A Plethora of Paranormal Phenomena—a Unified Theory?

By Reverend Mark Hunnemann

Psychic Phenomena, or Psi, are events that cannot be explained by conventional scientific observation. These are the phenomena that parapsychologists study, and others as well. Extrasensory perception (ESP) and Psychokinesis (PK) are primary, but there are others. Many, many others! My goal in this blog is two-fold: to give a representative list of the vast variety of Psi, and to ask which explanation best explains this wild diversity of phenomena.

While listening to a recent interview of Tricia Robertson with host Kev Baker, she asked the question: what happens after we die? She then stated that there was “evidence beyond a reasonable doubt” that we live on after death, and that there is this same level of evidence of for many Psi. It was a fascinating discussion, and Dr Robertson is brilliant. She knows we cannot ‘prove’ much paranormal activity by reproducing it in the lab. So, I found her “beyond reasonable doubt” very helpful and instructive.

My question is this: having found evidence “beyond a reasonable doubt” that paranormal phenomena does in fact occur, does that explain the CAUSE behind the paranormal activity? They are two, distinct issues! Some otherwise very intelligent people seem to forget this distinction. Establishing the factualness of a phenomenon does not necessarily explain its origin, identity, or purpose….and to confuse the two is a logical fallacy. Psi are not self-referential nor self-defining. Remember we are dealing with the supernatural realm, and not the natural realm.

But, I’m getting ahead of myself. What I DO (and many others) have in common with those in the paranormal community is a ‘beyond a reasonable doubt’ knowledge that a long litany of paranormal phenomena truly do occur….and seemingly with increasing frequency. That is a strong point of contact for fruitful discussion, is it not? We need to recognize this common ground and use it to engender useful discussions.

While not an exhaustive list, here are some of the phenomena. I listed some of them in a recent blog entitled the “Creeping Darkness.” For sake of time, I will simply mention them without explanation or comment: telekinesis, psychokinesis, ESP, the appearance of dark clouds in a room, dark shadows—sometimes humanoid shaped, floating faces, poltergeists, drop-in communicators (T Roberston’s term for entities communicating out of the blue, unknown to any present but later confirmed), psychic surgery (invasive and non-invasive), energy healing of all kinds (e.g. Reiki), psychic art—some with ‘precipitated art’ (Bank Sisters), automatic writing, mediums, psychics, EVP’s, energy shapes or orbs,  apparitions of various shapes and solidity, indoor rain, bee-sting sensation, cob-web effect, breezes, cold-spots, black-eyes kids, Aliens/abduction, cryptozoology, doppelgangers, quantum jumping, light bulb effect, sleep paralysis, vivid dreams/nightmares, ‘prophetic dreams’, ghost pets, alleged appearance of deceased loved ones, bangs, footsteps, smells, conversations, whistling, possession, spoon bending parties (at Rhine Inst.), wraiths,demons or ‘negative/hostile entities, elementals, fairies, leprechauns, etc. And we must not forget the very real effects/affects (emotional, intellectual, physical, relational, and spiritual) that these paranormal phenomena have on people…the effects are as long as the causes list above! Scratches, bites, burns, ect. And then there are the four alleged types of hauntings: intelligent deceased human, non-intelligent or residual, poltergeist, and demonic. Some affirm other types of haunts (e.g. multi-dimensional beings, or aliens).

When Kev Baker, from Scotland, interviewed T. Robertson (parapsychologist), she stated that, “It is a good thing I have no religious background.” As to establishing the facticity of paranormal phenomena—which she strongly affirms—her religious beliefs are not that important since she adheres strictly to being rigorously honest in her observations of the phenomena. Analogously, one can be the world’s leading astronomer without any religious faith, if they are rigorously honest in reporting and analyzing the data (though lack of faith inevitably effects how one views the phenomena). I admire Dr. Robertson’s encyclopedic knowledge of the wide variety of Psi. Again, a common ground is afforded people of different faiths (who know paranormal activity occurs) and folks in the paranormal community who tend to focus on the scientific method…or at least the collection of verifiable evidence, as Dr Robertson prefers to call it.

However, when it comes to the cause/origin/purpose of paranormal activity, I must insist on the myth of so-called neutrality—her lack of religious belief DOES seriously diminish Robertson’s ‘objectivity’. In fact, total objectivity is unattainable, nor even desirable. Robertson, as brilliant as she is, must remember that Proverbs 1:7 applies to everyone. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom/knowledge.” If God created the spirit realm, then I humbly suggest that we need His perspective, or we will not be able to answer the second part of my question (origin/identity/purpose).
The issue of presuppositions is so crucial, but I need to move on.

In Kev Baker’s interview, the principle of Occam's Razor was put forth as being very important when dealing with the multiplicity of paranormal phenomena, and the differing explanations. Occam's Razor goes like this: when you have multiple possible explanations for the same phenomena, the simplest explanation tends to be the right one.

Earlier, I had mentioned the distinction between establishing the factualness of the plethora of paranormal, and the IDENTITY/ORIGIN/PURPOSE of each of these paranormal phenomena. I trust that makes sense. For example, it is one thing to establish that shadow figures are facts, and asking the question: what ARE they?

