So what I’m getting from this is that, physical exercise is good, but if it gets in the way of our relationship between us and God, such that it puts yourself as the priority instead of God, then we should reconsider the importance of this so that we may please the Lord
I agree! Exercise is a means by which we achieve some greater goal. This goal of exercise is not the body, it is God himself. As a result, whether or not we exercise (and the method we use) is to be stewarded for a more noble end. From this, we are encouraged to exercise heartily in certain times of life, and put aside our health for the sake of others during other times. Bodily training is subservient to godliness in every respect.
Yoga, Tai-chi or even regular church attendance is not going to ensure salvation, for Salvation is by GRACE through FAITH. As long as Yoga and Tai-chi are used to enhance body flexibility, breathing and general health, they are absolutely fine. But do not go beyond that point or follow a cult.
Hallelujah! My heart began leaping for joy when you came to explaining the gospel! It was like my whole being was recognising the truth:) and I used to practice yoga! For 20 years I practiced! But gave it up soon after recognising Jesus for who he is. God bless you 💓
I do a lot of weight lifting so I get tight. Yoga has helped me in the past to loosen up although recently I have felt a lack of peace recently trying to incorporate it back into my daily routine. I also work at a local gym where the owners are Christians. I believe that God is calling me to start a stretching class that will give the same physical benefits as yoga without the spiritual ties. Please pray that He gives me wisdom in this. Thank you!
To help with that, I would look into mobility and flexibility. Most people know about flexibility but less know about mobility. A combination of the 2 works wonders! And no meditation or yoga involved haha “Flexibility is defined as “the ability of a muscle or muscle groups to lengthen passively through a range of motion”, whereas mobility is the “ability of a joint to move actively through a range of motion”.”
@@smokyquartz5817 I think they're just saying that going to heaven in the ultimate goal and getting our bodies fit here on Earth is Zayn we should look at the whole picture going to heaven either home we're just visiting down here so just got to have our bearings in the right area
Hey@@darrendavenport3334 , "Should a Christian Do Yoga?" "No...next question." Not many of us would find an answer like that satisfactory. I want to know the importance, I want to know why. It's not nonsense he speaks. Only emphasis on how it ties to a Christians life-long journey for holiness.
As a Massage Therapist training to become a physical therapist I have seen all the weird eastern practices in the massage world; but I have taken only the clinically valuable elements and used them for my clients and I have some of the best results. You don’t need eastern mysticism to be a great practitioner. I work on people all the time that actually end up hurting themselves in yoga.
So don't do yoga, but stretch instead. Deep breathing is good for us, it's the very breath of God. Stretching is good for our bodies. God first, our Lord and savior. Be thankful to God for the fact that you can stretch today and move your body for it is a temple; and breathe in the breath of life. Meditate on God's word and allow the Holy Spirit to fill your space. Call in Time With God.
@Parra Painting my comment had nothing to do with Jesus, i was just saying Yoga involves stretching and breathing. In and of themselves those things aren't bad.
Jonny Parra Yoga means union, uniting oneself with whichever of the millions of Hindu gods. It’s idolatry, and it certainly does not outdate the Creator of all. Have some intellectual honesty, Hinduism is inspired and governed by the fallen beings in Genesis 6 and 1 book of Enoch, if you see the practices of the Sadhus and other various Hindu sects, namely those that follow and worship shiva, and understand the caste system this will become self-evident.
Jonny Parra Yoga means union, uniting oneself with whichever of the millions of Hindu gods. It’s idolatry, and it certainly does not outdate the Creator of all. Have some intellectual honesty, Hinduism is inspired and governed by the fallen beings in Genesis 6 and 1 book of Enoch, if you see the practices of the Sadhus and other various Hindu sects, namely those that follow and worship shiva, and understand the caste system this will become self-evident.
1 Corinthians has quite a bit to say about this. Well, not this specifically but a similar issue. Back in the day, eating with nonbelievers was an issue because they ate food sacrificed to idols. Paul basically says if you can purchase and eat food that was part of a sacrifice with a clear conscience, you are free to do so, but if you are with someone with a weaker conscience who might be encouraged to sin because of what you are doing, you are both better off giving it up. I think what Pastor John is saying is that he can't recommend yoga and tai chi with a clear conscience knowing what he knows about it. Nothing wrong with that.
eating food isnt spiritual. But if you knew meat was sacrificed to another God, would you really eat it? Would you actually want to? I know I wouldnt. It would make me uncomfortable. Why would a Christian want anything to do with hinduism knowing the roots of it and of yoga? Have some discernment
@@caitlinmaynell2780 motivation matters. if you eat with other people on a table, for them, the meat is meant to give sacrifice to false God, but for you, it's not.
it goes further than that even: the father of modern satanism LOVED yoga & loved sinning. yoga has a very beginner position called "salutations to the sun"; yoga is said to be opening your "doors", asian spiritism has that "7doors" thing one being 'the 3rd eye'; yoga practitioners who became Christians talk about demonic presence near their bed.. God saying "dont let me find you dabbling into occultism"(my words) in the Old Testament, to me includes yoga,falungong,taichi&weird new age stuff that tell you that U r a god, to MANIFEST your well being among other things. also, some musicians even got that father of modern satanism's face on their cover albums: black sabbath & the beatles. led zep's jimmy page bought his house to sleep in. some religions do not have name but still are religions, with a god's doctrine to apply to your life.
also, where did yoga come from? the book of enoch told of fallen angels(the leader of which roamed deserts, eating sin ridden goats in the Old Testament, much later) still retaining knowledge of Heaven & the human body, splicing human&beasts together(is this where mermaids-philistine deity- & elephant head-hindu deity- creatures came from?).. r*ping women & teaching witchcraft to those who survived both the ordeal&birth of giants... occultism is not a thing God wants us to get into for a reason, there s too much unknown & an enemy too knowledgeable there .
Followers of Jesus are NOT to eat food sacrificed to idols, regardless of what any man say. Whosoever he be. The words of God-the-Son in Revelation 2:14 & 2:20 make this clear. Also, the commandment of the "apostles whom He had chosen" in Acts 15:29 in accordance to Jesus' instruction to teach all gentiles (ethnos) those things which He himself had commanded (Matthew 28:19-20) See also Exodus 34:15, Numbers 25:1-3, etc.
Yoga in the West has been so universalized that there's virtually no spiritual aspect left. 70% (or so) of yoga classes omit completely the mention of body-mind connection and focus purely on physical betterment. Exercise is a gift from God to bring the chemicals of our mind and body into balance, and to heal injury and maintain our vessel to carry out His work. Considering all this, would yoga be ok in this kind of setting? Isn't it possible that despite the very wrong spiritual roots in Yoga, the practice itself has stumbled upon something that is uniquely beneficial to our bodies as Christians?
Jessica Jordan of course it is ok. It is exercise and stretching. There are many types of yoga. "Hot yoga" for instance, is just what I said above. Tai chi also can be practiced in a way of helping elderly move slowly and safely. Piper is making a guilt by association fallacy. It'd be like saying the celebration of Christmas with decorations has its roots in pagan practice. Well, last I checked, the heathens don't own body postures or certain decorative items like pine trees.
I understand that Yoga or other religion related excercise is questionable. But at the same time I believe it is our responsible to have a healthy body. I know a lot of christians who do not excersise at all and eat a lot. The consequence is fatal: They get back hurt, they become obese... That in my eyes can´t be good. While a healthy lifestyle (excersice and healthy food) makes a christian able to help others (carry heavy stuff, babysit, rescue a child in danger ...) an unhealthy lifestyle leads the person to become a burden to others. So yes, I think we christians should stay fitt, well trained and healthy as able as possible. Jesus can help us staying in control in that issue aswell and that shows as good fruits to the world. People might ask: "How come you lost so much weight? You look awesomwe!"- and than our favourite statement can be made: "Jesus helped me! He changes me day by day for the better!" :)
So as to not take out of context I included the verse before and after but look at verse 8. 7. But refuse profane and foolish myths. Instead, exercise in the ways of godliness. 8. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable in all things, holding promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 9. This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance. 1 Timothy 4:7-9 MEV I'm overweight and trying to lose but I'm not going to be overly concerned about it. I know lots of folks who are overweight and run circles around skinny ppl. Just saying....
I agree that we should be healthy, but there are always good ways to achieve it. If we have to rely on something bad or spiritually rooted like yoga, then it’s not what God is calling us to achieve in life. However, there are many good ways to be healthy without spiritual stuff like yoga. For example, lifting weights or bodyweight exercises for strength, running for cardio, and flexibility and mobility for your joints and muscle health. I would highly recommend you look up mobility exercises. It improves joint health but without the yoga meditation and spiritual roots. “ Flexibility is defined as “the ability of a muscle or muscle groups to lengthen passively through a range of motion”, whereas mobility is the “ability of a joint to move actively through a range of motion”.”
I look at it this way: If someone "creates" a god of singing, and their claim is such that anyone who sings, anyone at all, is worshiping their god, would we then no longer be able to sing, knowing that it would be worship to a false god? No, because we know that we aren't singing to a false god, we're singing to or about what we choose to. If the origin of seat-belts was strangulation, but we adapted it for safety, would it be evil to use seat-belts because they had evil origins? No. Yoga is the same way: If someone does Yoga for health reasons and is then informed that its origins are pagan, does that make the stretches wrong? No; heaven forbid a god of breathing be "made". It's a case of the genetic fallacy. If doing Yoga would cause a brother or sister to stumble, however, then we should refrain from it, as Paul said. We stop not because it hurts our conscience but theirs. Conscience is the issue here; if learning the "spiritual" side of this would cause you to stumble in doing Yoga, stop doing Yoga. If it causes another to stumble, don't do it around them. Don't let your freedom tear a brother or sister in Christ down.
AR Chery I agree! I’ve tried explaining that to others. satan does *not* have ownership of my body just because I’m placing it in a position to stretch different muscles.
Yeah. Because of Paul's words there, I would seriously suggest thinking twice before announcing any kind of hobby on a Christian video's comment section, because by the way some people react, you'll be giving them all up as sinful.
I've done yoga. It gives you a spiritual experience that is not through Christ. What more do you need to know? And if you're being required to speak certain words in order to enter in that experience then it's even clearer you're opening the door to the enemy. The thing about physical posture being the physical equivalent of mantra is also an interesting point that may well be true.
