Guess Who Believes in New Age Religion

We hear a lot about “New Age” religion.  For definition purposes “New Age” beliefs include but are not limited to believing in reincarnation, psychics, horoscopes or the presence of spiritual energy in physical things like tree or mountains.  Millennials, in particular, have gained a reputation for trying to blend “New Age” beliefs with Christianity.  A new study done by Pew Research produced some shocking insights.  Many adult Christians hold to at least one “New Age” belief. 

According to the survey 62% of all Americans believe at least one “New Age” practice.  Surprisingly, Christians (61%) are just as likely and non-Christians to believe in at least one “New Age” practice.  Evangelicals (47%) are the least likely to hold “New Age” beliefs and Catholics (70%) the most likely.  Surprisingly, members of mainline denominations are more like (67%) than the general population to believe in at least one “New Age” behavior.  What is even more startling to me is that adults age 50-66 (66%) are just as likely as young adults ages 18-29 (65%) to hold to at least one of the “New Age” beliefs.  So much for the theory that Millennials are to blame for watering down the Christian faith.

As a Christian, it is hard for me to comprehend how someone who believes in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior would consult the daily horoscope before beginning each day.  Being born in March, I have been told I am a Pisces, but I have never given much thought to what that means.  When faced with a difficult decision I will pray for wisdom and wait for the Holy Spirit to guide me.  I am not much for good luck charms and even feel guilty when reading that slip of paper inside the fortune cookie. 

It is no wonder the teens and young adults are forming their own hybrid version of Christianity.  Many of those who are supposed to be mentoring them are sending mixed messages.  There is no room for astrology, psychics or Ouija Boards in the lives of those who see Jesus as their eternal hope.