I’m a little slow getting going on this, but I’m going to present a series of logical fallacies that present themselves in the mind of someone who is seeking to justify their position as the source of true divine light and revelation in community. Of course, some of this applies in any basic human relationship or situations, but it takes on stronger and possibly more damaging overtones when it’s infused with spiritual language and implications. I know this series might appeal to a more select audience, but feel free to weigh in with your thoughts.
Prophetic Logical Fallacy #1:
“I must have God on my side if those I disagree with are turning against me or if they are leaving me out in the cold.”
Counterpoint: You might just be an ass and not a very likeable person.The thing with many of these logical fallacies is that there is a kernal of truth that lends itself for self-deception. In the Scriptures, prophets routinely were alienated, abused, or even killed because they were opposed by hard-hearted people who could not accept the truth. Even from a family or organizational systems perspective, anxious systems are ready at a moments notice to scapegoat any individual that seeks to deviate from the norm or speak into the situation. So clearly, there are plenty of times where as an individual you might encounter hostility, betrayal, or alienation because you are indeed a mouthpiece for truth and reality in a messed up and distorted situation.
But, it clearly is bad logic to work backwords and say – because people are hating on me or rejecting what I have to say, I must be functioning prophetically and I know I’m right and God is on my side. Recognizing opposition and hostility that is based on fear of the truth or fear of change or insecurity is never a reason to build one’s case for one’s “increased divine authority.” Recognizing those things may explain a lot and help you stay anchored and calm, but prophetic authority doesn’t derive from the power and measure of the opposition.
Another way of looking at it is that it could be blatant blameshifting and a defense mechanism. When we as people feel bad or rejected – it’s all too easy to want to make the other person into Satan or redirect the accusation that is felt internally onto others in an effort to preserve one’s sense of superiority or goodness.
If one is truly functioning prophetically and is connected to God, no doubt they will experience a lot of what is mentioned above in terms of opposition and rejection; however, they are not going to get sucked into defense mechanisms and opposition as divine validation of one’s authority.
