False Religions & Cults

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Origin of Religion

The only way to correctly understand history is through the lens of God's Word. Scripture reveals that behind the scenes of history, there is a spiritual struggle: Satan is a rebel. First, as LUCIFER, the greatest and most powerful creature God ever made, Satan rebelled against God. He lost his position as the anointed cherub (Isaiah 14; Ezekiel 28) and became Satan, the adversary of God. Next, SATAN led a third of God's angels in rebellion (Revelation 12:4), turning them into his demon warriors, continuing his opposition to God. Then, Satan ENLISTED HUMANITY in his rebellion, tempting Eve (Genesis 3) and leading Adam into sin. At the Tower of BABEL, Satan expanded his rebellion globally by promoting false religion and materialism. God had provided a way for humanity to be redeemed through a substitutionary, sacrificial, blood-sprinkled path, but Satan worked relentlessly to obscure and confuse God’s way. He set traps to ensnare humanity in his rebellion. In the book of Revelation, at the close of the Tribulation, God dedicates two entire chapters (Revelation 17 and 18) to the judgment of Satan's twin pathways of rebellion: false religion and materialism. Since the fall of humanity in Genesis 3, Satan has most often lured the world into rebellion through these two systems.

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Roman Catholic

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The Roman Catholic Church is not the “original” or “true” church. It does not date back to the first century or to the apostle Peter, as it claims. In fact, it began to develop properly from AD 312, when the Roman Emperor Constantine alleged that he had become a Christian. He did so because he claimed to have seen a vision of a cross in the sky, and after winning a subsequent battle, he attributed his success to this vision. As a result, this Roman Emperor, who had known nothing other than paganism his entire life, suddenly “joined” the early fourth-century church in Rome. He effectively took it over.

Thus, overnight, the real church, which had existed for three centuries and had been forced underground due to persecution, became legal. The persecution ended, and the Emperor was now supposedly a Christian. Multitudes of practicing pagans flooded into the church, not because they believed in the Bible or had repented, but because they saw it as socially and financially advantageous to join this institution called the “church,” which the Emperor had taken over.

As a result, the church changed from being a persecuted group whose biblical values and beliefs were the opposite of those around them, to a group with official state backing. A massive influx of insincere, unrepentant pagans—who had no genuine Christian beliefs—took over the church. It was an invasion of the pagan world into the church as it existed at that time.

The pagans brought with them all of their occult beliefs and practices. Rather than abandoning these and adopting Christianity, they retained their pagan beliefs and practices, merely adding some elements of Christianity to create a mixture.

As a result, many of the traditions that still exist in the Roman Catholic Church come directly from paganism, not from the Bible. The Roman Catholic Church dates back to the fourth century and does not reflect the pure church of the first century, which the apostles established.

Many genuine believers within the fourth-century church felt they had no choice but to leave. They had to go outside the newly institutionalized church, which was now meeting in former pagan temples. These true Christians continued meeting in homes, as they had done for three centuries. The genuine believers who left were the real church, not the semi-pagan/semi-Christian church that Emperor Constantine was now leading. That true church continued separately, and it has carried on to this day. Meanwhile, from the fourth century onward, the massive institution that we now know as the Roman Catholic Church developed steadily. It added more and more unbiblical features, either from paganism or from men’s imaginations, blending them with Christian beliefs and practices. This mixing of beliefs and practices is called syncretism, and it continues in the church today.

Many people even view this mixture as a good thing, thinking it combines the best aspects of different religious beliefs. However, the Bible condemns this kind of mixture. It clearly sets out the truth and forbids us from adding to it, taking anything away from it, or blending it with anything else. Jesus condemns this very clearly in Matthew’s Gospel when He addressed the Jewish leaders of the first century, who ignored God’s Word as set out in the Bible, focusing instead on their own ideas and traditions, which they or their predecessors had invented:

Then some Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and said, 2 “Why do Your disciples break the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat bread.” 3 And He answered and said to them, “Why do you yourselves transgress the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?...

“You hypocrites, rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you: 8 ‘This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far away from Me. 9 ‘But in vain do they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’” Matthew 15:1–3 and 7–9

What Jesus said to the Jewish leaders back then is equally applicable today. We have allowed all sorts of humanly invented ideas and traditions to replace what the Bible says. The net effect of this unhealthy mixture of Christianity and paganism, now known as the Roman Catholic Church, is that I was able to remain in it for 20 years but never find salvation or become a genuine Christian. Worse still, I had no idea that I was missing anything or that I was believing in a mixture of truth and error. If someone had asked me at the time what would happen to me if I died, I would have had no idea. If someone had asked me what “salvation” is or how it is obtained, I would have been unable to answer.

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Islam

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Studying the Quran with a critical eye can reveal much about the nature of the religion. Consider this: many of the ideologies behind terrorist organizations have roots in Islamic teachings. It’s important to reflect on Bible verses like Matthew 7:17-23, which speaks of knowing people by their fruits. While only a small fraction of the global Muslim population, approximately 0.01%, are considered radical (about 18 million people), they are supported ideologically and sometimes financially by a much larger group. An estimated 108 million Muslims are classified as fundamentalist Islamists, aligning with radical ideology even if they don’t engage directly in violence.

Islam is broadly divided into two major branches: Sunni and Shia. These divisions arose following the death of Prophet Muhammad in 632 AD, leading to disagreements about religious and political leadership.

Largest Branch: Sunni Muslims account for 85-90% of the global Muslim population. Leadership: Sunnis believe that leadership should come from the Prophet's companions, with Abu Bakr, a close friend of Muhammad, being the first rightful caliph. Schools of Thought: There are four major legal schools in Sunni Islam (Hanafi, Shafi'i, Maliki, Hanbali), each with its own interpretation of Islamic jurisprudence.

Minority Branch: Shia Muslims represent 10-15% of Muslims globally, with significant populations in Iran and Iraq. Leadership: Shias believe that leadership should remain within the Prophet’s family, with Ali, the Prophet’s cousin and son-in-law, being the first legitimate Imam. They view their Imams as divinely appointed and infallible. Subsects: Shia Islam includes smaller subsects like the Twelvers (the largest), Ismailis, and Zaidis, each with variations in their belief system. Although both branches share core beliefs in the Qur'an and the Five Pillars of Islam, their divisions primarily revolve around questions of leadership and religious authority.

Different Worldviews within Islam

Radical Islam: This group actively seeks the establishment of a worldwide caliphate governed by Sharia Law through violent means such as Jihad. Although radicals make up just 0.01% of the global Muslim population, that translates to approximately 18 million individuals. This may seem like a small percentage, but it’s significant when viewed in context.

Fundamentalist Islamists share the same ideology as radicals, but they are not directly involved in violence. Instead, they support radical Islamists by funding them, spreading radical ideologies, and serving as a recruitment base. In Islamic countries, the number of fundamentalists far outweighs radicals. In total, the radical 18 million Muslims are supported by approximately 108 million fundamentalist Islamists worldwide.

Moderate Muslims make up the majority of Islam. While they integrate into Western society, over 60% of moderates still believe that Sharia Law should be the law of the land where they reside. Many moderate Muslims have defended Western values and fought against radicalism in conflicts. However, those who haven’t should speak out more vocally against fundamentalism and radical Islam, and oppose the imposition of Sharia Law.

Sharia Law and Its Implications

Sharia Law, derived from the Quran and the traditions of the Prophet (Hadith and Sunna), prescribes both religious and secular obligations. The debate over its modern-day application varies between fundamentalists and modernists. Under Sharia, many practices are in direct conflict with the values of Western society. For instance, in some interpretations, non-Muslims (infidels) can be forced into marriage or sexually abused. This has contributed to cultural clashes in countries with growing Muslim populations. Women under Sharia Law are often treated as property rather than individuals. They can be beaten, stoned to death, or even killed in "honor killings" for actions like dating a non-Muslim. Sharia also prescribes harsh punishments, such as cutting off the hands of thieves.

The Push for Sharia Law in Non-Islamic Countries

When the Muslim population reaches a certain level, serious voting power in their host country, they now demand that Sharia Law be put on the same level as a legal system as the country in which they reside. They will lobby, they will protest violently, they will get minor laws passed that favor Islam, and they will commit Jihad. The first stage is to get Sharia Law on the books as part of the legal system and eventually to supplant the legal system of the host country.

In the image above are some of the examples of Sharia Law.

Muhammad vs. Jesus: A Contrast

The life of Muhammad, as depicted in Islamic tradition, starkly contrasts the teachings of Jesus Christ. Muhammad, a warlord with multiple wives, was involved in acts of violence and moral transgressions, including marrying a child and stealing his adopted son’s wife. The image above is a depiction of his youngest wife Aisha. At the time of her marriage, Aisha was six or seven and nine or ten at its consummation. On the other hand, Jesus preached love, forgiveness, moral purity, and true justice(Matthew 5:6).

