The Bondage Breaker: Overcoming *Negative Thoughts *Irrational Feelings *Habitual Sins (The Bondage Breaker Series)

Theory Critique: The Work of Dr.Neil AndersonLeslie KrahnLiberty UniversityCounseling 507-B01February 27, 2011'SummaryDr. 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 WeaknessesStrengths 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 ApplicationI 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.'ReferencesAnderson, N. T., (2006).The bondage breaker. Eugene, OR: Harvest House PublishersHawkins, R. (n.d.) Presentation: Anderson. Lynchburg, VA: Liberty University.

This book was such an insightful read, full of beautiful scriptures to commit to memory and very practical steps of how to put God's word into practice to experience complete freedom. So thankful for this recommendation.

I can't recommend this book enough, everyone needs to read this, it's very easy to follow along and he references scripture throughout our the whole book instead of just here and there, such a great guide book

This book was referred to me by a Christian friend of mine. I recently went thru a divorce, and over the past year, I have had very little peace, lost my connection to God, experienced a lot of shame and guilt, as well as hearing voices and seeing things. Quite frankly, I felt like I was having a nervous breakdown and was about to go crazy. On three separate occasions, I admitted myself into the hospital because I was fearful of what was happening. It was after my last hospital stay of 17 days while talking with some Christian friends that “spiritual attack” was mentioned. Three friends said that on separate occasions. I didn’t want to believe that nor did I know much about “demonic attacks.” I had never been taught anything about it in my past. After realizing that the combination of medicines prescribed by doctors was definitely not working, I was willing to do anything to regain my peace and my connection with God. It began with a few friends laying hands on me and praying for hours. I experienced peace and calmness afterwards like I had never had before. I began to read the Bible every day, pray many times throughout each day, and as I have always been, I continued to be vulnerable with my friends about my feelings, thoughts, and my actions. I was then referred to read this book. Although I was in a much better place when the referral came, I wanted to grow more with Christ and I wanted to be free. Wow! I loved this book and could relate to so many stories! From where I was one year ago when I was “losing my mind,” I am so grateful to be back on the road of serenity, peace, joy, freedom, and happiness! I can’t wait to continue to work on myself with the suggestions in this book. God is so good! From not knowing if I was going to live or die to now looking forward to living each and every day to the fullest, I give all the credit to Jesus Christ! This book is exactly what I needed to read and put into practice!

The classic best seller to get set free spiritually, emotionally and physically from things in your life which are still holding you in bondage. It’s the map with Jesus to get set free!

Either you like it or not. Most of us enjoyed this book in the group.

Great book 📖 to learn

I really enjoyed this book so much that I bought it again for a friend.

Well reading this book a very thorough look at how renounce and announce bondage and freedom. Neil does a fabulous job taking you through the steps to break the chains the have barricaded themselves in your life, the prayed at the end detailed with great impact to sealing your protection.

Bought a used one but still good as new. Thanks seller!

A must read book for those who crave to walk in freedom from all kinds of spiritual bondage. An excellent work!

I am really thankful for the practical approach of this book as well as the biblical references. It is easy to read and possible to follow as applicable. I am thankful.

Good