I want to remind everyone to keep in mind that when I read from the Christian books, the point *was* to cherry-pick and take it out of context to *make it sound New Age.* Some people are (Unnecessarily) concerned and say they are new age, but I assure you, they're not. I was demonstrating a point. The books I read from are from some of the most solid Christians you'll ever come across. I would hope that people with this concern don't miss the whole point of the video- that New Age teachers use the same terminology and Scriptures that Christians do, and they can get a biblically illiterate Christian into quite the theological chokehold because of it. So no, the Christian books are not "New Age." I demonstrated how they can be taken out of context to be abused by the New Age.
I admittedly found the flow of the video / your train of thought confusing at bits, but I understood the main point. I just felt like sometimes you could explain more clearly? Like to explain the excerpts from the books you referenced more explicitly
Insightful Video. -> New Age will state Jesus was indeed a moral teacher because He had all the qualities of a moral teacher. However, He is more than that - He is our God and Savior who was sent down to earth by God the Father to give us the gift of Salvation. Orthodox, Protestants, and Catholics must be ready to defend the faith.
@@justice1178 *Anyone* who tells you to *look within* yourself for any answers is speaking *contrary* to scripture. I just looked up Jesse Lee Peterson and this is what I found: He doesn't believe in the deity of Christ. He believes that prayer is not talking to God, but feeling your breath and being silent (mindfulness meditation). He believes that once you are saved you will never sin (he believes he doesn't sin). He believes you are saved by forgiving others. He calls himself a Christian, but his theology is not Biblical. He teaches a *false Jesus* and a *false gospel.*
The devil quoted scripture when he tempted Jesus in the wilderness after his baptism. But he had taken it out of context and twisted it. Jesus fought back with more scripture. He didn't argue with the devil or bargain, he simply quoted scripture.
Thank you. I grew up Catholic and my mom kept telling me what she was told as a new Catholic: the Devil can quote Scripture! So I grew up believing anyone who talked about what was in the Bible was a hypocrite!!! So knowing Scripture is a great thing, and reviewing it and using it. *Living* it.
Why are we here. We are here to be tested. God has a plan for us and wants us to have hope and a good future. Don't mess it up by sinning. Sin hurts us all.
Now a days Christians are getting into post modern thought of interpretation of the Bible were verses are deconstructed into specific words which are then misinterpreted or said are hellenized until you can't even read a basic verse without it meaning something ridiculous. It is all an attempt to take out the Holy Spirit, then Jesus.
@Tom Servo So the magic of time is a better narrative? Something coming from nothing 13 billion years ago isn't considered magical? The four dimensional human genome just magically appeared all at once and further evolved over the magic of time? Dead matter just burst into biological life? When, where and how? From simple to complex... no designer needed? You can't explain scientific observation because no scientist was there to observe even 10,000 years ago. Making assumptions and presumptions is not science. Apparently, you have more faith than I in scientism. You claim to know how millions of years humans were accidentally assembled by a fittest force of nature, but can't explain death when all the parts are fully assembled. Maybe in another million years nature will have fixed that. Oh but wait... we have doctors already intervening in that process in less than one hundred years --they seem to have accelerated the force of nature. There's plenty of observation into your claims of 'no designer needed' refuted by David Berlinski, David Gelernter, Stephen Meyer, John Lennox, James Tour and a host of others. Frankly, the claims of evolution are just as magical as your distorted understanding of biblical scripture.
My bff started talking about astrology and her zodiac sign, now she is getting reiki healing and told me, "I don't care what you think about it ", she is really saying she doesn't care what God thinks. I am praying that the Lord opens her eyes to what she's doing. It's heartbreaking to see someone walk away from the faith.
It's disturbing that you have to do this recording, to distinguish between the two. People need this so thank you. I, fortunately I don't read any other religious books, It's Bible only. Blessings!
When I was in the New Age movement, we called it Spiritualism and/or Metaphysics. We attended "church" on Sundays and Wednesday evenings, and then had classes to teach meditation in order to get in touch with our true selves and our "spirit guides". Yes, spirit guides! I used to channel "spirit", as well as work at several metaphysical gatherings where I gave "readings", for money of course. I didn't get rich but I made a living for about three years, and had a decent reputation within the circle of people I ran with. It is very frightening to get involved as deeply as I did. What made me leave? Frankly I believe it was the Holy Spirit. I was leaving the so called church I was a part of when I clearly heard a question. "Do you know how many would you have mislead?". That shook me to my core. Although I didn't start going to a Christian Church right away (it was NOT a good church!), I did renounce the movement I was in and quit all ties with the people as well. My story is long. Too long for this comment section. Let's just say that videos like this from real Christians is more important now. The condition of today's world requires people who are strong enough, and courageous enough, to speak God's Truth. And please, don't just read your Bible. Study God's Holy Word and develop a relationship with our Savior, Jesus Christ.
You're right the relationship with the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ is quite awesome but often doesn't work as quick as the occult. I think the occult provides an illusion of power but never clearly gives the power nor the answers that one is looking for you could take a lifetime and you keep looking and traveling and still not find that inner peace that the Holy Spirit provides. In my struggle in life sometime I find that the people who are not in Christianity or richer with material Goods and certainly appears to be happy but I know that this is just an illusion in my own mind. I'm glad you got out I know it's not easy but bless you
It's crazy how easily they deceive and get you to do the wrong thing. The meditation for example they tricked you into looking for unfamiliar spirits to attach to, even though in the Bible God said to mediate on his words day and night. Mediation is one of the most powerful tools in finding God, that's why the enemy gets you to use it wrongly. God Bless ❤✝️
@@ynn.p1emp775 Yes you are either for God, and only God, or you are against Him. It says this in the Bible. Satan is behind these false beliefs, he wants to turn people to him away from God.
Agreed! I went to a church for roughly a year that seemed to have a lot of these new thought/age beliefs sprinkled in. My husband immediately felt something was wrong but couldn't place his finger on it and I was a new Christian that had barely any Bible knowledge. While attending there was a missionary that the church supported who literally would ask folks to raise their Bibles up before service and do the whole Joel Olsteen "this is my Bible and I am what it says I am..." mantra. When I was dealing with doubt and spoke to the Pastor he called in the same missionary to have his wife do the sinners prayer with me and told me to write the date down and no matter what I feel because I said the prayer I was saved. The pastor preached several times that if you were sick it was because God was punishing you for hidden sin. There was A LOT of him telling us to claim wealth or good health. He and my husband disagreed when he began to quote TD Jakes and others like him. My husband talked to him privately and voiced concern about the doctrines and theology he was preaching and he told my husband that because my husband is not a preacher that he has no right to say anything about any preacher. Glory to God for Him leading us to pray and read His Word because one of the last services we heard was about praying to angels and from that moment we knew we just couldn't attend any longer.
@@andreavanskiver2293 What a great testimony! I watched Joel Osteen every Sunday, read TD Jakes books, along with others. I talk with Christ only now. Thank you!
@@phyllisprincewhitfield9106 I'm afraid you must have a misunderstanding of either Jesus' teachings or "The Secret." New Agers may convince themselves that the two are related and even compatible in some esoteric way, but Christ did not come to preach a gospel of personal prosperity, and he certainly didn't die for the manifestation of our earthly desires, which is essentially what the law of attraction is all about.
@@phyllisprincewhitfield9106 No it isn't. It's about getting your material desires. Jesus isn't Santa Claus for grown ups. He is the Son of God! Deny yourself and follow him and you will have eternal life.
it happened to me! I've been a Christian for a few years , my sister introduced me to chakras and i trusted her and started doing sage and chakra stones and fell in the youtube rabbit hole of all this stuff and i was totally deceived, thank the lord for showing me a testimony of a girl doing new age, i never even heard of it but when she shared her story i was like OH NO something isn't right i need to repent, my sister ended up getting saved a few days later.
Think about this, if a a child is away from the father does the father cease being the child's father? The Father never left you. That is how faithful Jesus is. 2 Timothy 2:23 New International Version "if we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself."
This makes me sad, confused, and concerned watching this. I was raised Christian my entire life, had a few years of not living for Christ at all, and now want to seek out His truth more than ever. Both my parents helped to create that foundation of Christianity and knowledge of Scripture, as well as a handful of churches. The older I get, the more concern I have had for my mother and all the new "Christian teachings" she's learning. I couldn't understand why, for years, I felt so uneasy about different groups she'd be involved with, books she was reading and encourage me to read (which I never cared to get into), and different events she would attend... They freaked me out and still do and I couldn't pinpoint it. Videos such as this, have brought up a lot of clarity... and now I feel confused and conflicted and concerned. The same woman who taught me so much about scripture, is constantly saturating her mind with New Age material and surrounding herself with so many New Agers who claim to be Christians and walking in alignment with God and Scripture. It's unsettling. I do believe the Lord has given me a spirit of discernment, which I often pray will be strengthened. I want to know and seek His truth, and learning that the ones I thought I could trust the most, are the ones, themselves misguided, has placed a heavy burden on my heart, which I am now asking the Holy Spirit how I should be praying for the ones closest to me, my mother included.
Hi Anna. Just letting you know that the more we understand God’s Word (truth) as He intended it to be and as our eyes see more clearly (& thus love His truth more dearly), it is natural to feel confused & conflicted as to what to do. I have felt conflicted as I see other believers and friends believing false teachings. Hard to make them see and accept the truth. Pray for them (your mom) & perhaps it’s your turn to help her understand God’s truth, though God used her once to help you learn His Word. Hope this helps your conflicted heart.
Becoming saved after over 25 years as a practicing witch I find myself confused sometimes at how easily people fall into these traps. To them I say... Please, do not think yourselves stupid or weak. The nature of the enemy is insidious. Cleave only to our Heavenly Father and THE WORD. 💖🙏⚓🙌💖
Amen that Jesus came and rescued you from being a follower of new age! I too was a witch previously and got saved too! Jesus certainly seeks us out since we were lost and he definitely does save!
I was abused by religion as i grew up in a preacher family. I am now 52 yrs old and am just now learning about who God really is and who i am in him. However, it feels foreign to me at times, and i long for something familiar, but i know that now that i am free i cannot go back to my Egypt of “spiritual bondage”. I say all that to say we are both from complete opposite back grounds but the truth of the gospel brought us to the same place- Christ. “works” theology, morality, none of that can help me set foot in heaven but that was the lie i heard preached over me for the first 44 years of my life.
I say that too as being a Christian all my life for over 42 years. But then again we all fall or make mistakes and sometimes are blind. Just pray for them and keep making people aware such as these videos.
It also has to do with proper theology n teaching. 2 Tim.2:15 Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman not needing to be ashamed,rightly dividing the word of truth.
I love Jesus and am lead by the Spirit BUT I found some of these so difficult to discern - especially the quote from more philosophical sounding Christian writer. Just because someone loves Jesus and has the Holy Spirit in their lives DOESN'T mean they are immune to be deceived by these sorts of things... God may also allow us, in His sovereignty, to be deceived for a time for His purposes; maybe to deal with pride that makes us feel superior (because we love Jesus and believe ourselves to be listening to His Spirit and therefore immune to such deception). After all, to say that if WE are doing the right thing then we are immune makes it sound like it's a work of our own that keeps us from deception, rather than the work of Jesus who first loved us and the Spirit who is the leader in the first place...
@@lilmisspeace I agree, the first part you said though reminds me of "being in wilderness" when all temptations tempted jesus. This happens to us as well. As soon as you declare that jesus is lord and turn from you sins it's like the devil is right there waiting for you and most people fail including me until my last encounter. I do see what you are saying though and I feel like "god teaching you a lesson" is not real. God is all knowing, all loving, all good and everlasting. We do have god given free will though. My brother in law an I were just talking about pre destination last night.. it was a good conversation. Being that we have free will but we also have the good and bad side and there are levels to that which is where free comes in and decides where we go. Even when you are spiritually connected with jesus we still have free will do follow him. Idk if this made sense but I'm not so good with words lol
When my son said I should watch your videos I had no idea they would be one of the greatest resources of biblical teachings, and fun quite frankly, that I'd use almost daily. I love Christians that are far smarter than I, but are blanketed with humility so that one doesn't feel dumb or inferior in any way. I love you, Melissa, and I thank you for being so committed to making God look so good!!!
This may be an oversimplification but it really sounds like it boils down a trust/belief in self vs belief/trust in Christ and Christ alone. This goes back to the serpent in the garden. The oldest lie in the Bible.
@Lou Smith And you will not die and did God really say seems to be a prevalent lies also. The enemy isn't very creative he always copies God. In Revelation he's described as one who looked like a lamb but talks like a dragon. He's a major copycat. But the good news is he's a defeated foe for us in Christ!!!
I’ve just committed my life to Christ recently and I thought I was so confident in my reading during the game. Man was I wrong I only managed to get 2 right. I’m so glad I came across this video
Oh, my dear. I was in my late 50’s, had read the Bible through (more than once), grew up in church, and still fell for “The Shack” and had “Jesus Calling” recommended to me by “mature Christians.” I praise God for putting people in my path that told me the truth. I was just recently invited to what appeared to be a good Bible study, but started to find some uncomfortable facts about the leader / author. I contacted one of my sources when information was hard to find, and they advised me away from that teacher as she is in a leadership position in an emergent church. So.... a teen newbie hearing “Christian” phrases and who has no mature discerning older Christians to turn to is ripe fodder. You now have a great ministry being light to those being lured in the same way that you were. Praise God!
