Running head: ANDERSON CRITIQUE

A Critique of a Theoretical Model: The Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson Surprize Stephenson Liberty University

ANDERSON CRITIQUE A Critique of a Theoretical Model: The Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson Summary In his book, The Bondage Breaker, Neil Anderson (2000) presents a self-help work

planned for the Christian believer who may be vulnerable to forces of demonic nature. He desires to free people from spiritual bondage. In doing this he separates his book into three parts; taking courage, taking a strong stand and being free to lead a Christian to the third part of being free. With the premise that Christians are struggling with bondage and are on a spiritual warfare; Anderson (2000) begins by offering six common misconceptions about bondage that Christians are blinded or confused by (p. 19). These misconceptions, which develop because many Christians unknowingly do not have a biblical worldview, are (1) the belief that demons only existed during the days of Christ, (2) the belief of science that the presence of demonic actions is nothing but mental illness, (3) the belief that problems come two-fold either psychological and spiritual, (4) the beliefs that Christians cannot be consumed by demons, (5) the belief that only in wild aggravated instances is where demonic power will be present, and lastly (6) in order to be free of bondage there must be a power encounter with demonic forces. When a Christian recognizes these misconceptions takes some of the grip that Satan may have on them. Anderson (2000) asserts that realizing that demons have very strong power and assertive manipulative strategies will help one gain wisdom and put on the whole armor of God (p. 93). When one is capable of addressing the fact that demons exist and have manipulative influence, then Anderson (2000) says that it is possible to attempt to retrain a Christians thinking. During this time Christians must recognize their place in Christ and the power they have over the enemy; this allows for the separation from non- Christians. One then learns that

ANDERSON CRITIQUE when attempting to discern if thoughts are lies or true that things should be questioned with a fine-toothed Christ comb, seeking to discover the absolute truth. In the second part of his book, Anderson (2000) states that one must begin to deal with faulty spirits. Anderson (2000) poses three ways of handling the road blocks one may face on their Christian journey. First, the Christians that are defeated allow the lies and demonic influences to consume them. Second, Christians attempt to battle it out with the demons; he reiterates here that one should examine every word with the light of Christ. Lastly, the response that Anderson (2000) states is the most appropriate, is to choose the truth overall things. When you consistently turn the other cheek to Satan and his demons and look to Christ you will continue to be strengthened. In closing out his book, Anderson (2000) presents his seven Steps to Freedom in Christ; which he educates and prepares you early on to be able to follow. The first step is counterfeit vs. real, one must deny any and all affiliation with occult practices, and nonChristian religions. For step one Anderson (2000) offers a non-Christian checklist, as well as other tools to help one evaluate things which need to be abandoned. Step two is deception vs. truth, Gods word is the only truth and one must simply know that to be so. With step two Anderson (2000) cautions one to not allow the world to pull the wool over your eyes or pull the wool over their own eyes and he offers checklists and guides to ensure you stay away from deceit. Step three is bitterness vs. forgiveness, one must learn to forgive to keep Satan from having a strong hold on their life; Anderson (2000) allows you to know what forgiveness is and

how you should forgive from the heart. Step four is rebellion vs. submission, it is a must that one obey the rules and laws set forth. Step five is pride vs. humility, establishes that one must fully rely on God, and recognize that he is sovereign. Step six is bondage vs. freedom, in order to be

ANDERSON CRITIQUE free one must not allow sin to win; you must give that and everything else to God. Anderson

(2000) names many sins that may be consuming some, and gives prayer suggestions for healing. Step seven is curses vs. blessings, this step requires leaving the sins of your familys past and claim new life in Christ. As in the other steps he offers prayers, interventions and other tools that aid in simplifying evaluation. In conclusion, Anderson (2000) offers information for the unbound Christian to aid others in the tearing down of their bondage. Strengths and Weaknesses Anderson lays a great foundation for the true Christian, who may be weak, but none the less absolutely Christian. This model presents a self-help how-to guide to build trust and reliance on God. It calls for an evaluation of on entire Christian self to help one see where they have been deceived and bound by the enemy. This model offers a simplistic process that most anyone can employ. Unfortunately, this model will not be beneficial to someone that does not know God already. Andersons (2000) model builds on the values and teachings of Gods word, and it is not very explanative of those things because a true Christian already knows them. What he does is offer a reality check for Christians to thoroughly evaluate their behavior and to get back in-line with the word of God. How will the lay non-Christian be able to grow with Christ from this model? Simple, he wont; God desires for His people to help all men and to tell of His goodness and mercy as a testimony of what He can do. Anderson (2000) speaks of how good God is, but does not teach the unknower how to know. Lastly, this model does not represent what I believe to be a comprehensive theory. Anderson (2000) does not integrate psychology into his theory what so ever. In my opinion on the surface it may appear that he multitasks, but in reality he does not (McMinn, 2011). I believe

ANDERSON CRITIQUE he takes the stance that one may utilize all the practices and techniques of other disciplines that they want, but you wont find an answer there. Anderson (2000) believes that all problems are spiritual, which I dont believe to be true. Personal Reflection and Application As a Christian I appreciated Andersons work; however as a multitasking soon to be Christian counselor I had some trouble. I believe that we must lead people to God, not only assume that they previously have known Him. For true Christian this model is a positive reinforcement of what we are already taught. It expounds upon Gods word and teaching us to use what God has given us as a fortress of protection, and that is what I plan to do. I have always been a person to wear my heart on my sleeve, which has allowed me to be deceived many times. God has already granted me the spirit of discernment and this model that Anderson had proposed give me interventions that I will use to separate the counterfeit from the real, deception from truth, do away with bitterness and forgive those people who have deceived and attempt to deceive me, give in to my God and totally rely on Him, and live a blessed life of freedom in Christ, Hallelujah!

ANDERSON CRITIQUE References Anderson, N. T. (2000). The bondage breaker. Eugene, OR: Harvest House. McMinn, M.R. (2011).Psychology, Theology & Spirituality in Christian Counseling. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.

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THEORY CRITIQUE GRADING RUBRIC

COUN 507- Theology and Spirituality in Counseling Please include the following topics for each section of your theory critique Points Content Comments: Earned: Concise Summary of Theory (40 points) At least one page of typed text Summary demonstrates a solid understanding of the material presented Summary presents the core ideas of each Christian theory of counseling Summary is sufficiently thorough (covers the essential concepts of the theory) but also concise (tightly worded and eliminates peripheral ideas)

Evaluation of Strengths and Weakness (25 points) One page This section demonstrates critical thinking in the analysis and critique of the material. This section identifies the strengths/weaknesses of the theory (from your perspective) and provides your rationale for your critique. With what do you agree and disagree? This section does not merely add more information about the theory, but provides critique. This section comments on the efficacy of the theorydoes the theory provide a comprehensive theory of counseling?

ANDERSON CRITIQUE Personal Reflection and Application (20 points) One page This section provides personal example(s) of how you personally relate to the content of the theory This section provides clear connections between the life episode and the core concepts (not peripheral ideas in the theory) This section describes what you may use from the theory in your own counseling Writing 10Points Paper is written in an organized manner, following graduate level writing expectations Paper is free from mechanical errors APA 5 Points
The paper follows current APA guidelines for format and includes a title page as well as a reference page; each page utilizes a running head and page number. All pages double spaced, per APA. Citations and reference listings follow APA guidelines.

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