For spiritual exp. i read bible and pray. But how about i use the exercises they do in yoga to strech body? Tbh during the stretches i dont feel any spiritual exp. more like a lot of pain ;)
If you have ever been to physical therapy, especially for the back and hips, nearly all the exercises you do are based on Yoga. The stretching and poses release mussels and nerves to relieve pain
Hindus know very well that yoga positions were never designed to be exercises- They were designed to do one of two things - worship one of more than three million Hindu gods and/or facilitate the flow of prana or "life force energy" (which is actually demonic energy) through the body. As Christians we sometimes like to justify this practice as simply exercise or another form of muscle strengthing/stretching, but we cannot take the orginal design of the poses away from the symbolism and meaning. Basically everytime you move into a different pose in a specific order you worship and pay homage to a Hindu god despite what "description" or "title" you give it. You can call it Christian yoga, exercise, spiritual meditation, muscle toning, FuFu or GooGoo, the movements will always be IDOL WORSHIP. We as Christ Representatives should really look into the design and history of yoga before we use our bodies to possible glorify something other than The Most High God. At first I was really disappointed to give up yoga, but I'm so grateful that Im not offending God anymore.
Julian Burns-Brenssell Actually I used to sound just like you. What if you found out on judgement day this so called ridiculous narrative is true? Our flesh wants what it wants and will create deceptive "truth" to ease our consciousness. We find reasons to ignore that Jesus "tap on the shoulder" that probably brought you here in the first place.
I respectfully disagree with you, Finding Truth. Today's yoga has been so far removed from its spiritual roots that there's nothing left in 90% of yoga classes beside deep breathing and an occasional mention of "awareness of body and mind." I'm almost certain the original sequences have been all but lost. Our bodies belong to God, and it was a deceit of Satan that any kind of sequence of motions by our bodies could channel any kind of energy- demonic or otherwise. Satan uses ritual to deceive humans into believing those rituals hold power, when in reality Satan could announce his presence in any circumstance that allows sin and denies God.n There's nothing inherently evil about any kind of sequence of the body. Every posture belongs to God, and it's the intent behind the posture that determines whether it's evil or not.
Coming from a reply written from a man, which on equal grounds, your retort is just as dismissible. As for drugs, certain of them can get you into contact with spiritual beings, even if that is not your intention. I know this from first hand experience with psilocybin a long time ago, back in the day, enjoying it for a season, until things went south. Things happening that go beyond just the mind. There are unseen entities out there, and i caution you about messing around with certain substances. Trust me, i know, and yes, that realm is intriguing to say the least, but it's not worth it. Don't forget to hang up the phone when you have the message.
Usually I agree with Pastor John and as far as any yoga meditation or chanting I totally agree. However, stretching and breathing exercises can really help heal a person. Physical therapy has helped me recover more than once from serious injuries and many physical therapists and chiropractors have their patients do "yoga" type exercises. Not with any of the teaching, just the actual exercises. Which ones were originally from "yoga" and which were not I have no idea now. But please don't throw the baby out with the bathwater. We as Christians are to meditate on Gods word and to always use discernment, but stretching is simply stretching, and breathing deeply is simply something we should all do more because it's really good for us :)
It has to do with the sequence. One stretch on it's own is not going to do any harm, however the poses and sun salutations have definite consequences. I was an Ashtanga practitioner and loved the health benefits, however when I tried to do yoga "just for the exercise" I kept having demonic experiences at night. Please check this link out: czcams.com/video/u0FMkwgz36Y/video.html
So Kudos, Pastor John on so many things you do. Could it be that the originators of yoga were on to something when they found that exercise that benefits the mind, body, and emotions, what many believers call ‘the soul’, in essence, makes the human vehicle for the spirit a stronger vessel for carrying and utilizing spiritual power? I think sometimes we as followers of Christ forget that, although all wisdom flows from God and finds perfection in Christ, the benefits of that wisdom is shared with unbelievers and believers alike (Matthew 5:45). I would hazard to guess that few believers balk at the opioid, cocaine or cannabis derivations given them by their dentist, their surgeon, their cancer doctor because those drugs had their origins in and were often advanced by ‘pagans’ using them concurrently for medicinal and religious practices.
The Lord spoke to me not long ago when I was thinking about Yoga. He made it clear to me that that I do not need a secondary lifestyle or depend on what make my life better. All I need is him and that's why Yoga is wrong.
There are some very important points here for Christians in 2020 - not the Yoga/Tai Chi points, per se - but the "physical health and integrity isn't the highest goal."
Use the enemies tools to defeat the enemy.. Yoga has 2 parts. Physical and Meditational. Honor Jesus and do the exercise and keep reading Psalms and praising God with your mind, stength, heart and soul while you do the exercise. Play Music in background which is Biblical. Never for once misunderstand that the act of yoga is nothing more than gyming. That's all. Any chant or meditation which comes apart from glorifying Jesus Christ, denouce it. Don't do it in group of non-believers and don't follow what their approach is towards. That's it.
If for a second you feel this act got in your way of reaching Jesus, reject it completely. Nothing is more important than our relationship to Jesus Christ.
For an answer to this question I recommend checking out Mike Shreve and Steven Bancarz. Mike was a Yoga guru at one point and now is a man who if fully devoted to our Lord.
I’m having trouble with this. My heart feels conflicted here. I understand the standpoint. My goal is to give my heart to the Lord and follow Jesus day by day. But what about the Christian “Yoga” Practices? What about the idea of adding prayer and scripture focus and the removal of the Hindu and pagan references. Dancing can be said to have origins outside of glorifying God, but there’s also worship dancing that is deemed as acceptable methods of praising God and offering of the body to him. Music can be used for negative purposes but music can also be used as a form of worship. I’m seeing the opportunity to connect more with the Word and the Holy Spirit. I’m wondering if there are other exercises types that have been modified in a way to glorify God consistency? I could certainly choose to remove the practice from my regimen, but I’ve found it to be valuable dynamic prayer time. I’m conflicted by this.
Your comment is so sincere & I see your heart in it. I believe the conflict you are experiencing will be resolved as you look deeper into the word of God such as Deuteronomy 12:1-4, God is very clear about not substituting his name in worship on old pagan practices . The OT is clear that all the prophets and Godly kings would have to completely destroy and tear down all the altars etc of pagan gods. You can’t be a yogi & for Jesus because God said he won’t receive your mixed worship. Hopefully this helps
@@abcdwxyz5391 the fact that you are calling your fellow Christians who disagree with you fools makes me wonder about your relationship with christ. Also it seems you are more interested in maintaining the yoga business than seeking to really do the will of our Savior and this troubles me greatly.
Read Romans 14 (on disputable matters, not pertaining to salvation) & then ask God to search you & know your heart & thoughts. Then follow Romans 14 and I Cor 10:31. Does my doing ... glorify God? If you are not convinced, and have any doubt, then, verse 23 states that this is a sin. But if after praying to God to search you, you are convinced within you that this does bring glory to God, then keep doing it. But accept & do not judge others as well as keep it silent between you & God without persuading/convincing/hindering/stumbling others. Romans 14. The key is, (1) let ALL you do glorify God & (2) let not what you desire & enjoy doing take a hold on you & rule you instead of Christ alone. You can also try listening to John Stott’s sermon on Romans 14 online in August, 1978 on the Christ-Centred Christian. In light of Romans 14, some will answer yes & some no (both, sincerely) whether something they practise [taichi/yoga] bring glory to God.
so many women are deceived spiritually and psychically as to fall under demons that they not even aware of ... all its about is being cool and with it / its the past time relaxation
Ive been to yoga classes which consists simply of breathing and stretching, the only "eastern" influence was the teacher said the word "namaste" at the end. Besides that 1 word there was no spirituality discussed at all, just stretching and breathing which is healthy. Does this situation seem sinful at all? I think of in one of Paul's letters when he said basically it's ok to eat the meat from a Zeus sacrifice, but don't engage in the worship. This seems applicable to a non-spiritual yoga class.
Every position being originally meant to worship a hindu deity should tell you something. Want to glorify God? Have your quite time, studying his Word and praying and then go jogging or swimming to also look after your body and health. No need to get into yoga or other things and mix them with Christianity.
Just want to say that the first part of what pastor said about will something make you more Christ like, more bold in witness and stronger in prayer is how I felt using marijuana, I was really focus on a being aware of things of God , until one day I went overboard by using marijuana with alcohol and now I am aware of who I really am, I feel so lost. I keep telling myself it is just a plant it can't be a sin but maybe I was wrong. My advice is to be of a God full and he will grant it.
God gave us a sober mind. This is God given. Yes you dont feel as wise or as enlightened. I dropped daily weed when I got saved. It's okay to be simple. In God's eyes we are adorable little children. "Let he who is wise become a fool so that he may be wise."
I have never done yoga, but always felt that it had some sinister roots, I appreciate how much Pastor John is trying to explain the roots of yoga and other middle eastern practices but once he started contrasting it to what Jesus did etc, I thought that was unnecessary- some people might immediately switch off after hearing such a long explanation and lose sight of the whole point. Thanks anyway and God bless
I never thought of it that way earlier on but as i dig deeper into the Bible, I realised the word of God is my blueprint in life. Nowhere in the Bible was Jesus practicing yoga neither did it mention that the earlier Christian engaged in it. I believe Yoga is wordly teaching and should not be practiced.
@@darryldanzinger9996 exactly, I just shared the gospel with my drug dealer! No doing porn wldnt help the porn star though. Gotta have decernment. You without sin throw a stone...He came for the broken hearted. Blessings bro!
I do "yoga" to exercise my body not to worship a false God and other false spirits and all that extra nonsense.. now I say "thank you Jesus for the light you give me honors the light that you are" & "Thank you Jesus for giving me the ability for movement" even thinking about how blessed you are to stretch and move in ways that people in this world aren't able to is really humbling and gratifying like wow thank you Jesus for legs and arms and a back that I can move from left to right I know there's people who are paralyzed right now or they're missing limbs, thank you Lord for everything ❤
if yoga stretching is a sin.... then what of martial arts/karate type stretching which is greatly important to avoid injuries... or for that matter, any stretching for any sport or health purpose.. .ie... returning injured veterans who must stretch to alleviate injury and pain and so on. I cannot believe simple stretching is , in any way, bad. We must however know just why we are exercising and to maintain a conviction that we have NO intention to conflict with God's will/laws.