It's impossible to fully expose all the depravity and immorality found in the teachings and history of Islam in one brief overview. From Muhammad’s questionable actions to the brutal practices justified under Sharia Law, the dark truths are vast. I encourage you to conduct your own research with an open and critical mind. When you dig deeper, the evidence will speak for itself. Read the Quran, explore the Hadith, and examine the historical and modern impact of Islam in various societies. You will find that the teachings often conflict with universal moral values, the principles of human dignity, and the foundations of civilized society. Ultimately, the truth will reveal itself through thorough and honest investigation. I highly encourage you to read the book titled 'IS THE QURAN THE WORD OF GOD? by Edward D. Andrews'.

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Judaism

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The form of Judaism we will explore here is Rabbinical Judaism. Contrary to popular belief, Rabbinical Judaism diverged from early Christianity, rather than the other way around. Christianity continued the true faith in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as revealed through Christ. Jews who accepted Jesus as the Messiah became Christians, while those who rejected Him had to redefine their religious practice. Under the Mosaic Law, repentance for sin required sacrifices at the Tabernacle, and later at the Temple. However, with Christ, the new covenant was established, with His body symbolizing the new Temple, and believers forming the Body of Christ, as understood by Orthodox Christians.

When God allowed the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 A.D., carried out by the Romans, the Jewish people who rejected Christ could no longer follow the Mosaic Law as prescribed, since the sacrificial system centered on the Temple. Christ had fulfilled the law, and His instructions to His disciples replaced the old system.

In the second century A.D., the Jews who did not follow Christ fully distinguished themselves from Christians, rallying behind a false prophet named Simon bar Kokhba. Without the Temple, these Jews shifted their focus to rabbinic teachings, which eventually evolved into what we now know as Rabbinical Judaism. At this time, all rabbis belonged to the Pharisees, a group that believed God`s presence had been absent from the Second Temple because the Jewish people were not strictly following the law. After the Temple`s destruction, these rabbis intensified their focus on the Mosaic Law as outlined in the Torah and began compiling what eventually became the Talmud—a collection of interpretations, legal discussions, and teachings—which shaped Rabbinical Judaism over the next few centuries. Many beliefs and traditions common during the Second Temple Period (from the return from Babylonian exile to the time of Christ) were either disregarded or changed by Rabbinical Judaism. For instance, it was not uncommon for Jewish rabbis to believe in the concept of more than one "person" of God, an early notion resembling the Christian doctrine of the Trinity. However, after Jesus’ time, such ideas were dismissed. Similarly, when different translations of the prophetic books existed, those that pointed to Jesus as the Messiah were deliberately avoided.

An interesting historical footnote occurred during the 4th century under the reign of Emperor Julian the Apostate, when there was an attempt to rebuild the Temple. This effort ended in divine intervention through earthquakes and firestorms, which destroyed the rebuilding effort, and those involved perished.

Modern Judaism, based on the Torah and the Talmud, is therefore a departure from the ancient practices of Biblical Judaism. It is a man-made religion that emerged in reaction to Christianity, not a continuation of the Old Testament Judaism, which was fulfilled and transformed by Christ. The Old Testament system of worship no longer exists as it did during the time of our Lord. When people refer to Judaism today, it is essential to recognize that modern Rabbinical Judaism is not the same as the Jewish faith practiced during the time of Christ. While both groups are called “Jews,” their beliefs and practices are quite different. Messianic Judaism, on the other hand, is a movement of Jews who believe that Jesus (Yeshua) is the Messiah prophesied in the Hebrew Scriptures. Messianic Jews hold to the Jewish heritage and observe Jewish customs but believe that Jesus fulfilled the messianic prophecies of the Old Testament. They follow both the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) and the New Testament, viewing their faith as a continuation and fulfillment of Judaism through Jesus, rather than a break from it. For them, Jesus is the way to reconcile both their Jewish identity and their faith in the Messiah. In summary, following their rejection of the Messiah, Jesus, Judaism underwent a radical transformation after the destruction of the Second Temple. By around 200 AD, with the creation of the Talmud, modern Judaism emerged as Rabbinic Judaism. They had to rework their religion to function without the Temple. This is not a hidden fact any rabbi will acknowledge it.

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Hinduism

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Hinduism is the world's third-largest religion after Christianity and Islam, with about 1.2 billion followers, predominantly in India where it is the national religion. At one time, Hinduism was referred to as Brahmanism. Religions like Jainism, Buddhism, and Hare Krishna have roots in Hinduism and share some of its beliefs. Nepal and Mauritius also have a majority Hindu population.

Although Hinduism is often cited as the oldest religion in the world, some argue that belief in Jehovah God and various forms of Satanism predates it. Hinduism encompasses a wide range of philosophies, rituals, deities, pilgrimage sites, yoga practices, mythology, and other beliefs. Its major scriptures are the Vedas, considered their holy books. The four main denominations are Vaishnavism (worship of Vishnu), Shaivism (worship of Shiva), Shaktism (worship of Devi), and Smartism (worship of five deities considered equal). The Om symbol represents Hinduism, much like the cross represents Christianity.

Hinduism is based on six schools of philosophy: Sankhya, Yoga, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Mimamsa, and Vedanta, with Vedanta and Yoga being the most popular today. Yoga has become widespread beyond Hinduism, including among Christians and Buddhists. Some believe that practices like emptying the mind during meditation can conflict with Christian teachings that emphasize filling the mind with the Holy Spirit and meditating on God's word.

Beliefs within Hinduism vary greatly, leading some to describe it as multiple religions within one. It deeply integrates with India's culture and traditions, and the government often associates true Indian identity with being Hindu. Hinduism involves the worship of many gods and goddesses and does not claim a single founder. Its influence extends to Hollywood and the film industry.

Key Beliefs of Hinduism: Dharma: The primary goal for Hindus, encompassing behaviors aligned with the universe's order (rta), religious duties, moral actions, and social order. Social class, or caste, is significant in India, and dharma involves good works and religious practices. Artha: The pursuit of wealth and success for one's livelihood and social standing. Hindus strive for artha as part of their life goals. Kama: The pursuit of sensual and aesthetic pleasures to achieve personal satisfaction. Hinduism encourages seeking pleasure in ways that fulfill the individual. Moksha: Liberation from the cycle of samsara (reincarnation). Achieving moksha means realizing one's true self and attaining lasting happiness and peace. Different schools interpret moksha as liberation during life or after death. Karma: The belief that one's actions, good or bad, affect their current life and future reincarnations. Good deeds lead to positive outcomes, while bad deeds have negative consequences. Samsara: The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Hindus believe they reincarnate based on their karma, potentially returning as humans or animals. The ultimate goal is to break free from this cycle by achieving moksha.

Hinduism features numerous festivals based on its own lunar calendar, the most famous being Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrated over five days between mid-October and mid-November. Diwali honors the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity and the wife of Vishnu.

Hindus worship millions of deities, with some of the most significant being Vishnu, Brahma, Shiva, Devi, Ganesha (the elephant god), Hanuman (the monkey god), Lakshmi, Durga (who rides a lion), Kali (goddess of death), and Saraswati (goddess of knowledge, art, and music). Animals like rats and cows hold special significance; for instance, rats are revered in certain temples, and cows are considered sacred, leading most Hindus to practice vegetarianism.

The Indian government often intertwines with Hinduism, sometimes making it challenging for individuals to convert from Hinduism to other religions. There have been instances of violence against those who attempt to leave the faith or convert others (Hindu Extremism).

Hinduism offers multiple creation stories, varying from the universe emerging from a divine self, to being born from a cosmic egg, to cycles of creation and destruction by deities like Vishnu or Brahma. Beliefs in heaven and hell are present but viewed as temporary states influenced by one's karma. The religion also has a vast array of sacred texts beyond the Vedas, such as the Puranas, Upanishads, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavad Gita, and Devi Mahatmya. Ancestor worship is also common, with rituals to honor and appease ancestral spirits.

Very much! In all human history, Hinduism has been one of the greatest of Satan’s lies, one that has brought oppression and suffering to far more people for a far longer time. Hinduism has oppressed one of the most beautiful and intelligent races of mankind for thousands of years, deceiving with a hypnotic power far greater than any modern mass ideology. Consider the paradox: How is it that India with its vast population and incalculable talent is economically inferior to the comparatively tiny island nation of Japan? It is not because Japan is rich in resources, for Japan has no resources to speak of but the Japanese people themselves. India, too, with its huge population is rich in the most important single resource necessary for economic prosperity — men and women created in the image of God. What went wrong? In a word: Hinduism.

