Notes 0n what I was thinking about in May 2015

• Full Definition of CYNIC

1

capitalized  :  an adherent of an ancient Greek school of philosophers who held the view that virtue is the only good and that its essence lies in self-control and independence 

2

:  a faultfinding captious critic; especially  :  one who believes that human conduct is motivated wholly by self-interest 

• Full Definition of SUPERFICIAL

1

a (1)  :  of, relating to, or located near a surface (2)  :  lying on, not penetrating below, or affecting only the surface <superficial wounds>

b  British  of a unit of measure  :  square <superficial foot>

2

a  :  concerned only with the obvious or apparent :  shallow

b  :  seen on the surface :  external

c  :  presenting only an appearance without substance or significance

• Full Definition of SUPERSTITION

1

a  :  a belief or practice resulting from ignorance, fear of the unknown, trust in magic or chance, or a false conception of causation 

b  :  an irrational abject attitude of mind toward the supernatural, nature, or God resulting from superstition 

2

:  a notion maintained despite evidence to the contrary

David Powlison writes, “Worry assumes the possibility of control – over the uncontrollable.”

 cynical skeptic will participate in religious activities in two ways:

• First, they are active because of superstition.  Pray this prayer… do this deed… earn divine favor.
• Second, they are active because of superficial habit.  We participate in these holidays because that what our families have always done.  

The superstitious person is characterized by legalism.  
The superficial person is characterized by leniency.  

Both have engaged in self-salvation projects and the promise of “The Lord is in our midst…” does nothing to stirs up their affection.