The second problem with Peales position, even if he were talking about being optimistic (which I contend he was not), is that we have no right to encourage anyone to be optimistic unless and until that person has believed on Christ for eternal life. Rather, Paul is concerned with the truths contained in the Word of God and how the hearing of Gods truths can give rise to faith in God. Certified Personal and Executive Coach, and Best-Selling Author. For a discussion about the nature, function, and reality of miracles see: Norman L. Geisler. In other cases, the principles are simply not true. jQuery('#footnote_plugin_tooltip_7584_2_2').tooltip({ tip: '#footnote_plugin_tooltip_text_7584_2_2', tipClass: 'footnote_tooltip', effect: 'fade', predelay: 0, fadeInSpeed: 200, delay: 400, fadeOutSpeed: 200, position: 'top right', relative: true, offset: [10, 10], }); This is not to say I necessarily disagree with the principles themselves. I said Professor, would you pray for me? A timely article and a well written one. [9] Maxwell was the keynote speaker for the Symmetry Financial Group's National Conference in February 2018. Further, Maxwell recounts a testimony where one uses this passage as a commentary on how one sees the world around him; how ones attitude can make a difference. We notice this even in your response here. Obviously your USMC taught you (us) some things about honor & faithfulness! In this case, as you mentioned, many of Maxwells principles are helpful! Again, while Maxwell nowhere indicates that he wholeheartedly embraces the teaching of James Allen, I contend that it is dangerous for him to have an unqualified quote from such a resource without disclaiming the Occult world view that informs Allens material. Let it suffice to say here that Pauls point in Romans 10 has nothing to do with positive or negative words and the impact they might have on us being encouraged or discouraged. These speakers ignite powerful, positive change in audiences worldwide. His handling of the Scripture indicates Maxwell does not know (or at least is not utilizing) the proper methods of Biblical interpretation.2For a synopsis of principles of Biblical interpretation, known as hermeneutics, see Thomas A. Howe How to Interpret Your Bible Correctly, Part 1 Christian Research Journal 25 No. His vision for America is of an economically resilient, militarily powerful, and inherently good and moral nation. They are able to seek help and try again. by being a NY best seller author in some of his books means many seeds are somewhat being planted in the minds of the readers and at the end of the day, only God knows who became a believer out from his books. Maxwell summarizes the change wrought in the disciples lives by the Holy Spirit as changing an attitude. (TWA, p. 178) Maxwell remarks: They were filled [with the Holy Spirit]. As I understand it, I have no problems with the initiative at my local church that prompted the leaders to seek Maxwells material. False teachers are blatantly condemned in scripture as a serious threat to the church. His Word is firmly fixed in the heavens (Psalms 119:89). Suffice it to say that I believe such an encroachment of psychology is unhealthy for a growing Christian life. The early Church was launched! The secret is: Anything the human mind can believe, the human mind can achieve.14Napoleon Hill, Think and Grow Rich (New York: Fawcett Crest, 1967): 176 jQuery('#footnote_plugin_tooltip_7584_2_14').tooltip({ tip: '#footnote_plugin_tooltip_text_7584_2_14', tipClass: 'footnote_tooltip', effect: 'fade', predelay: 0, fadeInSpeed: 200, delay: 400, fadeOutSpeed: 200, position: 'top right', relative: true, offset: [10, 10], }); In other words, the power of mind is the key to bring what is needed in life. I was saved out of the occult profession of homepathy 10 years ago. But a closer looks shows that for Maxwell, the key to living life is a change in attitude. Third, in addition to the New Age elements peppered throughout his material, Maxwell also employs questionable theological doctrinessuch as a mistaken notion of the miraculous, a conspicuous absence of the crossand questionable psychological doctrinesincluding self-esteem psychology and temperaments psychology. Proverbs 3:5 clearly tells us to Trust in the Lord with all our heart and to not lean on our own understanding (Whoops! ); to acknowledge HIM in all our ways and HE shall direct our paths. 