I don't know what to do. I'm constantly stressed to the point where I can't get nothing done just frustration and fogginess. I'm getting married just had a daughter got a house. I'm blessed but not happy. Sleep roughly and have been looking up meditation and it's so interesting and empowering but then I see comments of ppl thinking the world as we know will end on def 21. Are angel numbers good? I just wanna serve God and do supernatural things in His name not for my glory. I just feel so lost
yoga comes with 3 parts. 1st part to recite mantras 2nd part i don't remember 3rd part is the excersise or body movement in particular order or particular posture. since 3 part is just excersise it is ok to practice but not other two parts
The Mantra you speak is the name of a god, or diety in Hindu beliefs. It may even be a man, who says he is the most high god, who is your Yogi. Tai Chi, just like yoga, is religous worship of a god, or diety through physical activity... a "work". Yoga IS the sin of idolatry.
So many people willing to look ignorant on the net, when all they have to do, is a little fact checking, or heck go to a few yoga studios and see that there are differences amongst the kinds of yoga and the types of instructors.
Then you are demonstrating you have not looked into it long enough. Satisfy yourself with surface level knowledge if you want, but it really is strange and silly when people like yourself do so with what seems like prideful assuredness and tenacity combined with ignorance of the facts.
You can't seem to come up with any facts of your own other than saying other people are wrong. God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. Followers of Christ cannot pay homage to fake deities. I did yoga for a long time and I now know from personal experience that it is evil dressed as light. I then tried Vinyasa and other more western types as I really wanted to continue, and I continued to have spiritual attacks. Satan does not fight for those who he already has under his control, but give your life to Christ and try to leave yoga and you will see the fight that ensues.
Amazing, glory to GOD for this wonderful explanation and the anointing in this pastor. It has brought me back to what’s important, that something like yoga, sports or anything else shouldn’t be false idols, nor should they be openings for the enemy to attack. Let’s be honest, this body is made to die, and while I don’t think it’s right to unnecessarily inflict harm on it, neither is acting like it’s anything more than a vessel for GOD. It’s not immortal, it will die at some point, so put your health in the hands of GOD, the living breathing GOD is miracles. While we shall be wise, let’s not act like anything we do can promising a certain outcome, for it will be in the hands of your master, and if your master is GOD, HE shall make sure all things work together for the very best.
I respect pastor John Piper, iI r3sp3ct his genuine desire to explain everything. One thing I observed though, is he is fond of going around and his explanations are often too long..
My wife listens to me but she resents me for not letting her do yoga or get tattoos. It feels so bitter I dont know what to do. I wont let us be led to hell though I wont be complacent even if she does resent me for it I hope the truth comes to light and maybe one day she'll know or understand. She feels like I tell her no about everything. And then I always have these reasons. And they come off as crazy if you havent done the research. She wants to do yoga with a girlfriend at work who instructs it and I said no. And told her how each pose worships a different god. And when I try to tell her this stuff I know I just sound crazy and as soon as I start to talk about it she just says "okay okay" and I can tell she just wants to avoid the conflict. I dont want her to just bend her will to mine though I wish she understood and I dont know how to make her. She says theres no point of arguing cause she never wins. And it feels selfish of me but I know yoga is not good for the soul. And I never do yield, because I always know I'm right. It just sounds crazy when I say all of it and I doubt I could get her to sit through some hour long video explaining it especially when she doesnt wanna hear it. I have no idea what to do besides just pray
yung turt, with my husband, I just want be heard. I accept his authority, but resentments build up when I don't get to share my opinion, talk about an issue with him, or feel that my thoughts or opinions even matter. I highly suggest you ask your wife why she wants to do yoga with her girlfriend from work. Is she needing hang out time with other women? Is she stressed regularly and thinks yoga might help? Has she been looking in the mirror lately and thinking, I need some toning? By asking questions, you can still meet her underlying need without yoga. I am highly recommending to you that every time in the future your wife asks a question, instead of immediately saying no because you know you are right, first listen to her. Ask leading questions and find out her heart and her reasons. Then, gently explain why you are saying no. It means you taking a breath, having patience, and taking time with her, but it will be so worth it in the end! She will know that you love and care for her too and are not just controlling her.
@@jaimekeena4674 thanks for your comment I totally get that. I try not to ever shut her down and I always want to hear her reasons but a lot of the time she doesnt even want to talk about it. She told me recently I was probably right but said she wished she didnt know, and that I didnt know all this stuff.
I’ve studied these ways of thinking quite a lot, but I do not see how they differ at all with Christian thinking. Semantic noise is all I’m hearing. As a Christian mystic, they are totally compatible and I’ve never found anyone who can explain otherwise to me. And I’ve searched for someone to prove me wrong because I don’t want to always wonder. You can take every one of those details from Tai Chi (Taoism) Yoga etc and directly apply it to a parallel Christian idea. Even the story of the life of Buddha/his journey has startling references that are iconic details in the Christian story… I’m not arguing per say… just wishing to have found someone to prove me wrong already… He explained the difference of what Christian is-- yes-- and THEN the objective of the Christian’s life is to live in peace, tranquility, etc… constantly meditating on the presence of God- I could go on and on but I don’t see how they’re contradictory… I don’t think yogis traditionally focus on trying to achieve maximum physical perfection… I wish I could talk to John about this. I’ve never disagreed with anything he’s ever said and I benefit so thoroughly for so long. It would be so interesting to let him tease out whatever he can in my thinking. How lucky I would be lol
In my understanding of the deceits of idolatry and the satanic rituals of religions, I perceive the sin therein of attachment to therapeutic exercises/ You have a body and a brain, you are a soul/ The consecration of your heart, soul, mind and body to the Holy Spirit is essential for salvation, redemption and sanctification/
When Moses was commanded to fight the Amelikites he was told to STAND ON ONE LEG and HOLD A PLANK OVER HIS HEAD: This same yogic practise was mentioned by Megesthenes who noticed the Brahmins doing the same. The author of " The Birds" also noticed this as the " One Leg Scythian" Jesus's " My Father ( Grk Pater-moo)" is the TATHAGATA ( Matt 23:10 KATEGETES)
If tathagata was Jesus's father, why wouldn't he refer to him as such? Instead he says "no one knows the Father but the Son." And also "I and the Father are one." Be careful my brother. Watch hard.
@@BenVanCamp he does refer to him in Matt 23:10 " KATEGETES" ( Tathagatas) The Buddha's 'only son' is said to be the only one to recognize him in a field of clones.
1:16 I don't like this argument at all. I mean I eat pizza, it doesn't mean that just because it does not help me spiritually with christ, therefore I should not do it.
Christians like to say everything good is created by god. So does yoga. I knew yoga looks similar to Buddhism. Calm yourself. If what Buddhism does sitting. Thank you for the video.
Bruh stfu god did not create all good stuff it’s always god I will beat the pussy out of u credit the humans who made the good stuff if u gonna spread the Bible words gimme ur insta and ima talk to u 🖕🏻
My doc recommended different exercises for my body pain, especially my core and spine. Many positions of yoga are very helpful for me. I need to stretch a lot and build stability. I'm Christian and I'm concerned if I won't do something wrong. I believe only on our Father and the Holy Spirit and and I'm afraid of yoga background like energy, chakras, workship for hindu goddes and etc. I don't believe in that stuff. But is that enough? I see part of yoga - its positions as isometric exercises and I do my workout at home. I would never go to a yoga class. I don't meditate, I don't listen to the hindu music and etc. Is it ok? Am I opening energy levels and adore fake idols while I'm not intended and just doing asanas as an exercise? I pray to God for protection from evil and guidance. I'm very afraid of possessions and such things! I'm very stressed and thinking a lot about all this stuff nowadays. Please, I need your answer. Thank you!
exercises doesnt mean yoga. Yoga is as mental and as spiritual as it is physical. Do exercises for sure, but stay away from yoga which is buried deep in hinduism (anti christ religion)
@@TheVampirrr for sure, there are plenty of exercises that focus on physical wellbeing that don't include the Hindu connections/spirituality. It's better to be safe I think and just do other similar exercises. God bless you!
Guys is yoga not about aligning the bodies chakras so you can be more in touch with your higher spirit? It may have been deformed by modern gyms but at its core it still feel wrong? Also, is self realisation, and self power/worship not the very definition of satanism? ...asking coz I really wanna know I am living yoga but I have a bad feeling about it
This might also help somebody out there, from personal experience, i stop doing yoga because Aleister Crowley promoted Yoga, and if anybody knows Aleister Crowley he promoted mysticism and taught and directed people into conjuring spirits... If your a Christian and are wondering about this question, think of your Lord Jesus, who walked on water, our Lord God who comforts! Jesus is literal! Go to Him for peace, rest, and Truth! There is no other remedy, answer or relief, Jesus will restore your body through prayer and fasting! Peace!
I think there are other type of stretching that you can do. So why not do those instead of Yoga. I personally don’t want to take chance of having something influence me spiritually without me knowing. Also, I’ve noticed many people who do yoga get very defensive and make “excuse” when questioned if Christians should do it.🤔 If we want the mediate, we mediate on God’s word. That doesn’t mean that we go into some empty mind with repeating scripture. It means to contemplate what the scripture is saying to us, studying the words. Our peace should come from God and we should not have to go into some mental emptiness to feel peace. Just my thoughts.
Its the case of the weaker brother scenario. If your brother sees it as an offense, don't do it, but the earth is the Lords and all that is in it. You moving your body in certain positions to stretch it out for stretching sake is not sinful, any more than meats given to non-existent gods is sinful to Christians.
Put God above all and meditate on his words and the Holy Spirit will guide you. Here is my Yoga (Did Hot yoga & Hatha Yoga experiences: My Yoga class was about doing different poses. It's was 90% stretching and listening to your body. Maybe 1% trying to meditate and as a Christian I use it to listen to God by learning shutting off my mind. In college the teacher had us say "ooooommmm" I think it's like group generating beta wave (??)so our brain get be in a meditate state. I like it because I get to exercise to rest my body and mind. In Hot Yoga I learned the poses. But I didn't like it because it's HOT and expensive.. There have been studied the benefits of Yoga. We are social beings and we feel good to do group exercises and that's why people are doing these. How many of us listen to the radio or watch TV? I think that's worst than doing Yoga or Tai Chi. They are just tools that humans have discovered after years of researched and practiced so use them for your benefit. The point is: * Find what works for you and draw you closer to God. Don't over-analyze things. * The Devil is clever so ask the Holy Spirit to help you. To me if I feel that anything I do dont' make me feel good or closer to God I would not do it until I find comfort in it. * Exercise and Eat Healthy food
I recommend the book "Biblical Meditation for Spiritual Breakthrough" by Elmer Towns. I think Pastor John would approve. It is soundly biblical. I spend my meditation time in my prayer closet sitting "Eastern Style" on my Japanese cushions i.e. Zafu & Zabuton (because they are comfortable). I really don't think the cushion I sit on or my posture and deep breathing make a difference when my focus and meditation is solely on Gods word. Would you agree?
