Ask the Pastor

By Pastor Scott Denham of Harvest Fellowship, Shambaugh, IA

Clarinda Herald Journal Publication Date : 10/03/2007

Eastern Mysticism (Part 1 of 4)

“What is Eastern Mysticism and how does it conflict with Christianity?”

An increasing number of Christians find themselves trying to make sense of the recent  influx of Eastern Mysticism, not only in Western culture in general, but among Christians in particular. Therefore, I will use the next four articles to further explain Eastern Mysticism and the danger it poses to Christians.

Eastern Mysticism is the foundational worldview at the heart of a conglomerate of religions, predominantly found in India, China, Japan and Southeast Asia. These religions include Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Taoism, Shintoism, and Confucianism. Each is polytheistic, meaning that they worship multiple gods or deities. Yes, even Buddhism, that claims no deity, promotes the worship of all the Buddhas, making it—in effect—as polytheistic as the rest.

However, many Christians who worship the One True God have been unaware of the subtle nuances of Eastern Mysticism that have crept into the church. Those who come out of Eastern Mysticism to follow Christ are shocked to see its tenets taking root in unsuspecting believers. The terms may be presented in a more favorable light, but the essential principles remain the same.

Before coming to Christ, I practiced Yoga, read the Hindu Bhagavad-Gita, and called myself a Hindu-Christian. Little did I realize that I was trying to synchronize beliefs that are diametrically opposed and were incapable of being merged. Not only did I fall into great confusion, but I became bound in the occult workings of Eastern Mysticism. Nonetheless, I can thank God for His great deliverance in Christ!

The first commandment says, "You shall have no other gods before me" (Ex 20:3). The command was a clarion call to the Israelites to forsake the false gods of the nations and to follow God alone, giving Him first place in commitment, devotion, and affection. They were commanded: "Learn not to imitate the detestable ways of the nations" (Deut 18:9)—ways of false worship, which are prohibited because they ultimately enslave.

The same holds true today for every believer. "What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols?.. Therefore come out from them and be separate, says the Lord.  Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you. I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty" (2 Cor 6:15-18). Eastern Mysticism is idolatrous, and it’s nothing to be trifled with, if we are to enter into relationship with the Father.”

--Pastor Scott (www.pastorscott.com)