Theory Critique – Anderson

Anderson Anonymous Graduate Student Liberty University In what proves to be a oblige presentation of the Journey to sacred liberty, Dry. Neil T. Anderson (2000) presents his scheme of how one may be liberated from negative vistas, irrational feelings, and every twenty-four hour period unrighteousnesss in his book, The thralldom Breaker. Anderson (2000) suggests the cause of a majority of problems which are discussed deep down the walls of a counsellinging session may have roots in the supernatural. This critique will examine Andersens theory of ways to combat the inconsolable forces which cause spiritual conflict inside the musical theme. Theory SummaryIn his clarification of the disposition of psychological problems and affable illness, Anderson (2000) places a high emphasis on spiritual warfare reminding the reader, For the weapons of our warfare are non carnal, scarce powerfulnessy through God to the pulling down of strong holds (2 Corinthians 104, KAVA). Anders on provides many examples of counsel whom he believes have succumbed to the deceptive tricks of heller, explaining what may have been diagnosed as mental illness is materially spiritual oppression or in cases of non- the Nazareneians, actual demon possession (Anderson, 2000). By drawing maintenance to scripture in Palls letter to Timothy,Anderson illustrates his point But the Spirit explicitly says that in ulterior times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons (l Timothy 41, NASA). Thankfully, Anderson (2000) provides a detailed method acting of obtaining daily victory over the spiritual forces of darkness by outlining what Hawkins (2010) would carry on to as a method of discipleship way the seven steps to freedom in the Nazarene. The freedom and protection which is afforded by the the Nazareneian is stressed, as salubrious as the position of formerity the Nazareneians have over the foe.Freedom is accomplished b y taking the front step of acknowledging ones dependence upon and affirming ones identity in Christ and renouncing past or present involvement in any practice, teaching, or ritual which could be considered demonic or non-Christian in nature. Anderson (2000) further explains, not only is it important to lay off non-Christian activity, but also to recognize and renounce instances of idolatry. Additionally, forgiveness, submitting to higher authority, adopting a humble attitude, confession of sins, and ultimately breaking generational ruses is necessary.As every thought is transfern captive and brought into alignment and obedience to Christ (I. E. II Corinthians 105), the john which has caused one to live amidst shadows, shackled by the power of the opposition, may be traded for truth, grace, and a freedom in Christ (Anderson, 2000). Evaluation of Strengths and Weaknesses While readers of The Bondage Breaker may consider the intervention of the subject matter controversial, depe nding upon their background and experience in things which occur in the spiritual earth, Anderson (2000) does well in his presentation of he influence Satan has on the thought processes of individuals.A great amount of focus is spent on encouraging readers to grasp the main objective of truly knowing their cherish or self-worth in Christ. Not letting ones guard down is imperative. one time the enemy is given a foothold into a persons tone via a thought process, it can accommodate overwhelmingly disabling to try to asseverate a positive outlook (Anderson, 2000). In adopting the principles of The Bondage Breaker, the counselor becomes fitted out(p) to engage in spiritual warfare within the counseling scene of action (Anderson, 2000).Through the use of prayer, and warfare theology (Hawkins, 2010, slide 5), the appropriation of freedom may become a reality in the life of the counsel. Anderson (2000) references the scriptures throughout and is careful to stick out his writing wi th Gods Word. As is it this authors opinion that Gods Word is the final authority, comfort was taken in the fact Anderson was thorough in his scriptural references (Anderson, 2000). In addition, Andersens (2000) account statement of demonic oppression was described in a way as to eliminate any sensitionalism such as what may be arrayed in movies or books.Instead, Anderson presented the reality of Satins tactics as creation sly in his method of simply infiltrating peoples thought processes. Stories shared were compelling in their ability to illustrate the workings of the enemy in that rate (Anderson, 2000). However, as compelling as most examples appeared, a weakness in Andersens theory was that he placed much emphasis on what might be interpreted by some as the devil make me do it and not comely consideration that some psychological problems could be caused by environs or experiences Anderson, 2000).For example, a female client who presents with desolate cognitive trauma over years of sexual abuse may not simply be suffering e enquiryally because of a thought introduced by the enemy, but has some tough thins with which to deal based on her experience. While is it true our thoughts are responsible for our natural state as evidenced by Proverbs 23AAA For as he thinks within himself, so he is, (NASA), credence must be given to what happens in the physical realm. In fact, in one of the most celebrated books of scriptural literature, melody is tormented by Satan, not just in his thoughts, but physically and materially as well.Job suffered greatly. He found himself depressed, sitting in a pile of ashes. By no means was his depression a result of sin, as Job was called righteous (I. E. Ezekiel 1414). Perhaps he was listening to the enemys accusations, however, the catalyst for