Synchretism
Mixed Up Christianity


Most people have probably never heard of the word "synchretism" before but it is an important word in our understanding of the penetration of the occult into our culture. Synchretism refers to the practice of "mixing one religion with another". Israel was guilty of this over and over again in the Old Testament. From generation to genreation theyr mixed the worship of Jehovah with the religions of those nations around them and their false gods. They mixed the worhip of the one true God with Baal worship, the worship of Asteroth and Molech. God always punished Israel for mixing His worship with that of any other God. He constantly reminded His people that these gods, "were no gods at all." Eventually, when His people did not repent of their sin, judgment was visited upon them and they were exiled from the land by an ungodly neighboring country.

Synchretism is practiced widely today among many Christians. Many Christians favor playing with Ouija Boards, playing games like "Dungeons and Dragons" and watching a host of television on movie shows that deleve into the occfult. Beyond this, I have talked with Christians who actually, augment their ministry in Christ by practcing Reiki and Healing Touch in combination with prayer and the laying on of hands. Mixing Christianity with any other faith is like mixing "oil and water" -- the two just do not mix. The apostle Paul wrote in Galatians that "although we or even an angel from heaven preach to you another gospel, let him be annathaema" or accursed. God does not look favorably upon synchretism. He wants us to be sold out 100% to Christ. He will not share His glory with another.

As Christians, we need to check our practises and motives making sure that we are on track with Christ. Its in Christ alone that we have been save; its in Christ alone that we are saved and its in Christ alone that we will be saved for eternity. God doesn't want us to mix up the facts. God doesn't want us mixing anything up with the worship that He so richly deserves. Today, if you have examined your life and have found yourself mixing other practices with your Christian life, simply repent. God doesn't want us to walk around feeling condemned, ineffective for Him. God just wants a clean heart, sold out 100% to Jesus Christ. This not only brings Him joy, but we will experience joy too!