Play the Fool: When Wisdom Looks Like Foolishness

What if the wisest thing you could do… made you look like a fool?
In this countercultural Talk from Cedar Hills, a local, welcoming church in Sandpoint, Idaho, Eric Rust invites us to explore what it means to “play the fool” for the sake of something deeper. In a world obsessed with winning, image, and self-protection, following God may just look like the exact opposite. But that doesn’t mean it’s wrong, it might mean it’s right.

Why We’re Afraid to Look Foolish—and Why That Might Be the Way Forward

This Talk challenges the assumption that faith always looks polished or respectable. Instead, Eric walks us through how many of the people God used most—people like David, Paul, and Jesus Himself were misunderstood, mocked, or seen as weak by the culture around them. And yet, that’s where power showed up.

If you've ever hesitated to follow what you sensed God was calling you to—because of how it might look, what others might say, or how foolish it might feel—this is a message that will meet you right where you are.

Through Scripture, story, and straight talk, Eric gently dismantles the fear of appearing “foolish” and replaces it with a vision for bold, purpose-filled obedience.

Who This Is For

This Talk is for anyone standing at the edge of a decision. If you’re worried about being misunderstood, judged, or seen as irrational for trusting God, this one’s for you.

It’s especially resonant for those exploring faith for the first time, reentering faith after being hurt, or navigating a season of risk or transition in work, relationships, or belief.

You don’t need to have it all together. You just need to be open to the idea that God’s way might not be safe—but it’s good.

🙌 Watch. Wrestle. Follow Anyway.

We invite you to watch and reflect—or even talk it over with someone who gets it. And if you’ve been holding back from saying yes to what God is stirring in you? Maybe it’s time to look foolish for something that matters.

❓ FAQ Section

Q: What does the Bible mean when it says “the wisdom of the world is foolishness to God”?
A: This Talk explains how God’s way often flips cultural values—turning weakness into strength, humility into power, and sacrifice into impact.

Q: Is it wrong to care about what people think?
A: No—but if it’s keeping you from doing what you believe is right, this Talk offers a freeing perspective on fear, obedience, and bold faith.

Q: How do I know if God is asking me to step out in faith—even when it feels foolish?
A: You’ll discover how many biblical characters faced this same question—and how God often shows up when we say yes before we feel ready.