What modern practices might equate to "mediums and spiritists" today? Setting the Scene Leviticus 19:31 warns, “You must not turn to mediums or spiritists; do not seek them out or you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God.” God’s command is clear, timeless, and rooted in His authority over every realm—visible and invisible. What Scripture Means by “Mediums and Spiritists” • Mediums: people who claim to channel or communicate with the dead. • Spiritists: those who seek information or power from spirits other than God, often through rituals or altered states. Both bypass God’s revelation and invite contact with deceptive, demonic powers (Deuteronomy 18:10-12; Isaiah 8:19; 1 Chronicles 10:13). Modern Equivalents Today Practices have new packaging, but the spiritual roots remain the same: • Psychic readings – Tarot card spreads, palmistry, tea-leaf readings, crystal-ball sessions – Online “psychic” chats or phone hotlines • Communicating with the dead – Séances, table-tipping, Ouija boards, automatic writing – Celebrity “medium” TV shows, live-streamed readings, ghost-hunting tours • New Age channeling and spirit guides – “Ascended masters,” spirit animals, guided meditations to meet a “guide” – Books or podcasts claiming to transcribe messages from departed souls or aliens • Divination apps and social-media trends – Daily horoscope apps, zodiac TikToks, birth-chart “compatibility” readings – Digital tarot or rune generators • Occult healing and energy manipulation – Reiki performed with spirit invocation, crystal energy grids, pendulum dowsing – “Akashic record” readings that promise hidden knowledge of past lives • Witchcraft and neo-pagan practices – Spell casting, candle magic, moon rituals, manifestation ceremonies that call on spirits – Wiccan covens or solitary practices advertised as harmless “nature religion” • Entertainment that invites participation – Horror or paranormal games urging players to summon spirits – Festivals or escape-room experiences themed around channeling the dead Why These Practices Remain Forbidden • They seek knowledge or power apart from God (Acts 16:16-18). • They open doors to demonic influence—Scripture calls it “sorcery” (Galatians 5:19-21; Revelation 21:8). • They undermine trust in God’s sufficiency (James 1:5; 2 Peter 1:3). • They distort God’s design for worship and authority, leading to spiritual bondage (Ephesians 6:12). Walking in the Light • Rely on God’s Word and the Holy Spirit for guidance (Psalm 119:105; John 16:13). • Replace occult curiosities with Scripture study, worship, and fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Renounce any past involvement, trusting Christ’s victory over every power of darkness (Colossians 2:13-15). |
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