The caste system of Hinduism — which is fanatically supported and imposed by Indian political authority — undermines the possibility of millions to freely develop and apply the talents that God has given them because caste rules prevent them. Add to that the lie of reincarnation. This life and its trials and troubles result from karma from a previous life. No need to worry. You have another chance. Also, no need to show compassion for those who suffer because it is their karma. In fact, showing compassion for them might ruin their future, for they suffer to fulfill the debt of karma. If they suffer enough, they might have it better in their reincarnated future. But above all this is the lie of “enlightenment” — the boldest and most absurd (where Hinduism and Buddhism largely concur).

R. C. Zaehner quotes Dasgupta‘A totality of partless, simple and undifferentiated experience’: what does this mean? It means that man sees his deepest essence as being fundamentally identical with the common source of all things, and he can therefore say, ‘I am this All’ or ‘I am Brahman’. This is usually called pantheism: the soul feels itself to be coterminous with all that is and therefore with God: man is God: so‘smy aham, ‘I am He’. And again since He is All, I too am All. ‘Whoso knows, “I am Brahman”, becomes this All. Not even the gods have the power to prevent him becoming thus, for such a one becomes their own self.’ This absolute identity of the human soul with the godhead is attested in several passages in the Upanisads, and it is the very thesis of the Mdndukya. It is also basic to Sankara’s Advaita (non-dualism) and to Saktism.

Imagine swallowing the lie that says, “I am this All,” or “I am He,” or whoso knows “I am Brahman becomes this All. It may be that the “absolute identity of the human soul with the godhead is attested in several passages in the Upanisads,” but all the Hindu enlightened ones who proclaimed that “I am He” are dead, gone, and forgotten. Does anyone know the name of a single one of them? By contrast, Jesus — a carpenter from the obscure town of Nazareth — said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father but by me” (John 14:6). Only Jesus can open the way to the true knowledge of God because He really was “He.” How do we know? It was demonstrated definitively by His resurrection from the dead. To the quotation above about Hinduism, add this: The paradox of the theistic Yoga is that the contemplation of God in his perfection does not lead to any love of him or desire to unite with him, but rather spurs one on to emulate him in his total detachment from everything that is associated with coming-to-be and passing away, in his absolute independence, freedom, and isolation.

If we believe — as Jesus taught us — that God is Father, Son, and Spirit, who fellowship in eternal love, we might not imagine that the goal is total detachment, absolute independence, and freedom, where “freedom” means utter and unqualified isolation. “Isolation” is actually part of the definition of hell — the very opposite of the Christian view of freedom and life. The Christian goal is total freedom in ecstatic eternal fellowship between God and man, and among men — in other words, “love.” How very different the Christian vision is from the Hindu vision! So, what is my point? Am I writing just to say something like India and Hinduism are evil, no. I am writing to say that Christians should pray for India — for the Indian people to be released from their bondage to Hinduism, to pray for the Holy Spirit to do work in this great nation to bring this great people to true enlightenment: the light of the knowledge of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

Discovering the Divine Within: A Cross-Comparison of Hinduism, Gnosticism, New Age, the Serpent in Genesis, and LaVeyan Satanism

Throughout human history, the search for inner divinity and self-realization has taken on many forms across spiritual, religious, and philosophical traditions. At the heart of these diverse systems is a common thread: the idea that knowledge, empowerment, and enlightenment come from within. Whether through transcending the material world, awakening a divine essence, or embracing one’s personal power, each tradition presents a unique path to discovering the "god" or higher self within. Below, we explore five different traditions—Hinduism, Gnosticism, the New Age Movement, the story of the Serpent in Genesis, and LaVeyan Satanism—and how they address this profound search for self-knowledge and divine realization.

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Hinduism: Realizing Unity with the Divine

In Hinduism, particularly through the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, the individual soul (Atman) is seen as one with the universal divine reality (Brahman). The key to spiritual liberation (Moksha) lies in realizing that the self is not separate from the divine; rather, the perception of separation is an illusion (Maya). This path toward self-realization is not ego-driven but one of transcending the ego, where the individual comes to understand that their true essence is divine. The journey involves meditation, self-inquiry, and ethical living, all of which lead to an awakening of the divine within. This emphasis on inner divinity aligns closely with other mystical traditions, although it focuses more on spiritual unity than personal empowerment.

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Gnosticism: Awakening the Divine Spark

Gnosticism, a mystical tradition that emerged in the early Christian era, shares a similar theme of discovering the divine within. Gnostics believe that each individual carries a divine spark—a fragment of the true God—trapped in the material world created by a lower, imperfect being known as the Demiurge. The material world, in Gnosticism, is seen as a prison, and salvation (gnosis) comes from inner mystical knowledge. By awakening this divine spark through spiritual enlightenment, one transcends the material and returns to the Pleroma, the realm of divine fullness. Like Hinduism, Gnosticism emphasizes the idea that divinity resides within the individual, but it frames this within a narrative of liberation from the material world.

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The New Age Movement: Self-Empowerment and Spiritual Awakening

The New Age Movement, which blends elements from various spiritual traditions including Hinduism and Gnosticism, emphasizes personal spiritual empowerment and the discovery of the "Higher Self." In New Age thought, individuals are believed to have an innate divine potential that can be accessed through practices such as meditation, energy healing, and visualization. The goal is to align with a higher consciousness, achieve inner peace, and manifest personal desires through spiritual growth. While the New Age movement shares the idea of inner divinity with Hinduism and Gnosticism, it places more focus on personal growth, self-empowerment, and the interconnectedness of all life. The New Age approach blends the spiritual with the material, suggesting that individuals can shape their reality by connecting with their inner divinity.

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The Serpent in Genesis: The Offer of Forbidden Knowledge

In Genesis Chapter 3 the serpent tempts Adam and Eve to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, promising them that their eyes will be opened and they will "be like God" (Genesis 3:5). This offer of divine knowledge leads to their fall from grace, introducing sin and separation from God. However, in esoteric and Gnostic interpretations of the story, the serpent can be viewed as a bringer of enlightenment—offering humanity forbidden knowledge that leads to self-awareness and spiritual awakening. This theme of seeking hidden knowledge aligns with the Gnostic and New Age focus on inner awakening, but in reality, the pursuit of this knowledge results in a fall rather than enlightenment.

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LaVeyan Satanism: Worship of the Self and Personal Power

In LaVeyan Satanism, founded by Anton LaVey in the 1960s, the concept of divinity is turned inward in a radically different way. Rather than seeking union with a higher power, LaVeyan Satanism celebrates the self as the ultimate source of authority and power. It rejects the idea of external deities and divine laws, encouraging individuals to "worship" themselves and embrace their own desires and will. This philosophy emphasizes personal strength, indulgence, and the rejection of traditional morality in favor of self-empowerment. While LaVeyan Satanism shares the theme of inner empowerment with the New Age movement and the self-realization found in Hinduism and Gnosticism, it focuses entirely on materialism, egoism, and hedonism rather than spiritual transcendence.

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Connecting the Threads: The Path to Inner Divinity

Across these five traditions, we see a shared emphasis on the discovery of something profound within the individual—whether it is framed as a divine essence, inner power, or personal godhood. While Hinduism, Gnosticism, and the New Age movement seek spiritual awakening and transcendence, LaVeyan Satanism places this focus on personal empowerment and indulgence in the material world. The story of the serpent in Genesis acts as a bridge between these ideas, illustrating the allure and danger of seeking hidden knowledge and inner power, which, depending on interpretation, can lead to either downfall or liberation.

The Bible consistently warns against pride and self-worship. Isaiah 14:13-14 describes Lucifer’s fall due to his desire to exalt himself above God, and Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Self-exaltation and indulgence directly oppose the Bible’s teachings of humility, self-control, and submission to God’s will.

They all share a dangerous common thread: they encourage the pursuit of self-realization, hidden knowledge, and self-divinity, echoing the serpent’s lie in the Garden of Eden. Each system, in its way, invites individuals to seek spiritual enlightenment or power independently of God, exalting the self and rejecting divine authority.

Thelema, Theosophy, and Freemasonry: Connecting Western Esotericism to Hinduism, Gnosticism, New Age, the Serpent in Genesis, and LaVeyan Satanism

Across human history, various spiritual and esoteric traditions have sought to uncover the deeper mysteries of existence, focusing on self-realization, inner divinity, and personal empowerment. From ancient wisdom traditions to modern spiritual movements, these ideas have evolved, weaving through different cultures and belief systems. Here, we explore how Thelema (Aleister Crowley), Theosophy (Helena Blavatsky), and Freemasonry relate to Hinduism, Gnosticism, the New Age Movement, the Serpent in Genesis, and LaVeyan Satanism, all of which emphasize the discovery of hidden knowledge, the power of the self, and the realization of the divine within.

