Witchcraft Has Entered The Church

 

Witchcraft has long been a contentious topic within the Christian community. The mere mention of the term sends shivers down the spines of believers, calling to mind images of the occult, malevolence, and spiritual corruption. However, it must be understood that witchcraft and its influence can infiltrate various aspects of life, including the Church itself. In this blog, we will delve into the reasons behind this infiltration, discussing scriptural references from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible to support our exploration.

## Understanding Witchcraft In A Biblical Context

To effectively discuss the topic, we first need to define witchcraft and examine its biblical implications. In the KJV, witchcraft is often associated with sorcery, divination, and rebellion against God. 

### Old Testament References

1. **Exodus 22:18** - “Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.”

   

This verse signifies the seriousness with which God views witchcraft. In the context of ancient Israel, witches and sorcerers were seen as threats to the community's integrity and relationship with God. This concept continues to resonate today, suggesting that any infiltration of witchcraft signifies a breach of faith.

2. **Deuteronomy 18:10-12** - “There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto the Lord…”

This scripture collectively refers to various forms of witchcraft, emphasizing that these practices are incompatible with the worship of the one true God. The abomination described suggests that when such practices permeate the Church, it results in spiritual decay.

3. **1 Samuel 15:23** - “For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft…”

Here, we see a direct correlation between rebellion against God and witchcraft. When church leaders and congregations engage in practices that deviate from scriptural truths, they embody a spirit of rebellion, effectively inviting the principles of witchcraft into their midst.

### New Testament Perspectives

1. **Galatians 5:19-21** - “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft…”

In this passage, witchcraft is listed among major sins of the flesh. Its presence among spiritual communities serves as a warning; when the church allows unrepentant sin to prevail, it bears the risk of becoming a hub for witchcraft.

2. **Revelation 21:8** - “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.”

This verse underlines the eternal consequences awaiting those who dabble in sorcery and witchcraft. The alarming inclusion of sorcerers in this list indicates that spiritual leaders must remain vigilant against such influences entering the church.

## The Emergence Of Witchcraft Practices In Modern Churches

With a greater focus on inclusivity, some churches are inadvertently allowing practices that can be linked to witchcraft, such as:

### 1. The Acceptance Of New Age Practices

Many congregations have adopted New Age beliefs, which often parallel witchcraft, like astrology, crystals, and energy healing. While these practices may seem benign, they can open doors to spiritual deception.

#### Scriptural Reflection: 2 Corinthians 11:14 - “And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.”

This verse warns us that deception can appear attractive and benign. The Church must exercise discernment.

### 2. Mixing Secular Psychology With Biblical Faith

With the rise of psychological frameworks, some churches are intertwining secular psychology with Christian teachings. This blend risks replacing the sufficiency of Scripture with human reasoning.

#### Scriptural Reflection: Colossians 2:8 - “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.”

By prioritizing human wisdom over divine wisdom, the Church might inadvertently embrace elements that can resemble witchcraft—placing personal experiences and feelings above scripture.

### 3. Meditation Practices

Mindfulness and meditation practices often borrowed from Eastern religions can have roots in occult practices. While meditation can have its benefits, Christians must ensure their meditation is rooted in the Word.

#### Scriptural Reflection: Psalm 1:2 - “But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.”

This reinforces the significance of directing meditation towards God’s Word to avoid overlaps with practices categorized as witchcraft.

## The Church’s Response To Infiltration

In response, it is crucial for church leaders and congregations to perform self-examination and reassess their teachings and practices to ensure they align with biblical doctrines.

### Calls For Repentance

In many cases, the Church needs to repent for allowing witchcraft-like practices to murmur within its corridors. 

#### Scriptural Reflection: 2 Chronicles 7:14 - “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven…”

This verse highlights the necessity for humility, prayer, and repentance in combating witchcraft's influence.

### Education And Discernment

Equipping congregations with knowledge concerning witchcraft and its manifestations is vital. This can be achieved through sermons, workshops, and teaching ministries.

#### Scriptural Reflection: Hosea 4:6 - “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…”

In providing comprehensive biblical education, the Church can create an informed body of believers who can better discern the signs of witchcraft.

### Emphasis On Scripture

A revival of scriptural fidelity is paramount. Christians must turn to the Bible as their ultimate source of truth, using it as a standard against which they can measure all teachings and practices.

#### Scriptural Reflection: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness…”

Grounding the Church in Scripture ensures that the truths of the faith remain uncompromised.

## Conclusion

The infiltration of witchcraft into the Church presents an intricate challenge that demands recognition, discernment, and action. By returning to the teachings of the KJV Bible, the Church can fortify itself against these influences, safeguarding the integrity of its message and mission. This is a call for vigilance, repentance, and a return to the foundations laid in Scripture.

In confronting the reality of witchcraft, believers must remain steadfast in faith, ensuring they walk in the light of God’s Word, which has the power to keep them free from deception. As followers of Christ, we must remember that we are called to be salt and light in a world filled with darkness standing firm in our convictions and making wise choices in accordance with the will of God.