If you take that long litany of paranormal phenomena listed above, people in the paranormal community have a wide range of opinions on their origin, identity, and purpose. For example, Dr. Robertson asserts that some poltergeist activity is due to deceased humans trying to communicate with loved ones, but other poltergeist activity is traced to interior, living human, psychic forces, often connected to an adolescent. That introduces some measure of complexity regarding the origin and identity of poltergeist activity. Frankly, how does one (in a scientific manner) determine which one it is? The point I wish to stress is that poltergeists are just one of a growing number of Psi that have a complexity surrounding them in the paranormal community. ‘Interior psychic forces’ is easy to say over and over, but not as easily explained in scientific manner.

Let’s look at the commonly held view that there are basically four different kinds of hauntings: intelligent human, non-intelligent/residual, poltergeist, and demonic. I have spent the last seven years analyzing each of these alleged forms of haunts….much in my book—Seeing Ghosts through God’s Eyes.

According to many in the paranormal community, residual haunts are a very common form of haunting, if not the most common. That fact itself, should make it incumbent upon us to do as Socrates said…to lead an examined life! I am NOT a scientist, but I did some basic, common-sense analysis of the notion of an energy-entrapment leading to cyclic ‘re-enactments.’ I wrote three or four lengthy blogs on the subject—challenging it on the grounds that it contradicted the second and third laws of thermodynamics….which introduces incredible complexity (or lack of simplicity) To date, I don’t know of a single sustained reply—I may be wrong, but I’m unaware of any. I’m not patting myself on the back, but I am humbly trying to help folks see where Occam’s Razor would lead us. The simplest answer tends to be the correct one.

What I have discovered is that many of the paranormal phenomenon mentioned above usually involve an incredible array of varying possible origins or identities…not to mention the purpose behind it. Elementals originate in one way, poltergeists another way, residual haunts in yet another, ect, ect. The mechanism allegedly changes from one phenomenon to the next. That is NOT simplicity regarding explaining the phenomena!

2 Corinthians 11:14—the angel of light principle-- is a simple, but not simplistic, means of explaining all true paranormal phenomena (except miracles and that which is angelic, and they don’t play games). Satan and his minions are at war with us, and they will use their very considerable intellects, power, and imagination to lob as many ‘grenades’ at us as possible. Every paranormal phenomenon that I listed above—from automatic writing to a zoo-ful of demonic animals—is easily explainable via the agency of Satan/demons, especially since we are near to Jesus’s return.

Appearance= reality may work in the natural realm, but not in supernatural realm. I am glad that I have ‘religion” (Jesus and bible) because we are given information from the Creator of heaven and earth, and ALL that is in it….which we cannot acquire on our own.

Back to Ockam’s Razor: which explains all the paranormal phenomena in the simplest fashion? One agent/cause….one identity behind all paranormal phenomena, with one consistent purpose (deceiving and destroying us), OR a view that has numerous explanations/mechanisms for every phenomenon? If Christianity is true, then what we are experiencing is exactly what we would expect….increased activity. Otherwise it is just a guessing game as to identity….nothing in science can block or take into account the angel of light principle.

Some folks think more visually…see if this helps.
I-o---o-------------o--------o--------------------o--------ooo-I-ooo------o--------o--------o----------------oooI

Creation/fall                                                        Cross                                                    Second Coming
In the flow of human history, there is a continuity of paranormal/demonic activity with humans—which began at the Fall,  increases at first/second comings of Christ, due to Satan’s frustrated anger. This visualizes that, amidst all the vast diversity of paranormal activity, there is a unity of origin, purpose, and identity. Simple, but not simplistic, diagram of the unity amidst all the incredible diversity of quantity and nature of demonic activity. All the Psi is accounted for in the entire flow of human history. (each ‘o’ on the scale represents some Psi activity) Obviously, the diagram is not to scale, but it shows the linear movement of history, and the Psi involved in its flow.

On the other hand, without a biblical view of history and demonic activity, there is nothing but chaos when trying to bring order out of the vast diversity of Psi throughout human history.
         ….o                                                                                 o
o
                                    o
                                                                                                                       ooo

The second diagram is meant to show chaos….much diversity, but no unifying ‘force’ to show how  they are connected in any meaningful, consistent fashion.

Without the God of the bible, history has no meaningful beginning, and no meaningful end…..all the Psi is dis-connected….no way to bring unity to all the diversity of paranormal activity. The true origin, nature, identity, and purpose of entities/activity must remain a mystery. One can only fixate on single datum and try to explain it by appearance.

An analogy is the continuing search of physicists for a unified theory that would explain all the forces at work in the cosmos…underlying this search is an awareness of a profound unity amidst the staggering diversity.

