The church is expecting Dr. A. R Bernard today and on Sunday. Just a week prior to his arrival, I’ve read tweets and Facebook statuses preparing expectant hearts to receive great revelations from this very anointed man; messages warning advising us not to come clad in everyday clothes; and prophetic numbers appearing on the same Twitter new medium on the next attendance target to hit.

One of the church’s growing malaise is the craze for external speakers: I would opine the continuous flow of adulation for renowned  pastors or pastors alone to be unhealthy and misleading. Not that it’s inappropriate for us to promulgate them and their areas of expertise, I find this a little over-hyped — which irritates me a little.

As a new media practitioner, I welcome the use of advertising for public figures, never mind if the intent is religious, political or secular.

Specifically, the publicity for pastors and their works in church have been lacking in substance. Sermons are always powerful, history-making, world-changing and awesome. Pastors are always on fire, still powerful and anointed. No idea why, but there seem to be lacking for better terms to describe today’s pastors and sermons.

During the last zone camp, there was an intense focus on the works of pastors and the impacts on their people. Now the focus is directed to visiting pastors who appeared on magazine and newspaper covers worldwide.

The dress code for church services has all along been smart casual; however, for external speakers that are invited, the standards are immediately raised to formal. Attending services become the same as attending wedding dinners. Even a pair of decent (not to mention expensive) jeans is discouraged.

For brevity’s sake, the message concluded with a one-liner: “Dress to impress.” But who?

I’m going to dress smart as I’ve always, but I’m not seeking to impress.

The predilection for external pastors somewhat infers that our own pastors aren’t measuring up: either for respect or their divine abilities to preach, of which I disagree. Of course, we are fortunate to have famous speakers like A. R. Bernard to preach, it’s refreshing to hear from different perspectives from time to time. In return, it’s probably courteous to dress appropriately, roll out a publicity campaign or two to show our heartfelt appreciation.

But, let the church goers decide eh? And for heaven’s sake, keep the hype down, and focus not on the pastors, but the Provider of all who made these possible.