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Thelema (Aleister Crowley): Mystical Knowledge and Personal Will

Aleister Crowley’s philosophy of Thelema, which centers on the maxim "Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law," focuses on the discovery and fulfillment of one’s True Will. This concept of the True Will is Crowley’s version of inner divinity—a guiding spiritual purpose that, once realized, leads to self-empowerment and spiritual enlightenment.

Connection to Hinduism: Crowley practiced yoga extensively, viewing it as a tool to achieve spiritual union and self-realization. This mirrors the Hindu concept of discovering that Atman (the individual soul) is one with Brahman (the universal soul). Both systems teach that self-realization involves understanding one’s true nature beyond the ego.

Connection to Gnosticism: In Gnosticism, the pursuit of gnosis—mystical knowledge of the divine—is central to spiritual awakening. Similarly, in Thelema, the pursuit of one`s True Will is a form of esoteric knowledge that aligns the individual with higher spiritual forces. Crowley’s emphasis on mystical practices like magick parallels the Gnostic goal of accessing hidden knowledge to transcend the material world.

Connection to New Age Movement: The New Age Movement, with its focus on personal growth, self-empowerment, and spiritual exploration, echoes Crowley’s Thelema. Both systems reject dogmatic religious authority in favor of a personal, individual spiritual journey toward enlightenment. The New Age idea of connecting with the Higher Self aligns with Crowley’s True Will.

Connection to the Serpent in Genesis: In Thelema, Crowley saw the serpent not as a deceiver, but as a symbol of enlightenment and the pursuit of forbidden knowledge. Much like the Gnostic interpretation of the serpent as a bringer of wisdom, Crowley’s magick and mystical practices aim at personal transformation and awakening through self-knowledge.

Connection to LaVeyan Satanism: Both Thelema and LaVeyan Satanism place the individual at the center of their belief systems. While LaVeyan Satanism emphasizes egoistic self-worship, Crowley’s Thelema teaches self-empowerment through the alignment of one’s will with a higher spiritual purpose. Both systems reject traditional moral frameworks, celebrating individual freedom.

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Theosophy (Helena Blavatsky): Universal Wisdom and Spiritual Evolution

Theosophy is a syncretic spiritual movement that blends elements of Eastern and Western wisdom traditions, aiming to uncover the ancient, universal truths that underlie all religions. Helena Blavatsky’s Theosophy focuses on the evolution of the soul, reincarnation, karma, and the belief in hidden knowledge passed down by spiritual "Masters."

Connection to Hinduism: Theosophy draws heavily from Hindu concepts such as karma, reincarnation, and the unity of all life through Brahman. The Theosophical view of spiritual evolution mirrors Hinduism’s concept of the individual’s journey toward realizing their divine nature (i.e., Atman as Brahman).

Connection to Gnostocism: Gnosticism’s focus on discovering hidden, esoteric knowledge parallels Theosophy’s teaching that spiritual truths are revealed through inner exploration and the guidance of enlightened beings (Ascended Masters). Both traditions seek to liberate the soul from the ignorance and materialism that keep it trapped in the lower realms.

Connection to the New Age Movement: The New Age Movement directly inherits much from Theosophy, especially its emphasis on personal spiritual growth, the existence of a higher self, reincarnation, and the search for universal spiritual truths. Both systems encourage individuals to seek their own path to enlightenment, drawing from multiple traditions.

Connection to the Serpent in Genesis: In Gnostic and Theosophical interpretations, the serpent in Genesis represents the offer of hidden knowledge and spiritual awakening. Blavatsky’s Theosophy viewed traditional religious interpretations as flawed, much like Gnostic views, and emphasized the importance of accessing deeper, esoteric truths.

Connection to LaVeyan Satanism: While Theosophy and LaVeyan Satanism diverge sharply in their ethical teachings, both reject mainstream religious dogma. Theosophy emphasizes spiritual evolution and divine unity, while LaVeyan Satanism focuses on egoistic self-worship, yet both place the individual at the center of their philosophical systems.

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Freemasonry: Esoteric Knowledge and Moral Development

Freemasonry, an ancient fraternal organization with esoteric underpinnings, teaches that individuals must engage in moral self-development and seek hidden knowledge to attain spiritual enlightenment. Freemasonry emphasizes symbolism, ritual, and the idea of progressing through various degrees of understanding as one advances spiritually.

Connection to Hinduism: Freemasonry’s emphasis on inner exploration, personal moral development, and spiritual progression reflects the Hindu path of karma and dharma—ethical action and duty as necessary steps toward spiritual liberation. Both systems emphasize self-realization through ethical living and self-discipline.

Connection to Gnosticism: Like Gnosticism, Freemasonry views the material world as a place of moral and spiritual testing, where hidden knowledge and self-awareness are necessary for advancing toward higher levels of consciousness. Both systems use symbolism and ritual as tools for accessing esoteric truths.

Connection to the New Age Movement: Freemasonry’s focus on self-improvement, personal spiritual growth, and uncovering hidden truths connects with the New Age Movement’s emphasis on holistic spirituality. Both encourage personal responsibility in the quest for enlightenment, using symbols, rituals, and practices to advance spiritual development.

Connection to the Serpent in Genesis: Freemasonry’s symbolism often draws on ancient wisdom traditions, including the idea that knowledge, even forbidden knowledge, leads to enlightenment. Similar to Gnostic interpretations of the serpent in Genesis, Freemasonry sees the acquisition of knowledge as essential for personal and spiritual advancement.

Connection to LaVeyan Satanism: Freemasonry and LaVeyan Satanism both emphasize individual empowerment, though they differ in focus. Freemasonry promotes moral and spiritual development through symbolism and ritual, while LaVeyan Satanism celebrates personal indulgence and egoistic self-worship. However, both reject conventional religious authority and place value on personal discovery.

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Conclusion: Weaving Together Inner Divinity, Knowledge, and Self-Empowerment

All six of these spiritual systems—Hinduism, Gnosticism, Theosophy, New Age Thought, Thelema, and LaVeyan Satanism—are united by a dangerous underlying theme: they promote the quest for self-exaltation, the pursuit of secret wisdom, and the belief in one’s own divinity. This parallels the serpent's deception in the Garden of Eden, where humanity was tempted to seek god-like knowledge and autonomy apart from God. Each of these systems, in its own distinct way, urges individuals to find spiritual enlightenment or personal power on their own terms, ultimately elevating the self and rejecting the authority of the Creator.

Thelema and Theosophy emphasize mystical knowledge and self-realization, blending Eastern spirituality with Western esotericism, much like Hinduism and Gnosticism.

Freemasonry connects through its use of symbolism and ritual to guide individuals toward moral and spiritual enlightenment, reflecting the New Age focus on holistic self-improvement and the Gnostic quest for gnosis.

The serpent in Genesis, as reinterpreted by esoteric traditions, becomes a symbol of enlightenment and the pursuit of forbidden knowledge, paralleling the aims of these systems to discover the divine within.

though more materialistic and ego-driven, still shares with these systems the emphasis on rejecting dogma and placing the individual at the center of their spiritual journey.

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Self-Worship and the Decline of Moral Boundaries

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These spiritual systems, with their emphasis on self-worship, personal liberation, and the rejection of traditional moral boundaries, have contributed to the rise of sexual immorality and the depravity of the human race. The prioritization of self, the pursuit of personal desires, and the rejection of external moral authority (as seen in these philosophies) have, in many cases, led to moral relativism and the erosion of values that once upheld the dignity of human relationships and sexual conduct.

In systems like LaVeyan Satanism, Thelema, and even some aspects of New Age Thought, the focus on self-empowerment and personal liberation often leads to the rejection of traditional moral structures. These philosophies promote the idea that the individual should prioritize personal desires, instincts, and will over societal or religious norms, which often include boundaries on sexual conduct. When personal pleasure and liberation become the ultimate goals, moral boundaries—including those governing sexual behavior—are frequently cast aside, leading to the normalization of sexual immorality.

LaVeyan Satanism openly advocates indulgence and personal gratification, rejecting the idea of sexual restraint as repressive. This philosophy leads to a moral environment where anything that satisfies the self is considered acceptable, even if it contradicts Biblical teachings on sexual purity and restraint.

Thelema, with its principle "Do what thou wilt," promotes the pursuit of personal will above all else, including in sexual matters. Aleister Crowley’s own writings often encouraged the breaking of conventional sexual mores as part of a path to spiritual and personal liberation.

The New Age Movement and its focus on self-empowerment and the pursuit of personal pleasure have contributed to a moral relativism where individuals define their own morality. While New Age spirituality often promotes love and harmony, the relativistic approach to personal ethics can lead to justifying behaviors that the Bible would condemn, such as sexual immorality.

The Bible teaches that self-exaltation and the rejection of God’s authority inevitably lead to moral decline, including sexual immorality. When people prioritize the worship of self, they often pursue their own desires and passions without regard for God’s design for sexuality, which is clearly defined in the Bible.

