Dangerous Doctrines of devils...by Doug Thompson

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.
1 Timothy 4:1
Paul, here, is setting the stage for Timothy as to what he should expect in the latter times (the age of grace). Let's consider a bit of the language Paul uses:

1. ...Spirit speaketh expressly... This is not just some random idea or a passing thought. It is concrete, straight-forward, no-messing-around truth you can expect to happen. GOD SAYS SO!

2. ...some shall depart from the faith... This does not refer to individuals who were true Christians, then left their faith. It refers to a general departure from recognized biblical truth during the entire church age (nearly 2,000 years).

3. ...giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. During the church age there will be people who will follow after doctrines that persuade men that God is not truth, that the Bible is not accurate or relevant, and that Jesus' death was not necessary.

Oprah Winfrey is now purporting a "new" idea of religion that accomplishes what Paul warned against. According to her and her "spiritual advisor" God is in everything; he is in you and you are your own god. You don't have to believe anything; as a matter of fact, faith isn't even necessary. What is important is the way you feel about yourself. Feelings are everything, and as long as you are feeling positive about yourself and everyone around you, then you are fulfilling your purpose in life. Don't worry about sin; there is no such thing. You are the most important person in the world, and as long as you are in control of your feelings in a positive way, everthing will work out ok. Shades of Gnosticism!

What's more, according to the "new" idea, the cross of Christ is just a symbol of the difficulties we face in life. The death of Jesus was not substitutionary; he didn't die for our sins, he was just a man, and gave a nice example of life.

As Paul warned, we need to beware of new doctrines.

But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

Galatians 1:8, 9