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The Danger of Syncretism Even When It Uses Jesus’ Name
Contending for the Word Q&A with Doreen Virtue
Adding Jesus’ name to an unbiblical practice does not make it Christian. In this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Doreen Virtue explains why blending false religious beliefs and practices with biblical Christianity distorts the gospel and leads people into spiritual error.Drawing from her experience trying to combine tarot cards with the Bible before her conversion, Doreen addresses idolatry, counterfeit gospels, and the misuse of Christian freedom. She points listeners to salvation by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ and explains how obedience flows from love and gratitude for His saving work.Listen or Watch
What Is Syncretism?
Syncretism attempts to blend beliefs and practices from different religions with biblical Christianity. Doreen shares how she once tried to combine tarot cards with the Bible, illustrating how religious language can be used to justify practices that conflict with God’s Word.Christian Freedom and Obedience
Christian freedom does not give believers permission to embrace sin. We are saved by grace through faith in Christ, not by our works. As Doreen explains, the believer’s desire to obey God grows from a changed heart, the work of the Holy Spirit, and gratitude for God’s mercy.Idolatry and False Gospels
Blending false religious teachings with Christianity can introduce idolatry and distort the gospel. Doreen points to God’s commands against worshiping other gods and to Paul’s warning in Galatians 1 against proclaiming a different gospel.Attaching Jesus’ name to a teaching does not establish its truth. Christians must examine its message and practices in light of Scripture, holding fast to Christ and His saving work.Key Scriptures
- Galatians 1:6–9: Paul warns against a different gospel.
- Exodus 20:3–5: God forbids worshiping other gods and bowing down to idols.
Episode Highlights
- What syncretism means and why it is dangerous.
- Doreen’s experience blending tarot cards with the Bible before her conversion.
- Why Christian freedom does not excuse sin.
- How obedience flows from salvation rather than earning it.
- The danger of idolatry and counterfeit gospels.



