What Ab0ut Evil Spirits?
Many witches agree with the Bible on this point: Evil spirits do exist. In one essay a promoter of witchcraft warns: "The Shadows are out there. They exist,in the invisible world that parallels our own, living creatures. . . .The terms 'Imp," 'Evil Spirit' and Demon' are fairly accurate. They are very strong. . .The most intelligent variety . . . are capable (if someone is helpful enough to open a doorway for them) of entering our world. . . They can enter your body . . ., even asserting a degree of control over you (see, I told you) Yes, this is exactly like the old stories of Demon possession.
In Bible times, demon possession afflicted people in various ways. Some of those affected were unable to speak, some were blind, some acted insane, and some possessed superhuman strength. (Matthew 9:32; 12:22; 17:15, 18; Mark 5:2-5; Luke 8:29; 9:42; 11:14; Acts 19:16) At times the agony was compounded when many demons gained possession of a person simultaneously. (Luke 8:2, 30) Surely, then, there is good reason why Jehovah warns people to stay away from witchcraft and other occult practices.
Next time: Religion Based on Truth
Watchtower, 2000
Showing posts with label Jehovah is Against Witchcraft. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jehovah is Against Witchcraft. Show all posts
7.12.2011
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT WITCHCRAFT
Is Some Magic Good?
Magic, of course, has always been associated with the occult. Many people in both ancient and modern times believe that the magic practiced by witches is performed to bring harm to others. Witches are credited with the power to inflict severe pain and even death by means of magic. Traditionally, witches have been blamed for an almost limitless array of misfortunes, including illness,death and crop failure.
Witches today strongly deny such charges. While acknowledging the existence of the occasional rogue witch who pursues evil, most maintain that their magic is used to being benefits, not harm. Wiccans teach that the effects of magic will return threefold to the person practicing it and say that this is a major deterrent to the pronouncing of curses. Examples of this so-called benevolent magic include spells to protect yourself, to purify your home from negative energy left behind by former tenants, to make a person fall in love with you, to promote healing and health, to prevent the loss of your job, and to acquire money. (If you are one of God's servants, you don't need this magic) With such sweeping powers being attributed to witchcraft, it is not surprising that it has become so popular.
The Bible, however, makes no distinction between magic that is good and magic that is evil. In the Law given to Moses, God made his position quite clear. He said: "You must not practice magic." (Leviticus 19:26) We also read: "There should be not found in you . . . a practicer of magic or anyone who looks for omens or a sorcerer, or one who binds others with a spell or anyone who consults with medium." -Deuteronomy 18:10, 11.
Why did God say that? Is it not because he intends to deny us what is beneficial. Jehovah gave these laws to his people because he loved them and did not want them to become enslaved by fear and superstition. Instead, he invites his servants to approach him for the things they need. He is the Giver of "every good gift and every perfect present." (James 1:17) The apostle John assured fellow believers: "Whatever we ask we receive from [God], because we are observing his commandments and are doing the things that are pleasing in his eyes." -1 John 3:22.
Next time: What About Evil Spirits?
Watchtower, 2000
Magic, of course, has always been associated with the occult. Many people in both ancient and modern times believe that the magic practiced by witches is performed to bring harm to others. Witches are credited with the power to inflict severe pain and even death by means of magic. Traditionally, witches have been blamed for an almost limitless array of misfortunes, including illness,death and crop failure.
Witches today strongly deny such charges. While acknowledging the existence of the occasional rogue witch who pursues evil, most maintain that their magic is used to being benefits, not harm. Wiccans teach that the effects of magic will return threefold to the person practicing it and say that this is a major deterrent to the pronouncing of curses. Examples of this so-called benevolent magic include spells to protect yourself, to purify your home from negative energy left behind by former tenants, to make a person fall in love with you, to promote healing and health, to prevent the loss of your job, and to acquire money. (If you are one of God's servants, you don't need this magic) With such sweeping powers being attributed to witchcraft, it is not surprising that it has become so popular.
The Bible, however, makes no distinction between magic that is good and magic that is evil. In the Law given to Moses, God made his position quite clear. He said: "You must not practice magic." (Leviticus 19:26) We also read: "There should be not found in you . . . a practicer of magic or anyone who looks for omens or a sorcerer, or one who binds others with a spell or anyone who consults with medium." -Deuteronomy 18:10, 11.
