Spiritism and the Word: A Biblical warning every believer must heed

Spiritism is the belief that the spirits of the dead can and do communicate with the living—often through mediums, rituals, or spiritual guides.

On the surface, spiritism appears harmless, even comforting, as it promises connection with lost loved ones, insight into hidden knowledge, and spiritual empowerment. But behind its friendly façade lies a dark spiritual deception.

The Bible is clear: any attempt to seek supernatural knowledge or power apart from God is forbidden (Deuteronomy 18:10–12). Spiritism is not of God—it is a counterfeit operation of Satan, designed to mimic the supernatural in order to confuse, entrap, and ultimately destroy souls.

What makes it even more dangerous is its increasing subtlety in today’s world—through entertainment, social media, and even so-called “Christian” mysticism. Christians must not only avoid it but also be equipped to expose its dangers.

God’s Clear Prohibition Against Spiritism: Not Just Discouraged—It Is Detestable

In both the Old and New Testaments, God strongly condemns spiritism and all forms of occult practice. Leviticus 19:31 warns, “Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them.” Similarly, in Isaiah 8:19, the prophet asks, “Should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?”

The spiritual realm is real—and dangerous when accessed illegally. God forbids spiritism because it opens doors to demonic influence. Christians must understand that demons often masquerade as angels of light or familiar spirits (2 Corinthians 11:14).

They may present themselves as ancestors, harmless guides, or peaceful energies, but their ultimate goal is spiritual bondage. Spiritism is not merely superstition—it is rebellion against God’s sovereignty and a form of spiritual idolatry.

The Modern Face of Spiritism: How the Occult Hides in Plain Sight Today

Today, spiritism is no longer confined to dark rooms and shadowy séances—it has gone mainstream. Television shows, movies, books, and online platforms often normalize or romanticize communication with the dead, astrology, psychic readings, and witchcraft.

Practices once labeled as occult are now repackaged as “harmless spirituality,” “ancestral reverence,” or even “self-care.” Apps offer horoscopes. Social media influencers speak of “cleansing energy” with crystals and “manifesting realities” through spirit guides. Even some churches confuse prophetic gifts with divination, not realizing that the Holy Spirit does not operate through unsanctified channels.

The deception is strong because it often feels emotionally comforting, empowering, or culturally acceptable—but it is spiritually deadly. Christians must be alert and wise, discerning the spirits and testing everything through the Word of God (1 John 4:1).

The Spiritual Cost of Spiritism: Why Christians Must Not Flirt with the Forbidden

Engaging in spiritism, even out of curiosity or cultural habit, is not without consequence. It opens spiritual doors that are hard to close and invites unclean spirits into one’s life. Many who begin with “innocent” curiosity soon find themselves dealing with fear, confusion, tormenting dreams, spiritual stagnation, and unexplainable heaviness.

These are not coincidences—they are symptoms of spiritual contamination. The enemy operates legally, and when a person violates God’s spiritual laws, demonic oppression often follows. For Christians, any involvement in spiritism—whether through readings, rituals, or ancestral invocations—creates a spiritual barrier between them and the Holy Spirit.

It grieves God (Ephesians 4:30), quenches spiritual growth, and makes room for deception. Walking in the light of Christ requires full separation from darkness. Repentance, renunciation, and the blood of Jesus are the only ways to be cleansed from its effects.

How Christians Should Respond: Equip, Expose, and Evangelize with Truth

Christians must respond to the rising influence of spiritism with clarity and conviction. First, we must equip ourselves with the truth of Scripture and teach others—especially our youth—the difference between God’s Spirit and counterfeit spiritual activity.

We must expose false practices, not just by condemning them, but by explaining the spiritual dangers behind them with love and truth. Finally, we must evangelize boldly. Many involved in spiritism are genuinely seeking healing, guidance, or meaning—but in the wrong places.

As ambassadors of Christ, we must point them to Jesus—the only mediator between God and man, the only source of true peace, and the only One with power over life, death, and the spiritual realm. (1 Timothy 2:5, John 14:6). Christ is not one light among many—He is the Light, and all others are shadows by comparison.

Final Word: Flee the Shadows—Walk Only in the Light of Christ

Spiritism may offer the illusion of light, but it is only darkness disguised. Christians are not called to flirt with forbidden spiritual realms, but to walk in the Spirit of truth. As 2 Corinthians 6:14 says, “What fellowship can light have with darkness?”

Our calling is to walk in holiness, discernment, and total dependence on the voice of the Holy Spirit—not the whispers of familiar spirits.

The spiritual world is real, and it must be approached only through the authority of Jesus Christ. Anything outside of Him is dangerous, deceptive, and ultimately destructive.