In physics, a unified field theory (UFT), occasionally referred to as a uniform field theory,[1] is a type of field theory that allows all that is usually thought of as fundamental forces and elementary particles to be written in terms of a single field. (Wikpedia)

Similarly,  the teaching of the bible in general, and especially the Creation/Fall/Redemption meta-narrative, provides from Genesis to Revelation, a profound unity amidst the staggering diversity of details revealed in the bible—including the beginning of paranormal activity, it’s purpose, and their identity.  The line above represents all of paranormal/demonic activity within the flow of human history, over which the Living God is absolutely sovereign. I have not included the miracles of God, nor angelic activity, in this discussion. Hence, the biblical model provides us with a ‘unified field theory’ which brings unity to all the vast diversity of paranormal activity, from the ancient past up until today. It not only acknowledges the vast variety of paranormal activity, but insists that all of it ultimately emanates from the same source…providing us with the source, purpose, identity of all Psi.
While non-biblical theories can ascertain the reality of paranormal activity (by borrowing from selected aspects of a biblical worldview….e.g. the foundation for the scientific method), it takes a staggering and confusing multiplicity of different explanations/methodologies in their attempt to explain the identity, origin, and purpose of many of these different phenomena. In other words, the non-biblical methods of attempting to explain paranormal phenomena is becoming increasingly complex, and often at odds with accepted scientific laws….while the biblical view has a beauty of simplicity. Occam’s Razor most certainly confirms the bible as the simplest, and most comprehensive, explanation of the multiplicity of paranormal phenomena, without resorting to reductionism.

Mark Hunnemann is the author of Seeing Ghosts Through God's Eyes: A Worldview Analysis of Earthbound Spirits. It's also available in eBook format.

The Charlie, Charlie Challenge…What's the Big Deal?

By Reverend Mark Hunnemann

“Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourselves unclean by them: I am the Lord your God. Leviticus 19:31

6 “If a person turns to mediums and necromancers, whoring after them, I will set my face against that person and will cut him off from among his people. 7 Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, for I am the Lord your God. (Leviticus 20:6-7)

“When you come into the land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominable practices of those nations. 10 There shall not be found among you anyone who burns his son or his daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens, or a sorcerer 11 or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead, 12 for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord. And because of these abominations the Lord your God is driving them out before you. 13 You shall be blameless before the Lord your God, 14 for these nations, which you are about to dispossess, listen to fortune-tellers and to diviners. But as for you, the Lord your God has not allowed you to do this. (Deuteronomy 18:9-14)

Psalm 36:9 says that “in His light, we see light.”  That is, without the light from God’s revealed Word, we have no basis for assessing this Charlie phenomenon….or anything for that matter. Only a biblical worldview can make sense of life, as it is the inspired Word of He who created all things.

So, at the very outset, you have a choice: rely upon your autonomous reason, or humble yourself before the Living God by seeking His ‘opinion’ on this matter. Only in God’s Light can we attain light we can trust regarding this Charlie Challenge.

So, why is this Charlie craze a big deal? Primarily because God says it is a big deal, which is abundantly clear from texts above. God has not changed since these words were penned, and the warnings are trans generational and transcultural in their divine authority. They have up-to-the-second relevance, as does all of the Word of God.

Sometimes called the ‘Charlie, Charlie Challenge, this is an occultic game that has recently gone viral around the globe, especially among Middle School and High School students. It evidently originated in Mexico but only recently caught on elsewhere, including the USA. The spirit is thought to be a spirit name ‘Charlie’.

The way this game works is by taking a piece of paper and dividing it into four quadrants, with ‘yes’ and ‘no’ written on it. Then, two pencils/pens are set on top of each other at 90 degrees on top of the paper—kind of a simplified Ouija Board.

Then, by asking questions that can be answered either ‘yes’ or ‘no’, the participants inquire if the spirit of Charlie is present, and this spirit uses the rotating pens to answer this initial inquiry and their additional questions. At middle/high school age, one can does not have to think long about what kind of questions may be asked. And given the loss of faith amongst American families, as well as the God-given longing to experience spiritual reality, students are engaging in seriously dangerous activity in their pursuit of entertainment or even in serious, but seriously misguided, pursuit of truth.

The first thing to note is that a spirit is explicitly being summoned or invoked. Furthermore, additional attempts to communicate with this mysterious ‘Charlie’ are part and parcel of this game.

According to God, He detests any/all attempts to attain special knowledge from the spirit realm. The texts quoted above from Leviticus and Deuteronomy reveal that the kind of activity behind the Charlie, Charlie Challenge is an abomination to Him—that is a very strong word in both Hebrew and English. Whether the person is attempting to speak to what they think is a human spirit, or a demon, or just going through the motions for fun, the bible has serious warnings for all three. First, it is dishonoring to God to seek supernatural wisdom apart from God’s written revelation. We are told to be holy as He is holy, and this is seriously un-holy activity. Second, God enacted these prohibitions because He loves us and does not want us to get hurt. And the Charlie game most certainly opens doors that were meant to stay nailed shut. Between the things we see and the unseen are doors; once they are opened nightmares can become reality.

Let me anticipate a question/objection: most of these kids are simply bored and just seeking harmless fun. Additionally, one may object, that they know a person who used this Charlie game (or the Ouija) and nothing happened. How do we respond?

First, we must remember that we live every day in spiritual warfare with the demonic. They know the bible very well, and they know what gives them legal rights to come at us in accelerated ways. They are acutely aware of the above texts and seek to lure folks, regardless of intent, to disobey God’s warnings because they know that summoning spirits gives them the right to attack, and they don’t give a hoot about fun-loving naiveté. They don’t ‘play fair’.