Why did God say that? Is it not because he intends to deny us what is beneficial. Jehovah gave these laws to his people because he loved them and did not want them to become enslaved by fear and superstition. Instead, he invites his servants to approach him for the things they need. He is the Giver of "every good gift and every perfect present." (James 1:17) The apostle John assured fellow believers: "Whatever we ask we receive from [God], because we are observing his commandments and are doing the things that are pleasing in his eyes." -1 John 3:22.
Next time: What About Evil Spirits?
Watchtower, 2000
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT WITCHCRAFT
Who Dwell in the Spirit Realm?
A basic question in the quest for spiritual understanding is this, Who inhabit the spirit realm? While most modern witches are followers of a nature-oriented, polytheistic faith, some worship a great mother-goddess, viewed in triple role of maiden, mother and crone, representing the basic stages of life. Her lover is a god with horns. Other witches worship a god and goddess together. One writer says: "The Goddess and God are seen as a manifestation of the feminine and masculine forces of nature. Each [having] unique characteristics that when combined result in the harmonious creation of life." Another authority writes: "One of the most pivotal choices in Witchcraft is you choice of the deities [Gods/Goddesses) you will work with . . .The Craft gives you the freedom to pick and subsequently honor your own forms of the Divine.
The Bible supporters none of these ideas. Jesus Christ devoted his entire ministry to teaching others about Jehovah, "the only true God." (John 17:3) The Bible states: "Jehovah is great and very much to be praised,and he is to be feared more than all other gods. For all the gods of the people are valueless gods." -1Chronicles 16:25, 26
What about the Devil? Webster's Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary defines witchcraft as "communications with the Devil." (Witchcraft is the Devil's work, because it takes you away from worshiping the only true God, Jehovah, which is what he is striving for) It would be hard to find a witch today who would agree with this definition, for many do not accept event he existence of Satan the Devil. (This is just how smooth the Devil is) One young woman, described in The Irish Times as a "high-ranking witch and leader of one of Ireland's most significant covens," reasons this way: "Belief in the Devil implies acceptance of Christianity. (The Devil is trying to keep people from being true Christians. What she says are the words of Satan himself) . . .[The Devil] cannot inhabit a universe where there is no God. (Oh! But lady there is a god)."
The Bible confirms the existence of the Devil and charges him with much of the suffering and turmoil on earth. (Revelation 12:12) Jesus not only taught that the Devil exists but also showed that it is possible to unwittingly to do the will of the Devil. For example, self-righteous religious leaders of the first century asserted that they were, in a way, sons of God and believed that they were doing the will of God, Jesus, who could discern what was in their hearts, knew differently. He told them forthright: {"You are from your father the Devil, and you wish to do the desires of your father." (John 8:14) Further, the Bible book of Revelation states that the Devil "is misleading the entire inhabited earth."-Revelation 12:9.
Next time: Is Some Magic Good?
Watchtower, 2000
A basic question in the quest for spiritual understanding is this, Who inhabit the spirit realm? While most modern witches are followers of a nature-oriented, polytheistic faith, some worship a great mother-goddess, viewed in triple role of maiden, mother and crone, representing the basic stages of life. Her lover is a god with horns. Other witches worship a god and goddess together. One writer says: "The Goddess and God are seen as a manifestation of the feminine and masculine forces of nature. Each [having] unique characteristics that when combined result in the harmonious creation of life." Another authority writes: "One of the most pivotal choices in Witchcraft is you choice of the deities [Gods/Goddesses) you will work with . . .The Craft gives you the freedom to pick and subsequently honor your own forms of the Divine.
The Bible supporters none of these ideas. Jesus Christ devoted his entire ministry to teaching others about Jehovah, "the only true God." (John 17:3) The Bible states: "Jehovah is great and very much to be praised,and he is to be feared more than all other gods. For all the gods of the people are valueless gods." -1Chronicles 16:25, 26
What about the Devil? Webster's Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary defines witchcraft as "communications with the Devil." (Witchcraft is the Devil's work, because it takes you away from worshiping the only true God, Jehovah, which is what he is striving for) It would be hard to find a witch today who would agree with this definition, for many do not accept event he existence of Satan the Devil. (This is just how smooth the Devil is) One young woman, described in The Irish Times as a "high-ranking witch and leader of one of Ireland's most significant covens," reasons this way: "Belief in the Devil implies acceptance of Christianity. (The Devil is trying to keep people from being true Christians. What she says are the words of Satan himself) . . .[The Devil] cannot inhabit a universe where there is no God. (Oh! But lady there is a god)."
