Thread by @glenscrivener

Conspiracy theories have a compelling purchase on our imagination because they tap into what's undeniable: there *are* unseen powers in the world; we're not as free as we think; and those who seem in charge don't have nearly as much influence as they pretend. That's 100% true. >

In NT times there were proto-Gnostic movements tapping into that same sense. They taught that real wisdom is 'hidden' from the 'carnal' and that the 'spiritual' needed to be inducted into the 'mysteries' which truly explain the world and liberate their devotees. >

Interestingly, this kind of teaching was identified by the NT authors as a particular temptation to Christians (hence many letters addressing it, eg Ephesians; Colossians; 2 Peter; 1 John). That's something to note: Christians can be suckers for conspiracies. >

On the other hand, Christians can be resistant to real tyrannies (because they're sceptical of earthly claims to rule). This has been a strength to the church especially when and where it lives under terrible regimes. But the flip side is a vulnerability to conspiracy theories. >

How did Paul, Peter and John counter the conspirators of their day? Not by denying the existence of "rulers" (1 Cor. 1:2:6-8), "elemental spirits" (Col. 2:8,20) and "principalities & powers" (Eph. 6:12ff). These are real, enslaving realities above all earthly politics. >

Instead the NT says there's Much more going on in the world than meets the eye — and that our freedoms are truly at stake. Even more tho it points to the true conspiracy: "the mystery of God, namely Christ, in whom all the treasures of wisdom & knowledge are hidden." (Col 2:2f).>

Above and beyond worldly powers, there are spiritual powers (many of them dark). But above all that there is a secretive cartel running the world — a Father-Son union. In Christ, though, that mystery has been revealed to the world. It's an open secret. >

Look at Christ — this is not how the earthly rulers operate. But it is how ultimate reality works — only the eyes of faith can see this. But once you do see it, you can't unsee it. The meek shall inherit the earth. This is a wisdom that is freely available to the world. >

There's no lengthy induction process or fee. The only thing that keeps you out is your own desire to invest in worldly strength. Because, in the end, what truly enslaves us are not alien powers — one-world governments or Lizard People — it's our own desires for worldly power. >

We are the problem, not 5G masts or the United Nations, etc. We're not freed from tyranny by uncovering a conspiracy theory. The true liberation happens when we identify ourselves as the chief obstacle to freedom and look instead to Christ and his way of the cross. >

Christians are invited to live out this counter-cultural wisdom, not as a power-grab, nor as a secretive sect against the world. We smile at earthly rulers knowing they have been granted a measure of authority. But we know that there really is Much more going on in the world. >

Our response to this secret knowledge is not withdrawal or rebellion against the powers that be. No, we conspire *for* the human race and live out the love that really does make the world go round.

End.