There are many, many people who have used the Ouija board (and now the Charlie game) who would give anything to go back and do things differently, because their lives have become a living hell. Additionally, the demonic can act in subtle, long term ways. They don’t always infest a home and then possess people who use these forbidden games. They can attack one’s health, their relationships (especially with the Lord), their sanity, etc., without revealing themselves overtly. Yet, the use of “Charlie, Charlie Challenge” gives the diabolical a legal right to attach and attack, either overtly or covertly. They can be inhumanly patient, luring a person in a long walk in the wrong direction spiritually. Put differently, they can act like spiritual radioactivity—slowly and quietly wreaking havoc in innumerable ways. So, to the person who says that nothing happened after playing the game, I would ask: how do you know nothing happened?

We are all involved in spiritual warfare, and if we participate in an occultic practice, then this gives the devil a foothold he otherwise would not have had. Some sins are more serious in God’s eyes, with the possibility of extremely serious consequences (e.g. demonic oppression/possession).

There is not a Mexican demon which is harassing people who play this game. It is local demons who are looking for an opportunity and go along with the charade. Demons are the ultimate opportunists. By demons I mean fallen angels or vice versa—they are synonymous in the bible, along with unclean spirits.

It matters not what one’s intentions are. Though demons cannot read our minds, often intent is verbally expressed or through body language.  Nevertheless, and this is important and tragic, no matter how sincere one might be, or no matter if it is intended as mere fun, those who play this game are at high risk of coming under serious demonic attack.
A child may not heed his parent’s warnings to stay away from the hot stove, and all his sincerity and fun-loving curiosity will not protect the child from being burned by the hot stove. As there are laws in nature which we break to our harm, so there are laws in the supernatural which we break to our harm as well, regardless of sincerity or intent.

Since our country has become increasingly anti-God (the real God) and increasingly inquisitive regarding the paranormal, the floodgates of diabolical darkness have been opened. Meaning that “more bullets” are being put in the spiritual Russian roulette gun. Hence, the likelihood of being oppressed as a result of playing this game has risen exponentially In other words, more demons are overtly active today than ever since the First Coming of Christ, and this makes any occultic practices all the more dangerous.

Where is a soldier more at risk: at the rear of his own army or in the middle of an enemy camp? It saddens me to say that our beloved country is becoming increasingly like the latter. The consequence is that playing occultic games is now more dangerous than ever before.

Our youth are being entertained to death and seem to embrace anything that will cause some excitement. Whether it is Bloody Mary, Ouija Board, attempting to acquire EVP’s, or Charlie Challenge, they are all attempts to communicate with the “other side”, which God forbids in the strongest language.

One of the problems with the Charlie Challenge is that it can lead to increasing involvement with the occult. There is no such thing as an ‘innocent interest in the occult’. Joseph Smith was said, in his youth, to have had an innocent interest in the occult. No wonder high weirdness ensued. One can be sincere but sincerely wrong.

Perhaps you could ask your pastor or Sunday school teacher if this topic could be addressed. Millions of kids are being affected and we need to have the compassion to stop them from committing what could become spiritual suicide, if not physical suicide.

My mom was fond of saying, ”Better safe than sorry!” A moment’s communion with common sense will reveal that it is truly better safe than sorry when dealing with supernatural evil. And we have to decide if we are going to humble ourselves before our Creator and Redeemer by heeding His warnings, or insanely cling to our spiritual preferences and desires.

One does not even need a ‘device’ to commit this cosmic treason against a holy God. All one has to do is call out to any kind of spirit—to seek advice, etc. However, actually summoning a spirit like ‘Charlie’ takes it to an even darker and more dangerous level. Never, ever attempt to invoke or summon a spirit, or you very likely will encounter one, and it will not be kind-hearted deceased ‘Uncle Bob’ or an alleged spirit named Charlie. It will be a fallen angel who hates you and will do all he can to destroy you and your loved ones.

This Charlie craze is symptomatic of spiritual emptiness. In my last blog I spoke of how God wants us to find in Him our highest treasure….to take supreme delight in Him and to display His glory. To enjoy and glorify Him. If we do this, then those in our circle of influence will see the spiritual reality that they long for. Consequently, they will be less likely to fall prey to the Charlie Challenge or something similar, because they will be exposed to true spiritual reality and beauty.

If you or someone you know has become involved in this Charlie craze, then please feel free to contact me and I will try to help, or get someone to help.

Educate….educate….educate---talk with our kids or grandkids and gently warn them of supernatural evil-in an age appropriate way. And for now, please take every opportunity to expose this Charlie Challenge as the satanic scheme that it is. That is why this Charlie Challenge is such a big deal.

Mark Hunnemann is the author of Seeing Ghosts Through God's Eyes: A Worldview Analysis of Earthbound Spirits. It's also available in eBook format.

The Burden of Proof Lies on Those Affirming the Existence of Ghosts

By Reverend Mark Hunnemann

I bought a book recently entitled, "Critical Thinking" which is a popular text in colleges on logic--how to think carefully and reasonably. At 5 am, while in the gym on the bike, it was a curious coincidence that I opened the book randomly to a discussion re: 'burden of proof' in an argument. What blew me away was the example given...it woke me up!! It was a section entitled "Misplacing the Burden of Proof" Below is a verbatim quote and it mentions ghosts.

Before I proceed, I want to say that 'Critical thinking" has been a love of mine for 40 years, and have done graduate work in logic at UNC-CH. I also started Caldwell Academy in GSO  and designed their logic curriculum...as well as "Greensboro Academys".

