Theory Critique: The Work of Dr.Neil Anderson
Leslie Krahn
Liberty University
Counseling 507-B01
February 27, 2011
'
Summary
Dr. Neil Anderson is an accomplished author, theologian, and pastor. He has written numerous books and co-authored many more. Dr. Anderson's passion is transparent through his book subjects and choices in ministry which focus on setting people free from spiritual bondage. This critique addresses his book, The Bondage Breaker (1990).
This book was once of the first books I read as a new Christian in the early 90's. Rereading this book has provided a renewed awareness and excitement within my spirit. I believe this book and its spiritual insight will cause even those who have read it previously or who have had bondages broken will obtain a fresh understanding as they traverse its pages. If Dr. Anderson's observations are correct and only a mere 15% of evangelical Christians are living free and industrious lives, then this book and its paths to freedom needs to be preached from the roof tops (Anderson, 2006).
One of the first areas Dr. Anderson deals with is the misconceptions Christians often hold concerning bondages. Several misconceptions of bondages are listed throughout the first chapter with addition suggested reading and scriptural references. This chapter concludes with the motivation behind Dr. Anderson's ministry and this book, to set the captives free. To be set free is a process that requires both God and the active participation of the prisoner. This process includes both repenting of sin and believing that the truth will set you free (Anderson, 2006).
To be set free and walk in that freedom, there has to be an understanding of a Christian's authority over the demonic forces that continually try to enslave us to sin. Dr. Anderson explains that it is not in our power or abilities, but the power and abilities of God that we can resist these traps. The Bible tells us in James 4:7, "Submit therefore to God Resist the devil and he will flee from you" (NASB). He explains submitting to God is an active role that we must play as believers. Resisting the devil does not mean that we will never again be tempted, but that the power and authority the devil and sin once held over us has been broken (Anderson, 2006).
Dr. Anderson deals with numerous issues throughout this book from the lies Christians believe, the lack of discernment of some Christians, deceptive thoughts, religions, and spirits which abound around us. He shares his years of experience in helping people be set free from bondage through stories, as well as clear concise steps required for those seeking freedom.
The most important portion of this book is the presentation of the systematic, thorough step by step process of walking in freedom through Christ. The step to freedom section of this book has prayers of repentance, healing, forgiveness, thanksgiving, and prayers that break curses and demonic activity and strongholds. There are also sections dealing with suggested areas of repentance, and guidance in remaining free from bondages.
This book is not only beneficial for personal use in developing individual freedom, but also for those in ministry or the counseling profession as Chapter 14 provides guidelines to help others find the freedom they need for which Christ died that they may have (Anderson, 2006). This book will empower the readers not only to find their own freedom in Christ, but also to share the joy of walking in freedom with others.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths were abundant throughout this book, from the beginning explanation of spiritual bondages to the instructions on the breaking of these spiritual bondages. The instructions are not only well written, but backed up with scriptural truth, years of experience, and the testimony of many who are now walking in freedom by following this books spiritual training. The prayers of confession and repentance are very encompassing and based on biblical truth. The prayer Dr. Anderson leads the readers in of thanksgiving and submission leaves no foothold for Satan to continue his reign of terror in a believer's life. There is little or no wiggle room for deception or defense mechanisms to prevent a breakthrough in the reader's life as he reads through the many graphs and list of possible sins or strongholds they may face.
Identifying weaknesses in this book takes more effort than the strengths. Dr. Anderson is quick to identify the unhealthy obsession with the demonic and even used many stories to share with the readers on this possible trap. If the instruction and guidelines in this book are not followed correctly, such as trying to move out against demonic forces in their own power, there could be danger This book may also threaten those who deny the effect of Satan in this world. It will certainly rock the world of those who deny the very existence of Satan and his henchmen.
Personal Insight and Application
I appreciate the reminder of the spiritual world which operates around me. I often forget how much of a role this plays not only in my life, but the lives of those around me. It has brought me back to a place of humility depending on God to do what I cannot do in my life and the lives of others. I am reminded that I must confess my sin and continue in the act of repenting, but I cannot and will not allow Satan to use my past sins against me. Dr. Hawkins (n.d.) introduction presentation to the work of Dr. Anderson reminds me that Satan is roaming the earth looking for those he can devour. He is not here to play games and he will present his destructive power in the lives of those I will counsel. This prompts me to stay on guard, expectant of demonic interference, and also dependent of the partnership of the Holy Spirit as I seek to bring people into freedom
This book will also be helpful as I continue my education and training as a Christian counselor. This book has become part of a collection I intend to keep on my shelf in my office and on the frontline of my thoughts as I look for answers to the things that keep those whom I will minister to from walking in freedom. I will not only use this book as a reference point for suggestions and methods, but also for the examples that Dr. Anderson has so willingly shared.
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References
Anderson, N. T., (2006).The bondage breaker. Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers
Hawkins, R. (n.d.) Presentation: Anderson. Lynchburg, VA: Liberty University.
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