A Word To The Wise

 Toni M. Babcock

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek. 

For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith, just as it is written: 

The righteous will live by faith.” 

(Romans 1:16-17)

As ambassadors for Christ, let us be careful not to confuse the power of the gospel with the power of suggestion, for the gospel is “the power of God for salvation” producing a sincere faith; not in our work, but in Christ’s (cf. Galatians 3:5-7 CSB).

 
The power of suggestion may give the impression something other than faith is required, utilizing various methods to evoke a visceral response, which may or may not have anything to do with genuine faith. 

I’m thinking of a teacher I heard about whose method went something like this: 

“How many of you don’t want to go to hell?” 

At which time the entire class of youngsters raised their hands. 

“Now, how many of you want to go to heaven?” (same response). 

“If you raised your hand then pray this prayer after me…” at which time she had them all repeat a prayer for salvation, and turned in the tally of new converts after class.

 
This kind of psychological pressure can affect adults as well. Convinced sinners might easily be manipulated into making decisions that are not based on genuine faith, but something else – be it primal fear, or a desire to please a respected religious authority.

 
As witnesses for Christ, let us pray mightily and lean heavily on the Holy Spirit alone, being filled with His love and wisdom. 

May we forego the power of suggestion and believe in the power of the gospel to save souls. 

For if we have to manipulate an outward response from people in order to be convinced God is doing a saving work, then it becomes all about us and our own unbelief.

Toni is author of Reflections from the Heart, in Light of the Gospel of Jesus, and The Stone Writer. Contact