The dictionary says that occult means
‘hidden, secret, mysterious, supernatural
influences’.
The occult may seem to be just a bit of harmless
fun and the media often portrays it as this,
however the reality is quite different. Nothing
about the occult is good or harmless –
although it may seem safe, if we get involved
we are opening ourselves up to dangerous supernatural
influences and spiritual forces.
The Bible makes it clear that the occult is
dangerous (Deuteronomy 18:10-13).
You may not even realise that some of the
things you’ve been involved in are part
of the occult, or you may not understand that
being involved in the occult puts you under
Satan’s influence. So what as a Christian
should you avoid? We suggest astrology, fortune
telling, Halloween, horoscopes, hypnotism,
levitation, Ouija boards, palm reading, psychic
powers, séances, spiritualism, tarot
cards, witchcraft. The Bible warns us against
all things: Leviticus 19:31, Isaiah 8:19-20,
Jeremiah 23:16.
Getting involved in activities such as Halloween
or playing Dungeons and Dragons, may seem
safe and fun, but we can be opening our lives
to unhelpful images and influences.
God’s enemy, Satan, is behind the occult.
The Bible warns us he is dangerous (1 Peter
5: 8) and that he is the father of lies (John
8:44). He wants to bring hurt, confusion,
guilt and fear into our lives and will do
whatever he can to take you away from the
love of God.
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If you have ever been involved in any of the
things mentioned above, or something similar,
don’t panic – Jesus is more powerful
than Satan (2 Corinthians 10:3-4 and 1 John
3: 8). He has the power to destroy supernatural
influences, set you free and give you a clean
start (John 10:10).
If you have been involved with occult things,
you need to ask Jesus to get rid of anything
that is damaging to you and fill you with
the power of the Holy Spirit – the ultimate
and all-powerful positive influence. We can
resist the devil and his tricks by putting
on the armour of God (Ephesians 6: 10-18).
Options/Help
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Check out what the Bible says by looking at
the verses above. Talk to someone about your
experiences – maybe either your church
or youth leader – and get them to pray
with you.
