For those who have spent time in the Charismatic movement, you may have heard someone use the label “having a religious spirit” or being a Pharisee. This is typically used with response to those who would question a leader’s beliefs or teachings or seemingly challenge the anointing on one’s life. I was recently listening to an online conversation between two individuals, one who calls himself an apostle to the nations and the other professing to be a prophet, which seems to fall within the belief of the New Apostolic Reformation. At any rate, they discussed Christian liberty issues and grace, as well as how demons reenter into believers. As they discussed this topic and why some people come back for deliverance ministry, the conclusion was made that those individuals are battling with condemnation and legalism, and because of legalism, demons are able to enter.

These men discussed sin and repentance in such a way that it was unclear as to what they fully believed, and that confusion led both men to make follow up social media videos, clarifying their beliefs on sin and repentance. When people began to challenge them on these matters and others, appealing to Scripture and even asking questions, the accusation was made of the religious spirit rising up and manifesting in the chats. People were mocked and seemingly belittled for any opposition to what they stated. One of the men instructed the people to leave behind sin consciousness and embrace righteousness consciousness.

Though the comments from the audience were not visible on the screen, I could not help but notice the tone in which people were being handled. For all the talk of grace during this discussion, there was very little displayed to those who expressed questions. In fact, the legalistic or religious spirit was spoke of in such a way that those who would fear touching God’s anointed would likely never ask a question of these leaders. A statement was made that the legalistic spirit attacks these leaders, causing their ministries to grow. By drawing this conclusion, it would seem pointless to “attack” these ministries because it is opposing God and what He wants to do, and the evidence of God’s favor is said to be found in the growing size of the ministry or movement.

So, what is someone to do when faced with addressing teaching that is unbiblical and not honoring God’s Word? What if there are legitimate questions that are dismissed? Are we to remain silent in fear of touching the anointed of God? I would like to offer some thoughts for consideration.

First, the size of a ministry or an organization does not indicate God’s approval on it. There are false religions that have grown exponentially, and this is not in any way God’s favor or approval. We know that Scripture tells us evil men and imposters will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived (2 Timothy 3:13). We know that many will fall away, not tolerating sound doctrine and desiring to have their ears tickled (2 Timothy 4:3). It is also interesting to note how Paul describes false teachers to Timothy as being “puffed up with conceit and understanding nothing. They have an unhealthy craving for controversy and quarrels about words. By this, it produces envy, strife, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction among those who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth.” (1 Timothy 6:2-5)

Second, demonizing opposition is a weak tactic. This is a way to shut down critical thinking and sound Bible study. The Bereans in Acts 17 were not accused by Paul as having a religious spirit as they searched the Scriptures to see if what he proclaimed to them was so. He also did not discourage them from testing his teaching and his proclamation of the gospel. In fact, he acknowledged their actions in a postive way. There are instances in Acts where he reasoned with people from among the Scriptures (Acts 17:2, 17). When questioning or raising concerns is essentially demonized, it is worth asking why this is happening. If there is confusion or lack of clarity in what someone has stated, then questions are warranted and should be welcomed. No one wants to be told they are under the influence of a demon, and this seems to be a way of control. It should also give us comfort to know that no one is more anointed than another believer. 1 John 2:20, 27 is an encouraging reminder that the Holy Spirit has anointed all believers. There is no hierarchy before God on this matter, and if anything, those who teach God’s Word will be judged more harshly (James 3:1). Rather than demonizing opposition, there should be a reverential fear for representing God in ministering to others professing to be His flock.

Third, there is no religious spirit or legalistic spirit in the Bible. Yes, there were Pharisees, and the Pharisees not only held to the law, but they also applied oral manmade traditions to the people. In doing so, they placed heavier burdens on the people that they could not fulfill. Legalism can occur in any belief system, and the Charismatic movement is not immune to legalism. There are many people who attest to the proverbial “hamster wheel” where there were many actions expected of them to where the final outcome or desire was not brought to fruition. It resulted in an exhausting process that left them discouraged and even shipwrecked in their faith. Again, this is not exclusive to this movement, but it needs to be said that there is such a thing as Charismatic legalism. It is ironic that the term Pharisee is so loosely used in this movement by some without realizing the similarities between the two. I was one who was guilty of this very thing.

Lastly, while pondering on the sentiments shared by some leaders who hold disdain for questions and “heresy hunters”, believing that those who do so are wasting their time in a fruitless battle, I believe that addressing aberrant practices and heretical teachings is important and fruitful. Not every error is heresy, but teachings that depart from sound Biblical Christianity should not be ignored. It is those types of beliefs and practices that draw people further away from Jesus Christ. Though false teaching will attract more people than repel them and the way is broad leading to destruction, honoring God’s Word and the precious souls coming out of such things make it all worthwhile. God is faithful to deliver His sheep. Ephesians 5:11 tells us not to take part in the unfruitful works of darkness. Rather, we are to expose these works. We are to test them. We are to shed light on these things, and that light comes from the Word of God (Psalm 119:105). A high view of His Word leads to a high view of the truth, and ultimately rich fellowship with God. That may earn the title of a religious spirit, but abiding in His Word brings freedom that no label can muzzle or shackle.

Be a good Berean. The truth according to Scripture matters to God, and it should matter to us.

Listen to this latest episode regarding the religious/legalistic spirit: ‎The Lovesick Scribe Podcast on Apple Podcasts