Manifestation and Christianity: Can They Coexist?

Manifestation and Christianity: Can They Coexist? Exploring Through the Lens of the Law of Assumption

In recent years, the concept of manifestation has gained widespread popularity, largely driven by New Age philosophies and the broader self-help movement. Manifestation, or the law of attraction, is often discussed in the context of the "Law of Assumption," a principle that suggests by firmly believing in an outcome, one can bring it into reality. This concept raises significant questions when placed in the context of Christian belief: Can the principles of manifestation coexist with Christian doctrine, or are they fundamentally at odds? This article explores the compatibility of manifestation and Christianity through the lens of the Law of Assumption, offering insights from theological, psychological, and practical perspectives.

Understanding the Law of Assumption

The Law of Assumption, popularized by figures like Neville Goddard, posits that assuming the feeling of the wish fulfilled can lead to the actual manifestation of that wish in the physical world. According to this law, our mental states are directly connected to the external circumstances of our lives. If one assumes success, health, or happiness, these states will eventually manifest.

Christian Doctrine on Faith and Belief

Christianity, at its core, emphasizes faith and the belief in things not yet seen as fundamental components. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." This Biblical perspective might seem to support the Law of Assumption at first glance, as both concepts underscore the power of belief in shaping reality.

Points of Convergence

1. The Power of Belief: Both Christianity and the Law of Assumption recognize the profound impact of belief on an individual's life. For Christians, faith in God’s promises is central to spiritual life and practice.

2. Positive Thinking: The psychological benefits of positive thinking are well-documented and both systems encourage a hopeful outlook. Philippians 4:8, for instance, urges believers to think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy.

3. The Concept of Calling Things into Existence: The Bible contains moments where speech or belief leads to creation or change, perhaps most notably seen in the creation narrative where God speaks the world into existence. This bears a superficial resemblance to the Law of Assumption’s focus on the power of affirmations.

Points of Divergence

1. Source of Power: A fundamental difference lies in the source of power and control. Christianity attributes all power and manifestation to God’s will. In contrast, the Law of Assumption places the individual at the center, emphasizing personal power and control over one's environment.

2. Purpose and Self-Centricity: Christian doctrine emphasizes living according to God’s will and for His glory, focusing on selflessness and the welfare of others. The Law of Assumption is often criticized for promoting a self-centric worldview, focusing on personal desires and outcomes.

3. Theological Implications: From a Christian theological perspective, the idea that humans can manifest their reality independent of God can be seen as problematic, bordering on idolatrous. It shifts the believer’s reliance away from God and towards self.

Psychological and Philosophical Considerations

Psychologically, the practice of assuming positivity can lead to increased motivation and better mental health. However, when these practices encourage individuals to believe they alone control their destiny, they can conflict with Christian teachings on providence and divine sovereignty. Philosophically, the idea that thought alone can materially affect reality without divine intervention is at odds with Christian doctrines of creation and sustenance by God.

Practical Christian Responses

For Christians interested in the concept of manifestation, re-framing it in a Christian context involves focusing on prayer, divine providence, and aligning one's desires with God’s will. This approach emphasizes that all things come from God and that faith should be placed in His plan rather than in one's ability to manifest specific outcomes.

Conclusion

The question of whether manifestation and Christianity can coexist depends largely on how one interprets and integrates the principles of the Law of Assumption. If taken as a tool for enhancing faith and focus within the bounds of Christian doctrine, some aspects of manifestation might be seen as compatible. However, when it promotes self as the ultimate source of power, it diverges fundamentally from Christian teachings. For Christians, the safe path lies in seeking alignment with God’s will and recognizing that all power and glory belong to Him, thus maintaining a clear distinction between divine providence and human aspiration.