Over the last several months I have observed “Christian advertisements” on social media that sound more like re-packaged New Age teaching, as opposed to sound biblical doctrine.
If you are constantly hearing about unlocking your destiny, discovering your purpose, grasping your human potential (self-realization, which certainly has its appeal). Here is a good checklist to see whether the content being presented is “Spirit driven” (Biblically based-God centered) instead of “purpose driven” (New Age based-Man centered). Spirit-driven content should incorporate the following:
“Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged” (John 16:7-11).
Jesus gives us a heads up on the three primary areas of work by the Holy Spirit.1) sin, 2) righteousness, and 3) judgment. Many of the “spiritual” advertisements shown on social media emphasize: purpose, destiny, and identity. These terms all ring of New Age emphases that mimick the gospel. To add, many of these teachers will hardly mention sin, judgment, or even the righteousness of God.
Joel Esteen, who has one of the largest churches in the United States, was interviewed by 60 mintues and was asked, “You write in your book, to become a better you, you must become positive towards yourself, develop better relationships, and embrace the place where you are… Not one mention of God in that, not one mention of Jesus Christ… Osteen replies, “That is just my message”.
There are other prominent leaders that suggest we have the ability to “prophetically call out our destinies” and overemphasize signs and miracles. Some have even suggested the use of “destiny cards”!
I am all for signs and miracles. However, when they become the primary focus of one’s ministry, and when sound doctrine is lacking, the seedbed of New Age influence becomes extremely fertile.
Whenever the predominate message of the gospel dealing with sin, righteousness, and judgment begins to fade from the church, the counterfeit ideology of New Age thought is waiting to take to its place.
Beware.
