No, I’m not going to propose a solution to the political malaise over Brexit.
My guess is as good (or bad) as anyone’s on that one. Rather, I want to say a word or two about 12 Rules for Life, the bestselling book by Canadian psychologist, Jordan Peterson. Heard of it? The title has sold over 2 million copies so far. Peterson’s lecture tour has packed out venues across the world. He rose to prominence in the UK following his interview with Channel 4’s Cathy Newman. The thing went viral, attracting 14 million views on YouTube. Agree with him or not, you have to admire Peterson’s ability to hold his own under hostile questioning from the newscaster. Google it.
Wanting to know what the fuss was all about, I’ve just finished listening to an audiobook version of 12 Rules for Life. Peterson’s essential message is that life is hard, but we need to take responsibility for our actions and start to turn our lives around. Instead of moaning about our lot, he lays down the principle, “Set your house in perfect order before you criticise the world” (Rule 6). Peterson’s ‘Rules’ prescribe a way of living an honest, responsible and decent life, often drawing on the teaching of the Bible.
Jordan Peterson’s book is certainly worth a read (or a listen). His call for us to grow up and take responsibility for our lives deserves to be widely heeded. But one thing is missing: grace. Grace isn’t about God demanding that we keep the rules and sort our lives out. God sent Jesus to keep the rules on our behalf and die for our sins. By the power of the Holy Spirit believers are enabled to live a new life in line with God’s will. That’s the grace of God; the true antidote to chaos.
Pastor: Guy Davies Providence Baptist Church
