In today’s culturally charged environment, the rise of the occult and new age practices presents significant challenges for the evangelical community. Many individuals, especially the youth, are increasingly drawn to these practices, often without realizing the serious spiritual implications involved. Social media platforms are playing a pivotal role in this phenomenon, as they make access to psychics, tarot readings, and occult beliefs just a click away. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are flooded with content that promotes crystal healing, manifesting desires, and other practices that might seem harmless at first glance but can lead people away from the truth of God’s word.
The concern is not simply about the popularity of these practices but about how they can subtly creep into the lives of impressionable individuals. Young people are particularly vulnerable, as they often seek guidance and affirmation, especially in times of grief or uncertainty. As they encounter psychics who present themselves as helpers, they may not recognize that these practices often stem from spiritual deception. The portrayals of mediums on popular television shows can create an illusion of comfort and support, masking the deeper spiritual dangers that accompany engaging in such activities.
Christians are called to discern the source of wisdom and guidance they seek. Scripture teaches that there is a profound difference between the wisdom of God and the deceitful allure of the occult. Engaging with psychics or any form of divination opens a door to demonic influences that many may not even believe exist. The danger is amplified when these practices are normalized through entertainment, which often diminishes the seriousness of interacting with the spiritual realm. Believers must remember that the Bible warns against attempting to communicate with the dead or seek advice from mediums, framing such actions as a disobedience to God’s commands.
As the influence of the occult continues to grow, it is essential for evangelical voices to address these issues with love and conviction. It is crucial to engage in conversations about the reality of spiritual warfare that is often dismissed in modern discussions. Those who have walked away from the practices of the occult can offer invaluable insights, highlighting the deceptive nature of these experiences. Their testimonies serve as a reminder that people can be genuinely seeking connection or closure but may be unknowingly inviting harm into their lives.
In light of these concerns, there is a pressing need for the church to equip congregants with the tools to recognize and resist these cultural tides. Engaging in community discussions, offering educational resources, and encouraging open dialogues about faith and spirituality can help build a strong foundation for discernment. By fostering a deeper understanding of God’s word and the profound love and truth found in a relationship with Christ, evangelicals can stand firm against the temptations of the occult that prey upon the vulnerable in society. The task at hand is not merely to criticize but to guide others toward the peace and hope that can only be found in Jesus.