You're not the only one. I came at someone's house a couple of years ago. He was a mature christian. In his late 40's or even 50's. But they had a dvd of the shack on the table. I'm not very good at explaining why things are wrong, so I didn't know what to say. And I had only been christian for a few years and that man for several decades. And he actually suggested me to watch a sermon of a guy. But that sermon was also.. not very biblical.
Amen thank God. I came out of prosperity gospel years ago. A mature Christian who is a pastors wife, wanted to do a woman’s Bible study and guess what book it was? Jesus calling.. of course i knew about it already so i sounded the alarm . She took it well, another sister in Christ not so much .
I was falling for several of these new age practices until I started watching apologetic podcasts and studying the Bible a lot more. So glad God opened my eyes!
The new age depersonalizes Jesus. He's just a consciousness or a level to attain. Jesus in reality wants a personal relationship with us. We are dependent on him. In new age there isn't a submission to Jesus as God. New age definitely denies the existence of sin and need for a Savior. New age leads to death and doesn't satisfy our true needs to be loved, freedom from sin, and it denies truth!!
@@phyllisprincewhitfield9106 With all due respect, my comment made no mention of going around condemning people. New age is a philosophy or teaching. I was just sharing my opinion of my previous experience and how it differs from being a Christian. I was a witch and had heard religious people tell me that they thought I was going to hell. So I can empathize with the experience. I am now a Christian. God showed me that he wants those that religion rejects. I was one of those rejects. I hope you don't feel as though I'm speaking condemnation to you. It's not my intention. I read where Jesus said "the tax collectors, prostitutes, etc would enter the kingdom before the religious Pharisees, his love was revealed to me in that I saw myself as a person of our time that religious would say I didn't qualify.
@@phyllisprincewhitfield9106 God does want everyone in Heaven with Him, because he's a Good Father and His love is limitless... BUT we as humans have free will to choose who we will serve, He gave us that will. Whichever path we choose either leads us to Heaven, or Hell.
@@phyllisprincewhitfield9106 So I know this is about two months old now but you did bring up a good point. God is love, and one instance that we see his love being expressed is immediately after Adam and Eve eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Adams first emotion or state of mind is fear. God is looking for Adam and Eve, and they have a discussion. God asks where they are, and Adam states he was hiding because he heard him coming and because he noticed he was naked. God states " Who told you, that you were naked"? The significance of this is that when Adam and Eve were created, God stated that what he made was "GOOD" and it was only when they ate from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil that Adam looked at himself and saw imperfection. It was a state of mind that he didn't have before, it made him self conscious resulting in shame and fear, a sinful nature and spiritual death and distorted his view of God. Even though Adam and Eve failed, and they had a consequence from their choice. God gave them a covering for their nakedness. In other words he didn't just zap them and bring an end to his creation, he wanted to be with them and wanted to ease their conscience about themselves and eventually through Jesus give them life and a new mind and heart toward others.
Thank you for this video. I will admit that I don’t read my Bible as often as I should. But, for many years, I have felt like things were “off” with certain books, teachings, and practices. I was chastised years ago when many of my coworkers were reading The Shack. I read it, and I shared my thoughts that something was way of with it. I also refused to do yoga, and many people tried to make me feel bad about it by telling me it was just exercise. I sometimes think maybe something is wrong with me and I’m too judgmental. It’s great to have confirmation that I should listen to my gift of discernment.
"I am afraid that your minds will be corrupted and that you will abandon your full and pure devotion to Christ---in the same way that Eve was deceived by the snake's clever lies. For you gladly tolerate anyone who comes to you and preaches a different Jesus, not the one we preached; and you accept a spirit and a gospel completely different from the Spirit and gospel you received from us!" 2 Corinthians 11:3-4
Melissa, I am so thankful for this video. My husband has been a professing Christian for 20 plus years. He has recently been listening to some new age stuff along with conspiracy theories Q anon. I've been so concerned because he's pushing it on my family. I am praying about showing this to my husband praying his heart will be softened. Thank you.
2020 has been a year of learning and questioning...I am questioning EVERYTHING now. And really am seeing the importance of being in the word and praying like I have NEVER seen before.
I've been a Christian since I was 5 and still failed your little quiz because a lot of the quotes were mostly just confusing without the main point they were getting at there. They do sound very much alike, and some of the details were essentially correct but being twisted. You did a good job cherry picking those!
When I first became a believer I was a big fan of Joyce Meyer. She also promotes alot of what your referencing in this video. I had no idea what I was learning wasn't biblical until a few years ago. Thank you for this. The devil is crafty. What better way to deceive believers then to infiltrate the churches.
I know I used to drive 100’s of miles to see her but it’s become all about money. And she’s said things like we are little God’s in ourselves. That is wrong.
Also it’s about money to her and these prosperity preachers making money off Gods word. She, Joel Osteen, TD Jakes and many more with their million dollar homes and private jets.
@@rainsara2795 its not about being perfect. When your a teacher you are held to a higher standard. Teaching unbiblical teachings and leading people astray is alot more then just making mistakes. I didnt want to hear anything bad about her at first either, and justified it. But compromise is a slippery slope. Especially in these days. If you are unsure take it to God in prayer. God Bless.
This video is a refreshing oasis in the desert of the lack of Christian knowledge. We all must immerse ourselves in Scripture for the knowledge and wisdom of God! God bless you and your ministry!
Hi Melissa. I'm not sure if you read all the comments, but I wanted to thank you for helping me get free from NAR. I spent 35 years in the NAR movement and coming out of it has been so difficult. I've listened to you and Doreen and others and it's been so helpful. Please send my thanks to Doreen as I've not been able to comment on her videos.
Can I just say, I just found your channel and I am absolutely in love. As a fellow artist and aspiring apologist, you are an inspiration. Keep doing God's good work, He's using you in amazing ways.
*cough* "Bethel." Subscribed instantly. lol. Thank you for describing all of the "definitions" of the Christian and biblical vocabulary in a new ager's perspective. Very good to know!
Yes Satan tried that with Jesus during the temptation, but then Jesus used scripture to correct him. Satan will use scripture to fool us, but Jesus shows us that we need to know scripture inorder to be a step ahead, and know the truth.
A majority of Christians don't know God's word and of those that do a majority don't believe it. Satan knows it and believes it which is why it's simple to deceive many. If we know it and believe it though there is one thing we can do, indeed we're commanded to do, that Satan can't - put it into practice, the ultimate purpose of God's word.
It is so so SO subtle. I once subscribed to Neale Donald Walsch's daily email messages. I really had no problem with probably 90% of what he wrote. But a little leaven leavens the whole loaf!
Great video! Christians being enamored with and encumbered by New Age mysticism should not come as a surprise to us. What do we expect when our culture vaunts cutesy cliches like "just follow your heart!" above plain teaching from scripture such as "The heart is desperately wicked and deceitful above all things. Who can know it?"
I’ve seen a lot of new age think in the business realm, especially among women. One of my friends shared a graphic that was full of “I am” statements about how to think about your business. And there were so many people that were on board with it.
Yes, the feminist movement/girl power is full of new age, the thinking that women can be their own goddess and be all powerful without the need for men. Totally anti-biblical
I want to tell you thank you. When your videos first started popping up in my recommended and I would check them out, I couldn’t even finish watching them because I would honestly get offended. But by the grace of God I am able to hear you out now and I do appreciate you, Doreen and Steven speaking out about the New Age infiltrating the church. So again, thank you.
I turned 38 last year and didn’t know that the “Christianity” I was raised with from my mother was basically New Age 😕 she even suggested a spell for manifestation to me a few months ago 🤯
Hi Louisa! Wow! 😦 How did you handle that? Of course you did not cast a spell but your own mom, yeah, it's a spiritual war out there and even closer in and around us. Thank God for his power and grace and Jesus who can set us free! Amen! 🙏☺
Thank you so much dear sister for putting this out here. I lived in the New Age world for over 20 years. I was brought up in an Independent Fundamentalist Baptist church and greatly resented many of the teachings for so long. It breaks my heart now. I am pleased to say I am now a content, blessed, God fearing, Jesus loving, Christian who rejects all New Age beliefs. So much of what you discussed in this video is exactly where I was at. I believed hell was made up and even questioned that the evil one did not exist. What a crock of crap I told myself. Thanks be to God, His son died for my sins and transgressions, which I have repented for. May God bless you and your calling.
I almost fell into new age around 4 years ago but God drew me near by having a friend inviting me to church just before I dipped my toes too deep into it. I gave my life to Christ around. 4 months after and at the same time was almost believing it was no harm to mix law of attraction and manifesting with my faith but no! I was convicted by the Holy Spirit that it is wrong and sinful, a person should serve no two masters and repented of my sin… thank God from protecting and preserving my life, can’t imagine if I fell into that completely . And yes we need to keep feeding ourselves with the Bible so that we can be discerning in what we hear!
Wow! Thank you for doing this. It's so good when you've been wanting to present this reality to friends but don't quite know how to commit and then find a video like this! It's concise, deep, and piercing all at the same time. God bless!
My grandparents did a good job raising me in the truth to know what’s really Christian teaching and whats not . Constantly reading the Bible helps to .I passed this quiz and thankyou so much for spreading the truth !
Great video! I just found you🙌🏼I came out of 40 years of word of faith doctrine which has now morphed together with NAR. Praise God for this ministry! I will be sharing!
It is a very subtle and nuanced intrusion at times. Whenever I hear people use certain words, now, I have almost a visceral reaction: Spirituality, love and light, the universe is giving me...., etc. I have just joined a group of people on Facebook who are hand writing out the Bible like scribes, kind of. I only started a few weeks ago, but it is keeping me in the Word and slowing me down so I can actually absorb what I am reading.:)
I have someone very close to me that considers herself a light worker. Hearing you it sounds like she is definitely into new age new thought beliefs. Which did trickle into my beliefs. Thank you for keeping things straight. You have motivated me to read my Bible!!
I got caught up into it as well. After I got out of a toxic relationship with my ex boyfriend, is when I got really into getting tarot readings done and then I started watching tarot videos all the time. I would watch them, in the morning, on my way to work, lunch breaks and before going to bed. I grew up as a Christian and my parents are missionaries and preach as well. My mom kept warning me about it because she went through my iPad and I still ignored her. I had a reading/spell done to be able to communicate with an angel and I thought it was fake which is why I got it done just for fun, and I remember waking up from my sleep and I saw this ángel next to me, but it had an evil look with an evil smile. I never finished the process of that reading or whatever it was and never saw that demon angel ever again. I would get a lot of nightmares for no reason and I always felt like something bad was going to happen to me because of how obsessed I was with tarot readings. But in the beginning of 2021 I got sick to the point that I had to stop working and I started going to church again and that’s when things got crazier. The more I started going to church and wanting to learn more, was when the demons would attack me the most. I even had a liberation done that lasted more than five hours and the pastor prayed for me and I learned so much on how I opened this door to these demons that were attacking me. I also felt physically better because the doctors couldn’t figure out what was wrong with me and my pain decreased each day. But Even after my liberation, the demons still would attack me and my family. One morning my mom poked her eye out and had to go to the ER and I was left at home by myself and right after she left, I got this horrible pain spread from between my shoulder blades to down my back and Out of nowhere I felt like I was ready to pass out. I was already seeing blackness because I was close to fainting and I didn’t know what to do. I was really scared of fainting while I was alone and right when I started seeing blackness, I yelled for God to help me and right when I called out to him, I felt better and I no longer felt light headed. There were nights that I would kneel down and pray and then go to bed and my bed would shake on it’s own. I had my bed kicked at night so many times and the last time was that something/someone under my bed pushed my mattress and shook the entire bed. My parents and I prayed until we felt Gods presence in the room. I discovered that I was taking God as a joke because before all this happened I would promise him that I would quit right after this reading but man is he not one to joke with. That’s how stupid I was and what’s worst is that I grew up going to church and my parents warning me from this stuff. I never took God seriously before. I never had an actual relationship with God, until now and I’m still working on being a better person. I don’t ever want anything to do with any of that new age/occult stuff. It really is dangerous and it’s difficult to close that door because once you open that door, that’s how easy it is for demons to attack you.
On my Amazon account, a children’s book series was recommended called The Magic of Me-it’s written by someone who must follow Joel Osteen because the series teaches kids to say “I Am” and other new age practices. Just thought I’d through that out. More material to watch out for. Thanks Melissa for this video. I always feel like I need to forward these to all my family!!!
The movie Soul has a lot of New Age concepts and I see many Christians saying that the movie is great. I meditated to an “I am” meditation from Wayne Dyer... smh
Thanks for this, Melissa! I was definitely in the same boat as you when I was younger in the faith. Just totally ignorant of what was going on in Christianity or what New Age was, what Islam believed, all that stuff. So glad God drew me to you, if that makes sense. I even pay attention to the Christian music I listen to, to see if it even glorifies God. Bethel Worship's "Raise A Hallelujah" is clearly self-centered with lyrics like "I do such and such" and hardly says anything about what Christ has done for us. HE PAID IT ALL WHEN WE DID NOTHING FOR HIM!!