The Bible confirms the existence of the Devil and charges him with much of the suffering and turmoil on earth. (Revelation 12:12) Jesus not only taught that the Devil exists but also showed that it is possible to unwittingly to do the will of the Devil. For example, self-righteous religious leaders of the first century asserted that they were, in a way, sons of God and believed that they were doing the will of God, Jesus, who could discern what was in their hearts, knew differently. He told them forthright: {"You are from your father the Devil, and you wish to do the desires of your father." (John 8:14) Further, the Bible book of Revelation states that the Devil "is misleading the entire inhabited earth."-Revelation 12:9.
Next time: Is Some Magic Good?
Watchtower, 2000
7.11.2011
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT WITCHCRAFT
MODERN DAY witchcraft is hard to define. This is because those who practice it vary so greatly. They recognize no central authority or doctrine or holy book to unify belief. They also differ in tradition, organization, ritual, and opinion as to what gods to honor. Remarks one writer: "The occult world offers to the individual a 'free marketplace' of ideas." Says another: "Most Neo-Pagans disagree on almost everything.
For many, the contradictions are not a problem. One guidebook for aspiring witches states: "When you're challenged with seemingly contradicting information, examine this information and make a decision as to which to follow. Listen to your intuition. In other words, feel free to pick and choose among the published rituals and ritual textbooks to decide what feels right."
For those who recognize the nature of truth, such contradictions are a problem. Truth is fact, that which is real. Things are not true simply because a person feels or hopes or believes that they are true. For example, at one time doctors believed that they could cure pneumonia by cutting a live chicken in two and laying the pieces on the patient's chest. Doubtless, many patients sincerely believed that this treatment would cure them. Their beliefs and hopes, however, were not in harmony with fact-such a procedure does not cure pneumonia. People do not create truth; they reach out to comprehend it.
The Bible claims to contain the truth about spiritual matters. Jesus Christ, when on earth, said to his Father in prayer: "Your word is truth." (John 17:17)The apostle Paul wrote: "All Scripture is inspired of God." (2 Timothy 3:16) Many who practice witchcraft do not agree. Instead, they look for inspiration and guidance in myth, ancient religions and even science fiction. Is it not reasonable, though at least to consider what the Bible says? After all, it is almost universally recognized as a holy book. It is also one of the oldest religious texts that has survive. The Bible was written over a periods of 1,600 years, yet is is consistent throughout in its teachings. Let us compare the Bible's teachings with some common beliefs currently expressed by those who promote witchcraft.
Next time: Who Dwell in the Spirit Realm?
Watchtower, 2000
For many, the contradictions are not a problem. One guidebook for aspiring witches states: "When you're challenged with seemingly contradicting information, examine this information and make a decision as to which to follow. Listen to your intuition. In other words, feel free to pick and choose among the published rituals and ritual textbooks to decide what feels right."
For those who recognize the nature of truth, such contradictions are a problem. Truth is fact, that which is real. Things are not true simply because a person feels or hopes or believes that they are true. For example, at one time doctors believed that they could cure pneumonia by cutting a live chicken in two and laying the pieces on the patient's chest. Doubtless, many patients sincerely believed that this treatment would cure them. Their beliefs and hopes, however, were not in harmony with fact-such a procedure does not cure pneumonia. People do not create truth; they reach out to comprehend it.
The Bible claims to contain the truth about spiritual matters. Jesus Christ, when on earth, said to his Father in prayer: "Your word is truth." (John 17:17)The apostle Paul wrote: "All Scripture is inspired of God." (2 Timothy 3:16) Many who practice witchcraft do not agree. Instead, they look for inspiration and guidance in myth, ancient religions and even science fiction. Is it not reasonable, though at least to consider what the Bible says? After all, it is almost universally recognized as a holy book. It is also one of the oldest religious texts that has survive. The Bible was written over a periods of 1,600 years, yet is is consistent throughout in its teachings. Let us compare the Bible's teachings with some common beliefs currently expressed by those who promote witchcraft.
Next time: Who Dwell in the Spirit Realm?
Watchtower, 2000
WHAT DO YOU KOW ABOUT WITCHCRAFT?
WITCHCRAFT! What does that word bring to your mind? To many, it is the stuff of superstition and fantasy, not to be taken seriously. To them, witchcraft lives only in the realm of the imagination-old hags dressed in hooded cloaks who add bats' wings to a bubbling cauldron, turn people into frogs and soar through the night sky on broomsticks as they cackle maliciously.
