

MELISSA DOUGHERTY | Happy Lies & New Thought (Ep. 758)
12 snips May 20, 2025
Melissa Dougherty, a Christian apologist and author of "Happy Lies," delves into the insidious influence of the New Thought movement on modern spirituality. She shares her journey from gender dysphoria to finding faith in Christ, critiquing how 'happy lies' mislead believers. Their discussion explores the deceptive nature of New Thought, the challenges of biblical literacy, and the tension between self-help ideologies and spiritual truths. Dougherty also addresses the Enneagram's potential occult ties and the complexities of large church dynamics, advocating for discernment in faith.
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New Thought's Deceptive Christian Appearance
- New Thought is a Christian-sounding but theologically bankrupt spiritual movement rooted in Gnosticism.
- It uses metaphysical reinterpretations of scripture and positive thinking claims to deceive believers.
Melissa's Journey to New Thought
- Melissa Dougherty became a Christian at 16 but was disillusioned by lack of deep teaching and immature responses in church.
- This led her to explore New Thought beliefs which seemed more spiritual and gave supernatural experiences.
Appeal of New Thought Power Trip
- New Thought offers people a spiritual power trip by promoting self-sovereignty and divinity within.
- This appeals especially to those who dislike perceived Christian stereotypes and want control over their truth.