I still sometimes can't tell the difference. This is so important. We have to know which ones are "deeper teachings" that do not come from the LORD. Lord, free your people who are not yet enlightened by this Truth
Thank you Melissa. My introduction to this was as a naive 19 year old in 1975. The pastor was teaching about “Move Ahead With Possibility Thinking.” He just went on and on to more junk. I thank the Holy Spirit for constantly guiding me through scripture until last year I attended as a guest Jesus Culture in Sacramento, CA. I can’t put my finger on why, but everything within me was repulsed. Your videos have helped me understand the problem. Over the last year I have been processing the intellectual garbage that has been fed to me in the name of Christianity over the last forty some odd years. It is an exhausting exercise.
But how can you tell the difference when they sound so similar? My sheep will know my voice, I get it. But sometimes that still small voice needs to be a bullhorn.
I very rarely have a problem seeing the big things that are wrong. But I regularly miss the little things, doubting and thinking I'm crazy for feeling like there is anything wrong when it's such a small thing, and that's where I get burned. Be careful of the little things. Don't let them slide just because they seem harmless. They add up. :( (I generally have a haaard time finding Christian books and such to listen to because I just don't know who's good and who sounds good on the surface..) And for some reason it's cutting off the rest of my comment. I just wanted to say thank you for doing what you're doing. I have a few different health issues that over the years took all confidence out of me and the slippery slope that lead to was massively destructive. But through your videos and through Mike Winger (who I had never heard of until you recommended him) I'm finally climbing back up the mountain and learning to trust the real God again like I haven't since I was a little kid.
Not everyone can comprehend or understand just reading from the bible. Often times these books are the stepping stones to be able to read the Bible correctly. They are sadly all that most people have since there isn't a lot of discipleship for new Christians. When I read the Bible by itself with absolutely no context for anything inside of it I was horrified and disgusted by who I thought God was. Christian books helped break down things to an entry level I could understand, illustrated the heart of the father and who God was, kind of serving the purpose of discipleship to me. THEN after getting that foundation I could read the Bible with context and better understanding of what it's purpose was. The sad thing is as this video shows, it's very easy to get handed the wrong book and go down a wrong path.
@@dangerdest3606 well if you don’t understand, pray and the spirit of God who is the Most High will make it clear to you! James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you”. He tells us in psalm 111: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom!
@@girlnamederin3339 But please understand; sometimes other books are the answer to that request for wisdom. There are Christian scholars who can explain things about the Bible because they know the original language or the history or culture better. I was confused about why God got angry with Balaam for leaving with the Moabite princes when he was just told he could go, and it was a Christian website that explained what was going on and that God was absolutely reasonable for getting angry. But I would have needed to know the Hebrew language to catch that. I agree that the Spirit does give wisdom to all, but sometimes that wisdom comes from other true Christians. Otherwise, getting certain bits of knowledge (like knowing what the original Hebrew means) would be no different than channeling information. What we really need is discernment to know what additional resources are helpful and which ones are distorting the truth.
I think books that are aligned with truth can be helpful but if we don't have a proper foundation in God's word we won't be able to discern the truth from the lie. Also I think it's vitally important to have the Holy Spirit since he is the spirit of truth that leads us into all truth. You are correct though that we don't need other books. The word says we don't need anyone to teach us.
She is addressing the issue with the books people read that are misguidjng them, which is how they got her. People won't stop reading other books any time soon. So they do need to learn to discern... Plus, in the middle of the video, she did suggest to people to read their Bible for true guidance. To top it, she did also use the Bible at some point. Listen well, people, and do not comment if you don't watch the entire video.
I just found out about 90 minutes ago that a 20 something girl, who is new to Church has twice seen an apparition of a woman on our Church stage. She thinks the woman is there to give her a message. I'm obviously going to speak with her. She's not a Christian. She's definitely interested. She's a sweetheart. She's like my own daughter. She's seen lots of apparitions in her life. I'm also going to pray over the Church building as well.
Maybe this is just me, but it seems odd that a demonic spirit is comfortable on a church stage. Holy Spirit presence should be there! I would be seriously praying about attending that church!
Went through two flare-ups of my chronic illness in two separate churches. One was prosperity leaning and one was full of apologists. One told me it was my fault for letting Satan in the door and one offered me free childcare and set up a meal train to help out. I'll let you guess which one was which.
@@TommyGunzzz I think it's fairly evident that she's talking about a church who's members truly search the scriptures daily and are ready to give an answer for their faith.
21:20 I cannot even say it enough. This exact thing was what I have been struggling with lately. It was put in my mind that the world around me isn’t really real and that all of it is an illusion which made me question if God was even real to begin with because I had put myself at the centre of existence. Thank you so much for this, Melissa! I’ve been starting to read my Bible more and more to reject this line of thinking!
I am a recent born again Christian 💓🙏🏼 the safest way and easiest way for me to be sure of steering clear of New Thought or being influenced in any which way is 1) researching the authors/publishing companies but ultimately 2) having a library consisting of 1 book and that’s the Bible, the word of God 🙏🏼✝️ I have been searching for a 365 day devotional because I appreciate them but don’t like being on my phone (even though YouVersion app has so many lovely and powerful bible plans 💓) yet I feel iffy about most of what I find. To also see Joel Osteen books and Jesus Calling on Christian websites gives me the heebie jeebies...yikes.
Let me think... sin is left out of those books as well as hell and the devil... so yeah..it is very appealing to have all of the benefits of God (universe) without committing to His commands and living life under your own terms.
So when you read the bible, how much oh it do you really understand. Jesus taught his disciples in parables. There was always a deeper meaning to the stories he told to the masses. Later he would reveal deeper truth to his disciples. So we often need help to get real undrstanding
Imagine buying a brand new vehicle that has 25 different owners manuals in the glove box how will you know which is right for your car? That is the problem I have with so many Bibles out today as a mess don't know which is right If you don't know the word of God yourself. Think about this if there was no hell then where do you go if you are not saved If hell does not exist? When the rich man lifted up his eyes in hell The King James Bible talks about that. But for somebody the same there is no hell then where do you go if you don't go to heaven just disappear?
Thank you for talking about this! I used to be a big Joel Osteen fan and now I regret ever being a part of that. I cringe when I hear the things he says.. it's all about being happy and how God can bring us out of anything in this earthly life. That is NOT why we are here... we are here to share the gospel with people and make disciples for God's glory. I also think the apparition your friend had was a demon trying to deceive. Scary that they can take on forms that we think are good.
I’m trying to get a loved one off his church. She is devoted to him and calls me judgemental when I tell her to be careful with him🤦🏾♀️it breaks my heart . What do you suggest I tell her?
A person I know listens to Joel Osteen time to time. I discourage them whenever I see it, because I know that they have low self esteem so they are listening to it because it feels uplifting. But they keep insisting it is only encouragement and he is only saying stuff from the Bible. But I'm afraid they are setting themselves up for disappointment and failure. How do I help them?
@@princessmutsawashe8898 yes many of us have family members or friends who follow him religiously. I have tried to tell them about him, it sometimes works and sometimes doesn’t. Just pray for them, Bcz they will just see you as judgemental. I never agreed with Joel. He’s not a pastor or real minister to me, but just a motivational speaker, which is why he has such a huge following. The Bible talks about beware when many speak well of you. Though he’s not all bad and says some good things too. You can also try to tell them why (or give example) of why he’s teaching false doctrine. I did this with my family and though they disagreed with me at the time, later as they grew in Christ, they saw this too and saw that I was correct. They eventually quit following him. Oh, also did you know they recently found hundreds of thousands of dollars hidden in the walls of his church!? So much for sincere and integrity. He’s under investigation now since they recently said someone broke in and stole this money. Hmm 🤔
I don't think Joel Osteen is bad person but he just gives one side of things. He talks about the blessings and the favor of God and neglects to mention that it's not always easy and that Christians get cancer.. Christians lose jobs get divorced... we don't float on clouds all day. Sometimes I do listen to a short sermon if I want a pep talk but I generally like people that tell you how to believe God when it's not working out.. when the car breaks. The diagnosis on your health isn't good etc. I used to think I wanted to be Christian because I thought they had perfect lives and always got the front parking space and blessings and favor but now I know that's only part of it. I want to be able to beautifuly handle the car breaking down the same week as the washing machine.. a hard medical report. Fightbwith a loved one etc. That's how to show your a Christian. When someone asks how your doing and you tell them how God's helping in hard situations not "oh man put me on your prayer chain.. everything is wrong and I can't even handle life right now.. I'm sick the dog died my child Hates me and I can't afford the car repairs" I'm not saying we don't sometimes need to say we are stressed or need a little boost up from a Christian friend but if we are only ok if everything's going OK we will start to question God. He never promised us a perfect life but he gets us through life.
I wonder how many Christians don’t even know there’s something wrong with New Age? I’ve heard “Christian “ music referred to as “New Age” music as though the terms are interchangeable.
Instead of I am declerations we ought to try affirmations such as, We are more than conquerors through Him that loves us Romans 8;37, with God nothing shall be impossible, Luke 1:37 and I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me Philippians 4:13. These scriptures help us to constantly put God at the center of our lives and eliminates the effects of new age beliefs.
This good-sounding stuff is in the church I go to. If you call it out, they call you "divisive". If you want truth and sound doctrine, you're the "problem", not the mushy false teaching.
Don't forget the "You're grieving the Holy Spirit" and the "you're not positioning yourself for spiritual increase"....and the most horrible-"you're listening to a demon and ultimately opening yourself up for attack". I believe with all my heart that the apostate church is part of the whore riding the beast in revelation. They've sold many false gospels and have everyone running for EARTHLY GOODS. My goodness! It hurts to watch. 🙈😭😭
@@gordonwaldner9792 That sounds like spiritual abuse as well. Anytime a pastor is seeking control instead of referring us to Jesus as the head of the church it's a problem. Sometimes these leaders really take advantage of the position they have a drive to control our lives. Definitely a time to run!!
Great video Melissa. Thank you. It's far too common for churches to teach almost solely "be a good person" and "the bible is full of metaphors and we can interpret how we want". It creates skeptism in Gods words and people stop reading his holy word, and then become easily disillusioned. I'm thankful for your channel and sound biblical doctrine.
Dave Hunt alerted believers in his day. We must remain vigilant and even with good teaching it is seductive and slippery stuff. Thank you for reaching this generation with great information. The Bible clearly puts us on guard against these teachings and excellent teachers help us stay out of the traps that cost us dearly.
Yes, Dave Hunt is the one that God used to open my eyes to the deception of Charismania. Still have his book, which is still worth the read- The Seduction of Christianity
Thank you so much for this video! O have recently come out of the new age and am born again! Praise the Lord for the work He is doing through your ministry. God bless you 🙏
I was involved with the word of faith/hyper Charismatic movement for a long time. What pulled me out of that was faithful Christians that led by example and lovingly spoke truth when I needed it most. Keep being patient, building that relationship and pouring into them. I am so grateful for the ones that did that for me! Bless you
But wait a minute, I read my Bible, but it was def. confusing to decide weather it was a christian or a newage writer you were reading! Dear Lord, help me! Melissa once agn, you are a precious gift for the body of Christ for such a time as this! May Our Lord and Saviour bless you, as you blessed us with your videos! I learned a lot!
I'm in the same boat, but I think it was supposed to be confusing! It shows how similar new age and Christianity is, and how this similarity is deceiving so many ppl.
I got confused on the 2nd one, the ten commandments book. I am a baby Christian though that came out of the New Age 6 months ago so I'm trying to cut myself some slack here, lol.
Great work Melissa, thank you. As you say, Scripture tells us to test everything. If we believers are to be relevant to those caught up in New Age thinking, we need to understand New Age beliefs. But the way to go is to prioritise our study of the Bible so that we may know what the Gospel says. Once we know the truth and have a good understanding of Biblical hermeneutics & apologetics, we'll be able to spot counterfeit metanarratives when we encounter them. Then & only then, can we identify false beliefs. Your videos give me a great head start, a launching pad for more study - I am extremely grateful to the good Lord for calling you to this ministry & for your obedience & faithfulness. Isn't it wonderful how God uses all your experiences to accomplish His plans for you, and to bring good out of what was essentially bad 💕
When I heard this it really showed me how naive I was about how the devil goes about deception. The topic of this video shows how the devil came in and snuck right up on us and we didn’t even see it coming. I thought he would just tell people big lies that believers in Christ could easily refute to people. Now I see that he’s way smarter than that. This type of thing is harder to get people to understand. Great job on the video. We will be sharing it
Great job Melissa in explaining the meaning behind the words of a new ager. I'm a christian and I'm reading my bible a lot but my mother unfortunately is a new ager and this opened my eyes about how to talk to her. Thank you so much!
I enjoyed this video, thank you. I have many friends who "unknowingly" practice new age and new thought together. Like together. I will share this to them, hopefully this can show them the truth and start reading their bibles. They're so soaked in the new age/thought teachings that even their hermeneutics of the bible is in line with the new age/thought and if there is a part of the scriptures that's not in line of what they're taught, they would say that it is wrong or just basically disregards it.
If you are a Christian... Just read the Bible "God", if one is confused don't go the another source🤦... Just pray and keep reading ur bible God will answer in his time.... But some off us don't know patience pray for that too...
While you are right, God also let teachers to teach His Word! Not everyone have the same understanding (but ENOUGH AND SUFFICIENT to have the Gospel of Salvation)so God let Teachers. The problem is that today a lot of self proclaimed teachers are misleading a lot of new believers that HAVE TO BE discipulated!