Affirmative/negative. Other things being equal, the burden of proof falls automatically on those supporting the affirmative side of an issue rather than on those supporting the negative side. In other words, we generally want to hear reasons why something IS the case before  before  we require reasons why it is NOT the case....This rule applies to existence versus non-existence, too. Most often, the burden of proof  should fall on those who claim something exists rather than on those who claim it doesn't. THERE ARE  PEOPLE WHO BELIEVE IN GHOSTS, NOT BECAUSE OF ANY EVIDENCE THAT THERE ARE GHOSTS. BUT BECAUSE NOBODY HAS SHOWN THAT THERE ARE NO SUCH THINGS (when someone claims that we should believe in such-and-such because nobody has proved that it isn't so, we have a subtype of burden of proof known as an APPEAL TO IGNORANCE.) This is a burden-of-proof fallacy because it mistakenly places the requirement of proving their position on those who do do not believe in ghosts. (Critical Thinking. 8th ed. 2007, Moore, Parker..pg 187....emphasis added)

This is NOT a Christian text by any means. However, I almost fell out of my stationary bike when I read this at 5 am! The first time I opened the book, the above is what I had turned to. Logic/critical thinking rules are subordinate to Scripture, but since Jesus is the Logos/Logic, then we must realize that Jesus wove logic into the fabric of reality. Aristotle did not create logic, he simply 'discovered' and categorized what the Logos had intertwined into the warp and woof of reality.

According to secular accepted rules of logic (in line with bible) any claims for existence of ghosts MUST assume burden of proof. That has profound implications for--A calling non-believers in ghosts "fundamentalist"in derogatory way. B more importantly, ANY claims of apparitional humans have burden of proof. There is an arrogance toward the "all paranormal is demonic", but in reality they are bumping against reality and logic.The bible clearly affirms the existence of two types of angels--good and bad. There is an unending enumeration of alleged spirit entities by those not guided by the bible. Now  they must see that logic itself opposes them.

If you believe in ghosts in ANY form (other than biblical examples), the burden of  proof lies squarely upon your shoulders.

In conclusion, if one responds by saying that there is an abundance of evidence for the existence of ghosts via EVP, sightings, etc, then that is another fallacy--circular reasoning. One has to assume the existence of ghosts, to interpret those experiences as being evidence of ghosts. Christians have to bow before the authority of God's Word, which makes clear that Satan is the great deceiver.

Mark Hunnemann is the author of Seeing Ghosts Through God's Eyes: A Worldview Analysis of Earthbound Spirits. It's also available in eBook format.

Save Your Money on Paranormal Conventions & Events

By Chris Baricko

As I am sure many of have noticed we have been getting flooded in the paranormal world with conventions and events. I will point out a few things. Firstly, the economy sucks, most of the people are either unemployed or underpaid. They are paycheck to paycheck yet the money they charge is outrageous. Here is why I do not think they are worth over $20.00. Now remember they say they are on TV and you're paying for there time. Really. Then should you not get what you pay for?

Let's start with Amy Bruni from Ghost Hunters. She stated in an interview that either Ghost Hunters or people in general started investigating the paranormal in 1848. (I am not sure what one she meant.) But either way she is wrong. TAPS started in 1990, (142 years later) or when the first people started in England in 1880's. 32 years later. In the nineteenth century. (Not the eighteenth century). Really? And you're paying to learn from her? I would save my money.  (Read below)

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Then we have Adam Berry from Ghost Hunters who (cough cough ) won the TAPS academy. I am sure it had nothing to do with the fact he was a performer in acting and theater before they chose him. Even though in my opinion Vera was way better. Remember when Adam suggested were they have base camp and Vera was the leader? Then when she did not say Adam suggested it he went to Jay and Grant and said was not fair was his Idea. So now remember he claimed to be a team player. But I guess that means throwing others under the bus to get ahead.  So tell me that show was not a set up for ratings and who they knew they were going to pick? The actor. (Read below)

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Events. They charge from $125.00 to $245.00 for 7 hours depending on the event. So at $125.00 that's about $18.00 an hour you're paying. At $245.00 you're paying $35.00 a hour are you kidding me? So what you're paying for is to walk in and say hi. Maybe get a photo and an autograph. Then investigate with 50 to 60 other people at the same location. Right at the bottom of the page it states in big letters NO REFUNDS. So I will offer my advice as someone who has been in the field for over 25 years. Ask questions before paying and make sure you get the answers in writing.

1 - How many people are going to be at the event?

2 - Ask how will the groups investigating be broken up?

3 - How many people will be in each group? If over 3-5 forget about doing any EVP's as they will be so contaminated you won't be able to tell what is and is not a person whispering. Photos. You can get some of the location but again forget convincing anyone it's paranormal when so many others there that can cause it.

I also wrote to a few of the paranormal celebrities to ask if they would be willing to donate their time or sign something for a little girl here in Connecticut who was in ICU because her school bus crashed into a tree. The only ones who showed any support and replied to me within a day are: John Zaffis, Brian Cano, Chris Fleming, and Shannon Sylvia. Of course Amy never answered but makes sure she lets you know she is selling her tee shirts. And a few others are just as bad. Their true colors showed. Now why support them when they don't support others? 

