I guess this is how we’re doing it now. People with even modest name recognition, or no name recognition at all, can post a blog or host a podcast and offer their opinions on just about anything. Another voice of influence is born. Other people tune in and kind of pay attention. They follow and share what they read or heard with others.  

I guess I’m old school, but I still believe in the value of expertise. Expertise is validated by degrees, certifications, and other emblems of completing a program of rigorous training. I don’t want my doctors to only have opinions. I want them to have diplomas from recognized medical schools.

Even as a young man, Jesus demonstrated respect for scholarship when he went to the temple and engaged in dialogue with the teachers of the law. Later in his life he taught the Beatitudes, and those who had the privilege of listening to him commented that he taught as one having special authority compared to the teachers they were used to hearing. Critics wondered by what authority he could perform miracles and drive out demons. Jesus insisted he had authority to forgive sins and could summon thousands of angels to his aid if he needed them. Jesus’ authority came from God. His teaching was way beyond just another rabbi’s opinion. His authority was endorsed from on high: “A bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!’” (Matthew 17:5).