What is the New Thought movement?

Response

The New Thought movement is rooted in the teachings of a 19th-century philosopher named Phineas Quimby. Quimby identified himself as a healer and was a disciple of Mesmer, the hypnotist. He posited that physical ailments stem from the mind and can be overcome through the power of “Truth.” According to Quimby, correcting erroneous thoughts in the mind would lead to the healing of the body from its afflictions.

Mary Baker Eddy, the founder of Christian Science, was one of Quimby’s patients, and some of his concepts influenced her theological beliefs. Both shared the notion that bodily illnesses are a result of mental issues. Another branch of the New Thought movement, largely propagated through Quimby’s writings, is the law of attraction. This principle suggests that thoughts have the ability to manifest reality—believing in success, wealth, or talent can lead to actualizing these aspirations.

Central to the beliefs of New Thought adherents is the idea that the “true essence of humanity is divine.” This echoes the original deception presented by Satan to humanity: the promise that by acquiring knowledge of good and evil, individuals would be like God «for God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. », (Genesis 3:5). Satan enticed humans with the desire for divinity and autonomy over their fate. Similarly, the New Thought movement captivates followers with the allure of divine potential.

New Thought ideology contradicts biblical teachings directly. It refutes the notion that individuals can shape their reality through “positive thinking” or attain health by merely declaring themselves well. The truth is that physical ailments are a consequence of the fall of humanity. Adam’s transgression introduced death andDecay into the world (Genesis 2:17; Romans 5:12). We are created beings, part of creation, and therefore the chaos brought into nature by sin also affects our natural bodies. We are susceptible to viruses, injuries, old age, autoimmune disorders, genetic and hormonal malfunctions, deformities, and death— all because of sin’s entrance into the perfect paradise God originally planned for us (Genesis 3:17-19; Romans 8:19-22). There is no escaping this curse; it affects every person who has ever lived, in one way or another. Despite the pain and illnesses we endure throughout our lives, God’s promise of redemption through Jesus Christ is our hope (Psalm 16:5-11; Romans 5:2; Colossians 1:27).