Now I do not want to hear the excuses they can't reply to every email or message they get. That's a load of crap. If they have the time to Tweet and post they have time to answer the fans. Remember--without the fans there are no shows. No shows mean they have to live in the real world. Maybe that would open their eyes and show the fans the respect they deserve. They make sure to post when they're going to be at an event to sell something. Tell them to answer your messages first. Again NO FANS MEANS NO MONEY.   

Don't let the event promoters strong arm you or tell you what you want to hear. Remember they are there to make money. Why do you think they put NO REFUNDS as part of the terms? That's basically saying if you have a emergency you can go pound sand.

I personally have never went to an event for the simple reason I've been around long enough to know I do not want to be cramped up with a large group of people trying to see if I can get any evidence or findings when I know full well it is just about impossible. And I also refuse to work my ass off to give my money to people who don't give a crap about us, only that we pay.

Are the events worth it? In my opinion not if it is anything over $20.00. Do the math. The event is say $245.00 now add in your travel and lodging and let's not forget food. You're around $500.00 for only 7 hours.

For that kind of money you can rent a cabin in the woods for a week, Go to a theme park for the day. Have a great family night out. For most people that is a week's pay. For them, I'm sure they are making much more than that for only 7 hours. Think about it…

Sufficiency of the Bible

By Reverend Mark Hunnemann

We have come to the end of our series on the attributes of the Word of God. If we are living in the last times then this is especially indispensable information to grasp.The last is also, in a sense, the most important--the sufficiency of Scripture. Or, Sola Scriptura as the reformers called it. We may define it thus: Scripture contains all the divine words needed for any and all aspects of human life.Here is the Westminster Confession formulation. (this is a wonderful teaching tool, but it is not infallible)

The whole counsel of God concerning all things necessary for His own glory, man's salvation, faith and life, is either expressly set down in Scripture, or by good and necessary consequence may be deduced from Scripture: unto which nothing at any time is to be added, whether by new revelations of the Spirit, or traditions of men. Nevertheless, we acknowledge the inward illumination of the Spirit of God to be necessary for the saving understanding of such things as are revealed in the Word: and that there are some circumstances concerning the worship of God, and government of the church, common to human actions and societies, which are to be ordered by the light of nature, and Christian prudence, according to the general rules of the Word, which are always to be observed." (WCF 1.6)  I will look at a few of these concepts.

Christians sometimes say the bible is sufficient for theology and spiritual matters but not for auto repair, scuba diving, zoology, or dentistry. Certainly the bible has more specific information relevant to theology than to auto mechanics, but that is not what we mean by sufficiency. In this context sufficiency is not sufficiency of specific information but sufficiency of divine words. Scripture has divine words for every aspect of human life. It contains all the divine words that the plumber needs--or scientist and modern ethicist-- and all the divine words that the theologian or preacher needs. So it is just as sufficient for plumbing as it is for theology! And we shall spend extra time showing how sufficient the bible is regarding paranormal issues.

Notice that the WCF states that the sufficient content of  the bible includes not only its explicit teaching, but what also may be properly logically deduced from it. Logic is a hermeneutical (interpretation) tool...a tool for bringing out meaning that is already there in the text.

Of course the sufficiency of Scripture means that nothing is to be added or subtracted to the bible--we do not need any more divine words than those in the bible. This does not forbid seeking information from other sources--our job requires it...and life in general.The last section of the WCF mentions the use of natural revelation--even regarding some issues in the church dealing with worship and government (Roberts' Rules...uugh!!)  Jesus had harsh words for the religious folks who elevated their traditions to the status of divine words.(Mark 7:8) The theological heritage I hold dear (Presbyterian/Reformed) has some traditions regarding worship which I know to be unbiblical...that is why we must be ever reforming!

2 Tim. 3:16-17 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work." "(see Rom.15:4   "Every" refers to sufficiency.

Scripture is clear enough to make us responsible for carrying out our present responsibilities to God. Like clarity, sufficiency is an ethical doctrine. It takes away excuses for disobedience. When we violate God's commandments, we cannot claim that they were unclear, or that they were insufficient. (John Frame--The Doctrine of the Word of God...pg 226)

Here is a crucial text for applying across the situational board...1 Cor. 10:31  "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."  And Col. 3:23 "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men."

The other day I was outside cutting the lawn, and I asked myself how the sufficiency of Scripture applied to that activity?I smiled as I remembered 1 Cor. 10:31...it is interesting how practical the results can be when you earnestly attempt to cut the grass to God's glory!  You see, this verse is sufficient regarding the divine words that I needed. Of course, additional information is needed for whatever the vocation, but the divine words in the bible are sufficient! If you are a plumber (fill in the blank) and read the bible everyday, then the fresh illumination of the Holy Spirit will astound you with how relevant the bible is on a daily basis.

There are principles in Scripture which apply to EVERYTHING...including thorny modern ethical issues . There is sufficient divine words to render inexcusable the reprehensible wickedness of abortion. That is THE most significant social/moral issue in our country. God is merciful and forgiving to any of you affected..okay? If He has forgiven you, then that should be sufficient--forgive yourself and move on.

The cultural mandate in Gen. 1:28 implies the acquisition of information gleaned from general revelation for your job...including our studies at school and work. But God's divine words in the bible are sufficient for you.Let me gently urge you to apply throughout your day today just 1 Cor.10:31 and see what happens!

