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Gospelbound

Michael Horton Finds Ancient Origins for New Age Spirituality

Nov 19, 2024
Michael Horton, J. Gresham Machen Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics at Westminster Seminary, dives into his book, Shaman and Sage. He reveals how modern 'spiritual but not religious' movements link back to ancient practices and philosophies. Horton discusses the impact of the Axial Age, critiques secularism through Charles Taylor's lens, and explores how Gnostic traditions influence contemporary spiritual individualism. The intersection of ancient belief systems and modern technology also highlights a fascinating evolution in the spiritual landscape.
39:59

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Michael Horton traces the 'spiritual but not religious' movement back to ancient philosophical traditions, highlighting its historical continuity in Western civilization.
  • The conversation critiques modern secularism by illustrating how contemporary spiritual practices often echo ancient beliefs and remain intertwined with Christian thought.

Deep dives

The Evolution of Spirituality

The discussion emphasizes the growing trend of individuals identifying as 'spiritual but not religious,' indicating a shift away from traditional religious structures toward more self-defined spiritual practices. Michael Horton explores this movement's historical roots, tracing its origins back to ancient philosophical and spiritual traditions, suggesting that this phenomenon is not new but rather a recurring theme in Western civilization. He argues that contemporary practices often echo ancient beliefs, particularly the idea that individuals can find divinity within themselves rather than relying on external religious authority. This perspective highlights the continuity of spiritual exploration throughout history, illustrating how modern spirituality can often resemble ancient philosophies.

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