Some may have noticed that suddenly there are people in the evangelical church calling themselves “Spiritual Directors.” This has come about mostly in the last 10 years (this is written […]
Article, “When Mysticism Blurs Truth: How Contemplative Spirituality Undermines Doctrinal Clarity”, by Marcia Montenegro is in the Summer 2026 Issue of Theology for Life, published by Servants of Grace. […]
These two artices by Marcia Montenegro appear on the website of Midwest Chritian Outreach: Part 1: “The Desert Mothers and Fathers and Mothers: A Model for Christians?” and Part 2: […]
This article has two parts. The first examines some of the Sayings of the Desert Fathers; the second part looks at the book by John Climacus, The Divine Ladder. […]
This article gives an overview of the background and teachings of the Contemplative movement, also known as Contemplative Spirituality, the Spiritual Disciplines, Spiritual Formation, and mysticism.
Most of the book, Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools, by Tyler Staton, is not about Contemplative practices. Staton uses what is often called the Lord’s Prayer as a template […]
What this adds up to is mysticism, and a mystical view is a natural result of contemplative practices that apparently have captivated Mackie. Mysticism is not a matter of transcending logic or thought; it is actually contra logic and thought. This is why all contemplative teachings downgrade the mind . It is always found in esoteric teachings that there is something profound beyond words and reason that one can experience – a hidden or secret experience and/or wisdom. This is exactly how I thought for over 20 years.
Mackie is planting not only the idea that gaining perception of “another reality” or a “super reality” is positive, but he is offering the means for it through the contemplative practices, which will alter perceptions over time.
What can we say to the claims made by Contemplative proponents? Are their arguments sound and biblical?
These are people, practices, Bibles/Bible apps, and language related to Contemplative teachings listed here due to the increasing influence of the Contemplative Movement. Problems with this movement are multiple and […]
So far, no biblical passage cited as support for these practices has held up under scrutiny. What God’s word does do is that it supremely sheds light on the misunderstanding or misuse of such passages.