What New Testament teachings align with Isaiah 8:19's warning against spiritists? Isaiah 8:19 – God’s Clear Stand “When they say to you, ‘Consult the mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter,’ should not a people consult their God instead? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?” How the New Testament Carries the Torch • Acts 16:16-18 — A slave girl “with a spirit of divination” is freed when Paul commands, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her!” Occult involvement is exposed as demonic bondage. • Acts 19:18-20 — New believers in Ephesus publicly burn their magic scrolls, worth fifty thousand drachmas. Turning to Christ means decisive break with sorcery. • Galatians 5:19-21 — “Idolatry and sorcery… those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” Occult practice is soul-damning sin. • 1 Timothy 4:1 — “Some will abandon the faith to follow deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons.” Spiritism is demon-taught, not harmless. • 1 Corinthians 10:20-21 — Pagan rituals are “offered to demons… you cannot partake in the table of the Lord and the table of demons.” No fellowship with both. • 1 John 4:1 — “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits.” Discernment is mandatory. • Revelation 21:8; 22:15 — “Sorcerers” are eternally shut out of the New Jerusalem and cast into the lake of fire. Core Themes That Match Isaiah’s Concern 1. One exclusive source of truth—God’s Word and Spirit (2 Timothy 3:16-17; John 16:13). 2. The occult equals partnership with demons. 3. Participation is incompatible with discipleship. 4. Repentance is visible and costly (Acts 19). 5. Final judgment confirms the seriousness. Living With Confidence in Christ Alone • Seek guidance in Scripture; it is sufficient and trustworthy. • Bring every doubt to the Lord in prayer, not forbidden channels. • Rest in Christ’s victory over the unseen (Colossians 2:15). • If past involvement exists, renounce it, discard occult items, and receive God’s forgiveness (1 John 1:9). • Encourage others to rely wholly on the gospel, not on spiritists who “whisper and mutter.” |
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