What does Ellen White write about...
Adventistische Schriften über: "How should one deal with persons who engage in occult practices or fortune‑telling (break contact, pass on literature such as "From Shadow to Light", or address the topic directly)? What is the recommended approach?"
Answer
When dealing with persons trapped in spiritism, extreme caution is required, because in discussions one encounters not only people but demonic powers. The best course is to avoid open debates and engagement with their complex theories, so as not to fall under the seductive influence of the enemy. Instead, we should present the truth of the Bible clearly and positively, without entering into contentious issues.
Avoiding Discussions with Spiritists
»The very best course of action for us is to avoid them. ... In discussion with spiritists one does not encounter merely a human, but Satan and his angels. They enter into connection with the powers of darkness and encourage evil angels around them. Spiritists desire to make their erroneous teachings known; and preachers who uphold biblical truth assist them, if they consent to engage in discussions with them.«
No Engagement with Errors
»I have been instructed that we should not engage in any controversies over spiritistic portrayals that quickly infiltrate from everywhere. ... Leave these theories alone and warn everyone against reading them. Your explanations will achieve nothing. Leave the theories alone. Do not attempt to point out their inconsistency or fallacy. Leave them alone. ... Proclaim the positive aspects of truth simply, clearly, and decisively.«
The Danger of Curiosity and the Power of Prayer
»Many dabble with it merely to satisfy their curiosity. They have no genuine faith in it and would be horrified at the thought of surrendering to spirit control. Yet they venture onto forbidden terrain, and the mighty Destroyer exerts his power against their will upon them. ... Nothing but the power of God, granted as a response to earnest prayer of faith, can free these ensnared souls.«
Individual Effort and Friendly Approach
»If you encounter such people who are ... predisposed against the truth, do not press your particular views too forcefully. First speak with them about topics on which you can agree. Bow with them in prayer. ... It must largely be accomplished through persistent, individual efforts; by visiting people in their homes.«
Warning about Occult Healers
»The pagan oracles have their counterpart in today’s spiritistic mediums, clairvoyants, and fortune‑tellers. ... In truth they are merely channels for Satan’s electric currents. In this way he casts his spell over the bodies and souls of people. ... It seems necessary to utter words of warning. ... Those who refuse to use the light and insight ... entrust themselves to Satan’s deceptions.«
Original Sources (English)
Stephan Krol
Founder of EGW Vision
Why I built EGW Vision
Hello, I am Stephan Krol. I started this Ellen White website to make the writings of Ellen G. White and the Adventist pioneers easier to access for everyone.
EGW Vision helps you find topics, statements, and quotes faster, especially when many original sources are not yet fully available in your language. The tool searches semantically, groups relevant content by topic, and presents matching results as clearly as possible in your language.
My hope is that this tool supports personal Bible study, strengthens trust in the original sources, and helps more people discover the message of these writings with clarity, depth, and joy.