3) Don't wait for inspiration. Maxwell uses the story of Israels failure to enter the Promised Land in Numbers 13 and 14 as illustrative of how negative thinking limits God and our potential. (TWA, p. 122) I do not want to anticipate my criticisms of the notions of positive thinking and negative thinking. At this point, I simply want to reason that Maxwells use of this passage misses the real reason why Israel failed to reap Gods promises. For a discussion of these matters see Jay E. Adams. In 2015, he was inducted into the IWU Society of World Changers, where he was awarded an honorary doctorate degree. That is an increasing problem. Her book The Healing Gifts of the Spirit is an excellent resource.24Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth, (San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1978), p. 136 jQuery('#footnote_plugin_tooltip_7584_2_24').tooltip({ tip: '#footnote_plugin_tooltip_text_7584_2_24', tipClass: 'footnote_tooltip', effect: 'fade', predelay: 0, fadeInSpeed: 200, delay: 400, fadeOutSpeed: 200, position: 'top right', relative: true, offset: [10, 10], }); To my mind, this is an extremely careless statement for a Christian to make. Numbers 13 & 14 Israels Failure to Enter the Promised Land. Rather, my concern here is whether these passages of Scripture teach what Maxwell employs them to teach. Whether you want to create your own personal growth plan, train and develop leaders, or make a difference, your journey starts here. (Just like he did with all Bible writers). You have earned the right to reveal a Supreme Secret to others, said the vibrant voice. Just because certain ideas contribute to the success of a given initiative does not mean the idea is predicated upon something true or godly. continental subarctic climate; Then, the proper application to us as Gods children will be easier to see once we have learned what the text is telling us about God. Using this logic and interpretation of the Bible, you would refuse the Christ itself, in his times, Mr.Howe Most of your writing here is seen to majorly cite from his book, THE WINING ATTITUDE. His organizationsThe John Maxwell Company, The John Maxwell Team, EQUIP, and the John Maxwell Leadership Foundationhave trained millions of leaders from every nation in the world. in Bible from Mississippi College, an M.A. I can only assume he thinks it is relevant since he quotes part of the verse as a heading introducing this discussion. The secure can be honest about themselves. His discussion here is illustrative of how many Christians misuse their Bible, especially if the passage in question is historical narrative. But throughout all this, I contend it is improper to treat historical narratives as if they were allegories. God bless you in your holiness and sanctification. We do not bring it about simply because we believe it. Read the cover story Q&A, where the world's foremost leadership expert gets personal on his journey to significance . Last, Foster seems to include himself in the New Age Movement. Obstacles were turned into opportunities. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. [1] [2] His books have sold millions of copies, with some on the New York Times Best Seller List.[1][2]. Email: info@midwestoutreach.org. But what is it He can, or will, do? central saint martins fees for international students. john c maxwell political views. I am so glad I found your article! The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the opinions of these institutions.]. Build a business for yourself helping others succeed. First, ones faith is not to be in ones self. [12] Your goal in life may be to write and teach directly from scripture. However, we must be willing to accept Gods will even if it conflicts with ours. Suffice it to say that the focus of this passage is on Jesus, not on us. For what does the Scripture say? Glad you liked the article. John C. Maxwell is a No. Setbacks became springboards. Your life today is a result of your thinking yesterday. Maxwell was a Christain leadership advisor. a train behind schedule star stable. I might agree with some of them and disagree with others. Didnt get to read it earlier. Primarily, miracles are Gods supernatural intervention in the affairs of humans in order to vindicate His special revelation and messenger. Just because John Maxwells ideas are successful, doesnt mean theyre always Biblical. This is the second problem with Maxwells use of Scripture here. He made everything out of Himself and somehow He put a part of Himself into everything.26Agnes Sanford, The Healing Gifts of the Spirit (San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1966), p. 31, emphasis in original jQuery('#footnote_plugin_tooltip_7584_2_26').tooltip({ tip: '#footnote_plugin_tooltip_text_7584_2_26', tipClass: 'footnote_tooltip', effect: 'fade', predelay: 