This is a large subject but I need to apply this to our paranormal context.Though Scripture is sufficient regarding every area of human life, it has MORE divine words if the issue is critical. For example, the bible is filled with texts regarding how to be saved..

The paranormal--from what we have learned, the bible contains what God considers sufficient information.

When I began research for my book back in 2009, I thought that I might write a short pamphlet on "what the bible says about who ghosts really are". Man, was I mistaken! What struck me early on was how massive and wide-ranging the ramifications were for believing that humans could get trapped here after death. It has a deleterious effect on EVERY major doctrine in the bible...not to mention the catastrophically futile attempt to fit the notion of ghosts within a biblical worldview.

Take Deuteronomy 18:9-22...that one text SHOULD be sufficient for Christians who are  curious, confused, or attempting communication with alleged dead people. In that text we are presented with a clear choice--glorifying God by listening/obeying God's clear and sufficient revelation as revealed by His prophets--or glorifying self (and grieving the Holy Spirit as well as coming under divine discipline...and demonic assault on you and your loved ones) by seeking supernatural information from God's hated enemies--demons. God or demons--which do you want to communicate with?

It will revolutionize how investigations are done, but Christians must not solicit EVP's...NEVER!

As we end this series, I remind you that Scripture which is not applied is contrary to what the whole purpose of Scripture is--APPLICATION!  Bowing before the sufficiency of Holy Scripture is bowing before the Lordship of Christ. Let us resolve to live Sola Scriptura!

What Are Shadow Figures?

By Reverend Mark Hunnemann

What are shadow figures? Most folks would answer that by saying that they are trapped human spirits. However, the more unmoored from a biblical worldview we become, the more “unreal” and fantastical the speculation has become regarding their identity. I have come to a different conclusion. It is true that, in addition to logic and science, I approach this issue from a biblical worldview, but as I argue in "Seeing Ghosts through God's Eyes" we all have a worldview and it informs and shapes our conclusions we come to just as "intrusively". We all wear worldview spectacles that affect the way we see data; I simply make mine explicit. (an important but distinct issue, is determining which worldview is true—corresponds to reality). The biblical worldview is coherent (internally consistent), and corresponds to what we know instinctively about ourselves and the world we live in. In an age of irrationality, which is unprecedented in the history of mankind, the bible trumpets the reality of true truth—which is objective and absolute—the Oracles of the Living God (bible) as we saw last week...

When I saw my first shadow figure—solid, black humanoid shaped--12 years ago, I knew instinctively what it was: a demon. Since then, I have experienced a lot of supernatural activity, and shadow figures seem to be the most common form it chooses to take—which is significant in itself. Let me give the reasons for why I believe ALL shadow figures are demonic in nature, and not a shadowy presence of a loved one.

First, our understanding of the nature of God is central to our worldviews--most of which are held unconsciously. The infinite/personal God of the Bible is holy. The refulgence of His glory is blinding…brighter than the noon-day sun. Jesus said He is the Light of the world as opposed to Satan who is the Prince of darkness, This is not a black versus white issue, it is a light versus darkness issue. I could pile up references that speak of good in terms of light and evil in terms of darkness (see John 3). Darkness signifies distance from God and affinity with evil. Now shadow figures are invariably dark. From head to toe there is no light emanating--just walking darkness. The sheer darkness would seem to suggest that they are “pure evil”…which is precisely what they are.

Second, logic and science imply that a self--existent and eternal God, as well as infinite and personal, had to create paranormal phenomena. An impersonal physical realm cannnot give rise to a supernatural end personal entity--that would be like water rising above its source. Having said that, do we really believe that God would create our essence (souls) to appear in such a fashion that they frighten loved ones when they see them? Some argue that in this case you shouldn't judge a book by its cover. As an author I know people do judge books by their cover and our first impressions of shadow figures are almost always fearful. I ask again—do we really think God would allow our essence to become so freaky looking that it scares the daylights out of loved one’s?

Third, if there is one word that summarizes the general behavior of shadow figures it is "furtive"--they slyly dart from shadow to shadow, trying to avoid detection, or are seen in one’s peripheral vision. (I know there are exceptions—they stand at the foot of one’s bed—but these exceptions prove the rule) Furtive behavior is normally associated with spiritual and moral decay. Consider the first furtive act in the history of mankind. After committing cosmic treason against a holy God, we are told that Adam and Eve slunk around in the garden ashamed of their nakedness--which was indicative of a spiritual and moral nakedness.. Hence, not only the appearance but the behavior of shadow figures belies their demonic nature. As pure evil,. they slink around, always aware of the GAZE of the holy God, against whom they have rebelled..

Yes, there are manifestations of shadow figures that stand at the foot of the bed, or rape the occupant in the bed, but most SHADOWS are caught out of the corner of the eye…are they not? I am not interested in sneering argument or endless conjecture—the presence of shadow figures are prominent in the demonic infestations that the Lord brings to me to cleanse. Often, it is the observed departure of a shadow figure demon, that signals their surrender and exit.

Fourth, while on earth an essential trait of our souls is invisibility. No surgeon has ever seen a soul, but they exist. How is it then that after we die, some souls gain the trait of potential visibility? Do you really believe that the shadow figure you saw the other night is the soul or essence of a human being? If so, who gave them this new ability to manifest as frightening looking shadows?. How did the essentially invisible, take on visivility?

