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  MEDIA MANIPULATION
  by A.W. Tozer
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Summary: A.W. Tozer warns that Christians often come to Christ with
preconceived notions about society, which can hinder their ability to
fully integrate Christianity into their worldview.

Topics: "Media Influence", "Conformity vs. Transformation"
Scripture References: Proverbs 4:23, Matthew 6:24, Romans 12:2, 2 Corinthians 10:5, Ephesians 4:14, Philippians 4:8, Colossians 2:8, James 1:22, 1 Peter 2:11, 1 John 2:15-17

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DESCRIPTION
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A.W. Tozer addresses the pervasive influence of advertising as a
dominant force in shaping societal thought, often overshadowing the
teachings of schools and churches. He emphasizes that while individuals
may ignore parental and church guidance, they cannot escape the reach of
advertisers, who have mastered the art of communication, even if it
involves deception. Tozer critiques the tendency of Christians to
conform to societal norms, suggesting that this mindset hinders their
ability to fully embrace the transformative message of Christ. He calls
for a reevaluation of these ingrained beliefs, urging believers to
question societal standards rather than blindly adjust to them.

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CONTENT
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. . . advertising, at least in the United States, is the most powerful
educational agent extant. Those who write the advertising copy probably
do more to determine the way the average person thinks than the school
and church combined.

The reasons for this are two. One is that men may flee from the
admonitions of parents and the good counsel of the church, but where can
anyone hide from the advertiser? He is as near to being ubiquitous as
anything on earth except gravity.

The second reason the advertiser exercises such incredibly powerful
influence is that he has learned to perfection the art of communication.
He may be lying, and often is, but he does get his ideas across; and
that is more than can be said for the school and the church.

The big problem with Christians is that they come to Christ with their
minds already made up on one point, viz., to stay sane they must remain
adjusted to society. This notion has been drilled into them from their
playpen, and it never occurs to them to question it. There is a norm out
there somewhere to which they must conform, and that norm is above
criticism. Their success and happiness depend upon how well they adjust
to it. And Christianity, though it may add something to it, must never
disagree with the main idea.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/aw-tozer/media-manipulation/
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