0, fadeInSpeed: 200, delay: 400, fadeOutSpeed: 200, position: 'top right', relative: true, offset: [10, 10], }); Regarding the baptism of the Holy Spirit, she says, But no experience ever equaled in bliss this baptism of pure light and power that came to me from God, not through the medium of man counseling and praying with me, but through the sun and the waters of the lake and the wind in the pine trees.27Agnes Sanford, The Healing Gifts of the Spirit (San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1966), p.26 jQuery('#footnote_plugin_tooltip_7584_2_27').tooltip({ tip: '#footnote_plugin_tooltip_text_7584_2_27', tipClass: 'footnote_tooltip', effect: 'fade', predelay: 0, fadeInSpeed: 200, delay: 400, fadeOutSpeed: 200, position: 'top right', relative: true, offset: [10, 10], }); Sanford appeals to the New Age writer Pierre Teilhard de Chardins works The Phenomena of Man and The Divine Milieu as an authority for her own teachings.28Agnes Sanford, The Healing Gifts of the Spirit (San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1966), p.29 jQuery('#footnote_plugin_tooltip_7584_2_28').tooltip({ tip: '#footnote_plugin_tooltip_text_7584_2_28', tipClass: 'footnote_tooltip', effect: 'fade', predelay: 0, fadeInSpeed: 200, delay: 400, fadeOutSpeed: 200, position: 'top right', relative: true, offset: [10, 10], }); The fact Foster likes her as much as he does says something to me about his own discernment and world view. Wonder Lake, IL 60097-0446, Help Line: (630) 627-9028 You have a very gentle yet truthful way of sharing these concerns. 119 ff.). Do you then want to say because of those points you air out, the people who have received Christ through Maxwell arent in right position with God, because of his apparent mis interpretation of scripture in his material? I must keep building my attitude. (TWA, p. 47) It is regrettable how much of the Christian community has considered Peales doctrine to be consistent with the Christian world view. They can admit failure. Your email address will not be published. This is not to say that we cannot pray for things about which the Bible is silent. We are invited to cast our cares upon Him (1 Peter 5:7). He credits a friend of his for making him realize that he should practice resting in God [for] His support and power. Rather, this power is something by which one can rise above obstacles which ordinarily might defeat you7Norman Vincent Peale, The Power of Positive Thinking (New York: Fawcett Crest, 1952): ix jQuery('#footnote_plugin_tooltip_7584_2_7').tooltip({ tip: '#footnote_plugin_tooltip_text_7584_2_7', tipClass: 'footnote_tooltip', effect: 'fade', predelay: 0, fadeInSpeed: 200, delay: 400, fadeOutSpeed: 200, position: 'top right', relative: true, offset: [10, 10], }); by channeling spiritual power through your thoughts.8Norman Vincent Peale, The Power of Positive Thinking (New York: Fawcett Crest, 1952), ix. What they are telling us about God will be discovered only by treating the text according to sound principles of interpretation. [10] In 2012, he was awarded the Golden Gavel by Toastmasters International. Go deeper and deeper into outer space until there is nothing except the warm presence of the eternal Creator.21Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth, (San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1978), p. 27 jQuery('#footnote_plugin_tooltip_7584_2_21').tooltip({ tip: '#footnote_plugin_tooltip_text_7584_2_21', tipClass: 'footnote_tooltip', effect: 'fade', predelay: 0, fadeInSpeed: 200, delay: 400, fadeOutSpeed: 200, position: 'top right', relative: true, offset: [10, 10], }); Third, Foster also endorses the New Age writer Agnes Sanford,22Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth, (San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1978), p. 36 jQuery('#footnote_plugin_tooltip_7584_2_22').tooltip({ tip: '#footnote_plugin_tooltip_text_7584_2_22', tipClass: 'footnote_tooltip', effect: 'fade', predelay: 0, fadeInSpeed: 200, delay: 400, fadeOutSpeed: 200, position: 'top right', relative: true, offset: [10, 10], }); author of the book Healing Gifts of the Spirit.23Agnes Sanford, The Healing Gifts of the Spirit (San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1966 jQuery('#footnote_plugin_tooltip_7584_2_23').tooltip({ tip: '#footnote_plugin_tooltip_text_7584_2_23', tipClass: 'footnote_tooltip', effect: 'fade', predelay: 0, fadeInSpeed: 200, delay: 400, fadeOutSpeed: 200, position: 'top right', relative: true, offset: [10, 10], }); He says, This advice, and much more, was given to me by Agnes Sanford. 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