There are certainly church leaders who reject Hollywood's influence. They say, "We refuse to be defined by popular culture and other trivial matters." They loathe pop culture and the American entertainment ethos. Nevertheless, many of these same people are willing to accommodate a different influence that may be just as threatening. If it isn't Hollywood, it is often NASDAQ or the Silicon Valley. The same people criticizing the influence of popular culture, often have little problem incorporating the latest business models from the Wall Street Journal.  Different externals, but same sense of hollowness.

 Let me be clear in saying that I am not trying to be antagonistic toward Hollywood or any other business enterprise. Any semblance of wisdom and cultural insight has a measure of value. So don't get the idea I am trying to be harsh. You see, the problem is not that our churches engage the darkened world around us. The trouble is the absence of any real substance on the inside. We have become empty suits.

 With the best of intentions, we have allowed our lives and ministries to be defined by the superficial values. Sure we can quote all the funniest movie lines and sing along with all the classic rock-n-roll songs. Yet, where is the underlying evidence of Spirit? Where is that demonstration of power working in our lives? Have we really allowed the truth of God's Word to be planted in our hearts?

 The Bible says, "Flesh gives birth to flesh, but spirit gives birth to Spirit" (John 3:6). No matter how enjoyable or "relevant" something is, if it is not of the Spirit, it will not go far. Only the things of God can bring life and strength. When we embrace His Spirit and truth, we find real meaning and hope.  God is moving through the Earth—transforming hearts and minds. If we would ever embrace this, we wouldn't need any "fashionable" exteriors to win the world for Jesus.