New Age is part of the current harlot system (Babylon/rebellion against God happening since Nimrod/Tower of Babel/Illuminati/mystery religions.) Revelation teaches the beast/Antichrist will destroy the harlot and the false Prophet will promote the AC who will claim to be God and the world will worship him because of his signs and wonders. If people refuse to worship him and take his mark, they’ll be killed. There will be such a strong delusion that most earth dwellers will not resist. AC will be the one world religion for a time until Jesus’ judgment/2nd coming (Armageddon.)
My goodness. Melissa, I absolutely love the verbiage you use to help us understand these tricky differences. This is so powerful and helpful! I know a number of people who are blending the Law of Attraction into their Christian walk. I hope they will be open enough to receive the dangers of this practice. 🙏🙏🙏
Amazing. Reading the Bible is IMPORTANT and NECESSARY. How can you claim to be a follower of Christ -- a Christian -- and NOT read the Bible? Christ said to the religious sect, the Sadducees, who didn't believe in a resurrection, that they held this wrong belief, because they didn't know the scriptures. "Jesus answered them, You are mistaken because you don't know the Scriptures or God's power..." Matthew 22:29 (International Standard Version) Paul also reaffirmed to Timothy the importance of his knowledge of the scriptures, primarily because of the threat of those whose mission it is to deceive others. He reinforces the importance of the scriptures in his letter to Timothy. "...and evil persons and impostors will keep on going from bad to worse, deceiving others and being deceived themselves. But as for you, continue in the truths that you were taught and firmly believe. You know who your teachers were, and you remember that ever since you were a child, you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and giving instruction for right living, so that the person who serves God may be fully qualified and equipped to do every kind of good deed." 2 Timothy 3:13-17 (Good News Bible) The above scriptures, specifically 2 Timothy chapter 3 and verses 16 and 17, demonstrate that the follower of Christ does not need any other book to establish themselves in the truth. Therefore, I encourage you to read/study your Bible. Furthermore, to reinforce the former verses, I will add this verse: "Everything written in the Scriptures was written to teach us, in order that we might have hope through the patience and encouragement which the Scriptures give us." Romans 15:4 (GNB) Not knowing the scriptures, as Christ said, is the principle reason that many fall victim to false teachings, and, what the Bible refers to as, "doctrines of devils". This is why, Paul was so emphatic that Timothy equip himself with a copious knowledge of the scriptures. "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15 (King James Version) Now, you will have noticed that I used several translations of the Bible to highlight certain scriptures. The reason for this is due to the seeming vagueness in the King James Version of the Bible. Most people are not able to translate the Old English, in which this version was written, into today's modern English vernacular that they are more comfortable with. While some translations may bring clarity to today's English speaker, they can, at times, take away from, and even add to the meaning of a verse of scripture. For example, the Good News Bible (GNB), International Standard Version (ISV) and the American Standard Version (ASV) all omit the word "study" in 2 Timothy 2:15. Both the (GNB) and (ISV) replace the word "study" with "Do your best". While the (ASV) has "Give diligence". Having a "good" translation of the scriptures with which to build your foundation of knowledge of the Bible is vitally important. Therefore, if you feel somewhat put off by the KJV, I would recommend the Modern King James Version (MKJV). Consequentially, the Bible, specifically the New Testament, repeatedly warns against false teachers and about what the presenter in this video advocates, at least in one of the books she recommends, the embrace of philosophy. "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ." Colossians 2:8 (KJV). Whatever you want to call it: "New Age", "Philosophy", "Conservatism", "Progressive Thought", etc., it is all to be cast aside as false. Read for knowledge. Stick with the Bible ONLY. Don't seek to force an interpretation on any of the scriptures you don't understand. Don't read Bible commentaries or any work of exegesis -- how to interpret the scriptures. In fact, the apostle Peter writes: "Look on our Lord's patience as the opportunity he is giving you to be saved, just as our dear friend Paul wrote to you, using the wisdom that God gave him. This is what he says in all his letters when he writes on the subject. There are some difficult things in his letters which ignorant and unstable people explain falsely, as they do with other passages of the Scriptures. So they bring on their own destruction. But you, my friends, already know this. Be on your guard, then, so that you will not be led away by the errors of lawless people and fall from your safe position. But continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory, now and forever! Amen." 2 Peter 3:15-18 (GNB) Therefore, I encourage you to read the Bible thoughtfully and prayerfully. Memorize scriptures which speak to your heart. If you don't understand something, leave it alone. Consider what the Lord said to his servant Daniel, when he wanted to understand the meaning of a dream he had. "I heard what he said, but I did not understand it. So I asked, "But, sir, how will it all end?" He answered, "You must go now, Daniel, because these words are to be kept secret and hidden until the end comes." Daniel 12:8-9 (GNB) The revelation of the things of God are not based upon anyone's mental acumen or theological prowess. Men reason, but God reveals himself to those whom he has chosen. "My Father has given me all things. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him." Matthew 11:27 (GNB); "And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven." Matthew 16:17 (KJV); "For I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel that was proclaimed by me is not of human origin. For I did not receive it from a man, nor was I taught it, but it was revealed to me by Jesus the Messiah." Galatians 1:11-12 (ISV); "Above all else, however, remember that none of us can explain by ourselves a prophecy in the Scriptures. For no prophetic message ever came just from the human will, but people were under the control of the Holy Spirit as they spoke the message that came from God." 2 Peter 1:20-21 (GNB). Understand, it is the Lord, through the Holy Spirit, who will reveal and give us understanding of all things. DON'T be deceived by the charlatans who only seek to profit from your ignorance and to lead you astray. "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, HE SHALL TEACH YOU ALL THINGS, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." John 14:26; "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you." John 16:13-14 (KJV)
Funny I felt like you were describing me.. its somehow comforting to know I was not alone. Im blessed that God uses you to open my eyes and for me to know that I was actually deceived thinking I was a Christian when Im actually was living a new age life. You Steven Bancardz been a great part of my salvation. Bless you.
Hilariously, right before your video, was an ad for the Enneagram! Really sad that many Christians are getting caught up in that and the rest of the things you do helpfully explained in this video. Great job!
The key is indeed scripture. Reading scripture in its context. Asking God "what are you showing me in the context of what I am reading?" Talking to God about what you are reading. Believing what you read Instead of reading what You believe. If you don't understand what you read but you believe it then the understanding will eventually come. Reading scripture in its context can undo alot of wrong thinking and beliefs. This can take time however so be patient and ask God Questions about what you read and stick with it. Putting the word first place in your life always.
I haven't even finished watching this whole video then went to your video w/Mike Winger and started watching that. WOW! I am blown away with all this great knowledge and understanding of God's word and what the scriptures really mean... I used to go to a church of which my family still goes to that do these new age practices. They all speak in tongues whenever they want, the pastors wife will start laughing loudly uncontrollably and some of the rest follow suit. Listen and singing along to Hillsong music, repeating verses over and over again. I stopped going there because I knew in my heart something's not right here!!! When I was there I'd feel compelled to go up front for healing and to be "slain" in the Holy Spirit. While lying on the floor I wasn't feeling like the others laying there looking mystified...I knew that I knew this all wasn't right and stopped going altogether period. Then I found you Melissa and Doreen, Steven and Mike Winger and was and still am woken to the TRUTH of Jesus Christ and his Word. I'm amazed and praise God for people like you all. Because God gave me discernment and is giving me much more knowledge and understanding of His Word through your ministry's. I thank you all. ✝️❤🙏😁
I grew up in a charismatic church that favoured mysticism and spiritual experiences over biblical truth. The bible was used in preaching just to support some spiritual principle whether it was within context or not. I cannot remember a single example of going to a pastor or leader for spiritual guidance and even once being referred to scripture. They always went straight to laying on hands & praying in tongues. Someone even tried to get a demon out of me when I was 12! It left me biblically illiterate and I found it difficult as an adult to really see my bible as critical in my Christian life.
Wow, I am so glad you mentioned this, this is what I was thinking about when I watched this, but I don't have the personal experience to back it up... I am glad you brought it up! It's so important for scripture ALONE. sola scripture, not tradition and scripture or feelings and scripture- just scripture guide us.
My husband is the same way. He grew up Pentecostal, but hated going to church and didn't care to follow God. I have shown him in the bible where the Pentecostal beliefs are not supported in the bible (because he never read hos bible despite knowing certain scriptures). He understands, but is still confused and I just hope that God will lead him out Satan's trap of deception.
@@sarahdonnelly534 my partner is the same I pray he is brought out of this deception but his dad was a pastor and his mum believes the same (grew up Catholic to anti Catholic searching for “born again” church which lead to being Pentecostal). It’s hard to get through to him. Sad
@@sarahdonnelly534 my partner is the same I pray he is brought out of this deception but his dad was a pastor and his mum believes the same (grew up Catholic to anti Catholic searching for “born again” church which lead to being Pentecostal). It’s hard to get through to him. Sad
I want to remind everyone to keep in mind that when I read from the Christian books, the point *was* to cherry-pick and take it out of context to *make it sound New Age.* Some people are (Unnecessarily) concerned and say they are new age, but I assure you, they're not. I was demonstrating a point. The books I read from are from some of the most solid Christians you'll ever come across. I would hope that people with this concern don't miss the whole point of the video- that New Age teachers use the same terminology and Scriptures that Christians do, and they can get a biblically illiterate Christian into quite the theological chokehold because of it.
So no, the Christian books are not "New Age." I demonstrated how they can be taken out of context to be abused by the New Age.
I admittedly found the flow of the video / your train of thought confusing at bits, but I understood the main point. I just felt like sometimes you could explain more clearly? Like to explain the excerpts from the books you referenced more explicitly
That said, it got much more clearer at the end 😊
Insightful Video. -> New Age will state Jesus was indeed a moral teacher because He had all the qualities of a moral teacher. However, He is more than that - He is our God and Savior who was sent down to earth by God the Father to give us the gift of Salvation.
Orthodox, Protestants, and Catholics must be ready to defend the faith.
@@justice1178 *Anyone* who tells you to *look within* yourself for any answers is speaking *contrary* to scripture.
I just looked up Jesse Lee Peterson and this is what I found:
He doesn't believe in the deity of Christ.
He believes that prayer is not talking to God, but feeling your breath and being silent (mindfulness meditation).
He believes that once you are saved you will never sin (he believes he doesn't sin).
He believes you are saved by forgiving others.
He calls himself a Christian, but his theology is not Biblical. He teaches a *false Jesus* and a *false gospel.*
@@justice1178 Ooky
How can i contact you?
I have a message for you.
The devil quoted scripture when he tempted Jesus in the wilderness after his baptism. But he had taken it out of context and twisted it. Jesus fought back with more scripture. He didn't argue with the devil or bargain, he simply quoted scripture.
Jesus is our example to live by.
I just read that verse like a minute ago from reading Matthew 😱 & I noticed that too
Thank you. I grew up Catholic and my mom kept telling me what she was told as a new Catholic: the Devil can quote Scripture! So I grew up believing anyone who talked about what was in the Bible was a hypocrite!!!
So knowing Scripture is a great thing, and reviewing it and using it. *Living* it.
ALWAYS stay in prayer and in your Bible.
Always.
I agree!
B I B L E mean Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth. Read the word of God and stay in prayer, u cannot go wrong
Thank you for letting us this information. God Bless you
Why are we here. We are here to be tested. God has a plan for us and wants us to have hope and a good future. Don't mess it up by sinning. Sin hurts us all.
Reading your Bible is key. To not read it, you are doomed To be duped.
Yes most importantly reading it with the Holy Spirit !!!
Now a days Christians are getting into post modern thought of interpretation of the Bible were verses are deconstructed into specific words which are then misinterpreted or said are hellenized until you can't even read a basic verse without it meaning something ridiculous. It is all an attempt to take out the Holy Spirit, then Jesus.
So says who?
@Tom Servo So the magic of time is a better narrative? Something coming from nothing 13 billion years ago isn't considered magical? The four dimensional human genome just magically appeared all at once and further evolved over the magic of time? Dead matter just burst into biological life? When, where and how?
From simple to complex... no designer needed?
You can't explain scientific observation because no scientist was there to observe even 10,000 years ago. Making assumptions and presumptions is not science. Apparently, you have more faith than I in scientism.
You claim to know how millions of years humans were accidentally assembled by a fittest force of nature, but can't explain death when all the parts are fully assembled. Maybe in another million years nature will have fixed that. Oh but wait... we have doctors already intervening in that process in less than one hundred years --they seem to have accelerated the force of nature.
There's plenty of observation into your claims of 'no designer needed' refuted by David Berlinski, David Gelernter, Stephen Meyer, John Lennox, James Tour and a host of others.
Frankly, the claims of evolution are just as magical as your distorted understanding of biblical scripture.
Can someone please explain this new age and real Christianity thing to me I don’t understand I’m so confused.
My bff started talking about astrology and her zodiac sign, now she is getting reiki healing and told me, "I don't care what you think about it ", she is really saying she doesn't care what God thinks. I am praying that the Lord opens her eyes to what she's doing. It's heartbreaking to see someone walk away from the faith.
We still need to be discerning when reading books that are actually legitimately christian. Even those authors don't get everything right.
New age is actually not new at all. New age is all about you, real christianity is all about Jesus.