This is the 3rd time I ever heard the pastor admit that he's not qualified to answer those types of questions. Only a mature disciple who practices Eastern arts (without succumbing to the belief system) can tell you if it's a sin or not! The real question to ask yourself is this; "Is, whatever I'm considering practicing, harmful to the relationship with my Lord?!🤔
As an Indian Christian, I find this podcast really misinformed. I love John Piper and have benefited much from his sermons, which is why I was curious to know his stand on this controversial issue. Christians in the west have little idea about roots of eastern philosophy and history. Much of the stuff you see in our cultures can be traced back to deeply religious ideas, including the nuances of our wedding ceremonies or how we respect our elders different from the way you do. Some of us actually despise those among us who think that being totally Christian means to be totally American (because when you shed a culture behind, you don't become neutral but imbibe another one). As a devout believer in the Lord, I simply take these things along the lines of the believer's freedom to eat food sacrificed to idols as we know that an idol is "nothing at all in this world". You take the meat and throw the bone away, so to speak. Yoga can be divided into two parts- the exercise form and the meditation form. The exercise form is simply stretching and breathing in simple but never tried before ways that will maximize your lung capacity. You simply recruit all your lung aircells to oxygenate your body, and you feel great. The short time I practiced yoga, I realized how little lung capacity we use on a daily basis. It's a totally different feel than going to the gym. If you want to reject yoga because it is rooted in eastern mysticism, then you must also reject acupuncture, stone therapy, ayurveda, chinese medicine, etc as anti-christian since they all have been linked to local religious beliefs by their founders. I suggest do more research and come to what's best for your conscience. In my defense, every good and perfect gift is from above (which is why I can appreciate the Pyramids in good conscience while despising the reason why they built it).
S Thomas 💕❤️❤️! I think we all need to examine that! "Christian means American" (Granola &White American at that) is not true. Thanx for bringing that up.
bob polo So is undergoing chiropractic treatment or putting up a pine tree and mistletoe for christmas satanic? As they also have roots in ancient pagan mysticism.
I think these comments are a little to extreme, I do yoga once a week but I do not participate in certain positions or the worship of false things and gods. My relationship with God is pretty ok right now.
Belief in 'God' as super-consciousness or abstraction, which we have to attain - makes us feel quite intellectual & 'spiritual'. I confess I have felt like that. But, when something greater touches you - you know that God is greater than your intellectual super-consciousness or abstraction - far greater than you as an intellectual - and far greater than any super-consciousness. People told me that with yoga, I would feel more energy & will feel more confident. Actually, that did happen. But the energy & confidence kind of promotes an independence of spirit, and does not entirely feel like my natural self. While the God of the Bible is the 'OTHER', not us, nor can we ever become HIM. He is our Father, our Husband, our Maker. Our whole being was created to Worship Him - RELY on Him like a baby. The kind of attitude he gives us is humility and helps us become who we were created to be - the core of our unique personalities. Each of us on this planet has a unique personality - a uniqueness that is totally us. God does not give us confidence by giving a spirit of energy that feels like confidence. But he gives us confidence by placing the fear of HIM in us & removing the fear of men. I would not strive to get a 'higher spirituality', energy or confidence by uniting with the super-consciousness (which yoga is about), but a (real) knowledge of Him as my Father, Husband, Maker & reliance on him, fear (reverence/awe) of him. *More on - we can never become HIM: A cat cannot become her Owner/Master. But, if the Owner has a baby son - the son, even though younger than the cat - is still cat's Master. The son can be lovingly called cat's brother and he is cat's brother and friend in cat-loving families, but is still cat's Master.
I can’t agree with this more - bare minimalism and pushing boundaries isn’t honoring to the Lord- do other exercises that don’t bring into question your witness
Christian Yoga and Taichi practitioners need to know that these exercises can be stumbling blocks to the immature fundamentalist Christians, just as Jesus' association with the Samaritans (people of another world view) and eating with the tax-collectors can be offensive to the Pharisees. The Apostle Paul could do it, but not everyone can, "Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble. (1 Corinthians 8:13) It's sad that today's Christian teachers have regressed back to the state of the Pharisees. Jesus would rollover in his grave when he hears this. The good news is he is no longer there. :)
Samuel Stone Everything is a stumbling block to the immature fundamentalist Christian. I know this because I was one, and I was immature because I couldn't be bothered to read my bible. Thankfully, those days are over. I would advise that you absolutely refrain from mentioning any hobby in a Christian video's comment section. When I do, I nearly always get a response saying "Stop doing that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" without any further explanation.
Genuine yoga is for hindus only,if you want to see the real hindus how they pray go and visit the temples in south india and see for yourself the postures they make while praying.
I think 'Pilates' does as well. Also all the martial arts including Tai Chi. I would also stay away from 'Mindfulness' which is very popular these days.
But of course, we as christians are suppose to hide in a dark room because everything is a sin. I have been a Christian for many years but I grew up in a very legalistic church and denomination and a "everything is a sin" mentality. Jesus led me out of that mess and wrong understanding. Focus on Jesus and get close to him if there is a problem he will let you know.
If you are truly following Jesus He shows you just how narrow the road is. We obey out of love, not out of a sense of legalism. If you do not expect to pick up your cross, give up what your flesh desires and truly follow Christ, I'm sorry but you are kidding yourself and you are not a true follower of Christ.
"Before Abraham was, I Am." -Jesus. According to the Bible, Jesus is the creator of all things. If Christianity is new, then you call Jesus a liar, and argue with the Bible, having likely never read it.
No practice is sinful as long as it does not hurt any living being, I do not know what yoga practitioners are looking for, because spiritual peace is achieved, being at peace, with yourself, and many times you end up outside your body, after my experience close to death, without thinking my mind was opened, something that is in front of everyone. In this life and the next stay in the light. Ramon Sandoval. Ninguna practica es pecadora mientras no dane a ningun ser viviente, yo no se que es lo que buscan los practicantes de yoga, pues la paz espiritual se logra, estando en paz, contigo mismo, y muchas veses terminas fuera de tu cuerpo, despues de mi experiencia cercana a la muerte, sin pensarlo mi mente se abrio, a algo que esta frente de todos. En esta vida y la siguiente quedate en la luz. Ramon Sandoval.
So what I’m getting from this is that, physical exercise is good, but if it gets in the way of our relationship between us and God, such that it puts yourself as the priority instead of God, then we should reconsider the importance of this so that we may please the Lord
Yes
I agree! Exercise is a means by which we achieve some greater goal. This goal
of exercise is not the body, it is God himself. As a result, whether or not we exercise (and the method we use) is to be stewarded for a more noble end. From this, we are encouraged to exercise heartily in certain times of life, and put aside our health for the sake of others during other times. Bodily training is subservient to godliness in every respect.
You should always be your priority rather than someone who only exists in imagination.
Yoga, Tai-chi or even regular church attendance is not going to ensure salvation, for Salvation is by GRACE through FAITH.
As long as Yoga and Tai-chi are used to enhance body flexibility, breathing and general health, they are absolutely fine. But do not go beyond that point or follow a cult.
Hallelujah! My heart began leaping for joy when you came to explaining the gospel! It was like my whole being was recognising the truth:) and I used to practice yoga! For 20 years I practiced! But gave it up soon after recognising Jesus for who he is. God bless you 💓
I do a lot of weight lifting so I get tight. Yoga has helped me in the past to loosen up although recently I have felt a lack of peace recently trying to incorporate it back into my daily routine. I also work at a local gym where the owners are Christians. I believe that God is calling me to start a stretching class that will give the same physical benefits as yoga without the spiritual ties. Please pray that He gives me wisdom in this. Thank you!
To help with that, I would look into mobility and flexibility. Most people know about flexibility but less know about mobility. A combination of the 2 works wonders! And no meditation or yoga involved haha “Flexibility is defined as “the ability of a muscle or muscle groups to lengthen passively through a range of motion”, whereas mobility is the “ability of a joint to move actively through a range of motion”.”
@@thanieltu3153 Great info! Thank you
What happens when they call weight lifting evil? Isn't it vanity to work out at a gym? They'll find something.
@@smokyquartz5817 I think they're just saying that going to heaven in the ultimate goal and getting our bodies fit here on Earth is Zayn we should look at the whole picture going to heaven either home we're just visiting down here so just got to have our bearings in the right area
People will make so many excuses to avoid praying
Indeed true
You can pray while doing yoga.
@@valkyriehannah9593 Yoga is not of God watch the video again
@@valkyriehannah9593 you can pray to stop doing yoga
RIGHT!??!
he really does take the scenic route on a question lol
haha, I like that description
But it's sooo good! And makes sense and I think without the scenery, you get an incorrect and oversimplified answer 💗
@@FeliciaFollum ya thats so true.... who wants a simple straightforward answer that gets right to the point when you can waste 20 mins on nonsense....
Hey@@darrendavenport3334 , "Should a Christian Do Yoga?" "No...next question." Not many of us would find an answer like that satisfactory. I want to know the importance, I want to know why. It's not nonsense he speaks. Only emphasis on how it ties to a Christians life-long journey for holiness.
But knowledgeable
As a Massage Therapist training to become a physical therapist I have seen all the weird eastern practices in the massage world; but I have taken only the clinically valuable elements and used them for my clients and I have some of the best results. You don’t need eastern mysticism to be a great practitioner. I work on people all the time that actually end up hurting themselves in yoga.
So don't do yoga, but stretch instead. Deep breathing is good for us, it's the very breath of God. Stretching is good for our bodies. God first, our Lord and savior. Be thankful to God for the fact that you can stretch today and move your body for it is a temple; and breathe in the breath of life. Meditate on God's word and allow the Holy Spirit to fill your space. Call in Time With God.
Cameron Heinz obviously there is nothing wrong with “stretching and breathing”. Yoga just stole those things and made it into something else.
@Parra Painting my comment had nothing to do with Jesus, i was just saying Yoga involves stretching and breathing. In and of themselves those things aren't bad.
