The Occult

Astral projection, also known as astral travel, involves the belief that a person's consciousness or "astral body" can leave the physical body and explore different realms or dimensions. This phenomenon is often described as a form of out-of-body experience (OBE), where individuals report feeling as though they are floating above their physical form and can observe their surroundings from a different perspective.

Astrology and Horoscopes

The dangers of astrology and horoscopes in Christianity lie in their potential to divert believers from true faith in God and to represent a spiritual danger. Astrology, as a practice of divination, is condemned in the Bible (Deuteronomy 18:10-14) and is considered an abomination to the Lord. Horoscopes, which are based on astrology, are also viewed as incompatible with faith and can harm a Christian's relationship with God. The Bible encourages believers to trust in God's Providence and not seek answers in the stars or baseless rituals, which only lead to demonic influence for those seeking answers in the stars/cosmos.

Mediums & Psychics

Mediums, spiritists, channelers, fortune-tellers, and psychics abound in our times. They can be reached through every form of media. Many people are tempted to turn to mediums in times of loss and grief (out of a strong desire to hear from a loved one), in times of transition or confusion (to help make life decisions), or out of loneliness and desperation when life has just become too much of a challenge and people are not reaching their goals. 

Satan is a liar and deceiver from Jesus’ own words. “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies” John 8:44 NIV.

Second, we know that part of his trickery is to come to people in a beautiful form as we’re warned by Paul in 2 Corinthians 11:14 NIV. “And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.” Mediums and channelers are often adept at looking like the light in times of darkness.

Third, both Jesus and Paul warn us that this deception will intensify the closer we come to Jesus’ return. “For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect” Matthew 24:24 NIV, and “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons” 1 Timothy 4:1 NIV. Mediums have always existed but our access to them now is as easy as a click of the mouse. 

In Deuteronomy 18:10-12 NIV, God is explicitly clear about forbidding specific occultic practices. “Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord; because of these same detestable practices the Lord your God will drive out those nations before you.” These practices are precisely why God will command Israel to destroy the Canaanites and drive them from the land that will become Israel. This is how dangerous the practices are—the destruction of nations was necessary to eliminate them.

Tarot Cards

Tarot cards, often hailed as mystical tools that provide insight into the future, have captivated individuals for centuries. However, behind the enticing allure lies a dangerous game that can lead to misguided beliefs, dependency, and even harm. While some may dismiss tarot cards as harmless fun or a form of entertainment, the potential psychological and emotional repercussions can be devastating. Christianity warns against divination and the use of tarot cards due to their association with the occult and potential demonic influence - they open people to demonic deception and manipulation.

'Natural' or White Magic

White magic is described as “good” magic, as opposed to black magic, which draws upon the powers of evil beings. Opinions vary as to the differences between black and white magic, ranging from the idea that they are two names for exactly the same thing, to the belief that they are completely different, especially in goals and intent. The Bible does not differentiate between “good” and “bad” magic. Magic is magic as far as the Bible is concerned. Scripture doesn’t distinguish whether the magic is supposed to be used for good or for bad; it’s all forbidden because it appeals to a source of power other than God.

Those who practice white magic, also often called Wicca, worship the creation rather than the Creator, and, while they may not call on the devil or evil spirits, they often appeal to “mother earth,” angels, and/or the elements. The central Wiccan theme is, “if it does no harm, do your own will.” Many who dabble in white magic call themselves Wiccans, whether they actually are or not. Although Wicca is fairly open-ended and there are various “denominations” and theological positions within the belief, there are certain beliefs, practices, and traditions that connect adherents of white magic to Wicca. 

Whether the intent is to venerate “mother earth,” the elements, or the angels - even if one intends to do only good, the reality is that, ultimately, there is no distinction between white and black magic,  because they both worship something other than God.

It’s frightening to think that the adherents of white magic are unknowingly praying to and beseeching the same god that adherents of black magic are — Satan.

Numerology

Numerology (known before the 20th century as arithmancy) is the belief in an occult, divine or mystical relationship between a number and one or more coinciding events. It is also the study of the numerical value, via an alphanumeric system, of the letters in words and names. When numerology is applied to a person's name, it is a form of onomancy. It is often associated with astrology and other divinatory arts.

Reiki

It was developed in Japan in the late nineteenth century by Mikao Usui and brought to the West in 1937. Reiki is administered through the hands of a trained Reiki practitioner, with the client lying fully clothed on a massage table. A session usually lasts 45 to 90 minutes. The Reiki practitioner places his or her hands at locations around the head, shoulders, abdomen, legs, and feet, lightly touching or slightly away from the body. A Reiki practitioner uses a Reiki symbol, “the Rei or God-Consciousness responds by changing the way the Reiki energy functions. To “activate” a Reiki symbol, the practitioner draws the symbol in the air, or says its name, or simply visualizes it. The claim is that these symbols can increase the healing power of Reiki, clear a room of negative energy, protect oneself (or loved ones or one’s car, home or other valuables), eliminate unwanted habits, facilitate exorcism or spirit release work, send Reiki to others at a distance (even to the other side of the world), or send Reiki energy into the future or past. Reiki work transfers negative spiritual entities onto the client, opens up the one doing the work to demonic, negative spiritual influences and puts a curse on the client in the form of the reiki symbols being used.

Yoga

Yoga, a widely embraced exercise and relaxation practice, may appear harmless. Nevertheless, Christians must address its noteworthy spiritual risks. This article explores yoga’s origins, potential dangers for Christians, and how it contrasts with methods of Christian prayer and meditation.

Yoga originated in ancient India and is deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy and spirituality. “Yoga” comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj,” which means to yoke or unite. In its original context, yoga is a spiritual discipline that aims to achieve unity with the divine or higher consciousness. The various practices of yoga, including physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation (dhyana), are designed to prepare the body and mind for spiritual awakening and enlightenment.

The practice of yoga is deeply rooted in the spiritual principles of Hinduism, which include concepts such as karma (the law of cause and effect), dharma (one’s duty and righteousness), and moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth). These principles guide practitioners toward self-realization, inner peace, and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all living beings. Although yoga is commonly promoted in the West as a secular practice centered on health and well-being, its origins and ultimate objectives are spiritual and religious.

Practicing yoga poses several hazards, including opening oneself up to unseen spiritual forces in the demonic realm, diverting focus away from God. Yoga poses are quite literally opening yourself up to demonic gods.

False Religions

False religions often set traps through deceptive practices and teachings that mislead individuals into believing they are on the right path with God. These traps can manifest in various forms, including false teachings, temptations, and worldly distractions. The Bible warns believers to be vigilant against spiritual deception, as seen in Matthew 7:15, where Jesus cautions, "Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves." This metaphor highlights the subtlety with which false teachings can infiltrate the church, appearing harmless or beneficial while leading believers astray. The Apostle Paul also underscores the deceptive nature of spiritual traps, which can appear righteous or truthful but are ultimately rooted in falsehood. Discernment is a critical tool for believers in identifying and avoiding spiritual traps.

False Religions