Why does God prohibit "consulting the dead" in Deuteronomy 18:11? The Command Restated “...or casts spells, or consults mediums or familiar spirits, or inquires of the dead.” What “Consulting the Dead” Means - Seeking guidance, comfort, or hidden knowledge from deceased humans - Employing mediums, necromancers, séances, or any practice that claims contact with departed spirits - Attempting to bypass God’s revealed will by tapping an unauthorized spiritual source Why God Forbids It 1. Direct Violation of His Sovereignty • Only God possesses all knowledge (Isaiah 46:9–10). • Turning to the dead rejects His exclusive right to reveal truth (Deuteronomy 29:29). 2. Alliance with Demonic Powers • Scripture equates pagan spirits with demons (1 Corinthians 10:20). • Apparent “departed loved ones” are deceptive spirits (2 Corinthians 11:14). 3. Protection for His People • Necromancy opens a door to bondage and fear (Hebrews 2:14–15). • God safeguards Israel from practices that destroy spiritual well-being (Leviticus 19:31). 4. Preservation of Pure Worship • Consulting the dead imitates nations God drove out (Deuteronomy 18:12). • True worship centers on God’s word, not secret voices (Isaiah 8:19–20). 5. Sufficiency of God’s Revelation • The Law, Prophets, and later the Gospel fully equip believers (2 Timothy 3:16–17). • Seeking more implies Scripture is incomplete. The Better Alternative: Listen to God’s Word - Immediately after this prohibition, God promises a coming Prophet — ultimately Christ — through whom He will speak (Deuteronomy 18:15). - At Christ’s transfiguration, the Father commands: “This is My Son, whom I have chosen; listen to Him!” (Luke 9:35). - The Holy Spirit now guides believers into all truth (John 16:13). Practical Takeaways for Today • Reject any practice (tarot, Ouija boards, psychic readings) that claims to reach the dead. • Rely on Scripture and prayer for guidance. • Test every spiritual message by God’s written word (1 John 4:1). • Share the sufficiency and safety found in Christ with those drawn to forbidden spiritual avenues. |
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