Answers
By Billy Graham • February 24, 2017 • Topics: Cults
Q:
What's wrong with getting involved in things that are usually labeled occult practices? My late aunt was a great believer in things like out-of-body experiences, talking with the dead and so forth, and I admit I also feel a strong pull in that direction. What's wrong with these things if they actually exist?
A:
Let me ask you a question: Do you think the devil would like for you to get involved in these practices? The answer is yes—and that should be a solemn warning to you.
The Bible is very clear: If we want to please God, we will avoid everything that has anything to do with the occult (even if it seems innocent or harmless on the surface). The reason is because occult practices of any kind could involve you with spiritual forces that are opposed to God and are, in fact, in league with the devil.
I know that is a strong statement—but I can’t emphasize strongly enough how spiritually dangerous it is to follow Satan’s way rather than God’s way. When the Ephesians who had practiced the occult became Christians, they “brought their [magic] scrolls together and burned them publicly” (Acts 19:19). They knew there could be no compromise between their old way of living and God’s way.
Don’t try to resist the “pull” you feel toward the occult in your own strength. Instead, by faith turn to Christ and ask Him to come into your life and give you the strength of His Holy Spirit. Don’t be deceived, but come to Christ, who alone is “the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6).