Jonny Parra Yoga means union, uniting oneself with whichever of the millions of Hindu gods. It’s idolatry, and it certainly does not outdate the Creator of all. Have some intellectual honesty, Hinduism is inspired and governed by the fallen beings in Genesis 6 and 1 book of Enoch, if you see the practices of the Sadhus and other various Hindu sects, namely those that follow and worship shiva, and understand the caste system this will become self-evident.
Jonny Parra Yoga means union, uniting oneself with whichever of the millions of Hindu gods. It’s idolatry, and it certainly does not outdate the Creator of all. Have some intellectual honesty, Hinduism is inspired and governed by the fallen beings in Genesis 6 and 1 book of Enoch, if you see the practices of the Sadhus and other various Hindu sects, namely those that follow and worship shiva, and understand the caste system this will become self-evident.
Tf yoga is good for u I WILL SCREAM U STUPID ASSES BRAIN WASHED PIGS
1 Corinthians has quite a bit to say about this. Well, not this specifically but a similar issue. Back in the day, eating with nonbelievers was an issue because they ate food sacrificed to idols. Paul basically says if you can purchase and eat food that was part of a sacrifice with a clear conscience, you are free to do so, but if you are with someone with a weaker conscience who might be encouraged to sin because of what you are doing, you are both better off giving it up. I think what Pastor John is saying is that he can't recommend yoga and tai chi with a clear conscience knowing what he knows about it. Nothing wrong with that.
eating food isnt spiritual. But if you knew meat was sacrificed to another God, would you really eat it? Would you actually want to? I know I wouldnt. It would make me uncomfortable. Why would a Christian want anything to do with hinduism knowing the roots of it and of yoga? Have some discernment
@@caitlinmaynell2780 motivation matters. if you eat with other people on a table, for them, the meat is meant to give sacrifice to false God, but for you, it's not.
it goes further than that even: the father of modern satanism LOVED yoga & loved sinning.
yoga has a very beginner position called "salutations to the sun";
yoga is said to be opening your "doors", asian spiritism has that "7doors" thing one being 'the 3rd eye';
yoga practitioners who became Christians talk about demonic presence near their bed..
God saying "dont let me find you dabbling into occultism"(my words) in the Old Testament, to me includes yoga,falungong,taichi&weird new age stuff that tell you that U r a god, to MANIFEST your well being among other things.
also, some musicians even got that father of modern satanism's face on their cover albums: black sabbath & the beatles.
led zep's jimmy page bought his house to sleep in.
some religions do not have name but still are religions, with a god's doctrine to apply to your life.
also, where did yoga come from?
the book of enoch told of fallen angels(the leader of which roamed deserts, eating sin ridden goats in the Old Testament, much later) still retaining knowledge of Heaven & the human body, splicing human&beasts together(is this where mermaids-philistine deity- & elephant head-hindu deity- creatures came from?).. r*ping women & teaching witchcraft to those who survived both the ordeal&birth of giants...
occultism is not a thing God wants us to get into for a reason, there s too much unknown & an enemy too knowledgeable there .
Followers of Jesus are NOT to eat food sacrificed to idols, regardless of what any man say. Whosoever he be.
The words of God-the-Son in Revelation 2:14 & 2:20 make this clear.
Also, the commandment of the "apostles whom He had chosen" in Acts 15:29 in accordance to Jesus' instruction to teach all gentiles (ethnos) those things which He himself had commanded (Matthew 28:19-20)
See also Exodus 34:15, Numbers 25:1-3, etc.
Who thought it 's "Is Master Yoda sinful?" at the first glance? Someone tell me I'm not the only one.
Does anybody answer questions ?
Yoga in the West has been so universalized that there's virtually no spiritual aspect left. 70% (or so) of yoga classes omit completely the mention of body-mind connection and focus purely on physical betterment. Exercise is a gift from God to bring the chemicals of our mind and body into balance, and to heal injury and maintain our vessel to carry out His work. Considering all this, would yoga be ok in this kind of setting? Isn't it possible that despite the very wrong spiritual roots in Yoga, the practice itself has stumbled upon something that is uniquely beneficial to our bodies as Christians?
Jessica Jordan of course it is ok. It is exercise and stretching. There are many types of yoga. "Hot yoga" for instance, is just what I said above. Tai chi also can be practiced in a way of helping elderly move slowly and safely. Piper is making a guilt by association fallacy. It'd be like saying the celebration of Christmas with decorations has its roots in pagan practice. Well, last I checked, the heathens don't own body postures or certain decorative items like pine trees.
Agreed, Jude!
Well worded.
Jessica Jordan great perspective
God calls us to be filled with His spirit, yoga is designed to empty out our spirits. You decide what's right
I understand that Yoga or other religion related excercise is questionable. But at the same time I believe it is our responsible to have a healthy body. I know a lot of christians who do not excersise at all and eat a lot. The consequence is fatal: They get back hurt, they become obese... That in my eyes can´t be good. While a healthy lifestyle (excersice and healthy food) makes a christian able to help others (carry heavy stuff, babysit, rescue a child in danger ...) an unhealthy lifestyle leads the person to become a burden to others. So yes, I think we christians should stay fitt, well trained and healthy as able as possible. Jesus can help us staying in control in that issue aswell and that shows as good fruits to the world. People might ask: "How come you lost so much weight? You look awesomwe!"- and than our favourite statement can be made: "Jesus helped me! He changes me day by day for the better!" :)
So as to not take out of context I included the verse before and after but look at verse 8.
7. But refuse profane and foolish myths. Instead, exercise in the ways of godliness. 8. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable in all things, holding promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 9. This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance. 1 Timothy 4:7-9 MEV
I'm overweight and trying to lose but I'm not going to be overly concerned about it. I know lots of folks who are overweight and run circles around skinny ppl. Just saying....
I’m living a good life doing yoga and workout 🥰
I agree that we should be healthy, but there are always good ways to achieve it. If we have to rely on something bad or spiritually rooted like yoga, then it’s not what God is calling us to achieve in life. However, there are many good ways to be healthy without spiritual stuff like yoga. For example, lifting weights or bodyweight exercises for strength, running for cardio, and flexibility and mobility for your joints and muscle health. I would highly recommend you look up mobility exercises. It improves joint health but without the yoga meditation and spiritual roots. “ Flexibility is defined as “the ability of a muscle or muscle groups to lengthen passively through a range of motion”, whereas mobility is the “ability of a joint to move actively through a range of motion”.”
Spiritual context
I look at it this way: If someone "creates" a god of singing, and their claim is such that anyone who sings, anyone at all, is worshiping their god, would we then no longer be able to sing, knowing that it would be worship to a false god? No, because we know that we aren't singing to a false god, we're singing to or about what we choose to. If the origin of seat-belts was strangulation, but we adapted it for safety, would it be evil to use seat-belts because they had evil origins? No. Yoga is the same way: If someone does Yoga for health reasons and is then informed that its origins are pagan, does that make the stretches wrong? No; heaven forbid a god of breathing be "made". It's a case of the genetic fallacy.
If doing Yoga would cause a brother or sister to stumble, however, then we should refrain from it, as Paul said. We stop not because it hurts our conscience but theirs. Conscience is the issue here; if learning the "spiritual" side of this would cause you to stumble in doing Yoga, stop doing Yoga. If it causes another to stumble, don't do it around them. Don't let your freedom tear a brother or sister in Christ down.
Sean Hopersberger 💕❤️ These have been my thoughts exactly. I say jokingly "Satan doesn't own the jumping jack".
AR Chery I agree! I’ve tried explaining that to others. satan does *not* have ownership of my body just because I’m placing it in a position to stretch different muscles.
I'm calling b*llsh*t on your whole comment
JESUS wasnt a yoga instructor
Check.... and mate!
Adam N.T. Protester Nobody is claiming that he was. That’s irrelevant to the original comment.
Yeah. Because of Paul's words there, I would seriously suggest thinking twice before announcing any kind of hobby on a Christian video's comment section, because by the way some people react, you'll be giving them all up as sinful.
I've done yoga. It gives you a spiritual experience that is not through Christ. What more do you need to know? And if you're being required to speak certain words in order to enter in that experience then it's even clearer you're opening the door to the enemy. The thing about physical posture being the physical equivalent of mantra is also an interesting point that may well be true.
For spiritual exp. i read bible and pray. But how about i use the exercises they do in yoga to strech body? Tbh during the stretches i dont feel any spiritual exp. more like a lot of pain ;)
Today answer question is not direct. Simply is it sin...yes or no.?
If you have ever been to physical therapy, especially for the back and hips, nearly all the exercises you do are based on Yoga.
The stretching and poses release mussels and nerves to relieve pain
Exactly!
And….
Hindus know very well that yoga positions were never designed to be exercises- They were designed to do one of two things - worship one of more than three million Hindu gods and/or facilitate the flow of prana or "life force energy" (which is actually demonic energy) through the body.
As Christians we sometimes like to justify this practice as simply exercise or another form of muscle strengthing/stretching, but we cannot take the orginal design of the poses away from the symbolism and meaning. Basically everytime you move into a different pose in a specific order you worship and pay homage to a Hindu god despite what "description" or "title" you give it. You can call it Christian yoga, exercise, spiritual meditation, muscle toning, FuFu or GooGoo, the movements will always be IDOL WORSHIP.
We as Christ Representatives should really look into the design and history of yoga before we use our bodies to possible glorify something other than The Most High God. At first I was really disappointed to give up yoga, but I'm so grateful that Im not offending God anymore.
Julian Burns-Brenssell Actually I used to sound just like you.
What if you found out on judgement day this so called ridiculous narrative is true? Our flesh wants what it wants and will create deceptive "truth" to ease our consciousness. We find reasons to ignore that Jesus "tap on the shoulder" that probably brought you here in the first place.
Finding Truth, I agree with you. My ernest desire to worship the one true God in spirit and truth led me to an alternative. praisemoves.com
I respectfully disagree with you, Finding Truth. Today's yoga has been so far removed from its spiritual roots that there's nothing left in 90% of yoga classes beside deep breathing and an occasional mention of "awareness of body and mind." I'm almost certain the original sequences have been all but lost. Our bodies belong to God, and it was a deceit of Satan that any kind of sequence of motions by our bodies could channel any kind of energy- demonic or otherwise. Satan uses ritual to deceive humans into believing those rituals hold power, when in reality Satan could announce his presence in any circumstance that allows sin and denies God.n There's nothing inherently evil about any kind of sequence of the body. Every posture belongs to God, and it's the intent behind the posture that determines whether it's evil or not.
