Christian Influencership: Real or Just a Rebrand?

The internet is flooded with faith-based content, but the question remains: is it genuine or just another way to build a platform?

I get why people are skeptical. We've seen too many stories of spiritual manipulation, false prophets, and people taking advantage of believers—especially in moments of vulnerability. And let’s be real, the history of cults and spiritual deception is proof that some people are out here using God’s name for their own gain.

But does that mean everyone who shares their faith online is just “rebranding” for influence? Absolutely not.

When the Fire is Real

There are also people who have been transformed by God in a radical way—people who have been through tough seasons, experienced real deliverance, and now want others to experience the same freedom. They aren’t building a brand; they’re building disciples. And to someone on the outside looking in, that transformation can feel too fast, too much, too soon.

So how do you tell the difference?

This is where discernment comes in.

The Power of Discernment

The Bible reminds us that not everyone who says “Lord, Lord” is truly of Him (Matthew 7:21-23). That’s why it’s critical for believers to stay in the Word and strengthen their prayer life—so they can recognize truth from deception.

When you’re in your Word, you start to:

• Recognize the fruit – Is this person leading others closer to God, or to themselves? (Matthew 7:16)

• Test the spirit – Are they preaching truth, or twisting scripture for their own gain? (1 John 4:1)

• See beyond the hype – Is their faith walk consistent, or just a trend?

Without discernment, it’s easy to fall for anything.

The Real Question Isn’t “Are They a Christian Influencer?”

Instead, we should be asking:

• Does their content glorify God or themselves?

• Are they leading people to know Jesus or just to know them?

• Is their faith rooted in the Word or just their own experiences?

It’s okay to be cautious—it’s wise to be cautious. But the solution isn’t skepticism for skepticism’s sake. The solution is getting in your Word so you can discern truth from deception.

Because at the end of the day, if you know the real thing, the counterfeit is easy to spot.