Romans 1:24-25 speaks directly to this issue: "Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised." When individuals exchange the worship of God for self-worship or the pursuit of pleasure, sexual immorality and depravity follow. This passage directly ties idolatry—whether of physical idols or the idol of self—with moral corruption, particularly sexual impurity.

2 Timothy 3:1-4 also warns about the consequences of prioritizing self over God: "But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God." This description of moral decline includes sexual immorality and depravity as natural consequences of loving self and pleasure over God.

These systems of thought often encourage moral relativism, the belief that moral judgments are not absolute but rather are determined by individual preferences or cultural norms. This leads to a subjective understanding of right and wrong, where sexual behaviors once considered immoral by Biblical standards are now seen as acceptable expressions of personal freedom.

Hinduism, while diverse, includes traditions that embrace the concept of Kama (sensual pleasure) as one of the legitimate goals of life, which, without the boundaries of Biblical morality, can lead to an unrestrained pursuit of sexual desires. In some interpretations, this can justify behaviors that align with personal desires rather than God’s standards of sexual purity.

Gnosticism, with its rejection of the material world as inherently evil, often led to two extremes: either the rejection of all earthly pleasures (asceticism) or indulgence in them, believing that since the body was irrelevant, what one did with it didn’t matter. This second approach can easily lead to sexual immorality, as the physical body is devalued and self-gratification is prioritized.

Theosophy, while more focused on spiritual evolution and hidden wisdom, can also contribute to moral relativism by encouraging individuals to seek their own spiritual truths, which could lead to permissive attitudes toward sexual behavior.

The Bible presents a clear moral framework for sexuality, rooted in God’s design for human relationships. Sex is a gift from God, intended for the covenant of marriage between one man and one woman (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:4-6). Sexual immorality, which includes fornication, adultery, and other forms of sexual impurity, is repeatedly condemned in Scripture.

1 Corinthians 6:18-20: "Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." This passage calls for believers to honor God with their bodies, directly opposing the self-worship and indulgence promoted in systems like LaVeyan Satanism and Thelema.

Ephesians 5:3: "But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people." The Bible’s clear stance on sexual morality stands in direct opposition to the permissiveness that arises from self-centered spiritual philosophies.

The philosophies that prioritize self-worship and liberation from traditional moral boundaries open the door to unchecked indulgence, leading to the degradation of the human body and spirit. This pattern mirrors the result of the serpent’s temptation in the Garden of Eden, where the promise of becoming "like God" led to the fall and introduced sin into the world.

Jude 1:4 warns of those who "pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality." This reflects how the pursuit of liberation and personal freedom, when detached from God’s moral framework, can result in a license for sexual immorality and other sinful behaviors.

Across Thelema, Theosophy, Freemasonry, Hinduism, Gnosticism, New Age Thought, and LaVeyan Satanism, a recurring and central theme emerges: the pursuit of hidden or esoteric knowledge, the belief in the realization of inner divinity, and the elevation of individual empowerment above all else. This philosophy mirrors the very lie and deceptive tactic used by the serpent in the Garden of Eden, who tempted Adam and Eve with the promise of becoming "like God" through forbidden knowledge. Just as the serpent lured humanity away from submission to God by appealing to their desire for self-elevation, these systems encourage the pursuit of self-divinity, autonomy, and liberation from divine authority, leading people down a dangerous path away from the truth of God`s Word.

Masquerading as Light: Examining Religions Founded on Angelic Revelations

Throughout history, various religious movements have claimed to receive revelations from angels or other supernatural beings. These revelations often form the foundation of the religion’s beliefs and practices. Below is a detailed study of several belief systems that share this common theme.

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Islam: Rejecting the Son of God and Distorting Salvation

Origin & Brief History: Islam was founded in the 7th century in Mecca (modern-day Saudi Arabia) by the prophet Muhammad. Muslims believe that Muhammad is the final prophet sent by Allah. The Islamic tradition teaches that, over the course of 23 years (beginning in 610 CE), Muhammad received divine revelations from the angel Gabriel (Jibril). These revelations were later compiled into the Qur’an, the holy book of Islam, which Muslims believe is the final and perfect revelation of God to humanity.

Revelation: Muhammad`s first encounter with Gabriel occurred in the Cave of Hira, where Gabriel commanded him to "Recite" (Iqra). Muhammad initially resisted, feeling overwhelmed by the encounter, but eventually accepted his role as the messenger of God. Over the next 23 years, Gabriel continued to deliver God’s messages to Muhammad, covering matters of faith, law, morality, and governance.

Beliefs:

Islam is strictly monotheistic, emphasizing submission to the will of Allah.

Muslims believe that the Qur’an is the literal word of God as revealed to Muhammad, superseding previous scriptures like the Bible and Torah.

Five pillars of Islam form the foundation of Muslim practice: Shahada (faith), Salat (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting during Ramadan), and Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca).

Islam rejects the Christian doctrine of the Trinity and teaches that Jesus was a prophet, not the Son of God.

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Jehovah’s Witness: Denying Christ’s Divinity and the Gospel

Origin & Brief History: Jehovah’s Witnesses emerged from the Bible Student movement in the late 19th century, led by Charles Taze Russell. Initially part of the broader Adventist tradition, Russell`s teachings gradually evolved into a distinct movement emphasizing the imminent return of Christ and a rejection of traditional Christian doctrines like the Trinity.

Revelation: While Jehovah’s Witnesses do not claim angelic visitations in the same sense as Islam or Mormonism, they believe their understanding of the Bible has been divinely guided. The Watchtower Society, which governs Jehovah`s Witnesses, claims that God has progressively revealed His truth to the organization, enabling it to interpret the Bible correctly.

Beliefs:

Jehovah’s Witnesses emphasize the use of God`s name, Jehovah, believing that this is critical to true worship.

They reject the doctrine of the Trinity, teaching that Jehovah is the supreme God, Jesus is His first creation, and the Holy Spirit is God`s active force, not a person.

Jehovah’s Witnesses believe in the imminent establishment of God`s Kingdom on Earth, where the faithful will live eternally after the current world system is destroyed at Armageddon.

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that people who died before Armageddon will be resurrected and will be taught the proper way to worship God and face a final test at the end of the millennial reign. This judgment will be based on their actions after resurrection rather than past deeds. However, those who rejected their beliefs while still alive will not be resurrected and will continue to experience a state of non-existence.

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Mormonism: Exalting Humanity and Diminishing Christ

Origin & Brief History: Mormonism was founded by Joseph Smith in the early 19th century in the United States. Smith claimed that, in 1823, he was visited by an angel named Moroni, who revealed to him the location of ancient golden plates inscribed with the record of an ancient American civilization. Smith translated these plates into what became the Book of Mormon.

Revelation: Joseph Smith reported that he was visited by the angel Moroni, the last prophet of an ancient civilization, who revealed to him where the golden plates were buried in upstate New York. Smith claimed that these plates contained the story of an ancient civilization that had been visited by Jesus after His resurrection. The translation of these plates became the Book of Mormon, which is regarded by Mormons as scripture alongside the Bible.

Beliefs:

Mormons believe in God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost as three separate beings united in purpose but distinct in personhood.

Mormons baptize dead people. That's why it encourages its members to engage in family history research to perform baptisms for the dead. This practice necessitates keeping track of genealogy to trace ancestors and ensure that those who have passed away are given the opportunity for salvation. Genealogical records are significantly important for this purpose within the church. (Hebrews 9:27-28 )

Mormons believe in the concept of exaltation, where faithful adherents can become gods in the afterlife (oldest lie of the Devil).

They emphasize ongoing revelation through modern-day prophets, starting with Joseph Smith and continuing through the current president of the church.

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Zoroastrianism: Worship of the Creation through Fire and False Dualism

Origin & Brief History: Zoroastrianism is one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, founded by the prophet Zoroaster (or Zarathustra) in ancient Persia, likely between 1500-1200 BC. Zoroaster is said to have received divine revelations from Ahura Mazda, the supreme god of Zoroastrianism, and his teachings laid the foundation for the religion.

Revelation: Zoroaster claimed that Vohu Manah, an archangel-like figure, appeared to him and brought him before Ahura Mazda, the supreme God. Through these revelations, Zoroaster was taught about the cosmic struggle between good (Ahura Mazda) and evil (Angra Mainyu), and his mission was to guide humanity in choosing good over evil.

Beliefs:

Zoroastrianism is centered on the dualistic battle between the forces of good (Ahura Mazda) and evil (Angra Mainyu).

Followers are expected to promote good thoughts, good words, and good deeds to align with Ahura Mazda and fight against evil.

Zoroastrianism emphasizes the coming of a savior (Saoshyant), who will bring about the final defeat of evil.

