What does the Bible say about consulting mediums and psychics?

In the vast tapestry of biblical teachings, the subject of consulting mediums and psychics is addressed with remarkable clarity and caution. The Bible, as the foundational text for Christians, provides both direct commandments and illustrative narratives that shape the understanding of this practice. As we delve into what the Bible says about consulting mediums and psychics, it is essential to consider the historical, cultural, and spiritual contexts presented in the scriptures.

From the outset, it is important to recognize that the Bible explicitly condemns the practice of consulting mediums and psychics. This prohibition is rooted in the belief that such practices are antithetical to the worship and reliance on God. In the Old Testament, the book of Leviticus provides a direct commandment: "Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God" (Leviticus 19:31, NIV). This instruction is reiterated in Deuteronomy, where it is written, "Let no one be found among you... who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead" (Deuteronomy 18:10-11, NIV). The strong language used in these passages underscores the seriousness with which these practices are viewed.

The prohibition against consulting mediums and psychics is not merely a matter of religious ritual or purity; it is deeply tied to the nature of the relationship between God and His people. The Israelites were called to be a people set apart, wholly devoted to God, and reliant on Him for guidance and wisdom. The consultation of mediums and psychics represents a breach of this covenantal relationship, as it implies seeking knowledge and power outside of God's provision. The practice is seen as a form of idolatry, placing trust in human or spiritual intermediaries rather than in God Himself.

The narrative of King Saul consulting the medium at Endor provides a poignant illustration of the consequences of such actions. In 1 Samuel 28, we read that Saul, facing the imminent threat of the Philistine army and unable to receive guidance from God, seeks out a medium to summon the spirit of the prophet Samuel. This act of desperation marks a turning point in Saul's tragic story. The medium successfully conjures Samuel's spirit, but the message Saul receives is one of doom and divine judgment. This narrative not only highlights the futility and danger of consulting mediums but also serves as a cautionary tale about the spiritual and moral decline that can result from turning away from God.

In the New Testament, the focus shifts slightly to address the broader theme of spiritual discernment and the reality of spiritual warfare. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, writes about the nature of the Christian struggle: "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12, NIV). This passage underscores the reality of spiritual forces that oppose God and His purposes. Consulting mediums and psychics is seen as opening oneself to these forces, which can lead to spiritual deception and harm.

The early Christian community also encountered individuals who practiced sorcery and magic, as seen in the book of Acts. In Acts 8, Simon the Sorcerer attempts to buy the power of the Holy Spirit from the apostles, revealing a misunderstanding of the nature of God's gifts and the danger of mixing faith with occult practices. Similarly, in Acts 16, Paul encounters a slave girl possessed by a spirit of divination. Paul casts out the spirit, demonstrating the authority of Christ over such powers and the incompatibility of these practices with the Christian faith.

Throughout Christian history, theologians and church leaders have consistently warned against the dangers of engaging with mediums and psychics. The early church fathers, such as Augustine, spoke against the practice, emphasizing the sufficiency of Christ and the Scriptures for guidance and wisdom. Augustine, in his work "City of God," argues that seeking knowledge from spirits is a form of rebellion against God, as it seeks to bypass the divine order established by Him.

From a theological perspective, the prohibition against consulting mediums and psychics is rooted in the understanding of God's sovereignty and the nature of revelation. Christians believe that God has revealed Himself through creation, the Scriptures, and supremely through Jesus Christ. This revelation is sufficient for understanding God's will and purpose for humanity. The pursuit of knowledge through mediums and psychics is seen as an attempt to grasp hidden or forbidden knowledge, akin to the original sin of Adam and Eve, who sought wisdom apart from God's command.

In practical terms, the Bible calls Christians to seek guidance through prayer, the study of Scripture, and the counsel of fellow believers. The Holy Spirit is given to believers as a guide and comforter, leading them into all truth (John 16:13, NIV). This reliance on the Holy Spirit stands in stark contrast to the reliance on mediums and psychics, which is seen as a form of spiritual adultery.

In summary, the Bible's stance on consulting mediums and psychics is clear and unequivocal. It is a practice that is condemned as contrary to the will of God and the nature of the relationship He desires with His people. The biblical narrative and teachings emphasize the sufficiency of God's revelation and the dangers of seeking knowledge and power outside of His provision. For Christians, the call is to trust in God alone for guidance and to resist the allure of spiritual practices that lead away from Him. As such, the biblical mandate is to avoid consulting mediums and psychics, and instead, seek the wisdom and guidance that comes from a relationship with God through Jesus Christ.