Ghosts, Mediums and The Deception of Demons: Truths from Scripture

Introduction: The Veil Between the Living and the Dead

Brothers and sisters, we live in an age where the supernatural is trivialized and ghosts are romanticized. Movies and stories portray them as harmless remnants of loved ones or tragic souls wandering the earth. But Scripture warns us against such deception. The Bible is clear: the dead do not wander the earth, and they do not speak to the living. What masquerades as a spirit of the departed is not a human soul—but something far darker.

Let us turn to the Word of God and unveil the truth about these so-called “ghosts.”

The Dead Cannot Return to the Living

In Luke 16:19-31, Jesus tells the story of the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man, in torment, begs Abraham to send Lazarus back to warn his brothers. But Abraham replies:

“They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them. … Neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.” (Luke 16:29,31)

What do we learn here? The dead cannot return. There is a great chasm fixed between the living and the dead. Once we leave this life, our fate is sealed—either in eternal rest or eternal torment. Those claiming to communicate with the dead are being deceived by spirits not of God.

Ghosts are Demonic Deceptions

The Bible explicitly forbids attempts to contact the dead. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 states:

“Let no one be found among you who … consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.”

Why would God forbid something harmless? Because it is not harmless. These “ghosts” are not our departed loved ones; they are demonic entities, lying spirits sent to deceive.

Satan, the father of lies, masquerades as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). His servants do the same, appearing as the spirits of the dead to lead us into sin. When you seek counsel from a “ghost,” you are opening a door to darkness. You are inviting the enemy into your life.

Trust in God’s Word, Not the Whisper of Spirits

The Word of God is sufficient for all things. If God does not permit the dead to return, then we must trust Him. But the devil exploits our grief and curiosity, whispering lies that seem to comfort:

“Your loved one is here, watching over you. They are trying to send you a message.”

Do not be deceived! When King Saul sought guidance from a medium at Endor, he disobeyed God and invited destruction upon himself (1 Samuel 28). Though a spirit claimed to be the prophet Samuel, it was no such thing. God had already condemned Saul, and this act only sealed his doom.

Our Only Mediator is Christ

If you seek comfort, do not look to spirits, mediums, spirit guides or séances. Look to Jesus Christ, the only mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5). He alone bridges the gap between heaven and earth. He alone brings peace to our souls.

The Holy Spirit is our counselor and guide, not some unclean spirit posing as the dead. Trust in Him, for He will never lead you astray.

The Danger of Consulting Spiritual Mediums

The Bible is unequivocal in its condemnation of consulting spiritual mediums, fortune-tellers, and necromancers. These practices are an abomination to the Lord because they open the door to demonic influence and rebellion against God’s authority. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12, God warns His people:

“Let no one be found among you … who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.”

When we turn to mediums, we reject God’s sovereignty and His sufficiency in our lives. This act is not harmless curiosity—it is spiritual rebellion. Isaiah 8:19 reinforces this:

“When someone tells you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?”

Mediums claim to provide answers and comfort, but they are tools of deception. They do not channel the spirits of the dead; instead, they channel the lies of demons who seek to draw us away from God. By seeking guidance from a medium, we reject the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who alone can lead us in truth and righteousness.

The Consequences of Disobedience

King Saul’s descent into destruction is a sobering warning for all who consider consulting mediums. In 1 Samuel 28, when Saul was desperate for guidance, he disobeyed God’s law and sought a medium to summon the prophet Samuel. This act of defiance revealed Saul’s lack of faith in God and his willingness to turn to forbidden practices.

The outcome was disastrous. Saul’s kingdom was torn from him, and he fell under God’s judgment. As 1 Chronicles 10:13-14 explains:

“Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord; he did not keep the word of the Lord and even consulted a medium for guidance, and did not inquire of the Lord. So the Lord put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David.”

This story stands as a grave warning: when we seek answers from mediums, we invite judgment, not peace.

Trust in the Lord Alone

Do not be deceived by the alluring promises of mediums or psychics. Their power is not from God but from the enemy. Turn to the Word of God for guidance, for His Word is a lamp to your feet and a light to your path (Psalm 119:105). Trust in the Lord, who promises to never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5).

Remember: consulting mediums is not harmless entertainment. It is an act of rebellion against the Lord, one that leads to spiritual destruction. Flee from such practices and cling to the truth of God’s Word. Let Him be your guide, your comfort, and your strength.

“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.” (1 Peter 5:8-9)

Conclusion: Shut the Door to Deception

Let us walk in the light of God’s truth. Do not entertain the whispers of the enemy, nor seek signs from spirits. The dead cannot speak to us, and we cannot speak to them. Any voice claiming otherwise is a lie from the pit of hell.

Guard your heart and your home. Pray for discernment. And remember this:

“Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7)

The Lord is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Stand firm in His Word, and the darkness will have no power over you.

Amen.