Freedom from Sinful Thoughts

by J. Heinrich Arnold

It's one of those topics most of us would rather avoid in conversation -- why would anyone want to reveal private jealousies, resentments, fantasies, temptations, or other weaknesses? Yet steady sales of this valuable little book attest that there are plenty of us who struggle with these things -- and desire help. For anyone who wavers at times between obeying the voice of the conscience and giving in to the lower nature, this book offers sage advice for coming through the struggle.

Genres: Spirituality, Theology, Nonfiction, Christianity, Christian

127 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1989

Reviews

[Ray · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the ebook, which was free, courtesy of my Plough Quarterly subscription.

A short book, a good reminder that to be tempted and to have intrusive thoughts is to be a normal human, and we are never the only ones that have dealt with the thoughts we're facing. Also has some practical advice on how to deal with that, most prominently by being honest with God (since he knows everything already anyway) and surrendering to his will. That is, true freedom comes from finding Jesus, not ourselves.
That said, the book is a bit dated at points, both in language choices and psychiatry, but I was glad I read it nonetheless, as it (hopefully) convicts me to internalize the truths of God's love, but also desire for transformation once more.

[Ian · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very well written book on a topic that is perhaps overlooked in the Christian community. The title says it all. And it is a struggle for all of us until we partner with the Holy Spirit in allowing Him to free us.

I guess I bought this hoping there'd be a 'silver bullet' that I had missed in my life so far that would help me in this area very quickly. Unfortunately, this book doesn't provide one and confirmed that like most things in life we have to be intentional about doing something about obtaining freedom. However, we also need to be conscious that the Lord's yoke is easy and together all things are possible so long as we position ourselves to enable His grace to work in this area of our lives.

The book is short with 18 chapters, most only 2 to 3 pages in length. Each are very good and challenged me in my thinking. I particularly appreciated Arnold's emphasis on the Cross as evidenced by this quote:

" Here we see that if Christ's freedom is to become ours, we must be one with the crucified Christ. His Cross is the centre, the linchpin, of the struggle between God and Satan, as as such it must become the centre of our hearts too."

This book has given me much to ponder and I look forward to applying some of its wisdom.

[JF · Rating 4 out of 5]

Small book. Offers lots of ideas. Worthwhile as a jumping pad to more theological ideas. Have kept it. Will re-read.

There are issues I have concern with presented in the book both of the psychological field (he references Freud a few times) and the theological side that some may have concern with.

I have concern with the over insistence that true freedom comes from Jesus Christ. While I am in agreement with that, I am not a fan of how it was presented. If too simplistically said and too quickly absorbed, one may come to the conclusion that they have no part to play in the process.

Psalm 15.2 MSG “… Walk straight, act right, tell the truth…” does not disqualify the idea of true freedom coming from Jesus, but one most adroitly get themselves to Christ

Acts 19.4 MSG “…’John preached a baptism of radical life-change so that people would be ready to receive the One coming after him’”

[Ethan Prol · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I approach a book about faith, about the Christian walk, I usually have a number of reformed theological filters that I want it to pass through before I pick it up. This little book I saw on a shelf and it’s direct simplicity immediately grabbed me, i thought, “chew the meat, spit the bones.”

It was all wonderful, soul-enriching meat. Not in its theological density, but in its heart-baring simplicity and probity.

A very concise and Gospel filled devotional for the Christian man or woman seeking sanctification.

[Angela Priebbenow · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really helpful read, describing the process of sinful thoughts in our minds, along with a challenge to align ourselves with God and resist the temptation to indulge in sinful thoughts, which in turn lead to sinful actions. All followed by a reminder that we find our freedom in Christ, who has paid the price on the cross.

[Summer Cromartie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book for every believer. The title makes it sound like it's only for people whose mind is in the gutter, but that's not it at all. Sins start in the mind, and one's thought life is so important. And really, only the first half is all about thoughts. He moves into surrender, repentance, and healing which is a nice "so what" to end with.

[Thomas e Lass]

Overall a very insightful study into the will of God and His propose for our lives.

[Sigid Nugroho · Rating 5 out of 5]

Salah satu buku yang berhasil masuk ke dalam hati dan pikiran saya, menembus segala macam argumen defensif ego saya yang mempertahankan status quo. Dalam perenungan, membuka secara langsung pikiran kita tentang pergumulan hidup dan menegaskan bahwa manusia itu hanya mortal. Buku ini membuat kata-kata 'pasrah, 'berserah diri' dan 'tidak mengandalkan kekuatan sendiri' terdengar begitu dalam dan tidak sekedar terdengar sebagai nasehat standard dari seorang konselor.

Highly recommended ...

[Eberhard Arnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a life-changing book - I know it is a cliche, but this one really is. If you are tormented by thoughts that you don't want, then you will appreciate the plain, down-to-earth advice.