CONSPIRACY OR TRUTH––WHICH IS WHICH? -25
3-14-25
by: Jeff Flanick & Bill Watson
Direct Comments to:
Over the past few years many views and opinions, held by the mainstream media, as well as some leaders in society today, have demonstrated to be false––fake news! However, on the other hand, it appears many are beginning to wake up to the fact, there has been a quasi-monopoly on “freedom of speech” by a handful of dominant players, limiting access to alternative views in the “Public Square.”
Curiously, this has caused those with opposing opinions to be disparaged, ridiculed and mocked, relegated with disdain to the outlaw lands of “Conspiracy Theorism.” Yet, there is so much proof now, some five, or six years since 2019, in this post pandemic environment, that we could provide a list of subjects, items and events, once thought to be conspiracy, but since then, have been proven to be factual––however, the list would be far too long to mention here, but there are a few worth sharing for the sake of some self-reflection!
These are some mainstream media narratives that have turned out to be as phony as a three-dollar bill—take for instance these “low-lights” (not high-lights). We were told the vaccine prevents the CCP virus (a.k.a. Covid) when in fact, it neither prevented, or reduced its transmission. Many who received the “jab” will not admit they have had the virus multiple times. We were told masks work to prevent the spread of the virus, oh? Regardless of the porosity of a mask being so large that a virus, like a fly through a chicken fence, could easily pass on through––c’mon, really?. And what sense did it make when you had to wear a mask to get into a restaurant, but upon being seated, were allowed to remove it? What sense did that make? Where’s the science proving virus’s don’t come near a table in a restaurant? Or how about: “the southern border is secure” (under the previous administration); and tampons in boys restrooms, or a man can become a women; while elementary aged children were allowed to make life altering decision about their gender/physiognomy without the parents involvement? This is clearly child abuse!
Now you may ask, why are we still bringing this up and addressing these issues. Haven’t we moved on from here? While it does appear society, to a degree, acknowledges these sins (missing the mark) of the recent past––it’s imperative we don’t become complacent, or overly confident these tendencies have been completely eradicated––clearly, its a work in progress! Keep in mind, those who refuse to learn the lessons from history are doomed to repeat them. They may not repeat exactly, but you can count on them to rhyme––“from time to time.” Why do you think that is? Obviously, human nature doesn’t necessarily change! So, patterns repeat and cycles come full circle, echoing with familiar themes and manifestations, like “ground hog day!”
Any true inquiry in science, philosophy, politics, or religion, demands honest investigation of the matter from multiple perspectives. This goes to support, a healthy skepticism is crucial to developing factual positions on any issue we hope to truthfully understand. Our world leaders, historically, honored these time-tested ways of thoughtful deliberation and debate that comes from critical thinking. It was logical, thorough, confirming, and basically “common sense”––assuming of course, you really wanted the “truth” of a matter.
Back in the day, seeking truth was of paramount importance to the critical thinking class. Science was not politicized in the way it is today. Science should not be turned into an ideology––it’s not right, healthy, or fair––it’s not honorable to those depending on the truth of the matter—especially, in areas like healthcare, food production, education, science, and adjudication.
But sadly, recent history has shown this is not always the case. Self-interest, bias, the money, and notoriety by parroting the party-line––this unfortunately, has become the “modus operandi” for so many of our leaders today. It has become a debilitating liability for the many people that depend on open, transparent, honest, and truthful information that’s enhanced with credible research, discussion, and decisions, for the benefit of the greater whole!
It really has become unfortunate that those daring to question the status quo get affixed with the belittling label of Conspiracy Theorists. It’s not fair, or right—especially, when it appears the only difference between a conspiracy and reality is about six months to a year, depending on the complexity of the issue! Clearly, we of all people, in God’s Church, should know the majority is not always right! Our leaders are not infallible, or to be awarded “carte blanche” trust, without question, or reservation––it’s NOT healthy, or safe!
Unquestionably, only your Father in heaven can be fully trusted without hesitation! Notice: “Put not your trust in princes, in mortal man, who cannot save” (Psalm 146:3). It’s also important we realize it’s just not our leaders, but ourselves as well. Notice: “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? I, the Lord search the heart; I examine the mind to read a man according to his way, by what his deeds deserve” (Jer. 17:9-10). “It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man’ (Psalm 118:8). “Trust you not in a friend, put you not confidence in a guide [your teacher]: keep the doors of your mouth from her that lies in your bosom” [your mate] (Micah 7:5). Scripture is plainly clear; trust only in God!
It is also important, caution and vigilance is used when getting advice, or what we allow to shape our worldview. Consider what the basis is that underscores how we process knowledge. How do we think and come to understand and assimilate wisdom from what we know––from the knowledge we have? In today’s world all of us are bombarded with a lot of Social Media. There is an assault on our minds to grab our attention for influencing us to do, think, and consider many things; and so, discipline is a mandate for protecting our thoughts, emotions, ideas––our worldview––lest we become hijacked into a lifestyle that is spiritually counterintuitive to our walk with Jesus Christ. Undoubtably, this requires wisdom!
And again: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and turn away from evil. This will bring healing to your body and refreshment to your bones” (Pro.3:5-8). But, the writer continues about wisdom: “Happy is the man that finds wisdom, and the man that gets understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She (wisdom) is more precious than rubies: and all the things you can desire and are not to be compared unto her (wisdom). Length of days is in her right hand (wisdom): and in her (wisdom) left hand riches and honor. Her (wisdom) ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her (wisdom) paths are peace. She (wisdom) is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retains her (wisdom)” (Pro. 3:13-18). And one last reminder: “My son, let not them depart from your eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion: So shall they be life unto your soul, and grace to your neck” (Pro. 3:21-22).
It is an important endeavor for us as Christians, to stay faithful and true to our Lord––trusting Him exclusively with our minds and emotions. Using only His word to process the knowledge He guides us into, by His Holy Spirit. In so doing, we should increase our chances of identifying and knowing whether something is a conspiracy, or is it truth—in other words; knowing, which is which!!