What is parapsychology?

Response

Parapsychology involves the investigation of supernatural phenomena such as clairvoyance, ESP, telepathy, and hauntings. It has been labeled a pseudoscience, meaning that parapsychology is considered fraudulent and not based on the scientific method. Parapsychologists rely mainly on private donations, and their research is not recognized as valid by the scientific community. Despite more than a century of study, parapsychology has failed to provide any compelling proof of psychic occurrences. Blurry photographs, fluctuating thermometers, and popular movies about ghost hunters are not considered substantial evidence.

The absence of proof does not definitively disprove the existence of the supernatural realm; in fact, the Bible portrays the spiritual world as real. Nevertheless, the lack of empirical proof strongly implies that efforts to explore the spiritual realm using scientific methods are fruitless.

Parapsychology is not a religion, but its supporters are certain of the existence of the spiritual realm—and, according to the Bible, they are correct in that belief. The question arises as to whether it is prudent to seek contact with the spirit world without involving God. Some individuals in biblical times attempted this and encountered difficulties. When Paul was in Ephesus, God performed “extraordinary miracles” through him. Some Jews believed they could access the same power. A priest named Sceva had seven sons who tried to cast out demons in Jesus’ name, but they lacked the authority to do so. When they invoked Jesus’ name to the evil spirit, it responded, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know about, but who are you?” «And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye? », (Acts 19:15). Subsequently, the possessed man “attacked them with such violence that he left them naked and battered.

Hem such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding” (verse 16). The point is, the spiritual world is real— but not safe for dabblers or for those who have no relationship with Christ.

Many individuals have encountered phenomena similar to those studied by parapsychology, to varying extents. Frequently, these encounters involve interactions with spirits or the display of peculiar, unexplained abilities. Some individuals utilize substances like DMT to connect with or gain a better understanding of the spirit world or their own supernatural capabilities. Others engage in occult practices or Wicca, while some resort to pseudoscience. The Bible prohibits any effort to communicate with the deceased, and involvement in occult activities is ungodly (Leviticus 19:26;Deuteronomy 18:10;Galatians 5:19-20;Acts 19:19).
Scripture indicates that departed souls do not roam the earth (Hebrews 9:27;Luke 16:22-23). Any spirit purporting to be a deceased person is deceitful, as stated in John 8:44. Malevolent spirits are more powerful and cunning than humans, and they are keen on misleading us and leading us astray from God, their adversary (2 Peter 2:10-11). Parapsychology is a senseless pursuit that exposes the “researcher” to spiritual deception and eternal harm.