Great simple description
The ironic thing is most people don't realize satanism is also about self worship.
Yes. It's been in the Eastern countries for centuries Now.
Amen, Sherry Carroll, amen!!!
It's disturbing that you have to do this recording, to distinguish between the two. People need this so thank you. I, fortunately I don't read any other religious books, It's Bible only. Blessings!
When I was in the New Age movement, we called it Spiritualism and/or Metaphysics. We attended "church" on Sundays and Wednesday evenings, and then had classes to teach meditation in order to get in touch with our true selves and our "spirit guides". Yes, spirit guides! I used to channel "spirit", as well as work at several metaphysical gatherings where I gave "readings", for money of course. I didn't get rich but I made a living for about three years, and had a decent reputation within the circle of people I ran with. It is very frightening to get involved as deeply as I did. What made me leave? Frankly I believe it was the Holy Spirit. I was leaving the so called church I was a part of when I clearly heard a question. "Do you know how many would you have mislead?". That shook me to my core. Although I didn't start going to a Christian Church right away (it was NOT a good church!), I did renounce the movement I was in and quit all ties with the people as well. My story is long. Too long for this comment section. Let's just say that videos like this from real Christians is more important now. The condition of today's world requires people who are strong enough, and courageous enough, to speak God's Truth. And please, don't just read your Bible. Study God's Holy Word and develop a relationship with our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Thank you for sharing, God bless 🙏🏾
What do you think of the site gospelgps.com?
You're right the relationship with the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ is quite awesome but often doesn't work as quick as the occult. I think the occult provides an illusion of power but never clearly gives the power nor the answers that one is looking for you could take a lifetime and you keep looking and traveling and still not find that inner peace that the Holy Spirit provides. In my struggle in life sometime I find that the people who are not in Christianity or richer with material Goods and certainly appears to be happy but I know that this is just an illusion in my own mind. I'm glad you got out I know it's not easy but bless you
It's crazy how easily they deceive and get you to do the wrong thing. The meditation for example they tricked you into looking for unfamiliar spirits to attach to, even though in the Bible God said to mediate on his words day and night. Mediation is one of the most powerful tools in finding God, that's why the enemy gets you to use it wrongly. God Bless ❤✝️
Absolutely. God pursued you thats great
It’s so disheartening to hear mature Christians say that these things don’t matter or that they aren’t harmful. Dear Lord help us discern!
This is bad right?
@@ynn.p1emp775 Yes you are either for God, and only God, or you are against Him. It says this in the Bible. Satan is behind these false beliefs, he wants to turn people to him away from God.
Agreed! I went to a church for roughly a year that seemed to have a lot of these new thought/age beliefs sprinkled in. My husband immediately felt something was wrong but couldn't place his finger on it and I was a new Christian that had barely any Bible knowledge. While attending there was a missionary that the church supported who literally would ask folks to raise their Bibles up before service and do the whole Joel Olsteen "this is my Bible and I am what it says I am..." mantra. When I was dealing with doubt and spoke to the Pastor he called in the same missionary to have his wife do the sinners prayer with me and told me to write the date down and no matter what I feel because I said the prayer I was saved. The pastor preached several times that if you were sick it was because God was punishing you for hidden sin. There was A LOT of him telling us to claim wealth or good health. He and my husband disagreed when he began to quote TD Jakes and others like him. My husband talked to him privately and voiced concern about the doctrines and theology he was preaching and he told my husband that because my husband is not a preacher that he has no right to say anything about any preacher. Glory to God for Him leading us to pray and read His Word because one of the last services we heard was about praying to angels and from that moment we knew we just couldn't attend any longer.
Yes!!
@@andreavanskiver2293 What a great testimony! I watched Joel Osteen every Sunday, read TD Jakes books, along with others. I talk with Christ only now. Thank you!
The Secret was so popular among celebrities when it first came out. That alone clued me in to the fact that it wasn't biblical.
Amen
THIS!!!!!
But it is biblical. Study to show yourself approved. Jesus teachings are what its all about.
@@phyllisprincewhitfield9106 I'm afraid you must have a misunderstanding of either Jesus' teachings or "The Secret." New Agers may convince themselves that the two are related and even compatible in some esoteric way, but Christ did not come to preach a gospel of personal prosperity, and he certainly didn't die for the manifestation of our earthly desires, which is essentially what the law of attraction is all about.
@@phyllisprincewhitfield9106 No it isn't. It's about getting your material desires. Jesus isn't Santa Claus for grown ups. He is the Son of God! Deny yourself and follow him and you will have eternal life.
it happened to me! I've been a Christian for a few years , my sister introduced me to chakras and i trusted her and started doing sage and chakra stones and fell in the youtube rabbit hole of all this stuff and i was totally deceived, thank the lord for showing me a testimony of a girl doing new age, i never even heard of it but when she shared her story i was like OH NO something isn't right i need to repent, my sister ended up getting saved a few days later.
I was saved at age 6. Fell away at age 19 for 30 years until age 49, 8 years ago. Am now back. That won't happen again.
God bless you
Praise our Lord God
Think about this, if a a child is away from the father does the father cease being the child's father? The Father never left you. That is how faithful Jesus is.
2 Timothy 2:23
New International Version
"if we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself."
Nice 😊
God is so good!
This is so important because it can be so confusing.
That new thought book would have tripped me up for sure!
@@LouisaWatt agreed me too!
Fr, the similarities between new age and Christianity is what's deceiving so many ppl, and even deceived me for the longest time.
And we know that satan is the author of confusion, so we know God is the Author of this gal
That’s why we are told to pray for wisdom and discernment and told to study the word. Nobody studies their Bible and this is the result.
This makes me sad, confused, and concerned watching this. I was raised Christian my entire life, had a few years of not living for Christ at all, and now want to seek out His truth more than ever. Both my parents helped to create that foundation of Christianity and knowledge of Scripture, as well as a handful of churches. The older I get, the more concern I have had for my mother and all the new "Christian teachings" she's learning. I couldn't understand why, for years, I felt so uneasy about different groups she'd be involved with, books she was reading and encourage me to read (which I never cared to get into), and different events she would attend... They freaked me out and still do and I couldn't pinpoint it. Videos such as this, have brought up a lot of clarity... and now I feel confused and conflicted and concerned. The same woman who taught me so much about scripture, is constantly saturating her mind with New Age material and surrounding herself with so many New Agers who claim to be Christians and walking in alignment with God and Scripture. It's unsettling. I do believe the Lord has given me a spirit of discernment, which I often pray will be strengthened. I want to know and seek His truth, and learning that the ones I thought I could trust the most, are the ones, themselves misguided, has placed a heavy burden on my heart, which I am now asking the Holy Spirit how I should be praying for the ones closest to me, my mother included.
Hi Anna. Just letting you know that the more we understand God’s Word (truth) as He intended it to be and as our eyes see more clearly (& thus love His truth more dearly), it is natural to feel confused & conflicted as to what to do. I have felt conflicted as I see other believers and friends believing false teachings. Hard to make them see and accept the truth. Pray for them (your mom) & perhaps it’s your turn to help her understand God’s truth, though God used her once to help you learn His Word. Hope this helps your conflicted heart.
Becoming saved after over 25 years as a practicing witch I find myself confused sometimes at how easily people fall into these traps. To them I say... Please, do not think yourselves stupid or weak. The nature of the enemy is insidious. Cleave only to our Heavenly Father and THE WORD. 💖🙏⚓🙌💖
Amen that Jesus came and rescued you from being a follower of new age! I too was a witch previously and got saved too! Jesus certainly seeks us out since we were lost and he definitely does save!
@@Kelle0284 Well the Lord definitely seeks and saves all of us who were lost! His love just draws you in!!
I was abused by religion as i grew up in a preacher family. I am now 52 yrs old and am just now learning about who God really is and who i am in him. However, it feels foreign to me at times, and i long for something familiar, but i know that now that i am free i cannot go back to my Egypt of “spiritual bondage”. I say all that to say we are both from complete opposite back grounds but the truth of the gospel brought us to the same place- Christ. “works” theology, morality, none of that can help me set foot in heaven but that was the lie i heard preached over me for the first 44 years of my life.
Praying that you are continuing to feel loved by Jesus and healed from your past religious experiences ♥️
I say that too as being a Christian all my life for over 42 years. But then again we all fall or make mistakes and sometimes are blind. Just pray for them and keep making people aware such as these videos.
The Holy Spirit gives those who are in love with Jesus the ability to know the difference. Without him, you fall for Anything, my friend.
It also has to do with proper theology n teaching. 2 Tim.2:15 Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman not needing to be ashamed,rightly dividing the word of truth.
So true!! The Holy Spirit leads us into all truth!
I love Jesus and am lead by the Spirit BUT I found some of these so difficult to discern - especially the quote from more philosophical sounding Christian writer.
Just because someone loves Jesus and has the Holy Spirit in their lives DOESN'T mean they are immune to be deceived by these sorts of things...
God may also allow us, in His sovereignty, to be deceived for a time for His purposes; maybe to deal with pride that makes us feel superior (because we love Jesus and believe ourselves to be listening to His Spirit and therefore immune to such deception). After all, to say that if WE are doing the right thing then we are immune makes it sound like it's a work of our own that keeps us from deception, rather than the work of Jesus who first loved us and the Spirit who is the leader in the first place...
👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
@@lilmisspeace I agree, the first part you said though reminds me of "being in wilderness" when all temptations tempted jesus. This happens to us as well. As soon as you declare that jesus is lord and turn from you sins it's like the devil is right there waiting for you and most people fail including me until my last encounter. I do see what you are saying though and I feel like "god teaching you a lesson" is not real. God is all knowing, all loving, all good and everlasting. We do have god given free will though. My brother in law an I were just talking about pre destination last night.. it was a good conversation. Being that we have free will but we also have the good and bad side and there are levels to that which is where free comes in and decides where we go. Even when you are spiritually connected with jesus we still have free will do follow him. Idk if this made sense but I'm not so good with words lol
When my son said I should watch your videos I had no idea they would be one of the greatest resources of biblical teachings, and fun quite frankly, that I'd use almost daily. I love Christians that are far smarter than I, but are blanketed with humility so that one doesn't feel dumb or inferior in any way. I love you, Melissa, and I thank you for being so committed to making God look so good!!!
Bro I got every one of those books wrong that’s crazy. Glad I left it, the secret really messed me up. Reading the Bible helped me discern truth.
This may be an oversimplification but it really sounds like it boils down a trust/belief in self vs belief/trust in Christ and Christ alone. This goes back to the serpent in the garden. The oldest lie in the Bible.
TOTALLY! I 100% agree, thanks for adding that!
I agree.
exactly!! i saw a video explaining how new age beliefs are basically exactly what satan told eve in the garden, so you’re right!
@Lou Smith And you will not die and did God really say seems to be a prevalent lies also. The enemy isn't very creative he always copies God. In Revelation he's described as one who looked like a lamb but talks like a dragon. He's a major copycat. But the good news is he's a defeated foe for us in Christ!!!
Truest comment on here.
I’ve just committed my life to Christ recently and I thought I was so confident in my reading during the game. Man was I wrong I only managed to get 2 right. I’m so glad I came across this video
Oh, my dear. I was in my late 50’s, had read the Bible through (more than once), grew up in church, and still fell for “The Shack” and had “Jesus Calling” recommended to me by “mature Christians.” I praise God for putting people in my path that told me the truth. I was just recently invited to what appeared to be a good Bible study, but started to find some uncomfortable facts about the leader / author. I contacted one of my sources when information was hard to find, and they advised me away from that teacher as she is in a leadership position in an emergent church. So.... a teen newbie hearing “Christian” phrases and who has no mature discerning older Christians to turn to is ripe fodder. You now have a great ministry being light to those being lured in the same way that you were. Praise God!
My wife and daughter STILL love some of these teachings.... I'm the bad guy when I call the stuff out.
You're not the only one. I came at someone's house a couple of years ago. He was a mature christian. In his late 40's or even 50's. But they had a dvd of the shack on the table. I'm not very good at explaining why things are wrong, so I didn't know what to say. And I had only been christian for a few years and that man for several decades. And he actually suggested me to watch a sermon of a guy. But that sermon was also.. not very biblical.
Also intrigued about the shack?
@@mollysampson534
defendinginerrancy.com/the-shack-helpful-or-heretical/
This article was helpful in seeing what was wrong with the Shack.
Amen thank God. I came out of prosperity gospel years ago. A mature Christian who is a pastors wife, wanted to do a woman’s Bible study and guess what book it was? Jesus calling.. of course i knew about it already so i sounded the alarm . She took it well, another sister in Christ not so much .
I was falling for several of these new age practices until I started watching apologetic podcasts and studying the Bible a lot more. So glad God opened my eyes!
God always reveals to the humble n who are genuienly seeking truth
Same!
It's crazy how the devil is so worried about folks knowing who Jesus is!!! Just verifies the power in that Name
Amen !!
And how much heresy is going on nowadays. Such division. No other world faith has such an attack against it.
The new age depersonalizes Jesus. He's just a consciousness or a level to attain. Jesus in reality wants a personal relationship with us. We are dependent on him. In new age there isn't a submission to Jesus as God. New age definitely denies the existence of sin and need for a Savior. New age leads to death and doesn't satisfy our true needs to be loved, freedom from sin, and it denies truth!!
