As a television producer and media consultant in Hollywood, perception is my business. I deal in the visual world of products and people, and how they are perceived by the viewing audience. Today, in a media-saturated culture, perception is so important. It’s not just about facts, it’s about perception. Now, as a Christian, I used to look at the issue of perception as negative and deceitful. Indeed it can be, but like many things, I also learned it has a flip side, as I began to study how Jesus went to great lengths to craft the public perception of his ministry and his purpose on the earth.
He actually told people who had been healed not to tell anyone.
He carefully chose the men who would be His closest associates.
During the height of his popularity, he withdrew to remote places to be alone.
He chose the method of his triumphal entry into Jerusalem.
When He could have escaped in the garden, he told Peter to stop fighting and quietly allowed Himself to be arrested.
During the events that led to his execution, He even controlled the interrogation of Pilate by only responding to certain questions.
Jesus was constantly doing the unexpected, because He had a purpose and plan for his life, and he refused to let others determine his destiny or how He would be perceived.
It’s Not Just Who You Are – It’s How You’re Perceived.
Jesus understood that perception is a powerful word and has enormous consequences. One of the greatest criticisms of Christianity is not about principles, but perception. The history of the faith is littered with men and women who may have been sincere and genuine, but because they cared little for how they were perceived, they ended up doing far more damage than good.
For instance, it doesn’t matter if you have a passion for witnessing, if people believe you’re pushy, insensitive jerk. After all, God has called us to be a light within the culture, because light draws people – it’s doesn’t repel them. Everyday we have the opportunity to impact people’s perception of God and His ability to impact their lives. Only God can truly change hearts, but he allows us the gift of being active in His plan. King David said, “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.”
Understand the power of perception,
but never forget that God is ultimately in control.
The fact is, it’s not an either/or proposition. Who you are is important. Your talent, your gifts, your life before God – are all critical because Truth exists, and God has called us to live at a remarkable level. But you should also never underestimate the value of how you are perceived. Because we’re also called to be witnesses of His life, death, and resurrection – and how that message is received by others can never be taken for granted.
Phil Cooke is a filmmaker, media consultant, and author of “Jolt! Get the Jump on a World That’s Constantly Changing.” Find out more at philcooke.com.
Original Source: http://www.ucb.co.uk/content/power-perception-phil-cooke
No comments:
Post a Comment