Very similar to Islam particularly in their prayer rituals and practices.

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Theosophy: Seeking Wisdom from Deceptive Spirits

Origin & Brief History: Theosophy was founded in the late 19th century by Helena Blavatsky, a Russian occultist. She claimed to have received teachings from Ascended Masters—enlightened beings who had achieved a higher spiritual state. Theosophy blends Eastern and Western spiritual ideas and focuses on the evolution of the human soul.

Revelation: Blavatsky claimed to have received telepathic communications and visions from Ascended Masters, spiritual entities she believed resided on a higher plane of existence. These beings revealed hidden wisdom to her, which she compiled into works like The Secret Doctrine and Isis Unveiled.

Beliefs:

Theosophy teaches that all religions share a common truth and that spiritual knowledge has been revealed progressively throughout history by various teachers.

It emphasizes reincarnation, karma, and the eventual spiritual evolution of all souls toward unity with the divine.

Theosophy teaches that humanity can connect with spiritual hierarchies and ascended masters who guide human evolution.

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Seventh-day Adventism: Distorting Christ’s Return and Divine Revelation

Origin & Brief History: Seventh-day Adventism grew out of the Millerite movement of the 19th century. Ellen G. White, one of the key founders, claimed to have received numerous visions from God. The movement officially formed in 1863, with a strong emphasis on the imminent second coming of Christ and the observance of Saturday as the Sabbath.

Revelation: Ellen G. White claimed to have received over 2,000 visions and dreams from God. These revelations informed many of the movement’s core doctrines, including dietary principles, the importance of the Sabbath, and the interpretation of biblical prophecy.

Beliefs:

Adventists believe that hell is not an eternity of suffering and torture. They believe God is just but also merciful and it’s not in the nature of God to torture the unrighteous for eternity. Instead, sinners and unbelievers will ultimately die for eternity.

They emphasize the observance of the Sabbath on Saturday

They promote health and wellness, including vegetarianism, based on divine guidance through Ellen White’s visions.

Adventists believe in the investigative judgment, a phase of judgment beginning in 1844 where Christ began reviewing the lives of all people to determine their eternal destiny.

Seventh Day Adventists believe that there is a sanctuary in heaven set up by God. There, Christ ministers on our behalf. In the first phase of this, called the ascension, Jesus became High Priest of this sanctuary. In 1844 at the end of a prophetic period of 2,300 days, Jesus entered the second phase of his atoning ministry. During this phase, Jesus’ work at the heavenly sanctuary is on eradicating all sin.

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Cao Dai: Distorting Truth by Blending False Religions

Origin & Brief History: Cao Dai is a syncretic religion that emerged in Vietnam in 1926. Its founders claimed to have received messages from God, angels, and deceased religious figures during spiritual séances. Ngo Van Chieu, the principal founder, was one of the key figures who received these revelations.

Revelation: Cao Dai practitioners claim to receive divine communications from God and spiritual beings through mediums. These revelations guide the followers of Cao Dai and helped establish their belief system, which blends elements from multiple world religions.

Beliefs:

Cao Dai is a syncretic religion that integrates teachings from Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, and Islam.

The religion worships a single, all-powerful God and teaches the importance of following the guidance of divine messengers from various religious traditions.

Practitioners emphasize ethical living, spiritual growth, and achieving unity with the divine through multiple incarnations.

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Conclusion: The Common Threads and Biblical Warnings Regarding Angelic Revelations

Across these belief systems—Islam, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormonism, Zoroastrianism, Theosophy, Seventh-day Adventism, and Cao Dai—several recurring themes emerge. Each of these religions claims to have received special revelations through angels or other supernatural beings, often delivering new or additional spiritual knowledge. This theme of divine or esoteric knowledge leads followers to believe that they have access to unique truths or paths to salvation. While these belief systems differ in their specifics, they share dangerous similarities that align with the serpent’s original deception in the Garden of Eden, where humans were tempted to seek god-like knowledge independently of God.

Common Themes in These Religions

Divine or Angelic Revelation: Each system claims to have been established through direct revelations from supernatural beings, whether they be angels like Gabriel and Moroni or spiritual masters in Theosophy. This special knowledge is often presented as superior to existing religious understanding.

Esoteric Knowledge and Salvation: Several of these religions emphasize hidden or esoteric wisdom that was previously inaccessible. Followers are taught that by following these new revelations, they can attain deeper spiritual enlightenment, salvation, or even divine status.

Self-Elevation or Human Divinity: In some of these belief systems, such as Theosophy and Mormonism, there is an emphasis on human beings achieving divine status through their own spiritual progression. This idea mirrors the original temptation in Eden, where Adam and Eve were lured into believing they could "be like God."

Lies & Deception

The Bible provides clear warnings against the pursuit of new or different gospels that diverge from the teachings of Christ and the apostolic tradition. These warnings are especially important when considering claims of angelic or supernatural revelations. The Bible emphasizes that salvation and truth come through Jesus Christ alone, and any deviation from this is seen as a false gospel.

The Exclusivity of Christ’s Revelation: John 14:6 declares that Jesus is the only way to the Father. These religions present additional revelations or scriptures that either contradict or supplement the Bible, but Galatians 1:8 warns against accepting any gospel that is different from the one preached by the apostles: "But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse!" Paul’s strong language reminds believers to reject any new teaching, even if it comes from an angel, if it contradicts the gospel of Christ.

Salvation through Christ Alone: Many of these belief systems offer alternative means of salvation, whether through moral actions, esoteric knowledge, or spiritual progression. However, Ephesians 2:8-9 makes it clear that salvation is a gift from God through faith in Christ, not by human effort or secret knowledge. No additional revelation is needed beyond the work of Christ on the cross.

The Deceptive Nature of Satan: One of the greatest dangers of these angelic or supernatural revelations is that Satan himself is described as a master deceiver. 2 Corinthians 11:14 warns that "Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light." This means that even if an angel appears to deliver what seems like divine truth, believers must be cautious, as Satan can manipulate appearances to deceive. Satan deceived one-third of the angels in heaven, and since God didn’t create unintelligent beings, this shows just how cunning and deceptive the devil is. His ability to present himself as an angel of light indicates that not every supernatural encounter is from God.

Satan as the "god of This World": In 2 Corinthians 4:4, the apostle Paul refers to Satan as the "god of this world," highlighting his influence over worldly systems and belief structures that draw people away from the truth of God. Jesus Himself referred to Satan’s authority over the present world system, reminding believers that Satan holds sway over those who reject the truth. These spiritual systems that promote self-divinity or hidden knowledge are examples of how Satan subtly leads people into deception, shifting their focus away from God and toward self-exaltation.

The Importance of Discernment and Galatians 1:8

The warnings found in Galatians 1:8 are critical for Christians navigating a world filled with claims of angelic revelations and supernatural experiences. Paul’s message serves as a guide for evaluating spiritual claims: if any teaching, even one delivered by an angel, diverges from the gospel of Jesus Christ, it is to be rejected. This is crucial because the enemy—Satan—masquerades as an angel of light, presenting his lies as truth. He used this strategy to deceive Adam and Eve, and he continues to use it to mislead people through false religions and revelations today.

Believers must remain grounded in the truth of Scripture and rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. 1 John 4:1 encourages Christians to "test the spirits to see whether they are from God," recognizing that not every spiritual experience or revelation is divinely inspired. The pursuit of hidden knowledge, self-divinity, or new revelations is a dangerous path that ultimately leads away from God and into deception.

Conclusion: Spiritual Vigilance Against Deceptive Revelations

The common thread that runs through these religions—Islam, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormonism, Zoroastrianism, Theosophy, Seventh-day Adventism, and Cao Dai—is the claim to new revelations through supernatural beings or angels, often with the promise of spiritual enlightenment, hidden knowledge, or divine power. While these claims may seem compelling, they reflect the same deceptive tactic used by Satan in the Garden of Eden, luring humanity to seek independence from God.

Galatians 1:8 serves as a safeguard for believers, reminding them that even if an angel appears to deliver a message, it must be consistent with the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Bible warns that Satan is a master of deception, capable of disguising himself as an angel of light and leading people astray. His cunning led to the fall of a third of the angels in heaven, showing just how dangerous his lies are. Jesus Himself referred to Satan as the god of this world, emphasizing his pervasive influence over false religions and belief systems.

Therefore, it is essential for Christians to exercise discernment, remain rooted in the gospel, and test every spiritual claim against the truth of Scripture. Any teaching that encourages the pursuit of self-divinity, hidden knowledge, or salvation apart from Christ is a distortion of the truth and must be rejected. The Bible alone contains the full and final revelation of God’s plan for humanity, and believers are called to hold fast to this truth.