Lastly, one of the widely held paranormal maxims is: as in life, so in death. If a man was a jerk while alive, then he will be a jerk as a ghost. If ghosts exist then that makes sense. I would press it further: upon death, there must be 100 percent continuity of moral character and personality. So shadow figures, or ghosts in general, must represent a true cross section of American citizens. Aunt Sally was an extrovert, never met a stranger, and she was very vocal about her love for Jesus. Where are the Aunt Sally’s in the shadow figure population? Or the whole alleged ghost population for that matter? I've heard a couple of EVP’s that say “God” or "Jesus", but where is the EVP expressing warm worship of Him? Where is the shadow figure that declares the gospel or asserts Jesus is their shield and defender? The “as in life, so in death” principle is shattered by these godless entities.

Jesus stated that what we say is expressive of the habits/nature of our hearts—whatever fills our hearts will come out of our mouths. Hence, the universal lack of praising the glory of the Person and work of Christ amongst shadow figures, gives us a glimpse into the Christ-hating habits of their hearts. If shadow figures are really demons, then this is precisely what one would expect. Ocham’s razor would indicate that the simplest explanation of the identity of shadow figures is that they are demonic.

A couple of further thoughts—these entities should NOT be referred to as “shadow people” because they are not people!! They are pure evil… unclean spirits, bent on the destruction of people. Amy Allan of the TV show The Dead Files is deathly afraid of these shadow creatures because, according to her, they almost killed her when she was four years old—they persuaded her to bite into an electrical cord. But she has stated that she has no clue as to who they are or where they come from. As with all paranormal entities, the true identity of shadow figures is not a paranormal or scientific issue—it is a theological issue. How sad that folks would get excited about observing that which intends to destroy them. For God’s glory, let us expel them in the name of Jesus.

Letter to the New Agers

By Stephen Piersall, God’s Preservation Ministry, http://sfprs.org/

The New-Age movement is running rampant across our country and has over 20 million enthusiastic members with focus and importance on individual personal holiness and its effects and principles on society. YOU the new agers would rather live without God, Bible, of the truth. Remember we reap what we sow. I remember going through school and always hearing “learn from our mistakes, learn from our past, and things will turn out to be a better life for you. Hmmmm

Let me give you a wake-up call from the past. How about Germany, in how Hitler’s Nazi regime disguised its eventual immoral objectives from most of humanity. This only validates how endangered we all are to the impulses of Satan. There is a thin obscure boundary between good and evil, and that is why we are in danger to false doctrines and will continue to live in and practice deception through Satan, Demons (ghosts), spirit guides, witches, psychics, mediums, ghost hunting, EVP's, spirit boxes, divination, etc. 

 

One thing about the new-age leaders is that they preach about awareness of self-deity. People do not even realize that they are performing the exact same worship to their “Gods" as what the real God has demanded for thousands of years. They instead embrace a theology of live for today. There is no Heaven or Hell, and these spirit guides come to him or her with messages. Only they don’t realize that it all is coming from Satan, which when he got kicked out of Heaven with 1/3^rd of the Angels, promised to wreak havoc and do what he could to turn people’s lives away from God. That is why you always hear how Satan, and His demons are a master of disguises.

Hey You, Ghost Hunter! Do you honestly believe if you were in a tragic accident, and your spouse and 5-year-old daughter died; some future ghost hunting team will find them stuck here on earth, and their spirit needs someone to pray for them to cross over? On the other hand, that your spouse who was a mean person, and mistreated you and your child and smoked, drank and used drugs, is still around to haunt people. Seriously?! 

 

My God is full of love and forgiveness, and not cruel and unjust like Satan. When a crisis occurs, the unbelievers fall apart, cry, and blame God for everything. Even in their own self-righteous minds, they still remain confused, angry, and troubled and blame everyone or anything. Where was your spirit guide, psychic medium, self-serving attitudes that you have to prevent this from happening?

All these unbelievers agree that the solution for everything is in their control. The arrogant mindset will not let them fall down on their knees and ask God for forgiveness. God instructs us to be humble and meek, love one another, and repent of our sinful ways, as well for us to forgive others of any infractions against you.

Recite the following out loud and slowly, and think about what these words mean:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

 

That is one powerful prayer, and it is short, straight to the point, and inspired by God himself. We all have to "report" to somebody for our actions, whether at work, parents, school, driving along the road. Why is it so hard to turn from your selfish ways and report to God? Some say we are at the beginning of “End of Days." Whether we are or not, I for one will continue to do what I can to walk the straight and narrow that God’s plan for my life dictates.

It is not too late to allow God into your life. Just read four books of the Bible to add to your New Year’s resolutions; Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The four Gospels that give witness to Jesus in how he loved, forgave, healed, cast out demons, and to give us all an example, of how we should live. 

 

On a side note, one of my pet peeves on blogs is when I read comments of gossip and bickering. It makes me wonder if it is children, or adults acting as children behind the “anonymous” name. Debating a point is a fair game. However, does it have to get so ridiculous and slam each other? Grow up, act responsible, be respectful, and stop hiding behind a fake name. Rodney King once said, “Can we all get along?”