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What Does the Bible Say About Talking to the Dead? – Viral Believer
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What Does the Bible Say About Talking to the Dead?

Introduction

Death is an inevitable part of life, and as Christians, we seek guidance from the Bible on matters related to the afterlife. One topic that can be confusing is whether or not it is acceptable to communicate with the dead.

While there are various cultural practices and beliefs related to communicating with the dead, it is important for Christians to understand what the Bible has to say on this matter.

In this blog post, we will explore what the Bible teaches about communicating with the dead, with a focus on Old and New Testament passages. We will also examine the historical context and cultural practices related to necromancy and why it is important for Christians to follow biblical teachings on this topic.

By the end of this post, readers will have a better understanding of the biblical perspective on communicating with the dead and why it is important to follow God’s Word on matters related to death and the afterlife.

While this topic may be controversial and can often be misinterpreted, it is important for Christians to seek clarity and understanding from the Bible.

By examining biblical passages, we can understand why communicating with the dead is forbidden and how it can lead to spiritual harm. As we delve into this topic, let us approach it with an open heart and mind and seek to deepen our understanding of God’s Word.

talking to the dead in the Bible

Old Testament Scriptures on Talking to the Dead

The Old Testament provides several passages that warn against communicating with the dead or practicing necromancy.

In Deuteronomy 18:9-12, God warns His people not to learn or follow the abominations of other nations. He commands them not to practice witchcraft, sorcery, divination, or any form of magic.

These practices were widespread among the nations surrounding Israel, and God warned His people against them because they were an abomination to Him. He specifically mentions necromancy or the practice of communicating with the dead as a sinful and abominable practice.

In Leviticus 19:31, God commands His people to give no regard to mediums or familiar spirits. A medium is a person who claims to communicate with the dead, while a familiar spirit is a supernatural being or demon that a medium claims to consult. God forbids His people from seeking after them or being defiled by them.

In 1 Samuel 28:3-25, King Saul seeks the help of a medium to communicate with the prophet Samuel, who had died. The medium is able to summon Samuel’s spirit, but this act is condemned as an abomination by both the medium and Samuel himself.

This passage emphasizes that communicating with the dead is a sinful and forbidden practice.

New Testament Scriptures on Talking to the Dead

The New Testament also provides guidance on the issue of communicating with the dead.

In Luke 16:19-31, Jesus tells the parable of the rich man and Lazarus. After death, the rich man is in torment and begs Abraham to send Lazarus to his brothers to warn them of the consequences of their actions.

Abraham responds, “They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.” This passage emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from God’s Word rather than relying on communication with the dead.

In Revelation 21:8, sorcery and other related practices are listed as sinful and can result in eternal consequences. The Bible warns that those who practice such things shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.

Understanding the Bible’s View on Communication with the Dead

From these passages, we can understand that the Bible prohibits communication with the dead and practicing necromancy. This is because:

  • It is an abomination to the Lord (Deuteronomy 18:9-12)
  • It defiles those who seek after mediums and familiar spirits (Leviticus 19:31)
  • It is unnecessary as we have access to God’s Word for guidance (Luke 16:19-31)
  • It is a sinful practice that can result in eternal consequences (Revelation 21:8)

Moreover, God has revealed that communication with the dead is a futile and dangerous pursuit. He has provided us with His Word as the ultimate source of guidance and truth. The Bible contains everything we need to know about life, death, and the afterlife.

Historical Context and Cultural Practices Related to Talking to the Dead

Throughout history, there have been many cultural practices and beliefs related to communicating with the dead. Some of these include seances, Ouija boards, and other forms of divination. However, these practices are not in line with biblical teachings and can lead to spiritual harm.

In the ancient world, many people believed that the spirits of the dead could be summoned and consulted for guidance or to gain insight into the future. In some cultures, necromancers were considered powerful and revered figures who claimed to have the ability to communicate with the dead.

However, the Bible clearly teaches that such practices are sinful and are not to be pursued.

Furthermore, modern-day practices such as ghost hunting or attempts to communicate with the dead through electronic devices or mediums are also not in line with biblical teachings.

While these practices may seem harmless or even entertaining, they are not grounded in biblical truth and can open individuals up to spiritual harm.

Why is it Important to Follow Biblical Teachings on Communication with the Dead?

As Christians, it is important to obey God’s Word and avoid communicating with the dead. There are several reasons why this is important, including:

  • Obedience to God: Following God’s commands is an act of worship and demonstrates our faith in Him. When we choose to ignore His teachings on communication with the dead, we are showing disrespect and disobedience to Him.
  • Protection from Harm: Practicing necromancy and communicating with the dead can lead to spiritual harm and open us up to demonic influences. The Bible warns against such practices because they can lead to bondage and oppression.
  • Honoring the Dead: It is important to honor the dead by respecting their memory and allowing them to rest in peace. Attempting to communicate with them or summon their spirits can be seen as disrespectful.

Moreover, following biblical teachings on communication with the dead demonstrates our faith in God and His Word. It allows us to trust in His plan and purposes for our lives rather than seeking guidance or insight from supernatural sources.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bible is clear in its teachings that communication with the dead is forbidden. Old and New Testament passages warn against this practice and emphasize the importance of seeking guidance from God’s Word rather than relying on communication with the dead.

Furthermore, engaging in necromancy can have serious spiritual consequences, such as opening oneself up to demonic influences and bondage.

As Christians, it is important to seek guidance from the Bible on all matters related to life, death, and the afterlife. By following biblical teachings on communication with the dead, we demonstrate our faith in God and honor Him with our obedience.

Let us trust in God’s plan and purposes for our lives, and seek His guidance and direction rather than seeking supernatural insight or communication.

Finally, as we navigate the complexities of life and death, may we always seek to honor and respect the memory of the deceased.

Let us trust in God’s sovereignty and love, knowing that He holds the keys to life and death. May we find comfort and peace in His Word, and continue to grow in our faith and understanding of His teachings.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.