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Mother and Son Worship: A Legacy of Babylonian Paganism

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Semiramis-Tammuz

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Ashtaroth

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Greeks:Aphrodite/Romans:Venus

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Devaki-Krishna

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Nammu-Enki

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Shengmu

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Mary-Jesus

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Isis-Horus

The worship of a mother and child is one of the clearest examples of how Babylonian paganism has endured through the ages. Nearly every major religion features some form of this imagery, which traces back to the ancient Babylonian goddess. As noted elsewhere on this site, after the death of Nimrod, his wife claimed to have supernaturally conceived a son. She declared this child, Tammuz, to be a god, proclaiming that he was the reborn Nimrod, and together, they were worshipped as divine beings. This established the widespread practice of mother and child worship, which continues in various forms around the world today—something God explicitly condemns.

I am the Lord your God; you shall have no other gods before me.(Exodus 20:3)

This is the first of the Ten Commandments, given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai as moral principles for all of humanity.

The Spread of Mother and Child Worship

Numerous Babylonian monuments depict the goddess Semiramis with her child, Tammuz, in her arms. When God scattered the people at the Tower of Babel by confusing their languages, their pagan beliefs, including the worship of the divine mother and child, spread across the globe. Though their languages changed, their pagan practices persisted, which is why nearly every culture has some version of this worship.

For instance:

In India, she was called Indrani, while the Greeks identified her as Aphrodite or Ceres, and the Romans worshipped her as Venus or Fortuna, with her child known as Jupiter. In ancient Asia, she was Cybele, and her child, Deoius.

The Bible speaks of this Mother Goddess worship when the Israelites fell into apostasy. In Judges 2:13, they "forsook the LORD, and served Baal and Ashtaroth." Ashtaroth, also called the “Queen of Heaven,” was a key figure of this pagan worship. Jeremiah rebukes the Israelites for worshipping her in Jeremiah 44:17-19, but they rejected his warnings, bringing upon themselves God`s wrath.

The Global Influence of the Divine Mother

This practice spread far and wide:

In Ephesus, the Great Mother was Diana, revered as both the goddess of virginity and motherhood. Her temple, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, showcased her global influence.

In Egypt, Isis was the divine mother, and her child, Horus. Many Egyptian monuments depict Isis with Horus on her lap, similar to depictions of mother and child in other cultures.

The worship of the mother and child even appeared in pagan England, with a monument from 1747 found at Oxford showing a woman nursing an infant. This imagery is seen from China to Britain and even as far as Mexico.

Paganism in Christianity?

The symbolism of mother and child found its way into certain religious practices, including Catholicism. However, while Mary, the mother of Jesus, was indeed a righteous woman chosen by God, she was never considered divine by the early church or in the Bible. The veneration of Mary as a goddess or the "Queen of Heaven" is not supported by Scripture and is a continuation of ancient pagan practices.

The children gather wood, the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead dough to make cakes for the Queen of Heaven. They pour out drink offerings to other gods to provoke me to anger(Jeremiah 7:18-20)

God warns against such practices, making it clear that He is the only one to be worshipped. There are no queens in heaven—only the King of Kings, our Lord.

New Age Practice in Christianity

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New Age and Occult Practices in Christianity

In recent years, the infiltration of New Age and occult practices into mainstream Christian settings has become more widespread. Practices like yoga, meditation, and spiritual phenomena such as being "slain in the spirit" or speaking in tongues (often in a distorted form) have raised concerns about the blending of Christianity with non-biblical spiritual systems. These trends, which often originate from New Age or Eastern religious practices, have caused confusion and have led some believers away from the clear teachings of Scripture.

This section explores the presence of these practices in the church, how they parallel occult or New Age beliefs, and why they present a danger to biblical Christianity.

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Yoga and Meditation: Eastern Mysticism in Christian Practice

Yoga: Originally rooted in Hinduism, yoga is a spiritual practice designed to align the body and mind with divine forces. It involves physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation, with the ultimate goal of achieving spiritual enlightenment or union with the divine (in Hinduism, this is often referred to as becoming one with Brahman). Despite its spiritual origins, yoga has been adopted by many Christians as merely a form of physical exercise or relaxation.

  • Christian Concern: The concern with yoga is that it cannot be separated from its original spiritual context. Yoga`s purpose, particularly in its meditative practices, is to open oneself to spiritual forces that are inconsistent with the biblical understanding of worshiping the one true God. Even if done with good intentions, yoga`s roots in Hinduism cannot be ignored, as it often encourages practices like "emptying the mind," which opens the door to spiritual deception. Christians are warned in Romans 12:2 to avoid being conformed to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds through the Word of God.

Meditation: While meditation is also a biblical practice (e.g., meditating on God`s Word in Psalm 1:2), the form of meditation promoted in New Age and Eastern religions focuses on "emptying the mind" to reach higher consciousness or to connect with spiritual entities. This contrasts with biblical meditation, which calls believers to focus on God`s truth and His presence.

  • Christian Concern: Emptying the mind, as seen in Eastern meditation practices, can open individuals to spiritual influences that are not from God. Instead of seeking communion with God through the Holy Spirit and His Word, this practice can lead to encounters with deceptive spirits masquerading as divine. Christians are instructed to keep their minds filled with the Word of God, to guard against deception (Colossians 3:16).
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Speaking in Tongues (Gibberish vs. Real Languages)

  • Biblical Speaking in Tongues: In the early church, the apostles spoke in tongues (languages) at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-12), enabling them to communicate the gospel to people from different nations. These were real, known languages that others could understand. The Apostle Paul later gave specific instructions on speaking in tongues in the church, stating that it must be done in an orderly manner and must be interpreted (1 Corinthians 14:27-28). Without interpretation, speaking in tongues was not to occur in public worship, as it would cause confusion and not edify the body of Christ.
  • Modern "Gibberish Tongues": In many charismatic and Pentecostal circles today, speaking in tongues often takes the form of unintelligible sounds or "gibberish," which some claim is a private "prayer language." This modern practice differs significantly from the biblical account, where speaking in tongues always involved real languages, understood either by the listener or an interpreter.
  • Light Language in New Age and Shamanism: A striking parallel to modern "gibberish tongues" is found in New Age practices such as "light language" or "spirit language," where practitioners claim to speak in a divine or mystical tongue that is unintelligible to others. In some forms of shamanism and New Age spirituality, practitioners believe they are channeling higher entities or spirits through this form of speech. These practices involve surrendering control of the body and voice to these entities, which has concerning parallels to what occurs in some charismatic services.
  • Christian Concern: The Bible teaches that speaking in tongues should be a gift (it cannot be taught) given by the Holy Spirit for a specific purpose, always accompanied by an interpreter. The practice of unintelligible gibberish in the church without interpretation does not align with Paul`s instructions in 1 Corinthians 14, and its similarity to New Age practices raises serious concerns about its origin. Christians are warned not to allow their bodies to be influenced by any spiritual force other than the Holy Spirit.

Biblical Speaking in Tongues

  • The first occurrence of speaking in tongues occurred on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2:1–4. The apostles shared the gospel with the crowds, speaking to them in their own languages. The crowds were amazed: “We hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” (Acts 2:11). The Greek word translated “tongues” literally means “languages.” Therefore, the gift of tongues is speaking in a language the speaker has never learned in order to minister to someone who does speak that language. In 1 Corinthians 12—14, Paul discusses miraculous gifts, saying, “Now, brothers, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction?” (1 Corinthians 14:6). According to the apostle Paul, and in agreement with the tongues described in Acts, speaking in tongues is valuable to the one hearing God`s message in his or her own language, but it is useless to everyone else unless it is interpreted/translated.
  • A person with the gift of interpreting tongues (1 Corinthians 12:30) could understand what a tongues-speaker was saying even though he did not know the language being spoken. The tongues interpreter would then communicate the message of the tongues speaker to everyone else, so all could understand. “For this reason anyone who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret what he says” (1 Corinthians 14:13). Paul`s conclusion regarding tongues that were not interpreted is powerful: “But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue” (1 Corinthians 14:19).
  • Is the gift of tongues for today? First Corinthians 13:8 mentions the gift of tongues ceasing, although it connects the ceasing with the arrival of the “perfect” in 1 Corinthians 13:10. Some point to a difference in the tense of the Greek verbs referring to prophecy and knowledge “ceasing” and that of tongues “being ceased” as evidence for tongues ceasing before the arrival of the “perfect.” While a possible interpretation, this is not explicitly clear from the text. Some also point to passages such as Isaiah 28:11 and Joel 2:28–29 as evidence that speaking in tongues was a sign of God`s oncoming judgment. First Corinthians 14:22 describes tongues as a “sign to unbelievers.” Using this verse, cessationists argue that the gift of tongues was a warning to the Jews that God was going to judge Israel for rejecting Jesus Christ as Messiah. Therefore, when God did in fact judge Israel (with the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans in AD 70), the gift of tongues no longer served its intended purpose. This view is also possible, but the primary purpose of tongues being fulfilled does not necessarily demand the gift`s cessation. Scripture does not conclusively assert that the gift of speaking in tongues has ceased.
  • At the same time, if the gift of speaking in tongues were active in the church today, it would be performed in agreement with Scripture. It would be a real and intelligible language (1 Corinthians 14:10). It would be for the purpose of communicating God`s Word with a person of another language (Acts 2:6–12). It would be exercised in the church in agreement with the command God gave through Paul, “If anyone speaks in a tongue, two—or at the most three—should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret. If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and God” (1 Corinthians 14:27–28). It would also be in accordance with 1 Corinthians 14:33, “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.”
  • God can definitely give a person the gift of speaking in tongues to enable him or her to communicate with a person who speaks another language. The Holy Spirit is sovereign in the dispersion of the spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:11). Just imagine how much more productive missionaries could be if they did not have to go to language school and were instantly able to speak to people in their own language. However, God does not seem to be doing this. Tongues does not seem to occur today in the manner it did in the New Testament, despite the fact that it would be immensely useful. The majority of believers who claim to practice the gift of speaking in tongues do not do so in agreement with the Scriptures mentioned above. These facts lead to the conclusion that the gift of tongues has ceased or is at least a rarity in God`s plan for the church today.

