In twenty-first-century America, three forces have united to make living as a follower of Jesus more complicated and nuanced than at any other time in Christian history: capitalism, consumerism, and celebrity culture,” writes Ben Kirby. “These forces are raising questions that most Christian leaders, perhaps due to fear, are brave enough to ask only in private. It’s time to drag these questions out of the shadows.”

In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I’m talking to Ben Kirby about how these forces are shaping—or misshaping—Christian faith. I’m George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host.

Ben Kirby is the creator of PreachersNSneakers, the Instagram account that put a price tag on the clothes worn by America’s celebrity preachers. He is author of PreacherNSneakers: Authenticity in an Age of For-Profit Faith and (Wannabe) Celebrities, published by W Publishing Group.

This episode of the Influence Podcast is brought to you by My Healthy Church, distributors of Bible Engagement Project.

Most people have access to the Bible, but few regularly engage with it. Bible Engagement Project equips churches with digital Bible study resources to help people of all ages read and understand Scripture so they can become more like Jesus and live radically changed lives. Bible Engagement Project is available in both English and Spanish.