Coming from a reply written from a man, which on equal grounds, your retort is just as dismissible. As for drugs, certain of them can get you into contact with spiritual beings, even if that is not your intention. I know this from first hand experience with psilocybin a long time ago, back in the day, enjoying it for a season, until things went south. Things happening that go beyond just the mind. There are unseen entities out there, and i caution you about messing around with certain substances. Trust me, i know, and yes, that realm is intriguing to say the least, but it's not worth it. Don't forget to hang up the phone when you have the message.
spirituality doesn't come from a consumable chemical either L O L i found God when i was sober, i found my ego on LSD, which just muddled things
Thanks Pastor John
Usually I agree with Pastor John and as far as any yoga meditation or chanting I totally agree. However, stretching and breathing exercises can really help heal a person. Physical therapy has helped me recover more than once from serious injuries and many physical therapists and chiropractors have their patients do "yoga" type exercises. Not with any of the teaching, just the actual exercises. Which ones were originally from "yoga" and which were not I have no idea now. But please don't throw the baby out with the bathwater. We as Christians are to meditate on Gods word and to always use discernment, but stretching is simply stretching, and breathing deeply is simply something we should all do more because it's really good for us :)
It has to do with the sequence. One stretch on it's own is not going to do any harm, however the poses and sun salutations have definite consequences. I was an Ashtanga practitioner and loved the health benefits, however when I tried to do yoga "just for the exercise" I kept having demonic experiences at night. Please check this link out: czcams.com/video/u0FMkwgz36Y/video.html
@@shellbell8062 x
Exactly
Which is better taking a pill for back pain or exercise and be heal naturally?.
So Kudos, Pastor John on so many things you do. Could it be that the originators of yoga were on to something when they found that exercise that benefits the mind, body, and emotions, what many believers call ‘the soul’, in essence, makes the human vehicle for the spirit a stronger vessel for carrying and utilizing spiritual power? I think sometimes we as followers of Christ forget that, although all wisdom flows from God and finds perfection in Christ, the benefits of that wisdom is shared with unbelievers and believers alike (Matthew 5:45). I would hazard to guess that few believers balk at the opioid, cocaine or cannabis derivations given them by their dentist, their surgeon, their cancer doctor because those drugs had their origins in and were often advanced by ‘pagans’ using them concurrently for medicinal and religious practices.
The Lord spoke to me not long ago when I was thinking about Yoga. He made it clear to me that that I do not need a secondary lifestyle or depend on what make my life better. All I need is him and that's why Yoga is wrong.
This audio is really good! Great answer JP
There are some very important points here for Christians in 2020 - not the Yoga/Tai Chi points, per se - but the "physical health and integrity isn't the highest goal."
Very well said. I agree and am grateful for your input!
Add a public reply...
Thank you!!!
Use the enemies tools to defeat the enemy.. Yoga has 2 parts. Physical and Meditational.
Honor Jesus and do the exercise and keep reading Psalms and praising God with your mind, stength, heart and soul while you do the exercise. Play Music in background which is Biblical. Never for once misunderstand that the act of yoga is nothing more than gyming. That's all. Any chant or meditation which comes apart from glorifying Jesus Christ, denouce it. Don't do it in group of non-believers and don't follow what their approach is towards. That's it.
If for a second you feel this act got in your way of reaching Jesus, reject it completely. Nothing is more important than our relationship to Jesus Christ.
Call it Moga and do the workout.
Biren Singh you being duped of a Hindu religious belief
What are you chanting?
Our health is rebuking the flesh
We are reaching toward the Spirit of God’s word.
We are striving for physical rather than being spiritually. Gym or God which one is better.
For an answer to this question I recommend checking out Mike Shreve and Steven Bancarz. Mike was a Yoga guru at one point and now is a man who if fully devoted to our Lord.
Jesus also said in bible that some physical exercise is good..When it comes to spiritual I meditate read Gods word. Breath Yah inhale and Weh exhale.
Just give us a reference to where you think Jesus said that . . . LOL
Stretching instead of yoga
I’m having trouble with this. My heart feels conflicted here. I understand the standpoint. My goal is to give my heart to the Lord and follow Jesus day by day. But what about the Christian “Yoga” Practices? What about the idea of adding prayer and scripture focus and the removal of the Hindu and pagan references.
Dancing can be said to have origins outside of glorifying God, but there’s also worship dancing that is deemed as acceptable methods of praising God and offering of the body to him.
Music can be used for negative purposes but music can also be used as a form of worship.
I’m seeing the opportunity to connect more with the Word and the Holy Spirit.
I’m wondering if there are other exercises types that have been modified in a way to glorify God consistency?
I could certainly choose to remove the practice from my regimen, but I’ve found it to be valuable dynamic prayer time. I’m conflicted by this.
Your comment is so sincere & I see your heart in it. I believe the conflict you are experiencing will be resolved as you look deeper into the word of God such as Deuteronomy 12:1-4, God is very clear about not substituting his name in worship on old pagan practices . The OT is clear that all the prophets and Godly kings would have to completely destroy and tear down all the altars etc of pagan gods. You can’t be a yogi & for Jesus because God said he won’t receive your mixed worship. Hopefully this helps
Don't listen to these fools . They are just running a business sister . Jesus said one who is pure in heart will know the kingdom of God .
@@abcdwxyz5391 the fact that you are calling your fellow Christians who disagree with you fools makes me wonder about your relationship with christ. Also it seems you are more interested in maintaining the yoga business than seeking to really do the will of our Savior and this troubles me greatly.
Read Romans 14 (on disputable matters, not pertaining to salvation) & then ask God to search you & know your heart & thoughts. Then follow Romans 14 and I Cor 10:31. Does my doing ... glorify God? If you are not convinced, and have any doubt, then, verse 23 states that this is a sin. But if after praying to God to search you, you are convinced within you that this does bring glory to God, then keep doing it.
But accept & do not judge others as well as keep it silent between you & God without persuading/convincing/hindering/stumbling others. Romans 14. The key is, (1) let ALL you do glorify God & (2) let not what you desire & enjoy doing take a hold on you & rule you instead of Christ alone.
You can also try listening to John Stott’s sermon on Romans 14 online in August, 1978 on the Christ-Centred Christian.
In light of Romans 14, some will answer yes & some no (both, sincerely) whether something they practise [taichi/yoga] bring glory to God.
Sorry Monique.......yoga is satanic. I suggest u keep dis in prayer God will direct u. God bless u!
so many women are deceived spiritually and psychically as to fall under demons that they not even aware of ... all its about is being cool and with it / its the past time relaxation
Pls give a short answer pastor john😀
HAHHA
Yoga is satanistic
Ive been to yoga classes which consists simply of breathing and stretching, the only "eastern" influence was the teacher said the word "namaste" at the end. Besides that 1 word there was no spirituality discussed at all, just stretching and breathing which is healthy. Does this situation seem sinful at all? I think of in one of Paul's letters when he said basically it's ok to eat the meat from a Zeus sacrifice, but don't engage in the worship. This seems applicable to a non-spiritual yoga class.
Yoga in itself is satanic. Ask God He will direct u
What does namaste mean…
Every position being originally meant to worship a hindu deity should tell you something. Want to glorify God? Have your quite time, studying his Word and praying and then go jogging or swimming to also look after your body and health. No need to get into yoga or other things and mix them with Christianity.
@@froggybug it means hello and goodbye in Hindi
Just want to say that the first part of what pastor said about will something make you more Christ like, more bold in witness and stronger in prayer is how I felt using marijuana, I was really focus on a being aware of things of God , until one day I went overboard by using marijuana with alcohol and now I am aware of who I really am, I feel so lost.
I keep telling myself it is just a plant it can't be a sin but maybe I was wrong.
My advice is to be of a God full and he will grant it.
God gave us a sober mind. This is God given. Yes you dont feel as wise or as enlightened. I dropped daily weed when I got saved. It's okay to be simple. In God's eyes we are adorable little children. "Let he who is wise become a fool so that he may be wise."
I have never done yoga, but always felt that it had some sinister roots, I appreciate how much Pastor John is trying to explain the roots of yoga and other middle eastern practices but once he started contrasting it to what Jesus did etc, I thought that was unnecessary- some people might immediately switch off after hearing such a long explanation and lose sight of the whole point. Thanks anyway and God bless
I never thought of it that way earlier on but as i dig deeper into the Bible, I realised the word of God is my blueprint in life. Nowhere in the Bible was Jesus practicing yoga neither did it mention that the earlier Christian engaged in it. I believe Yoga is wordly teaching and should not be practiced.
Jesus didn't watch CZcams either, so you'd better stop
Yoga doesnt glorify Jesus. CZcams you can glorify Jesus.
Bible doesn't say anything about cellphones either, you should stop using them.
I do Tai chi and I love Jesus! Great exercise! Christians shld flood these places and get these lost people saved!
Thats like saying lets do drugs to get druggies saved, or lets do porn to get porn actors saved - utter foolishness!!!
Darryl Danzinger .... getting real doesn’t kno wat he/she is talking abt
@@darryldanzinger9996 exactly, I just shared the gospel with my drug dealer! No doing porn wldnt help the porn star though. Gotta have decernment. You without sin throw a stone...He came for the broken hearted. Blessings bro!
One time my brothers, mom and I tried a yoga video. My bros and I started yawning SO MUCH and laughing about it so our session fell apart lol
Wow. This video HITS
WOOOOOOW
I do "yoga" to exercise my body not to worship a false God and other false spirits and all that extra nonsense.. now I say "thank you Jesus for the light you give me honors the light that you are" & "Thank you Jesus for giving me the ability for movement" even thinking about how blessed you are to stretch and move in ways that people in this world aren't able to is really humbling and gratifying like wow thank you Jesus for legs and arms and a back that I can move from left to right I know there's people who are paralyzed right now or they're missing limbs, thank you Lord for everything ❤
Bruh God don’t allow u to worship other gods bruh he think he is the only one I rather burn in the fire I think I will be worshiping Billie my bby
Yoga has poses that worship the sun. If you practice them fully and completely, it's not Christian.
Deep, but good answer
Ok I agree with you but if I am facing
Problem in study and yoga helping me in concentrate in study then also it is wrong
if yoga stretching is a sin.... then what of martial arts/karate type stretching which is greatly important to avoid injuries... or for that matter, any stretching for any sport or health purpose.. .ie... returning injured veterans who must stretch to alleviate injury and pain and so on. I cannot believe simple stretching is , in any way, bad. We must however know just why we are exercising and to maintain a conviction that we have NO intention to conflict with God's will/laws.
