Occult Definition: The Dangers of Occult Practices, Why Christians Get Involved, and Biblical Warnings

What is Occult Meaning

What Are Occult Practices? Why Do Christians Get Involved, and What Warnings Does God Give?

Occult practices refer to spiritual, mystical, or esoteric activities outside traditional Christian teachings. These practices often involve attempts to control or manipulate supernatural forces, communicate with spirits, or gain hidden knowledge. Occultism is usually associated with witchcraft, astrology, tarot card reading, divination, and spiritism.

But why do some Christians get involved in occult practices, and what does God warn about in His Word?

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What Defines Occult Practices?

Occult practices encompass a variety of activities, but they share certain common traits:

1. Divination: This includes practices like reading tarot cards, using crystals for guidance, astrology, and other forms of fortune-telling. These practices seek knowledge or insight from supernatural or spiritual sources outside God.

2. Witchcraft and Sorcery: Witchcraft often involves casting spells, invoking spirits, or manipulating energy forces to control outcomes. Similarly, Sorcery uses magical rituals to alter circumstances and consequences.

3. Spiritism: This practice involves attempting to communicate with the dead or other spiritual entities through mediums or séances, seeking guidance or information from those who have passed away.

4. New Age Practices: New Age spirituality blends occult practices with elements of eastern religions, psychology, and self-help movements, promoting ideas like channeling spirits, energy healing, and the power of "positive thinking."

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Why Do Christians Get Involved in Occult Practices?

1. Spiritual Curiosity or Desire for Control: Many Christians, especially those feeling disconnected or lacking a strong sense of spiritual fulfillment, may turn to occult practices in search of deeper understanding or control over their lives. Occult practices often promise access to hidden knowledge or power, which can be tempting for those seeking answers or supernatural experiences.

2. Desire for Quick Solutions: Occult practices often promise quick solutions to personal problems, such as healing, love, financial issues, or success. The appeal of immediate results may lead some to seek guidance from sources outside the will of God.

3. Disillusionment with Traditional Church Practices: Some individuals, feeling disappointed or disconnected from traditional church teachings, may seek alternative spiritual practices. The occult may offer a sense of mystery, adventure, or empowerment, providing more control over life’s challenges.

4. Influence from Popular Culture: The rise of occult themes in movies, books, and media can make Christians curious or desensitized to the dangers of engaging in such practices. What may begin as a casual interest can sometimes evolve into deeper involvement.

5. Lack of Discernment: Some Christians may not be fully aware of the spiritual dangers of occult practices. Without a firm understanding of biblical principles or the power of the Holy Spirit, they may inadvertently open themselves up to deception.

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Warnings from God About Occult Practices (Scriptural Warnings)

The Bible provides numerous warnings against engaging in occult practices. God views these activities as deeply dangerous because they open individuals up to deception, spiritual oppression, and a separation from Him.

1. Deuteronomy 18:10-12
   “Let no one be found among you 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...”
   God makes it clear that occult practices are detestable to Him. These activities are strictly forbidden in the Old Testament, and this prohibition is meant to protect believers from spiritual harm.

2. Leviticus 19:31
   “Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them. I am the Lord your God.”
   In this passage, God commands His people not to seek guidance from spiritual mediums or those who practice witchcraft. The defilement is spiritual, leading people away from God’s truth.

3. Galatians 5:19-21
   “The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
   Paul lists witchcraft (or "sorcery" in some translations) among the "acts of the flesh" that prevent people from inheriting the kingdom of God. This highlights how occult practices are incompatible with the Christian life and salvation.

4. 1 Samuel 28:7-20
   “Saul then said to his attendants, 'Find me a woman who is a medium, so I may go and inquire of her.'”
   King Saul’s desperate turn to a medium (the Witch of Endor) is a tragic example of a leader who, having rejected God, turned to occult practices. The outcome was spiritual destruction. God’s disapproval of Saul’s actions and refusal to communicate with him show the danger of seeking answers outside God’s will.

5. Ephesians 5:11
   “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”
   Paul encourages believers to avoid any involvement in the works of darkness, which include occult practices. Instead, Christians are called to expose them and walk in the light of Christ.

6. Isaiah 47:12-14
   “Let your astrologers come forward, those stargazers who make predictions month by month, let them save you from what is coming upon you.”
   This passage shows God's judgment on those who rely on astrology and other forms of divination. God’s judgment renders these practices powerless, highlighting their futility and danger.

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How to Guard Against Occult Practices

1. Stay Grounded in Scripture: Constantly study the Bible and know God’s commands. The more familiar you are with the truth, the easier it will be to recognize deception.

2. Seek the Holy Spirit’s Guidance: Pray for the Holy Spirit’s discernment to recognize occult influences and to stay true to God’s Word. The Spirit will guide you into all truth (John 16:13).

3. Avoid Contact with Occult Practices: Resist the temptation to engage in occult activities, even casually. This includes tarot cards, astrology, and anything else that seeks to gain knowledge outside of God.

4. Seek Godly Counsel: If you’re ever tempted to explore occult practices or feel spiritually confused, seek the advice of a trusted pastor or mature Christian.

5. Repent and Renounce: If you've been involved in occult practices, repent and renounce them. Ask God to forgive you and cleanse you of any spiritual defilement.

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Conclusion

Occult practices pose a grave spiritual danger to Christians, leading them away from the truth of God’s Word and exposing them to deception and spiritual oppression. The Bible provides clear and strong warnings about these practices, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith and avoid seeking guidance outside of God’s will. By staying grounded in Scripture, seeking the Holy Spirit’s discernment, and avoiding the allure of occultism, Christians can safeguard themselves from the destructive influence of these practices.

Traci Morin, president of 
Touch of God International Ministries - a Christian Healing and Deliverance Ministry - Setting the Captives Free