3 questions to open a Gospel conversation with a New Ager
There has been a growing trend towards new-age spirituality in recent years, with individuals seeking alternative belief systems and practices outside of Christianity. However, significant confusion and danger are associated with delving into new-age spirituality.
"New Age" is an umbrella for a variety of spiritual or mystical beliefs and practices, and there isn't a centralized authority or universally accepted doctrine. This lack of cohesion and guidance leaves individuals vulnerable to misinformation and manipulation. Many today believe that new-age spirituality is similar (if not equivalent) to Christianity, but it is important to recognize that they are fundamentally different. Take, for example, Marianne Williamson, a well-known author and spiritual teacher who has written extensively on the principles of "A Course in Miracles," a book that some consider to have Christian mystical elements. Throughout her book, Williamson often refers to biblical references and terminology that seem to embrace Christian doctrine.
If you want to understand what a New Ager believes and share your faith, follow these three simple steps to make the most of your conversation.
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1. Ask about their personal beliefs
Expressing interest in learning what a new ager believes creates an atmosphere of constructive dialogue. One thing you will find that is a common belief among New Agers is the belief in the presence and energy of the universe. You can ask, "What do you mean by the energy of the universe?" Most will say that the universe's energy is a cosmic or divine force that permeates all things and binds all living things. You can then share that the universe is created by God and reveals His handiwork. "When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him (Psalm 8:3-4)?" Elsewhere, Paul declares, "For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities — all things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." What we see from Scripture is that God is not an impersonal force, but a personal Creator who cares deeply for us and has the divine power to sustain every living thing. In the vastness and complexity of the universe, we can find comfort in knowing that it is all under His control and design. This leads to the next question to ask and that is about God.
2. Ask about their view of God
The average New Ager will tell you that "God" is in everything as everything is in "God." This is known as pantheism. New Agers do not believe God is a Supreme Being who is eternal and separate from His creation. To flush this out, ask, "Do you believe God is an impersonal force, or is He a personal God who desires a relationship with us?" Listen to what they have to say. Some may respond by saying that they believe in an impersonal force or energy that is present in all things, while others may hold a more personalized view. You can then share with them that Christian theology teaches that God is Omnipotent (Exodus 6:3) and is fully capable of holding and sustaining everything together by His infinite power. Therefore, everything outside of God depends on Him for existence because He has existed for all eternity.
3. Ask who they believe Jesus Christ to be
New Age believers regard Jesus as one of many spiritual leaders who have achieved the highest level of spiritual consciousness, along with Buddha and Krishna. However, despite their reverence for Jesus, most of them lack knowledge of who He truly is. To effectively communicate the Gospel message to a New Ager, it is beneficial to share the story of God becoming flesh, living a sinless life, dying on the cross for our sins, and rising from the dead. By presenting the Gospel story (as outlined in 1 Corinthians 15:3-5), you can introduce Jesus as the only Son of God and humanity's Savior.
There you have it, friend. With a sprinkle of curiosity and three simple questions, you can break the ice with a New Ager and start a conversation about their beliefs. Who knows, maybe they'll even see the light of Christianity!
Jason Jimenez is president of STAND STRONG Ministries, a faculty member at Summit Ministries, and the author of Challenging Conversations: A Practical Guide to Discuss Controversial Topics in the Church. For more info, check out www.standstrongministries.org.