El Rico dats coz u do not know wat yoga really is. It is satan worship unlike karate/martial arts or any defence technique..........
@@rachelcharles53 the mental, mind no mind, wanton self annihilation, meditative aspects of yoga are wrong. against God's law.
I don't know what to do. I'm constantly stressed to the point where I can't get nothing done just frustration and fogginess. I'm getting married just had a daughter got a house. I'm blessed but not happy. Sleep roughly and have been looking up meditation and it's so interesting and empowering but then I see comments of ppl thinking the world as we know will end on def 21. Are angel numbers good? I just wanna serve God and do supernatural things in His name not for my glory. I just feel so lost
Have faith that God makes all things work out for the good.
It must be said that Jewish/Christian worship is meant to be physical and has physical benefits as well. (ie Tabernacle of David)
The VA is pushing both yoga and Thai Chi me for physical recovery if it’s medicinal is it ok
Amen, very beautiful answer.
yoga comes with 3 parts.
1st part to recite mantras
2nd part i don't remember
3rd part is the excersise or body movement in particular order or particular posture.
since 3 part is just excersise it is ok to practice but not other two parts
I think I just need a short and sweet John MacArthur answer on this. I just feel like he’s trying really hard not to step on toes!
Politics
Very complicated how he explains
The Mantra you speak is the name of a god, or diety in Hindu beliefs. It may even be a man, who says he is the most high god, who is your Yogi.
Tai Chi, just like yoga, is religous worship of a god, or diety through physical activity... a "work".
Yoga IS the sin of idolatry.
So many people willing to look ignorant on the net, when all they have to do, is a little fact checking, or heck go to a few yoga studios and see that there are differences amongst the kinds of yoga and the types of instructors.
Jude Three it's true. Some are unintentional pagans. Others true believers. Either way, yoga is diety worship.
Then you are demonstrating you have not looked into it long enough. Satisfy yourself with surface level knowledge if you want, but it really is strange and silly when people like yourself do so with what seems like prideful assuredness and tenacity combined with ignorance of the facts.
You can't seem to come up with any facts of your own other than saying other people are wrong. God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. Followers of Christ cannot pay homage to fake deities. I did yoga for a long time and I now know from personal experience that it is evil dressed as light. I then tried Vinyasa and other more western types as I really wanted to continue, and I continued to have spiritual attacks. Satan does not fight for those who he already has under his control, but give your life to Christ and try to leave yoga and you will see the fight that ensues.
Amazing, glory to GOD for this wonderful explanation and the anointing in this pastor. It has brought me back to what’s important, that something like yoga, sports or anything else shouldn’t be false idols, nor should they be openings for the enemy to attack. Let’s be honest, this body is made to die, and while I don’t think it’s right to unnecessarily inflict harm on it, neither is acting like it’s anything more than a vessel for GOD. It’s not immortal, it will die at some point, so put your health in the hands of GOD, the living breathing GOD is miracles. While we shall be wise, let’s not act like anything we do can promising a certain outcome, for it will be in the hands of your master, and if your master is GOD, HE shall make sure all things work together for the very best.
Short answer- yes
I’m glad pastor John said clearly at the end as well as gave an in-depth answer on this. Should help a lot of people
I respect pastor John Piper, iI r3sp3ct his genuine desire to explain everything. One thing I observed though, is he is fond of going around and his explanations are often too long..
My wife listens to me but she resents me for not letting her do yoga or get tattoos. It feels so bitter I dont know what to do. I wont let us be led to hell though I wont be complacent even if she does resent me for it I hope the truth comes to light and maybe one day she'll know or understand. She feels like I tell her no about everything. And then I always have these reasons. And they come off as crazy if you havent done the research. She wants to do yoga with a girlfriend at work who instructs it and I said no. And told her how each pose worships a different god. And when I try to tell her this stuff I know I just sound crazy and as soon as I start to talk about it she just says "okay okay" and I can tell she just wants to avoid the conflict. I dont want her to just bend her will to mine though I wish she understood and I dont know how to make her. She says theres no point of arguing cause she never wins. And it feels selfish of me but I know yoga is not good for the soul. And I never do yield, because I always know I'm right. It just sounds crazy when I say all of it and I doubt I could get her to sit through some hour long video explaining it especially when she doesnt wanna hear it. I have no idea what to do besides just pray
yung turt, with my husband, I just want be heard. I accept his authority, but resentments build up when I don't get to share my opinion, talk about an issue with him, or feel that my thoughts or opinions even matter. I highly suggest you ask your wife why she wants to do yoga with her girlfriend from work. Is she needing hang out time with other women? Is she stressed regularly and thinks yoga might help? Has she been looking in the mirror lately and thinking, I need some toning? By asking questions, you can still meet her underlying need without yoga. I am highly recommending to you that every time in the future your wife asks a question, instead of immediately saying no because you know you are right, first listen to her. Ask leading questions and find out her heart and her reasons. Then, gently explain why you are saying no. It means you taking a breath, having patience, and taking time with her, but it will be so worth it in the end! She will know that you love and care for her too and are not just controlling her.
@@jaimekeena4674 thanks for your comment I totally get that. I try not to ever shut her down and I always want to hear her reasons but a lot of the time she doesnt even want to talk about it. She told me recently I was probably right but said she wished she didnt know, and that I didnt know all this stuff.
@@re-nx5fv nah she was a horrible woman in the end i divorced her for cheating
God calls us to be filled with His spirit, yoga is designed to empty out our spirits.
Totally correct
I think is the best explanation
Yoga is good for u assholes my brainwashed sisters and brothers believing a book with no proof :( cries
Is doing acupressure a sin for Christians? I would be doing it on myself
I’ve studied these ways of thinking quite a lot, but I do not see how they differ at all with Christian thinking. Semantic noise is all I’m hearing. As a Christian mystic, they are totally compatible and I’ve never found anyone who can explain otherwise to me. And I’ve searched for someone to prove me wrong because I don’t want to always wonder. You can take every one of those details from Tai Chi (Taoism) Yoga etc and directly apply it to a parallel Christian idea. Even the story of the life of Buddha/his journey has startling references that are iconic details in the Christian story… I’m not arguing per say… just wishing to have found someone to prove me wrong already…
He explained the difference of what Christian is-- yes-- and THEN the objective of the Christian’s life is to live in peace, tranquility, etc… constantly meditating on the presence of God- I could go on and on but I don’t see how they’re contradictory… I don’t think yogis traditionally focus on trying to achieve maximum physical perfection…
I wish I could talk to John about this. I’ve never disagreed with anything he’s ever said and I benefit so thoroughly for so long. It would be so interesting to let him tease out whatever he can in my thinking. How lucky I would be lol
Change the order if you must, don't chant, and it becomes just stretching. Even pray while doing it
next question: is the sky falling?
I do Bikram (Hot) Yoga just for the health benefits...is that ok?
No because yoga comes from Hinduism and we all know that the eastern gods are in fact devils
So stop doing yoga
Be a maximalist!!
Luke 13:24 KJVS
[24] Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.
Lol bitches Just pray and repent before u die then u enter right after u die
don't speak hymns realated to any religion...but we can do exercise just for fitness and our enjoyment ...God bless uhh all
In my understanding of the deceits of idolatry and the satanic rituals of religions, I perceive the sin therein of attachment to therapeutic exercises/ You have a body and a brain, you are a soul/ The consecration of your heart, soul, mind and body to the Holy Spirit is essential for salvation, redemption and sanctification/
What if we called it “slow stretching” and left out all the other stuff that no one in America does anyway?
When Moses was commanded to fight the Amelikites he was told to STAND ON ONE LEG and HOLD A PLANK OVER HIS HEAD: This same yogic practise was mentioned by Megesthenes who noticed the Brahmins doing the same. The author of " The Birds" also noticed this as the " One Leg Scythian"
Jesus's " My Father ( Grk Pater-moo)" is the TATHAGATA ( Matt 23:10 KATEGETES)
If tathagata was Jesus's father, why wouldn't he refer to him as such? Instead he says "no one knows the Father but the Son." And also "I and the Father are one." Be careful my brother. Watch hard.
@@BenVanCamp he does refer to him in Matt 23:10 " KATEGETES" ( Tathagatas)
The Buddha's 'only son' is said to be the only one to recognize him in a field of clones.
Amen.
1:16 I don't like this argument at all. I mean I eat pizza, it doesn't mean that just because it does not help me spiritually with christ, therefore I should not do it.
Eating something is a need
Christians like to say everything good is created by god. So does yoga. I knew yoga looks similar to Buddhism. Calm yourself. If what Buddhism does sitting. Thank you for the video.
Bruh stfu god did not create all good stuff it’s always god I will beat the pussy out of u credit the humans who made the good stuff if u gonna spread the Bible words gimme ur insta and ima talk to u 🖕🏻
I do martial arts stretching and gymnast stretching
My doc recommended different exercises for my body pain, especially my core and spine. Many positions of yoga are very helpful for me. I need to stretch a lot and build stability. I'm Christian and I'm concerned if I won't do something wrong. I believe only on our Father and the Holy Spirit and and I'm afraid of yoga background like energy, chakras, workship for hindu goddes and etc. I don't believe in that stuff. But is that enough? I see part of yoga - its positions as isometric exercises and I do my workout at home. I would never go to a yoga class. I don't meditate, I don't listen to the hindu music and etc. Is it ok? Am I opening energy levels and adore fake idols while I'm not intended and just doing asanas as an exercise? I pray to God for protection from evil and guidance. I'm very afraid of possessions and such things! I'm very stressed and thinking a lot about all this stuff nowadays. Please, I need your answer. Thank you!
exercises doesnt mean yoga. Yoga is as mental and as spiritual as it is physical. Do exercises for sure, but stay away from yoga which is buried deep in hinduism (anti christ religion)
@@caitlinmaynell2780 yes, I totally agree with you. I had only poses as isometric exercises in my mind! That you for the answer 😊
@@TheVampirrr for sure, there are plenty of exercises that focus on physical wellbeing that don't include the Hindu connections/spirituality. It's better to be safe I think and just do other similar exercises. God bless you!
Guys is yoga not about aligning the bodies chakras so you can be more in touch with your higher spirit? It may have been deformed by modern gyms but at its core it still feel wrong? Also, is self realisation, and self power/worship not the very definition of satanism? ...asking coz I really wanna know I am living yoga but I have a bad feeling about it
Stop
It's sad that we all find separation through individualism.