the depression were the events that Satan caused in his life. The wretched boils Job suffered were not a result of his inability to resist temptation, or turn away the accusations of t he enemy, as Anderson (2000) might have agreed, based on his presentation of another(prenominal) medical cases wrought his book.In comparison to the discussion Anderson (2000) presents regarding his client with multiple sclerosis, this author also lives with MS. While in complete agreement there are days when the disease process is made worse by thoughts generate by the enemy, the symptoms of the disease do not disappear simply because the thoughts the enemy incites are renounced. Andersens (2000) description of relapsing-remitting MS or the type of MS where symptoms which seem to come and go (p. 4) are presented as being psychosomatic, or induced by the clients response to thoughts from the enemy. This author takes umbrage of Andersens (2000) assessment and would expect a more than careful understanding of the science behind the disease process in spite of his discussion of the Two-Tier Worldview in which he states the spiritual humanity has no or little practical bearing on t he natural world we have practically excluded it from our understanding of reality (p. 30). This brings up another weakness overleap of experiential evidence for the theory.Andersens (2000) theory may be highly severe to prove scientifically, therefore causing concern among the secular counselors who would be antipathetic to purport any theory not backed by empirical evidence. While there is no question God is powerful enough to heal without the help of modern medicine, care should be taken not to negate the members of the medical and mental health communities whom this author believes have been apt(p) wisdom by God to be used in the heal process.Personal Reflection and Application Having been raised in a church building environment which taught members of the congregation to recognize and appreciate the existence of what may be occurring in the concentric circle of the supernatural system (Hawkins, 2010) or spiritual realm his author was familiar with the theory presented by A nderson (2000) in The Bondage Breaker. An sagacity for the three channels of temptation about which Anderson speaks had been in the forefront of this authors mind especially the pride of life, as it is believed pride is the root of all sin (Anderson, 2000).Looking back over the past, there was a time when pride was an issue in this authors life, yet it was unrecognized. On a Sunday evening church service during testimony time, this then high school student sat listening to stories of friends who were praising God for ringing them out of a life filled with drugs, promiscuity, and any number of other sins. The testimony shared by this author bestowed praise to God for keeping her from all the sins which seemed to plague her friends.Palls first letter to the Corinthian church warns, Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall (l Corinthians 1012, INKS). In Just a few short weeks as a college freshman, this writer found herself in a lesbian relationship. The inabilit y or refusal to recognize pride allowed the enemy to gain a foothold into this future counselors life. That foothold eventually became a stronghold. The end result was years of living in disobedience in bondage to a lifestyle of homosexuality which obviously managed to wreak massacre on any previous connection shared between this writer and her Lord.Peace was impossible. After years of encountering the gentle wooing of the Holy Spirit, eventually, the conviction experienced was too much for this author to bear at which time, the employment of Andersens (2000) seven steps to freedom in Christ was engraft in motion confession of sin, a willingness to renounce completely the homosexual lifestyle, repent, recognize the deception of the enemy and instead embrace Gods truth, forgive, submit to God, swallow pride, experience freedom, and finally receive the blessing.The process of moving from bondage to freedom in Christ was laborious, and physically and emotionally draining. However, th e end result of a happy pairing with a loving husband and beautiful daughter, as well as the knowledge of living in right relationship with the Lord brings a peace like no other. The positional peace which once was evident when she became a Christian as a young girl, again was control in this authors heart as she allowed Gods Word to dwell there (I. E. Colombians 315-16). The process of embracing the Truth became a liberating friend (Anderson, 2000).Realizing in this day of tolerance and political correctness, the subject of homosexuality may be extremely controversial however it remains the belief of this author that one cannot pick off and choose which parts of Gods Word one is willing to accept as truth. One of the reasons this author seeks to become a Licensed Professional counseling is that she hopes to eventually work with young women who are willing to shed the blinders set upon them by the enemy of their souls who share a willingness to embrace Gods truth for their live s, and lean f life of sin.As work will be done when counseling individuals in order to apply the principles set forth in The Bondage Breaker, this future counselor understands the process of sanctification is not an easy one. However, as Anderson (2000) reminds the reader, firearm never-ending the rewards far outweigh the weight of the struggle. Reference Anderson, N. T. (2006). The bondage surf (New and Expanded Edition). Eugene, OR Harvest House Publishers. Hawkins, R. (2010). The contribution of Neil Anderson and discipleship counseling. Lynchburg, VA Liberty University.