with the right perspective and motives, a public life can also become a platform for serving others and pointing people to Christ. As in all areas, wisdom, prayer and discernment are key in examining our hearts and stewarding whatever influence God grants faithfully and humbly for his purposes alone.
The most important question is not whether fame is inherently wrong, but whether we are living each day with an aim to know, love and glorify God. “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)