Witnessing to New Agers

by Matt Slick

1. Ask questions
   1. If we are all God, then why do we act so badly?
      1. They might say it is because we all have not come to a full realization of our true divine potentials. It is ignorance that leads to bad deeds.
      2. Then ask them how, if we are divine, our mere ignorant self could so easily override our divine goodness.
   2. Why do our "realities" contradict each other?
      1. They might say that they don't contradict each other. They are simply different shades of light on the same picture (or something vague like that).
      2. Then ask if truth contradicts itself. It does not. The logic is that if we are all in different forms of truth, then these different truths can't ultimately contradict each other--or they wouldn't be true. However,...
         1. The NAM says that Jesus is only one of many ways to God. But Jesus said He was the only way to God (John 14:6). They can't both be right; therefore, the NAM teaching that we can create our own truths can't be true.
2. Don't let them take Christian words and use them out of the context of biblical meaning.
   1. New Agers recognize the tremendous influence and spotless reputation of Jesus. They want Him to be associated with their beliefs. As a result, you might find yourself facing a New Ager who uses Christian words--but with non-Christian definitions. Listen carefully, and don't let them  steal what is Christian and transplant it into their system.
   2. You must question the terms they use. You need to make sure that what they mean by Christian terms is the same thing that you mean by them.
3. Listen for internal contradictions.
   1. As mentioned above, truth does not contradict itself. You must listen to what they are saying and ask questions. Sooner or later you catch on to inconsistencies.
   2. Inconsistencies usually arise when discussing the relationship between reality and belief.
      1. For example, a New Ager might say that you can create your own reality. I might reply, "Good. Then if I believe red lights are really green, would you want to go driving with me?"
4. Tell them that God is personal, that he loves them, and that Jesus died for sin.
   1. The Word of God will not come back empty without accomplishing what God wishes it to (Isaiah 55:11). If you focus on Jesus, tell them the truth about sin and salvation, and use Scripture, then, at least, they will have heard the truth. Praise be to Jesus the Christ.
   2. Remember, God's word is powerful. Whether or not they accept it isn't the issue. You simply need to present the truth in an accurate and loving manner (Col. 4:5-6; 1 Tim. 1:5).

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