Why Discernment Demands Distance from the Charismatics
Written on 15 April 2025.
Why Discernment Demands Distance from the Charismatics
In today’s spiritual landscape, many believers find themselves confused by the theatrics and emotionalism found in charismatic circles. While they often claim to be Spirit-led, charismatic leaders frequently behave in ways that resemble both overzealous evangelists and unaccountable spiritual authorities. This article explores why, from a born-again, Bible-believing standpoint, it may be not just wise but necessary to avoid charismatic influences altogether.
The Evangelist Disguise
Charismatics often operate as if everyone they encounter is in desperate need of salvation or spiritual awakening. This might sound noble on the surface—but for someone who is already born again, it becomes intrusive and misleading. Instead of fellowship, what you get is a barrage of unsolicited advice, words from the Lord, and emotional appeals.
It’s a kind of spiritual redundancy. If you're saved, why are they preaching to you like you're lost? This shows a fundamental misunderstanding of the gospel and spiritual discernment. A true evangelist should know the difference between preaching to the lost and edifying the saved. Many charismatics don’t make that distinction.
UAP: Authority Without Accountability
In Sweden, there's a term: UAP – utan personligt ansvar, meaning without personal responsibility. It fits the charismatic world perfectly. Many charismatics claim spiritual gifts, revelations, and dreams—yet refuse any form of accountability. They claim to speak for God, but when questioned, they dismiss concerns with vague notions of being led by the Spirit.
This creates an environment where spiritual authority is assumed, but never tested. And that’s dangerous. The Bible teaches us to try the spirits (1 John 4:1 KJV), and to test everything by the Word of God. Charismatics often invert this: if you question them, you’re the problem. This reversal of accountability puts the focus on human charisma, not godly character.
False Unity and the Trap of Submission
Charismatics are also known for pushing unity at all costs—but it’s a false unity. It’s not based on truth or doctrine, but on emotional experiences and submission to self-proclaimed leaders. They often seek to become spiritual bosses in the lives of others, without having any true pastoral or biblical authority.
As a born-again Christian, the best response is separation. Not in hatred—but in clarity. You are not obligated to play along with emotional hype, vague visions, or manipulative prophetic authority. The Bible is your authority, not someone's subjective experience.
Conclusion
When you step back and look at the charismatic movement honestly, it becomes clear: it’s part evangelist, part unaccountable authority figure. And that mix is spiritually toxic.
As a believer grounded in the Word of God, you are under no obligation to submit to this system. Discernment is not division—it is protection. When someone tries to claim authority without responsibility, the wisest move is to walk away.
Why Discernment Demands Distance from the Charismatics
In today’s spiritual landscape, many believers find themselves confused by the theatrics and emotionalism found in charismatic circles. While they often claim to be Spirit-led, charismatic leaders frequently behave in ways that resemble both overzealous evangelists and unaccountable spiritual authorities. This article explores why, from a born-again, Bible-believing standpoint, it may be not just wise but necessary to avoid charismatic influences altogether.
The Evangelist Disguise
Charismatics often operate as if everyone they encounter is in desperate need of salvation or spiritual awakening. This might sound noble on the surface—but for someone who is already born again, it becomes intrusive and misleading. Instead of fellowship, what you get is a barrage of unsolicited advice, words from the Lord, and emotional appeals.
It’s a kind of spiritual redundancy. If you're saved, why are they preaching to you like you're lost? This shows a fundamental misunderstanding of the gospel and spiritual discernment. A true evangelist should know the difference between preaching to the lost and edifying the saved. Many charismatics don’t make that distinction.
UAP: Authority Without Accountability
In Sweden, there's a term: UAP – utan personligt ansvar, meaning without personal responsibility. It fits the charismatic world perfectly. Many charismatics claim spiritual gifts, revelations, and dreams—yet refuse any form of accountability. They claim to speak for God, but when questioned, they dismiss concerns with vague notions of being led by the Spirit.
This creates an environment where spiritual authority is assumed, but never tested. And that’s dangerous. The Bible teaches us to try the spirits (1 John 4:1 KJV), and to test everything by the Word of God. Charismatics often invert this: if you question them, you’re the problem. This reversal of accountability puts the focus on human charisma, not godly character.
False Unity and the Trap of Submission
Charismatics are also known for pushing unity at all costs—but it’s a false unity. It’s not based on truth or doctrine, but on emotional experiences and submission to self-proclaimed leaders. They often seek to become spiritual bosses in the lives of others, without having any true pastoral or biblical authority.
As a born-again Christian, the best response is separation. Not in hatred—but in clarity. You are not obligated to play along with emotional hype, vague visions, or manipulative prophetic authority. The Bible is your authority, not someone's subjective experience.
Conclusion
When you step back and look at the charismatic movement honestly, it becomes clear: it’s part evangelist, part unaccountable authority figure. And that mix is spiritually toxic.
As a believer grounded in the Word of God, you are under no obligation to submit to this system. Discernment is not division—it is protection. When someone tries to claim authority without responsibility, the wisest move is to walk away.