In our modern world, many find it easy to dismiss the practices of talking to the dead, palm reading, astrology, and similar activities as mere entertainment or harmless curiosity.
However, the Bible offers a starkly different perspective on these matters.
Consider what is written in 1 Corinthians 10:20: “But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.”
While many think engaging in these activities is just a game, the underlying reality is far more sinister. It’s not merely about connecting with the spiritual realm in a neutral way. There’s an aspect of open devil worship involved, whether or not individuals recognize it. And God does not take such matters lightly.
In the Old Testament, God demonstrated His stance towards false gods and those who worshipped them through His actions against the Egyptians. In Numbers 33:4b, we are reminded of God’s judgment: “Upon their gods also the LORD executed judgments.”
This is a testament to God’s sovereignty and His attitude towards idolatry and false worship.
The ten plagues brought upon Egypt were direct attacks not only on the Egyptian gods but also on those who worshipped them:
1. Water Turned to Blood: Judgment against Hapi, the god of the Nile.
2. Frogs: A challenge to Heqet, the fertility goddess with a frog’s head.
3. Lice: Against Geb, the god of the earth.
4. Flies: Challenging Khepri, the god of creation.
5. Death of Livestock: Against Hathor and Apis, deities associated with livestock.
6. Boils: Against Sekhmet and Isis, goddesses of healing.
7. Hail: Against Nut, the sky goddess, and Seth, god of storms.
8. Locusts: Challenging Osiris, the god of agriculture.
9. Darkness: A direct challenge to Ra, the sun god.
10. Death of the Firstborn: Against the divine status of Pharaoh and Osiris, the protector of the dead.
As Moses prepared the Israelites to enter the Promised Land, he warned them about the gods of those lands. In Numbers 33:55-56, the warning is clear: “But if ye will not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you; then it shall come to pass, that those which ye let remain of them shall be pricks in your eyes, and thorns in your sides, and shall vex you in the land wherein ye dwell. Moreover it shall come to pass, that I shall do unto you, as I thought to do unto them.”
This time, it was their turn to act against the false worship in the land God was giving them.
And today, we must be wary of any activities or practices that can lead us into fellowship with devils. The Bible’s warnings are not outdated; they are relevant and crucial for our spiritual well-being. As believers, we are called to be vigilant and to stand firm in our faith, avoiding any form of idolatry or worship that does not honor the one true God.