This might also help somebody out there, from personal experience, i stop doing yoga because Aleister Crowley promoted Yoga, and if anybody knows Aleister Crowley he promoted mysticism and taught and directed people into conjuring spirits... If your a Christian and are wondering about this question, think of your Lord Jesus, who walked on water, our Lord God who comforts! Jesus is literal! Go to Him for peace, rest, and Truth! There is no other remedy, answer or relief, Jesus will restore your body through prayer and fasting! Peace!
He also drank water. It must be shown that yoga is wrong, not just associated with someone bad.
@@urbanhymns8880 he also walked on water
Did you know Hitler promoted the eating of bread?
I got saved after reading Aleister Crowley's book. He and his "god" hate Jesus and his army. I knew as soon as I read that Jesus is the true creator.
But yoga really helps my painful itchy hemorrhoids
That's going the long way round the barn to answer a simple question.
YES
I think there are other type of stretching that you can do. So why not do those instead of Yoga. I personally don’t want to take chance of having something influence me spiritually without me knowing. Also, I’ve noticed many people who do yoga get very defensive and make “excuse” when questioned if Christians should do it.🤔
If we want the mediate, we mediate on God’s word. That doesn’t mean that we go into some empty mind with repeating scripture. It means to contemplate what the scripture is saying to us, studying the words. Our peace should come from God and we should not have to go into some mental emptiness to feel peace. Just my thoughts.
Its the case of the weaker brother scenario. If your brother sees it as an offense, don't do it, but the earth is the Lords and all that is in it. You moving your body in certain positions to stretch it out for stretching sake is not sinful, any more than meats given to non-existent gods is sinful to Christians.
Why is this even a question wtf
Put God above all and meditate on his words and the Holy Spirit will guide you.
Here is my Yoga (Did Hot yoga & Hatha Yoga experiences: My Yoga class was about doing different poses. It's was 90% stretching and listening to your body. Maybe 1% trying to meditate and as a Christian I use it to listen to God by learning shutting off my mind. In college the teacher had us say "ooooommmm" I think it's like group generating beta wave (??)so our brain get be in a meditate state. I like it because I get to exercise to rest my body and mind. In Hot Yoga I learned the poses. But I didn't like it because it's HOT and expensive.. There have been studied the benefits of Yoga. We are social beings and we feel good to do group exercises and that's why people are doing these. How many of us listen to the radio or watch TV? I think that's worst than doing Yoga or Tai Chi. They are just tools that humans have discovered after years of researched and practiced so use them for your benefit.
The point is:
* Find what works for you and draw you closer to God. Don't over-analyze things.
* The Devil is clever so ask the Holy Spirit to help you. To me if I feel that anything I do dont' make me feel good or closer to God I would not do it until I find comfort in it.
* Exercise and Eat Healthy food
I recommend the book "Biblical Meditation for Spiritual Breakthrough" by Elmer Towns. I think Pastor John would approve. It is soundly biblical. I spend my meditation time in my prayer closet sitting "Eastern Style" on my Japanese cushions i.e. Zafu & Zabuton (because they are comfortable). I really don't think the cushion I sit on or my posture and deep breathing make a difference when my focus and meditation is solely on Gods word. Would you agree?
BTW I don't do yoga poses. Just sit "still" Psalm 46:10 before the the Lord Yeshua and meditate on his Word.
This is the 3rd time I ever heard the pastor admit that he's not qualified to answer those types of questions.
Only a mature disciple who practices Eastern arts (without succumbing to the belief system) can tell you if it's a sin or not!
The real question to ask yourself is this; "Is, whatever I'm considering practicing, harmful to the relationship with my Lord?!🤔
As an Indian Christian, I find this podcast really misinformed. I love John Piper and have benefited much from his sermons, which is why I was curious to know his stand on this controversial issue. Christians in the west have little idea about roots of eastern philosophy and history. Much of the stuff you see in our cultures can be traced back to deeply religious ideas, including the nuances of our wedding ceremonies or how we respect our elders different from the way you do. Some of us actually despise those among us who think that being totally Christian means to be totally American (because when you shed a culture behind, you don't become neutral but imbibe another one). As a devout believer in the Lord, I simply take these things along the lines of the believer's freedom to eat food sacrificed to idols as we know that an idol is "nothing at all in this world". You take the meat and throw the bone away, so to speak.
Yoga can be divided into two parts- the exercise form and the meditation form. The exercise form is simply stretching and breathing in simple but never tried before ways that will maximize your lung capacity. You simply recruit all your lung aircells to oxygenate your body, and you feel great. The short time I practiced yoga, I realized how little lung capacity we use on a daily basis. It's a totally different feel than going to the gym.
If you want to reject yoga because it is rooted in eastern mysticism, then you must also reject acupuncture, stone therapy, ayurveda, chinese medicine, etc as anti-christian since they all have been linked to local religious beliefs by their founders. I suggest do more research and come to what's best for your conscience. In my defense, every good and perfect gift is from above (which is why I can appreciate the Pyramids in good conscience while despising the reason why they built it).
S Thomas 💕❤️❤️! I think we all need to examine that! "Christian means American" (Granola &White American at that) is not true. Thanx for bringing that up.
God calls us to be filled with His spirit, yoga is designed to empty out our spirits.
bob polo So is undergoing chiropractic treatment or putting up a pine tree and mistletoe for christmas satanic? As they also have roots in ancient pagan mysticism.
S Thomas I didn't mention anything about Christmas or chiropractic surgery.
S Thomas I will gladly reject all those and just follow scripture, that does say to reject those things whether North, South, West or East-ern.
I think these comments are a little to extreme, I do yoga once a week but I do not participate in certain positions or the worship of false things and gods. My relationship with God is pretty ok right now.
They are extreme because they represent ignorance and bigotry.
Rond 08. Not by these facts. By these beliefs.
Belief in 'God' as super-consciousness or abstraction, which we have to attain - makes us feel quite intellectual & 'spiritual'. I confess I have felt like that. But, when something greater touches you - you know that God is greater than your intellectual super-consciousness or abstraction - far greater than you as an intellectual - and far greater than any super-consciousness.
People told me that with yoga, I would feel more energy & will feel more confident. Actually, that did happen. But the energy & confidence kind of promotes an independence of spirit, and does not entirely feel like my natural self. While the God of the Bible is the 'OTHER', not us, nor can we ever become HIM. He is our Father, our Husband, our Maker. Our whole being was created to Worship Him - RELY on Him like a baby. The kind of attitude he gives us is humility and helps us become who we were created to be - the core of our unique personalities. Each of us on this planet has a unique personality - a uniqueness that is totally us. God does not give us confidence by giving a spirit of energy that feels like confidence. But he gives us confidence by placing the fear of HIM in us & removing the fear of men.
I would not strive to get a 'higher spirituality', energy or confidence by uniting with the super-consciousness (which yoga is about), but a (real) knowledge of Him as my Father, Husband, Maker & reliance on him, fear (reverence/awe) of him.
*More on - we can never become HIM: A cat cannot become her Owner/Master. But, if the Owner has a baby son - the son, even though younger than the cat - is still cat's Master. The son can be lovingly called cat's brother and he is cat's brother and friend in cat-loving families, but is still cat's Master.
He explained mantra well so well he should be hindu
And karate?
I can’t agree with this more - bare minimalism and pushing boundaries isn’t honoring to the Lord- do other exercises that don’t bring into question your witness
What about the Christian yoga channels on here that use scripture?
That is my question as well. I look for stretching with instructions & a focus on God and His Word. I choose carefully.
Christian Yoga and Taichi practitioners need to know that these exercises can be stumbling blocks to the immature fundamentalist Christians, just as Jesus' association with the Samaritans (people of another world view) and eating with the tax-collectors can be offensive to the Pharisees. The Apostle Paul could do it, but not everyone can, "Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble. (1 Corinthians 8:13)
It's sad that today's Christian teachers have regressed back to the state of the Pharisees. Jesus would rollover in his grave when he hears this. The good news is he is no longer there. :)
Samuel Stone the tomb is empty
Samuel Stone Everything is a stumbling block to the immature fundamentalist Christian. I know this because I was one, and I was immature because I couldn't be bothered to read my bible. Thankfully, those days are over.
I would advise that you absolutely refrain from mentioning any hobby in a Christian video's comment section. When I do, I nearly always get a response saying "Stop doing that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" without any further explanation.
Christ fills all things. "I am the Life", he said, "I will never leave your side". He is still here.
Genuine yoga is for hindus only,if you want to see the real hindus how they pray go and visit the temples in south india and see for yourself the postures they make while praying.
I think 'Pilates' does as well. Also all the martial arts including Tai Chi. I would also stay away from 'Mindfulness' which is very popular these days.
But of course, we as christians are suppose to hide in a dark room because everything is a sin. I have been a Christian for many years but I grew up in a very legalistic church and denomination and a "everything is a sin" mentality. Jesus led me out of that mess and wrong understanding. Focus on Jesus and get close to him if there is a problem he will let you know.
If you are truly following Jesus He shows you just how narrow the road is. We obey out of love, not out of a sense of legalism. If you do not expect to pick up your cross, give up what your flesh desires and truly follow Christ, I'm sorry but you are kidding yourself and you are not a true follower of Christ.
full yoga is sinful but as exercise good apart from philosophy of it
All I can say is Christianity is new. Hinduism and Yoga is over 7000 years old, at least....
"Before Abraham was, I Am." -Jesus. According to the Bible, Jesus is the creator of all things. If Christianity is new, then you call Jesus a liar, and argue with the Bible, having likely never read it.
great videos but the background is distracting lol.
No practice is sinful as long as it does not hurt any living being, I do not know what yoga practitioners are looking for, because spiritual peace is achieved, being at peace, with yourself, and many times you end up outside your body, after my experience close to death, without thinking my mind was opened, something that is in front of everyone. In this life and the next stay in the light. Ramon Sandoval.
Ninguna practica es pecadora mientras no dane a ningun ser viviente, yo no se que es lo que buscan los practicantes de yoga, pues la paz espiritual se logra, estando en paz, contigo mismo, y muchas veses terminas fuera de tu cuerpo, despues de mi experiencia cercana a la muerte, sin pensarlo mi mente se abrio, a algo que esta frente de todos. En esta vida y la siguiente quedate en la luz. Ramon Sandoval.
Love God is the first commandment. Does not following this commandment "hurt" any living being directly? Chew on it.