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The Power of A Suggestion

by William Ryzek  
1/12/2013 / Christian Living

I've noticed, and maybe you have as well, the many and varied theories and explanations offered almost daily about why and how human beings behave the way they do. What I find interesting, and a bit frightening, is the idea that much of our behavior (soon to be all if the trend continues) is governed by factors out of our control, like genetics, or brain wiring or chemical reactions, for example. Although these theories are presented with only very small research support, premature you might say, they are nevertheless presented as important discoveries.

But note carefully what is happening: the mere suggestion we might not be responsible for our aberrant behaviors is enough to both excuse us because it's 'not our fault' and then compel us to wholeheartedly indulge in them because we are preconditioned to act this way anyway, so we may as well not put up a fuss.

The point is that these kinds of suggestions provide an alternative to the idea of personal sin and, because we are driven along by factors beyond our control, an alternative form of forgiveness is provided as well. What these 'movements' are doing with their suggestions is offering substitutions. So, instead of being morally responsible for our aberrant behavior (sin) we are merely 'sick in the head' and require medical or psychological help and then absolving us from any guilt for these behaviors (forgiveness) because we were born this way.

So, there are explanations about why we do what we do that seek to 'free' human beings from any sense of guilt and preserve their self esteem against such supposedly harsh points of view like Christianity with all its talk about an offended righteous God, the universal sinful nature of humanity, judgment against sin, heaven and hell and the like. At this point it seems there is still enough resistance to these ideas that their influence is minimal (it seems much more widespread and influential in Europe). But, not for long; proponents of these 'suggestions' are relentless and I think driven by behind the scenes forces they can scarcely imagine. In fact, such 'suggestions' are perfect to the task of keeping people in darkness and Wormwood would be pleased (a lead character in C.S. Lewis', The Screwtape Letters).

So, what should we do? I propose we at the very least suggest otherwise against all these other 'suggestions' with the truth of the Gospel. With the help and power of the Spirit, it is the most powerful 'suggestion' of all. We should also be alert to these 'scientific discoveries' and know others will follow. Such watchfulness will insure that the enemies at our gates will not gain a foothold. Finally, we should never allow ourselves to be intimidated by any alternative views that contradict what we know to be the truth. This will insure we remain free because knowing the Truth (read Jesus) always frees the mind and heart from bondage.

William Ryzek, PhD has been both a pastor and academic for several years. He has published articles in various magazines and newspapers. He can be reached at [email protected]

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