Christendom and Western civilization are entering their final warfare before Armageddon. In these deliberate studies of principalities and powers, we will expose the occult, revealing knowledge of the doctrines, words, rites, and definitions that demon worshipers use. The only intelligent way to interpret our times is to present a biblical interpretation. Jesus prophesied that His church shall prevail. In Matthew 16:18, He said, "Upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." Today, the church must rise to the greatest action of its entire history.
As we study principalities and powers to understand the world we live in, we must examine the subject of hypnosis. Because it is being so generally used in our society, many people submit to it without thinking about the detrimental effects it could have on their spiritual being. The mind is precious and should be reserved for seeking God. We must never permit a hypnotist to take control of it or allow anyone to violate it. Whenever there is an empty place, the devil will fill it. Whether you empty your mind or any other part of you, he will fill up all emptiness. Therefore, we want our minds to be alert in God.
We are living in a time when hypnosis is riding a high tide of popularity. It is used in a multiplicity of forms for entertainment, medicine, and other purposes. But what is hypnosis? Mary Lang, in a nationally syndicated magazine article, stated that there is only one certainty regarding hypnosis: nobody knows what it is or why it works. It is frightening for an expert in the field to admit this. Our minds and souls are not guinea pigs; we must avoid anything whose nature and workings are unknown.
Some describe hypnosis as an altered state of mind, while others say it is the function of the subconscious mind carrying on a life of its own and giving out information. It has been called a scientific tool capable of penetrating the deepest crevices of the mind. In truth, it is a potent sedative that induces a state of unconsciousness, acting as a backdoor entrance into the human mind. Why would anyone want to use the backdoor of the mind when the front door is wide open? The front door is accessed by walking in the Word of God, learning it, memorizing it, and putting it into effect in our lives.
It was only in 1958 that the American Medical Association accepted hypnosis as a therapeutic technique. Today, thousands of physicians use hypnosis in their practices, seeking relief from various ailments. However, the Medical Association has warned that it should be used with caution, acknowledging the possibility of detrimental effects. This warning alone should be enough to prompt us to leave it alone.
Historically, hypnosis has its roots deep in mysticism and sorcery. Our generation must learn that it is not a magic wand, nor is it an instant panacea for worries, fears, poor memories, or other objectionable traits. The Lord Jesus exhorted us to love the Lord our God with all our minds. He is more powerful than any hypnotist and more authoritative than any physician.
The news media heavily promotes the benefits of hypnotism, and advertisements boast about what it can do for you. It is used in various fields:
The devil is out to capture and control the human mind. The temporary relief or artificial pleasantries offered by hypnosis can lead to a state where the individual becomes merely a subject, devoid of personal will. True peace and joy come through the Lord Jesus. As Romans 14:17 declares, the kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Hypnotism cannot give you either of them.
During hypnosis, the body becomes immobile, the mind goes into neutral, and the willpower to resist is broken down. The individual is expected to divulge information from their subconscious mind. However, not everyone can be hypnotized. People with strong wills who refuse to submit their minds to the hypnotist cannot be placed under hypnosis.
Hypnosis can become a habit, much like alcohol or nicotine. When the initial hurt or stress returns, the individual craves the same remedy. Hypnotists even teach self-hypnosis to allow people to escape reality in their own homes. This does not resolve permanent problems; it merely masks them temporarily. True resolution can only come through Jesus Christ.
Medical professionals admit that hypnosis can alter the mind, weaken willpower, and diminish an individual's ability to be their own person. Furthermore, hypnotized witnesses are increasingly unacceptable in courts. Psychiatrists argue that memories may be altered during hypnosis, leading witnesses to believe the authorities' version of events rather than reality. Even Sigmund Freud, who initially used hypnosis, later conceded that the recollections obtained could not be checked for accuracy.
Hypnosis is also falsely claimed to cure psychogenic impotence or even exorcise demons, with practitioners claiming they can integrate multiple personalities into one. These claims are lies; that power is not found in hypnosis.
God intends for the Holy Spirit to rule both our conscious and subconscious minds.
Our minds are supposed to be disciplined. We must cover our minds daily with the blood of Jesus, allowing God's power to purify even our dream world.
We must build fences of truth and power around our minds. Here are essential ways to protect it:
Let God control your mind; if you do not, the devil will.