How should Christians view paranormal activity?

what does the bible say?

The term paranormal refers to phenomena that are beyond the normal range of human experience, often involving supernatural elements that cannot be explained by current scientific understanding. The only spiritual powers are God, angels, and demons. Christians should view paranormal activity with caution, recognizing that it often involves spiritual forces that are not of God. The Bible teaches that if paranormal phenomena are not rooted in God, they are likely demonic and can lead to deception and danger (1 Timothy 4:1). Instead of seeking out these experiences, believers are encouraged to focus on God’s power and truth, employing spiritual defenses like prayer and Scripture to resist any evil influence (Ephesians 6:10–18). As interest in the paranormal may grow in today's culture, Christians are called to avoid engaging with it and to remain grounded in their faith (James 4:7). Ultimately, the safest response is to trust in God’s sovereignty and to adhere to His teachings, ensuring that we do not give a foothold to the enemy (Ephesians 4:27).

from the old testament

Like the witch of Endor (1 Samuel 28:1–25), no person can really know or control the paranormal. To invite a power you don't know can be incredibly dangerous.The best defense against demons and paranormal activity is to follow Psalm 101:4: "A perverse heart shall be far from me; I will know nothing of evil."

from the new testament

We see God's supernatural power every day. Acts 17:28 says, "In him we live and move and have our being." Life is impossible without the ever-present work of God. On occasion, God empowers His angels to interact with people on earth such that we may experience godly paranormal activity. But, like the witch of Endor knew, we cannot control or dictate God's supernatural work in our lives.The Bible teaches that the whole world is influenced by the power of demonic forces (1 John 5:19). Demons deceive (John 8:44). They will allow us to think we are in command, when really they are drawing us further under their influence."Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons" (1 Timothy 4:1). Interest in paranormal activity has always had a place in human history, but the Bible teaches that the deceit and teaching of demons which can include interest in paranormal activity will increase as the end times approach.In talking about anger, Ephesians 4:27 says not to give the Devil even a foothold. We should not give Satan opportunity in our lives by flirting with the paranormal either.James 4:7 implies that confrontations with Satan are inevitable. If we submit to God and resist Satan, Satan will flee.Similarly, 1 Peter 5:8–9 says, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.”We are not to seek out demonic paranormal activity, even for the purpose of defeating it (Jude 1:8–10).

implications for today

It’s important to recognize that not all phenomena labeled as paranormal have supernatural or demonic explanations. Many supposed occurrences, like "orbs" captured in photos, are often the result of camera lens reflections or other natural causes, and some reports of paranormal activity may simply be hoaxes. Even so, there is demonic activity in the world. We cannot control paranormal forces, but God can. It is only through Him that we can be protected. In Ephesians 6:10–18, He tells us how. When confronted with a spiritual enemy, use spiritual weapons. The belt of truth will remind us Who is in control and how the enemy wishes to destroy us. The breastplate of righteousness will protect us because light has nothing to do with dark. The shoes of the gospel allow us to stand firm against attack, knowing that our foundation is Christ. The shield of faith in God will make Satan's specific arrows ineffectual, as we choose to rely on what God says instead of Satan's lies. The helmet of salvation protects us intellectually; our thoughts can be at peace when we remember Christ has already rescued us. And, like Jesus when He was being tempted, we can use the truth of Scripture to disarm the lies of the enemy.

That's a nice picture, but what does it mean? It means we can't be fully protected by God if we have not trusted Jesus as our Lord and Savior. It means we need to know the truth of Who God is and who we are in Christ, and know Scripture so that we can use it to remind ourselves of the truth. And we need to act on what Scripture says—"Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good" (Romans 12:9), and "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil" (James 4:7). If we refuse to hate evil and cling to good, we shouldn't be surprised if evil clings to us.