Totally not true. God is about love and loving others not telling people they are going to hell.
@@phyllisprincewhitfield9106 With all due respect, my comment made no mention of going around condemning people. New age is a philosophy or teaching. I was just sharing my opinion of my previous experience and how it differs from being a Christian. I was a witch and had heard religious people tell me that they thought I was going to hell. So I can empathize with the experience. I am now a Christian. God showed me that he wants those that religion rejects. I was one of those rejects. I hope you don't feel as though I'm speaking condemnation to you. It's not my intention. I read where Jesus said "the tax collectors, prostitutes, etc would enter the kingdom before the religious Pharisees, his love was revealed to me in that I saw myself as a person of our time that religious would say I didn't qualify.
Very well said!
@@phyllisprincewhitfield9106 God does want everyone in Heaven with Him, because he's a Good Father and His love is limitless... BUT we as humans have free will to choose who we will serve, He gave us that will. Whichever path we choose either leads us to Heaven, or Hell.
@@phyllisprincewhitfield9106 So I know this is about two months old now but you did bring up a good point. God is love, and one instance that we see his love being expressed is immediately after Adam and Eve eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Adams first emotion or state of mind is fear. God is looking for Adam and Eve, and they have a discussion. God asks where they are, and Adam states he was hiding because he heard him coming and because he noticed he was naked. God states " Who told you, that you were naked"? The significance of this is that when Adam and Eve were created, God stated that what he made was "GOOD" and it was only when they ate from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil that Adam looked at himself and saw imperfection. It was a state of mind that he didn't have before, it made him self conscious resulting in shame and fear, a sinful nature and spiritual death and distorted his view of God. Even though Adam and Eve failed, and they had a consequence from their choice. God gave them a covering for their nakedness. In other words he didn't just zap them and bring an end to his creation, he wanted to be with them and wanted to ease their conscience about themselves and eventually through Jesus give them life and a new mind and heart toward others.
Thank you for this video. I will admit that I don’t read my Bible as often as I should. But, for many years, I have felt like things were “off” with certain books, teachings, and practices. I was chastised years ago when many of my coworkers were reading The Shack. I read it, and I shared my thoughts that something was way of with it. I also refused to do yoga, and many people tried to make me feel bad about it by telling me it was just exercise. I sometimes think maybe something is wrong with me and I’m too judgmental. It’s great to have confirmation that I should listen to my gift of discernment.
"I am afraid that your minds will be corrupted and that you will abandon your full and pure devotion to Christ---in the same way that Eve was deceived by the snake's clever lies. For you gladly tolerate anyone who comes to you and preaches a different Jesus, not the one we preached; and you accept a spirit and a gospel completely different from the Spirit and gospel you received from us!" 2 Corinthians 11:3-4
Exactly we can't give it any open doors. What stood out to me in this verse is tolerate. Boundaries have to be drawn.
The only "I am" statement I ascribe to is "I am a child of God." Not an affirmation an identity.
And when God said " I am, I am, I'm the God of Abraham, Isaiah and Jacob.... "
I am a sinner in the hands of an angry God 😳
@@toolegittoquit_001 except that He loves you still 💛
Sounds like a quote from The Untouched Part book.
Melissa, I am so thankful for this video. My husband has been a professing Christian for 20 plus years. He has recently been listening to some new age stuff along with conspiracy theories Q anon. I've been so concerned because he's pushing it on my family. I am praying about showing this to my husband praying his heart will be softened. Thank you.
2020 has been a year of learning and questioning...I am questioning EVERYTHING now. And really am seeing the importance of being in the word and praying like I have NEVER seen before.
Me too!
I've been a Christian since I was 5 and still failed your little quiz because a lot of the quotes were mostly just confusing without the main point they were getting at there. They do sound very much alike, and some of the details were essentially correct but being twisted. You did a good job cherry picking those!
When I first became a believer I was a big fan of Joyce Meyer. She also promotes alot of what your referencing in this video. I had no idea what I was learning wasn't biblical until a few years ago. Thank you for this. The devil is crafty. What better way to deceive believers then to infiltrate the churches.
I know I used to drive 100’s of miles to see her but it’s become all about money. And she’s said things like we are little God’s in ourselves. That is wrong.
Also it’s about money to her and these prosperity preachers making money off Gods word. She, Joel Osteen, TD Jakes and many more with their million dollar homes and private jets.
No human other than Jesus is perfect though.. Sure shes made mistakes, but shes said a LOT of good things aswell
@@rainsara2795 which is *exactly* how Satan does his work. Evil always mixes 'good' into the msg in order to deceive ppl.
@@rainsara2795 its not about being perfect. When your a teacher you are held to a higher standard. Teaching unbiblical teachings and leading people astray is alot more then just making mistakes. I didnt want to hear anything bad about her at first either, and justified it. But compromise is a slippery slope. Especially in these days. If you are unsure take it to God in prayer. God Bless.
This video is a refreshing oasis in the desert of the lack of Christian knowledge. We all must immerse ourselves in Scripture for the knowledge and wisdom of God! God bless you and your ministry!
Hi Melissa. I'm not sure if you read all the comments, but I wanted to thank you for helping me get free from NAR. I spent 35 years in the NAR movement and coming out of it has been so difficult. I've listened to you and Doreen and others and it's been so helpful. Please send my thanks to Doreen as I've not been able to comment on her videos.
Can I just say, I just found your channel and I am absolutely in love. As a fellow artist and aspiring apologist, you are an inspiration. Keep doing God's good work, He's using you in amazing ways.
*cough* "Bethel." Subscribed instantly. lol. Thank you for describing all of the "definitions" of the Christian and biblical vocabulary in a new ager's perspective. Very good to know!
When reading something like these books I feel knowing the background of the author is very paramount.
💯
Satan can quote scripture
He just doesn’t quote it right.
@@throughthestorm3852 Right enough to deceive people who don't know what God's Word actually says
Yes Satan tried that with Jesus during the temptation, but then Jesus used scripture to correct him. Satan will use scripture to fool us, but Jesus shows us that we need to know scripture inorder to be a step ahead, and know the truth.
A majority of Christians don't know God's word and of those that do a majority don't believe it. Satan knows it and believes it which is why it's simple to deceive many. If we know it and believe it though there is one thing we can do, indeed we're commanded to do, that Satan can't - put it into practice, the ultimate purpose of God's word.
Satan can do fake miracles too.
It is so so SO subtle. I once subscribed to Neale Donald Walsch's daily email messages. I really had no problem with probably 90% of what he wrote. But a little leaven leavens the whole loaf!
Great video!
Christians being enamored with and encumbered by New Age mysticism should not come as a surprise to us. What do we expect when our culture vaunts cutesy cliches like "just follow your heart!" above plain teaching from scripture such as "The heart is desperately wicked and deceitful above all things. Who can know it?"
I’ve seen a lot of new age think in the business realm, especially among women. One of my friends shared a graphic that was full of “I am” statements about how to think about your business. And there were so many people that were on board with it.
It is scary how it is so accepted by “some Christians”.
Yes, the feminist movement/girl power is full of new age, the thinking that women can be their own goddess and be all powerful without the need for men. Totally anti-biblical
I want to tell you thank you. When your videos first started popping up in my recommended and I would check them out, I couldn’t even finish watching them because I would honestly get offended. But by the grace of God I am able to hear you out now and I do appreciate you, Doreen and Steven speaking out about the New Age infiltrating the church. So again, thank you.
I turned 38 last year and didn’t know that the “Christianity” I was raised with from my mother was basically New Age 😕 she even suggested a spell for manifestation to me a few months ago 🤯
Hi Louisa! Wow! 😦 How did you handle that? Of course you did not cast a spell but your own mom, yeah, it's a spiritual war out there and even closer in and around us. Thank God for his power and grace and Jesus who can set us free! Amen! 🙏☺
God is good. How amazing that you’re eyes are now open. God bless you.
Yeah, that is CRAZY. I'm glad you pointed that out, because this is SO RAMPANT!
@@cat-bg3rv yeah, no, not going to cast spells 😆
I wasn’t sure how to react so I just kept talking about gardening...
@@LouisaWatt what was the spell? The spell wasn't based on words of the scripture, right?
Thank you so much dear sister for putting this out here. I lived in the New Age world for over 20 years. I was brought up in an Independent Fundamentalist Baptist church and greatly resented many of the teachings for so long. It breaks my heart now. I am pleased to say I am now a content, blessed, God fearing, Jesus loving, Christian who rejects all New Age beliefs. So much of what you discussed in this video is exactly where I was at. I believed hell was made up and even questioned that the evil one did not exist. What a crock of crap I told myself. Thanks be to God, His son died for my sins and transgressions, which I have repented for. May God bless you and your calling.
I almost fell into new age around 4 years ago but God drew me near by having a friend inviting me to church just before I dipped my toes too deep into it. I gave my life to Christ around. 4 months after and at the same time was almost believing it was no harm to mix law of attraction and manifesting with my faith but no! I was convicted by the Holy Spirit that it is wrong and sinful, a person should serve no two masters and repented of my sin… thank God from protecting and preserving my life, can’t imagine if I fell into that completely . And yes we need to keep feeding ourselves with the Bible so that we can be discerning in what we hear!
Wow! Thank you for doing this. It's so good when you've been wanting to present this reality to friends but don't quite know how to commit and then find a video like this! It's concise, deep, and piercing all at the same time. God bless!
We MUST PRAY that others EYES and OPENED. DISCERNMENT is NEEDED in this HOUR.
Don't forget about yourself
Prayer and fasting for the longing of jesus christ ❤
My grandparents did a good job raising me in the truth to know what’s really Christian teaching and whats not . Constantly reading the Bible helps to .I passed this quiz and thankyou so much for spreading the truth !
Great video! I just found you🙌🏼I came out of 40 years of word of faith doctrine which has now morphed together with NAR. Praise God for this ministry! I will be sharing!
As a religious scholar, I'm impressed. Well spoken and well informed.
It is a very subtle and nuanced intrusion at times. Whenever I hear people use certain words, now, I have almost a visceral reaction: Spirituality, love and light, the universe is giving me...., etc. I have just joined a group of people on Facebook who are hand writing out the Bible like scribes, kind of. I only started a few weeks ago, but it is keeping me in the Word and slowing me down so I can actually absorb what I am reading.:)
2 Corinthians 11:14 "And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light."
2nd Thessalonains 2:11
Being faithful to personal study, Bible study and Sunday School gives you discernment. The Holy Spirit detects what's false.
That second one got me! On the Ten Commandments. I thought Christian. This is a great video. Thanks for sharing
Yeah, agreed!
That one was the confising one to me
I have someone very close to me that considers herself a light worker. Hearing you it sounds like she is definitely into new age new thought beliefs. Which did trickle into my beliefs. Thank you for keeping things straight. You have motivated me to read my Bible!!
I got caught up into it as well. After I got out of a toxic relationship with my ex boyfriend, is when I got really into getting tarot readings done and then I started watching tarot videos all the time. I would watch them, in the morning, on my way to work, lunch breaks and before going to bed. I grew up as a Christian and my parents are missionaries and preach as well. My mom kept warning me about it because she went through my iPad and I still ignored her. I had a reading/spell done to be able to communicate with an angel and I thought it was fake which is why I got it done just for fun, and I remember waking up from my sleep and I saw this ángel next to me, but it had an evil look with an evil smile. I never finished the process of that reading or whatever it was and never saw that demon angel ever again. I would get a lot of nightmares for no reason and I always felt like something bad was going to happen to me because of how obsessed I was with tarot readings. But in the beginning of 2021 I got sick to the point that I had to stop working and I started going to church again and that’s when things got crazier. The more I started going to church and wanting to learn more, was when the demons would attack me the most. I even had a liberation done that lasted more than five hours and the pastor prayed for me and I learned so much on how I opened this door to these demons that were attacking me. I also felt physically better because the doctors couldn’t figure out what was wrong with me and my pain decreased each day. But Even after my liberation, the demons still would attack me and my family. One morning my mom poked her eye out and had to go to the ER and I was left at home by myself and right after she left, I got this horrible pain spread from between my shoulder blades to down my back and Out of nowhere I felt like I was ready to pass out. I was already seeing blackness because I was close to fainting and I didn’t know what to do. I was really scared of fainting while I was alone and right when I started seeing blackness, I yelled for God to help me and right when I called out to him, I felt better and I no longer felt light headed. There were nights that I would kneel down and pray and then go to bed and my bed would shake on it’s own. I had my bed kicked at night so many times and the last time was that something/someone under my bed pushed my mattress and shook the entire bed. My parents and I prayed until we felt Gods presence in the room. I discovered that I was taking God as a joke because before all this happened I would promise him that I would quit right after this reading but man is he not one to joke with. That’s how stupid I was and what’s worst is that I grew up going to church and my parents warning me from this stuff. I never took God seriously before. I never had an actual relationship with God, until now and I’m still working on being a better person. I don’t ever want anything to do with any of that new age/occult stuff. It really is dangerous and it’s difficult to close that door because once you open that door, that’s how easy it is for demons to attack you.
Lol, why do I have a feeling this video is about to go viral. Such an important topic
I pray it would!!
On my Amazon account, a children’s book series was recommended called The Magic of Me-it’s written by someone who must follow Joel Osteen because the series teaches kids to say “I Am” and other new age practices. Just thought I’d through that out. More material to watch out for. Thanks Melissa for this video. I always feel like I need to forward these to all my family!!!
