Dissonance is defined, in part, as: a lack of agreement between truth and what people want to believe-; inconsistency between the beliefs one holds…; the dissonance between what we are told and what we see with our own eyes. —Merriam Webster

Readers tell me the inconsistencies between ones beliefs and the truths exposed in the pages of “Do You Believe Jesus” often precipitate aversive feelings which they describe as cold, difficult, or condemning. Psychologists define these feelings as cognitive dissonance. Theory on this subject submits that we have an inner desire to hold attitudes, behaviour, and beliefs in harmony. This is called the principle of cognitive consistency. Leon Festinger (1957) described this desire for cognitive consistency as a psychological need that is as basic as hunger and thirst.

I certainly understand that when one discovers conclusive evidence suggesting most everything they have been taught and believe over their entire life is false, it is very hard to accept. Ancient Greek philosophers, some say dating to Pythagoras in the 6^th century B.C. discovered conclusively the earth was spherical in shape, yet this truth wasn’t accepted by most people until the 14^th century A.D. Long held beliefs are difficult for the human mind to dismiss, even in the presence of overwhelming evidence that proves they are false.

Individuals confronted with this type of inconsistency typically use one of three different solutions to reduce their dissonance.

• They can change their beliefs to match the new found evidence.

This method however is very difficult for most, and particularly so in this example. Though convinced themselves as it may be, they are confronted by family, friends and Church congregations not privy to the information they possess. And it is hard to change lifelong beliefs in any event.

• They may seek information that seemingly overrides the dissonant beliefs.

Taking little snippets out of their Biblical context that seem by themselves to suggest a different conclusion may be successful an allaying or minimizing the dissonance.

• They may reduce the importance of the inconsistencies or beliefs.

You might convince yourself, all that is important is for you to be good, kind, and to believe in Jesus. Jesus would then show his compassion and save you.

It is important to note here that these methods may all be successful in reducing the level of dissonance so that you feel better, but only one of them will put you on the path to proper worship that will please God.

The carnal mind has a great capacity to apply band aids which may make you feel better and believe you are on a path to salvation but consider this.

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock…And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: (Matthew 7:21-24, 26)

 There are many ways to decrease your discomfort but only one path to salvation in this age, obedience to God’s laws! Do You Believe Jesus?