To others, witchcraft is no laughing matter. Some investigators say that more than half the world's population believe that witches are real and can influence the lives of others. Millions believe that witchcraft is evil, dangerous, and to be greatly feared. For example, a book about African religion states: "Belief in the function and dangers of black magic, sorcery and witchcraft is deeply rooted in African life. . . . Witches and sorcerers are the most hated people in their community. Even to this day there are places and occasions when they are beaten to death by the rest of the people."
In Western lands, however, witchcraft has donned a new mask of respectability. Books, television and movies have done much to reduce the fear of witchcraft. Observes entertainment analyst David Davis:"Suddenly, witches are younger and cuter,definitely cuter. Hollywood is good at picking up on trends . . .By making the witches cuter and more huggable, they can appeal to a larger audience, including women and younger kids," Hollywood knows how to turn any trend into a paying proposition.
Some say that witchcraft has become one of the fastest growing spiritual movements in the United States. Throughout the developed world, an increasing number of people, inspired by feminist (developed by Satan's ideas to try to thwart God's ideas ) movements and disenchanted with mainstream religions, seek spiritual fulfillment in various forms of witchcraft. In fact, so numerous are the forms of witchcraft that people disagree even on the meaning of the word "witch." However, professed witches often identify with Wicca-defined in one dictionary as "a pagan nature religion having its roots in pre-Christian western Europe and undergoing a 20th-century revival." Consequently, many also refer to themselves as pagans or neopagans.
Throughout history, witches have been hated, persecuted, tortured,even slain. Little wonder that modern practitioners of witchcraft are eager to improve their image. In one survey, dozens of witches were asked what message they most wanted to express to the public. Their answer, summarized by researcher Margot Adler was: "We are not evil. We do not worship the Devil. We don't harm or seduce people. We are not dangerous. We are ordinary people like you. We have families, jobs, hopes and dreams. We are not a cult. We are not weird . . . You don't have to be afraid of us. . . .We are much more similar to you than you think."
increasingly, that message has been accepted. But does this mean that there is no reason to be concerned about the practice of witchcraft? Let us consider that question in the following article.
Next time: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT WITCHCRAFT
Watchtower, 2000
To others, witchcraft is no laughing matter. Some investigators say that more than half the world's population believe that witches are real and can influence the lives of others. Millions believe that witchcraft is evil, dangerous, and to be greatly feared. For example, a book about African religion states: "Belief in the function and dangers of black magic, sorcery and witchcraft is deeply rooted in African life. . . . Witches and sorcerers are the most hated people in their community. Even to this day there are places and occasions when they are beaten to death by the rest of the people."
In Western lands, however, witchcraft has donned a new mask of respectability. Books, television and movies have done much to reduce the fear of witchcraft. Observes entertainment analyst David Davis:"Suddenly, witches are younger and cuter,definitely cuter. Hollywood is good at picking up on trends . . .By making the witches cuter and more huggable, they can appeal to a larger audience, including women and younger kids," Hollywood knows how to turn any trend into a paying proposition.
Some say that witchcraft has become one of the fastest growing spiritual movements in the United States. Throughout the developed world, an increasing number of people, inspired by feminist (developed by Satan's ideas to try to thwart God's ideas ) movements and disenchanted with mainstream religions, seek spiritual fulfillment in various forms of witchcraft. In fact, so numerous are the forms of witchcraft that people disagree even on the meaning of the word "witch." However, professed witches often identify with Wicca-defined in one dictionary as "a pagan nature religion having its roots in pre-Christian western Europe and undergoing a 20th-century revival." Consequently, many also refer to themselves as pagans or neopagans.
Throughout history, witches have been hated, persecuted, tortured,even slain. Little wonder that modern practitioners of witchcraft are eager to improve their image. In one survey, dozens of witches were asked what message they most wanted to express to the public. Their answer, summarized by researcher Margot Adler was: "We are not evil. We do not worship the Devil. We don't harm or seduce people. We are not dangerous. We are ordinary people like you. We have families, jobs, hopes and dreams. We are not a cult. We are not weird . . . You don't have to be afraid of us. . . .We are much more similar to you than you think."
increasingly, that message has been accepted. But does this mean that there is no reason to be concerned about the practice of witchcraft? Let us consider that question in the following article.
Next time: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT WITCHCRAFT
Watchtower, 2000
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