The Danger of Blending Christianity with New Age Practices

The infiltration of New Age and occult practices into the church, whether through yoga, meditation, being "slain in the spirit," or distorted forms of speaking in tongues, poses a significant danger to biblical Christianity. These practices often have their roots in Eastern mysticism, occultism, or New Age spirituality—worldviews that are fundamentally incompatible with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

  • Syncretism: Blending non-Christian spiritual practices with biblical faith dilutes the message of the gospel and leads to syncretism, where Christianity is mixed with incompatible beliefs. This was a major concern in the early church, and it remains a threat today. In 2 Corinthians 6:14-16, Paul warned the Corinthians against being yoked with unbelievers and participating in pagan practices: “What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols?”
  • Spiritual Deception: The Bible repeatedly warns believers to be on guard against spiritual deception. In 1 Timothy 4:1, Paul writes, “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.” When Christians engage in practices rooted in paganism or occultism, they open themselves to spiritual deception, even if their intentions are good.

The Warning of Matthew 7:21-23 in Context

Matthew 7:21-23 takes on profound significance in light of the widespread infiltration of false practices and self-deception within parts of the modern church. The passage reads:

"Not everyone who says to me, Lord, Lord, will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles? Then I will tell them plainly, I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!" (Matthew 7:21-23, NIV)

In this sobering passage, Jesus warns that many will claim to have done great works in His name—prophesying, casting out demons, performing miracles—but will be rejected because their hearts were not aligned with the will of God. They may have participated in outwardly religious acts, but their true motives, hearts, and practices were far from God. This verse is a clear reminder that not all spiritual experiences or supernatural phenomena come from the Holy Spirit, and not everyone who outwardly appears to follow Jesus is truly doing the will of the Father.

This passage is particularly relevant today as we witness the blending of New Age practices, occult spirituality, and unbiblical expressions of faith creeping into parts of the church. Jesus warning is about the danger of self-deception—thinking that we are serving Him when we are actually following a distorted version of the truth. Those who prioritize mystical experiences, personal gain, or spiritual phenomena above obedience to God`s Word risk hearing the devastating words: "I never knew you."

Return to Biblical Christianity

The church must remain vigilant in guarding against the infiltration of New Age and occult practices. Practices like yoga, Eastern meditation, and distorted forms of spiritual phenomena such as "slain in the spirit" or "gibberish tongues" distract from the true work of the Holy Spirit and open the door to spiritual deception.

Christians are called to worship God in spirit and in truth (John 4:24), and this requires discerning the difference between biblical practices and those borrowed from other religious traditions. The focus of Christian worship and life should always be on Jesus Christ, grounded in His Word and led by the true Holy Spirit. As the church navigates the spiritual challenges of the modern world, it must reject syncretism and faithfully uphold the purity of the gospel.

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Roman Catholic Exposed

00:03:48

False Religions Exposed

19 Sessions

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01.

Roman Catholic Exposed

00:03:48

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02.

Vatican Exposed

00:58:07

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03.

Islam Exposed

03:42:36

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04.

Jay Smith - Examining the Newest Historical Research on Islam and the Earliest Quranic Manuscripts

01:07:21

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05.

Former Hezbollah Fighter Recalls Encounter with Jesus

00:09:39

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06.

Islamic terrorist leader converts to Christianity after seeing a vision of Jesus Christ

00:03:29

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07.

Nabeel Qureshi： Why I stopped believing Islam is a religion of peace

00:05:47

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08.

Why a Hindu Priest Left the Religion to Follow Christ

00:08:15

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09.

Hindu to Jesus - Exposing the truth about Yoga

00:09:42

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10.

Capturing Christianity - Conclusive PROOF that Mohammad is a FAKE Prophet

00:17:22

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11.

The Secret History of Islam EXPOSED (1400 Years in 12 Minutes)

00:13:56

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12.

The Coming Islamic Antichrist ｜ This Truth Has Been Hidden from the Church

00:28:54

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13.

The Untold Origins of All Religions ｜ Part 1： Tracing the First Gods of Ancient Humanity

00:28:19

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14.

How New Age Practices Are Affecting Modern Christianity

00:15:44

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15.

TBN - These False Ideologies Are DESTROYING The Church

00:15:32

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16.

7 New Age Deceptions infiltrating the Church and deceiving some Christians

00:20:10

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17.

Former New Age Practitioner Exposes Aliens, Demons, Spiritism and the Occult

00:55:47

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18.

How a Christian Can Have New Age Beliefs and Not Even Know it

00:31:12

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19.

15 Reasons Why Islam and Mormonism are Fake

00:43:57

Warning: Beware of False Teachings

In today`s increasingly pluralistic world, many Christians are drifting away from the true faith, seduced by the false belief that “all roads lead to the kingdom of God.” This dangerous misconception is rooted in the failure of many modern churches to address the deceptive origins of other religions and the distinctiveness of Christianity. Sadly, many churches have neglected to teach the core truth that Christianity is not just another religion—it is a way of life, centered on the transformative power of Jesus Christ, the only way to salvation.

In other religions, it is man who must seek ways to reach God, striving through rituals, laws, or esoteric knowledge to form a connection with the divine. These beliefs are built on human efforts and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. But Christianity stands apart because God is the one who seeks us. In His immense love and grace, He has provided the way for sinful humanity to have a restored relationship with Him, through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus is the only path to redemption, and through Him alone can we be reconciled to the Father (John 14:6).

Yet, many modern churches have failed to clearly communicate this vital truth. They have often shied away from discussing the dangers of syncretism and the deceptive spiritual teachings that infiltrate today`s culture. Instead of equipping believers with the knowledge to discern false teachings, many churches have adopted a more inclusive stance, weakening the firm foundation of Christian doctrine. As a result, many believers are led to think that all spiritual paths are equal, and they become vulnerable to the very deceptions the Bible warns us about.

The apostle Paul`s warning in Galatians 1:8 is more urgent than ever: “But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God`s curse!” This serves as a clear reminder that the gospel of Christ is exclusive, final, and non-negotiable. Any teaching, even one that appears spiritually attractive or inclusive, that contradicts the truth of Jesus Christ must be rejected.

The failure of modern churches to address the rise of false religions, the erosion of sound doctrine, and the influence of pagan practices has left many Christians spiritually unprepared. This lack of teaching has led believers away from the truth, causing them to embrace ideologies that contradict the heart of the gospel (1 Timothy 4:1).

As Christians, we must return to the core truth of our faith: that Jesus is the only way to salvation. It is not through human efforts, rituals, or hidden knowledge that we are saved, but through the grace of God who made a way for us. Christianity is not merely a religion; it is a way of life that transforms us from the inside out through a relationship with Jesus Christ. We must boldly proclaim this truth, resist the influence of false doctrines, and ensure that future generations of believers are firmly rooted in the gospel.

As Christians, we must also strive to know the truth and take personal responsibility to research and study God’s Word. We cannot rely solely on others to teach us; it is our duty to seek out the truth ourselves, to test everything against the Scriptures (Acts 17:11), and to grow in discernment so that we are not led astray. A deep knowledge of the Bible and understanding of history is essential in guarding ourselves against false teachings.

Now more than ever, it is our responsibility to restore clarity, to stand firm in the faith, and to resist the spiritual deceptions that have caused many to depart from the truth. By knowing and living the truth of Jesus Christ, we can lead others back to the one true way—the way that God Himself has provided for us through His Son.

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Matthew 24:6-13

You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.