Is there books you can recommend for 6 and 4 year old?
The movie Soul has a lot of New Age concepts and I see many Christians saying that the movie is great. I meditated to an “I am” meditation from Wayne Dyer... smh
Exodus 3:14.
@@revestidadegracia9368 I don’t know much about that movie, but the name alone says, “caution.”
Thanks for this, Melissa! I was definitely in the same boat as you when I was younger in the faith. Just totally ignorant of what was going on in Christianity or what New Age was, what Islam believed, all that stuff. So glad God drew me to you, if that makes sense. I even pay attention to the Christian music I listen to, to see if it even glorifies God. Bethel Worship's "Raise A Hallelujah" is clearly self-centered with lyrics like "I do such and such" and hardly says anything about what Christ has done for us. HE PAID IT ALL WHEN WE DID NOTHING FOR HIM!!
I still sometimes can't tell the difference. This is so important. We have to know which ones are "deeper teachings" that do not come from the LORD. Lord, free your people who are not yet enlightened by this Truth
Thank you Melissa. My introduction to this was as a naive 19 year old in 1975. The pastor was teaching about “Move Ahead With Possibility Thinking.” He just went on and on to more junk. I thank the Holy Spirit for constantly guiding me through scripture until last year I attended as a guest Jesus Culture in Sacramento, CA. I can’t put my finger on why, but everything within me was repulsed. Your videos have helped me understand the problem. Over the last year I have been processing the intellectual garbage that has been fed to me in the name of Christianity over the last forty some odd years. It is an exhausting exercise.
Don't trust your heart,.Trust the HOLY Spirit In You
Only a good statement if you are redeemed by Jesus called according to his purposes. Then the Holy Spirit would be alongside you.
Tests the spirits always
But how can you tell the difference when they sound so similar? My sheep will know my voice, I get it. But sometimes that still small voice needs to be a bullhorn.
Can we trust our gut feelings?
Very much needed topic!
Cough *bethel* Cough cough😂😂
Missing ur train em up videos tho...
Not to worry! We plan on filming the last segment soon! 😊 School schedules were my nemesis this year lol
@@MelissaDougherty ok take ur time!! Lots of love💕👍
I very rarely have a problem seeing the big things that are wrong. But I regularly miss the little things, doubting and thinking I'm crazy for feeling like there is anything wrong when it's such a small thing, and that's where I get burned. Be careful of the little things. Don't let them slide just because they seem harmless. They add up. :( (I generally have a haaard time finding Christian books and such to listen to because I just don't know who's good and who sounds good on the surface..)
And for some reason it's cutting off the rest of my comment. I just wanted to say thank you for doing what you're doing. I have a few different health issues that over the years took all confidence out of me and the slippery slope that lead to was massively destructive. But through your videos and through Mike Winger (who I had never heard of until you recommended him) I'm finally climbing back up the mountain and learning to trust the real God again like I haven't since I was a little kid.
Read Kenneth.E Hagin books..research on Him..He is really Good!
Why not just pick the bible and read it instead of wasting time with these books?
Not everyone can comprehend or understand just reading from the bible. Often times these books are the stepping stones to be able to read the Bible correctly. They are sadly all that most people have since there isn't a lot of discipleship for new Christians. When I read the Bible by itself with absolutely no context for anything inside of it I was horrified and disgusted by who I thought God was. Christian books helped break down things to an entry level I could understand, illustrated the heart of the father and who God was, kind of serving the purpose of discipleship to me. THEN after getting that foundation I could read the Bible with context and better understanding of what it's purpose was. The sad thing is as this video shows, it's very easy to get handed the wrong book and go down a wrong path.
@@dangerdest3606 well if you don’t understand, pray and the spirit of God who is the Most High will make it clear to you! James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you”.
He tells us in psalm 111: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom!
@@girlnamederin3339
But please understand; sometimes other books are the answer to that request for wisdom. There are Christian scholars who can explain things about the Bible because they know the original language or the history or culture better. I was confused about why God got angry with Balaam for leaving with the Moabite princes when he was just told he could go, and it was a Christian website that explained what was going on and that God was absolutely reasonable for getting angry. But I would have needed to know the Hebrew language to catch that.
I agree that the Spirit does give wisdom to all, but sometimes that wisdom comes from other true Christians. Otherwise, getting certain bits of knowledge (like knowing what the original Hebrew means) would be no different than channeling information. What we really need is discernment to know what additional resources are helpful and which ones are distorting the truth.
I think books that are aligned with truth can be helpful but if we don't have a proper foundation in God's word we won't be able to discern the truth from the lie. Also I think it's vitally important to have the Holy Spirit since he is the spirit of truth that leads us into all truth. You are correct though that we don't need other books. The word says we don't need anyone to teach us.
She is addressing the issue with the books people read that are misguidjng them, which is how they got her. People won't stop reading other books any time soon. So they do need to learn to discern... Plus, in the middle of the video, she did suggest to people to read their Bible for true guidance. To top it, she did also use the Bible at some point.
Listen well, people, and do not comment if you don't watch the entire video.
God Bless your ministry and walk. I’m so thankful to our Father for dear ones like you who are fighting for biblical Truth and His glory❤️🙏🥰
I just found out about 90 minutes ago that a 20 something girl, who is new to Church has twice seen an apparition of a woman on our Church stage. She thinks the woman is there to give her a message. I'm obviously going to speak with her. She's not a Christian. She's definitely interested. She's a sweetheart. She's like my own daughter. She's seen lots of apparitions in her life. I'm also going to pray over the Church building as well.
I will be praying as well.
Maybe this is just me, but it seems odd that a demonic spirit is comfortable on a church stage. Holy Spirit presence should be there! I would be seriously praying about attending that church!
@@puddleglummarshwiggle4236 idk if I’m buggin but I don’t even remotely remember any of Jobs friends talking about seeing spirits
@@puddleglummarshwiggle4236 not relevant to this thread, but haven't I seen your comments on blimey cow videos? 🙋♀️
Went through two flare-ups of my chronic illness in two separate churches. One was prosperity leaning and one was full of apologists. One told me it was my fault for letting Satan in the door and one offered me free childcare and set up a meal train to help out. I'll let you guess which one was which.
Interesting comment. I don't know how to interpret "apologists" from that, since every church has apologetics, including new age churches
@@TommyGunzzz I think it's fairly evident that she's talking about a church who's members truly search the scriptures daily and are ready to give an answer for their faith.
21:20 I cannot even say it enough. This exact thing was what I have been struggling with lately. It was put in my mind that the world around me isn’t really real and that all of it is an illusion which made me question if God was even real to begin with because I had put myself at the centre of existence.
Thank you so much for this, Melissa! I’ve been starting to read my Bible more and more to reject this line of thinking!
I am a recent born again Christian 💓🙏🏼 the safest way and easiest way for me to be sure of steering clear of New Thought or being influenced in any which way is 1) researching the authors/publishing companies but ultimately 2) having a library consisting of 1 book and that’s the Bible, the word of God 🙏🏼✝️ I have been searching for a 365 day devotional because I appreciate them but don’t like being on my phone (even though YouVersion app has so many lovely and powerful bible plans 💓) yet I feel iffy about most of what I find. To also see Joel Osteen books and Jesus Calling on Christian websites gives me the heebie jeebies...yikes.
Hey, I also use that app😊..wait do you say there are some books that are not healthy or new age belief books on the app?
Bethel *Cough* waves, smiles, still see you, still know. This young lady is a Boss😍
This message is long overdue. Keep it up your lady.
How necessary ARE all these extra books? I don't get it. Why do people need that stuff?
Let me think... sin is left out of those books as well as hell and the devil... so yeah..it is very appealing to have all of the benefits of God (universe) without committing to His commands and living life under your own terms.
So when you read the bible, how much oh it do you really understand. Jesus taught his disciples in parables. There was always a deeper meaning to the stories he told to the masses. Later he would reveal deeper truth to his disciples. So we often need help to get real undrstanding
They legitimately believe the Bible isn’t providing exactly what they desire so they go outside of it
Imagine buying a brand new vehicle that has 25 different owners manuals in the glove box how will you know which is right for your car? That is the problem I have with so many Bibles out today as a mess don't know which is right If you don't know the word of God yourself. Think about this if there was no hell then where do you go if you are not saved If hell does not exist? When the rich man lifted up his eyes in hell The King James Bible talks about that. But for somebody the same there is no hell then where do you go if you don't go to heaven just disappear?
It makes people feel good about their sin.
Thank you for talking about this! I used to be a big Joel Osteen fan and now I regret ever being a part of that. I cringe when I hear the things he says.. it's all about being happy and how God can bring us out of anything in this earthly life. That is NOT why we are here... we are here to share the gospel with people and make disciples for God's glory.
I also think the apparition your friend had was a demon trying to deceive. Scary that they can take on forms that we think are good.
I’m trying to get a loved one off his church. She is devoted to him and calls me judgemental when I tell her to be careful with him🤦🏾♀️it breaks my heart . What do you suggest I tell her?
A person I know listens to Joel Osteen time to time. I discourage them whenever I see it, because I know that they have low self esteem so they are listening to it because it feels uplifting. But they keep insisting it is only encouragement and he is only saying stuff from the Bible. But I'm afraid they are setting themselves up for disappointment and failure. How do I help them?
@@princessmutsawashe8898 yes many of us have family members or friends who follow him religiously. I have tried to tell them about him, it sometimes works and sometimes doesn’t. Just pray for them, Bcz they will just see you as judgemental. I never agreed with Joel. He’s not a pastor or real minister to me, but just a motivational speaker, which is why he has such a huge following. The Bible talks about beware when many speak well of you. Though he’s not all bad and says some good things too. You can also try to tell them why (or give example) of why he’s teaching false doctrine. I did this with my family and though they disagreed with me at the time, later as they grew in Christ, they saw this too and saw that I was correct. They eventually quit following him. Oh, also did you know they recently found hundreds of thousands of dollars hidden in the walls of his church!? So much for sincere and integrity. He’s under investigation now since they recently said someone broke in and stole this money. Hmm 🤔
Okay.....I'm not asking this question to troll or be a jerk, and how does a person know that's right?
I don't think Joel Osteen is bad person but he just gives one side of things. He talks about the blessings and the favor of God and neglects to mention that it's not always easy and that Christians get cancer.. Christians lose jobs get divorced... we don't float on clouds all day. Sometimes I do listen to a short sermon if I want a pep talk but I generally like people that tell you how to believe God when it's not working out.. when the car breaks. The diagnosis on your health isn't good etc. I used to think I wanted to be Christian because I thought they had perfect lives and always got the front parking space and blessings and favor but now I know that's only part of it. I want to be able to beautifuly handle the car breaking down the same week as the washing machine.. a hard medical report. Fightbwith a loved one etc. That's how to show your a Christian. When someone asks how your doing and you tell them how God's helping in hard situations not "oh man put me on your prayer chain.. everything is wrong and I can't even handle life right now.. I'm sick the dog died my child Hates me and I can't afford the car repairs" I'm not saying we don't sometimes need to say we are stressed or need a little boost up from a Christian friend but if we are only ok if everything's going OK we will start to question God. He never promised us a perfect life but he gets us through life.
I need videos like this in spanish, there's nothing about it, and I need to show my family 😭
Is one : CAMINO AL REGRESO
I wonder how many Christians don’t even know there’s something wrong with New Age? I’ve heard “Christian “ music referred to as “New Age” music as though the terms are interchangeable.
Instead of I am declerations we ought to try affirmations such as, We are more than conquerors through Him that loves us Romans 8;37, with God nothing shall be impossible, Luke 1:37 and I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me Philippians 4:13. These scriptures help us to constantly put God at the center of our lives and eliminates the effects of new age beliefs.
This good-sounding stuff is in the church I go to. If you call it out, they call you "divisive". If you want truth and sound doctrine, you're the "problem", not the mushy false teaching.
I would recommend you leave that church, ASAP.
Don't forget the "You're grieving the Holy Spirit" and the "you're not positioning yourself for spiritual increase"....and the most horrible-"you're listening to a demon and ultimately opening yourself up for attack".
I believe with all my heart that the apostate church is part of the whore riding the beast in revelation. They've sold many false gospels and have everyone running for EARTHLY GOODS.
My goodness! It hurts to watch. 🙈😭😭
The usual thing is, "You have a spirit of rebellion," whenever you question any teaching or action of the pastor.
@@gordonwaldner9792 That sounds like spiritual abuse as well. Anytime a pastor is seeking control instead of referring us to Jesus as the head of the church it's a problem. Sometimes these leaders really take advantage of the position they have a drive to control our lives. Definitely a time to run!!
Jesus says all that are on the side of truth listens to him. If they reject or are offended by truth then that's a real serious cause for concern
Great video Melissa. Thank you. It's far too common for churches to teach almost solely "be a good person" and "the bible is full of metaphors and we can interpret how we want". It creates skeptism in Gods words and people stop reading his holy word, and then become easily disillusioned. I'm thankful for your channel and sound biblical doctrine.
Dave Hunt alerted believers in his day. We must remain vigilant and even with good teaching it is seductive and slippery stuff. Thank you for reaching this generation with great information. The Bible clearly puts us on guard against these teachings and excellent teachers help us stay out of the traps that cost us dearly.
Yes, Dave Hunt is the one that God used to open my eyes to the deception of Charismania. Still have his book, which is still worth the read- The Seduction of Christianity
Kingdom of the Cults by Walter Martin is another good read.
Thank you so much for this video! O have recently come out of the new age and am born again! Praise the Lord for the work He is doing through your ministry. God bless you 🙏
Please pray for siblings, who have been involved in the wof/Nar for over 30 years.
I was involved with the word of faith/hyper Charismatic movement for a long time. What pulled me out of that was faithful Christians that led by example and lovingly spoke truth when I needed it most. Keep being patient, building that relationship and pouring into them. I am so grateful for the ones that did that for me! Bless you
Sumtimes thy dont see the truth is coz thy are blinded wit pride or sum sin in their life
Praying for you 🙏
But wait a minute, I read my Bible, but it was def. confusing to decide weather it was a christian or a newage writer you were reading! Dear Lord, help me! Melissa once agn, you are a precious gift for the body of Christ for such a time as this! May Our Lord and Saviour bless you, as you blessed us with your videos! I learned a lot!
I'm in the same boat, but I think it was supposed to be confusing! It shows how similar new age and Christianity is, and how this similarity is deceiving so many ppl.
Lean not on your own understanding, in All your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight 🙏
I got confused on the 2nd one, the ten commandments book. I am a baby Christian though that came out of the New Age 6 months ago so I'm trying to cut myself some slack here, lol.
God will help you. Amen🙏🏻❤
I never thought I was an "average christian" I thought I was able to pick up on things but dang, I didn't pick up any of those excerpts...
I love Frank Turek 💕 he had a leading role in bringing me to Christ. Highly recommend him to anyone new to faith.
Great work Melissa, thank you. As you say, Scripture tells us to test everything. If we believers are to be relevant to those caught up in New Age thinking, we need to understand New Age beliefs. But the way to go is to prioritise our study of the Bible so that we may know what the Gospel says. Once we know the truth and have a good understanding of Biblical hermeneutics & apologetics, we'll be able to spot counterfeit metanarratives when we encounter them. Then & only then, can we identify false beliefs. Your videos give me a great head start, a launching pad for more study - I am extremely grateful to the good Lord for calling you to this ministry & for your obedience & faithfulness. Isn't it wonderful how God uses all your experiences to accomplish His plans for you, and to bring good out of what was essentially bad 💕
When I heard this it really showed me how naive I was about how the devil goes about deception. The topic of this video shows how the devil came in and snuck right up on us and we didn’t even see it coming. I thought he would just tell people big lies that believers in Christ could easily refute to people. Now I see that he’s way smarter than that. This type of thing is harder to get people to understand. Great job on the video. We will be sharing it
Great job Melissa in explaining the meaning behind the words of a new ager. I'm a christian and I'm reading my bible a lot but my mother unfortunately is a new ager and this opened my eyes about how to talk to her. Thank you so much!
I enjoyed this video, thank you. I have many friends who "unknowingly" practice new age and new thought together. Like together. I will share this to them, hopefully this can show them the truth and start reading their bibles. They're so soaked in the new age/thought teachings that even their hermeneutics of the bible is in line with the new age/thought and if there is a part of the scriptures that's not in line of what they're taught, they would say that it is wrong or just basically disregards it.
I pray for discernment all the time. It's SO easy to get distracted and duped by the Deceiver. We are lied to every day.
If you are a Christian... Just read the Bible "God", if one is confused don't go the another source🤦... Just pray and keep reading ur bible God will answer in his time.... But some off us don't know patience pray for that too...
You are so right... patience
Awesome statement but only pray for patience if you’re ready for what God will test you with lol it’s a dooozy
While you are right, God also let teachers to teach His Word! Not everyone have the same understanding (but ENOUGH AND SUFFICIENT to have the Gospel of Salvation)so God let Teachers. The problem is that today a lot of self proclaimed teachers are misleading a lot of new believers that HAVE TO BE discipulated!
Definitely agree, the Bible and God the Holy Spirit is All the guidance Christians need.
Makes me think that this is going to be the one world religon.
Yep. The religion of false love. We will/have been labeled as "hating" others. Isaiah 5:20 is here.
Spot on
New Age is part of the current harlot system (Babylon/rebellion against God happening since Nimrod/Tower of Babel/Illuminati/mystery religions.) Revelation teaches the beast/Antichrist will destroy the harlot and the false Prophet will promote the AC who will claim to be God and the world will worship him because of his signs and wonders. If people refuse to worship him and take his mark, they’ll be killed. There will be such a strong delusion that most earth dwellers will not resist. AC will be the one world religion for a time until Jesus’ judgment/2nd coming (Armageddon.)
My goodness. Melissa, I absolutely love the verbiage you use to help us understand these tricky differences. This is so powerful and helpful!
I know a number of people who are blending the Law of Attraction into their Christian walk. I hope they will be open enough to receive the dangers of this practice. 🙏🙏🙏
Amazing. Reading the Bible is IMPORTANT and NECESSARY. How can you claim to be a follower of Christ -- a Christian -- and NOT read the Bible?
Christ said to the religious sect, the Sadducees, who didn't believe in a resurrection, that they held this wrong belief, because they didn't know the scriptures. "Jesus answered them, You are mistaken because you don't know the Scriptures or God's power..." Matthew 22:29 (International Standard Version) Paul also reaffirmed to Timothy the importance of his knowledge of the scriptures, primarily because of the threat of those whose mission it is to deceive others. He reinforces the importance of the scriptures in his letter to Timothy.
"...and evil persons and impostors will keep on going from bad to worse, deceiving others and being deceived themselves. But as for you, continue in the truths that you were taught and firmly believe. You know who your teachers were, and you remember that ever since you were a child, you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and giving instruction for right living, so that the person who serves God may be fully qualified and equipped to do every kind of good deed." 2 Timothy 3:13-17 (Good News Bible)
The above scriptures, specifically 2 Timothy chapter 3 and verses 16 and 17, demonstrate that the follower of Christ does not need any other book to establish themselves in the truth. Therefore, I encourage you to read/study your Bible. Furthermore, to reinforce the former verses, I will add this verse: "Everything written in the Scriptures was written to teach us, in order that we might have hope through the patience and encouragement which the Scriptures give us." Romans 15:4 (GNB)
Not knowing the scriptures, as Christ said, is the principle reason that many fall victim to false teachings, and, what the Bible refers to as, "doctrines of devils". This is why, Paul was so emphatic that Timothy equip himself with a copious knowledge of the scriptures. "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15 (King James Version)
Now, you will have noticed that I used several translations of the Bible to highlight certain scriptures. The reason for this is due to the seeming vagueness in the King James Version of the Bible. Most people are not able to translate the Old English, in which this version was written, into today's modern English vernacular that they are more comfortable with. While some translations may bring clarity to today's English speaker, they can, at times, take away from, and even add to the meaning of a verse of scripture.
For example, the Good News Bible (GNB), International Standard Version (ISV) and the American Standard Version (ASV) all omit the word "study" in 2 Timothy 2:15. Both the (GNB) and (ISV) replace the word "study" with "Do your best". While the (ASV) has "Give diligence". Having a "good" translation of the scriptures with which to build your foundation of knowledge of the Bible is vitally important. Therefore, if you feel somewhat put off by the KJV, I would recommend the Modern King James Version (MKJV).
Consequentially, the Bible, specifically the New Testament, repeatedly warns against false teachers and about what the presenter in this video advocates, at least in one of the books she recommends, the embrace of philosophy. "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ." Colossians 2:8 (KJV). Whatever you want to call it: "New Age", "Philosophy", "Conservatism", "Progressive Thought", etc., it is all to be cast aside as false. Read for knowledge. Stick with the Bible ONLY. Don't seek to force an interpretation on any of the scriptures you don't understand. Don't read Bible commentaries or any work of exegesis -- how to interpret the scriptures. In fact, the apostle Peter writes:
"Look on our Lord's patience as the opportunity he is giving you to be saved, just as our dear friend Paul wrote to you, using the wisdom that God gave him. This is what he says in all his letters when he writes on the subject. There are some difficult things in his letters which ignorant and unstable people explain falsely, as they do with other passages of the Scriptures. So they bring on their own destruction. But you, my friends, already know this. Be on your guard, then, so that you will not be led away by the errors of lawless people and fall from your safe position. But continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory, now and forever! Amen." 2 Peter 3:15-18 (GNB)
Therefore, I encourage you to read the Bible thoughtfully and prayerfully. Memorize scriptures which speak to your heart. If you don't understand something, leave it alone. Consider what the Lord said to his servant Daniel, when he wanted to understand the meaning of a dream he had. "I heard what he said, but I did not understand it. So I asked, "But, sir, how will it all end?" He answered, "You must go now, Daniel, because these words are to be kept secret and hidden until the end comes." Daniel 12:8-9 (GNB) The revelation of the things of God are not based upon anyone's mental acumen or theological prowess. Men reason, but God reveals himself to those whom he has chosen.
"My Father has given me all things. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him." Matthew 11:27 (GNB); "And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven." Matthew 16:17 (KJV); "For I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel that was proclaimed by me is not of human origin. For I did not receive it from a man, nor was I taught it, but it was revealed to me by Jesus the Messiah." Galatians 1:11-12 (ISV); "Above all else, however, remember that none of us can explain by ourselves a prophecy in the Scriptures. For no prophetic message ever came just from the human will, but people were under the control of the Holy Spirit as they spoke the message that came from God." 2 Peter 1:20-21 (GNB).
Understand, it is the Lord, through the Holy Spirit, who will reveal and give us understanding of all things. DON'T be deceived by the charlatans who only seek to profit from your ignorance and to lead you astray. "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, HE SHALL TEACH YOU ALL THINGS, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." John 14:26; "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you." John 16:13-14 (KJV)
Funny I felt like you were describing me.. its somehow comforting to know I was not alone. Im blessed that God uses you to open my eyes and for me to know that I was actually deceived thinking I was a Christian when Im actually was living a new age life. You Steven Bancardz been a great part of my salvation. Bless you.
You are really appreciated Melissa, I need to communicate to my daughter’s and your ministry is a big help, God bless you!
Hilariously, right before your video, was an ad for the Enneagram! Really sad that many Christians are getting caught up in that and the rest of the things you do helpfully explained in this video. Great job!
The key is indeed scripture. Reading scripture in its context. Asking God "what are you showing me in the context of what I am reading?" Talking to God about what you are reading. Believing what you read Instead of reading what You believe. If you don't understand what you read but you believe it then the understanding will eventually come. Reading scripture in its context can undo alot of wrong thinking and beliefs. This can take time however so be patient and ask God Questions about what you read and stick with it. Putting the word first place in your life always.
I haven't even finished watching this whole video then went to your video w/Mike Winger and started watching that. WOW! I am blown away with all this great knowledge and understanding of God's word and what the scriptures really mean... I used to go to a church of which my family still goes to that do these new age practices. They all speak in tongues whenever they want, the pastors wife will start laughing loudly uncontrollably and some of the rest follow suit. Listen and singing along to Hillsong music, repeating verses over and over again. I stopped going there because I knew in my heart something's not right here!!! When I was there I'd feel compelled to go up front for healing and to be "slain" in the Holy Spirit. While lying on the floor I wasn't feeling like the others laying there looking mystified...I knew that I knew this all wasn't right and stopped going altogether period. Then I found you Melissa and Doreen, Steven and Mike Winger and was and still am woken to the TRUTH of Jesus Christ and his Word. I'm amazed and praise God for people like you all. Because God gave me discernment and is giving me much more knowledge and understanding of His Word through your ministry's. I thank you all. ✝️❤🙏😁
I grew up in a charismatic church that favoured mysticism and spiritual experiences over biblical truth. The bible was used in preaching just to support some spiritual principle whether it was within context or not. I cannot remember a single example of going to a pastor or leader for spiritual guidance and even once being referred to scripture. They always went straight to laying on hands & praying in tongues. Someone even tried to get a demon out of me when I was 12! It left me biblically illiterate and I found it difficult as an adult to really see my bible as critical in my Christian life.
Wow, I am so glad you mentioned this, this is what I was thinking about when I watched this, but I don't have the personal experience to back it up... I am glad you brought it up! It's so important for scripture ALONE. sola scripture, not tradition and scripture or feelings and scripture- just scripture guide us.
My husband is the same way. He grew up Pentecostal, but hated going to church and didn't care to follow God. I have shown him in the bible where the Pentecostal beliefs are not supported in the bible (because he never read hos bible despite knowing certain scriptures). He understands, but is still confused and I just hope that God will lead him out Satan's trap of deception.
@@sarahdonnelly534 my partner is the same I pray he is brought out of this deception but his dad was a pastor and his mum believes the same (grew up Catholic to anti Catholic searching for “born again” church which lead to being Pentecostal). It’s hard to get through to him. Sad
@@sarahdonnelly534 my partner is the same I pray he is brought out of this deception but his dad was a pastor and his mum believes the same (grew up Catholic to anti Catholic searching for “born again” church which lead to being Pentecostal). It’s hard to get through to him. Sad
Wow! The commercial that was shown before this video...manifeste my life...just meditate and I'll be rich!!! Praying for people that fall for that...
Bravo!! Wow...are they forked tongue. Thank you for getting this out there. God Bless you!