Quote:
Originally Posted by Jo S
Gnosticism is a system of thought or philosophy that's exclusive to Christianity and incorporated in existing Christian theology. Similar systems or philosophies exist outside of Christianity but they are called different things. New Ageism, Buddhism, ect...Gnosticism isn't a seperate religion. Religion requires the worship of a specific diety or dieties.
If God is omnipotent, does he have the ability to restrict himself if he chose to? The things that make you go, Hmmmm...
This would be more accurate;
New age Mysticism is New age thought.
Christian mysticism is gnosticism.
"Gnostic mysticism" is non-existent. There's no such thing and is a contradiction of terms.
Islamic mysticism is Sufism.
The one thing they all have in common is they're all systems that lead you away from the truth.
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Gnosticism is essentially incorporation of Greek philosophy (Platoism) into any religious system. Mysticism on the other hand is how one approaches their relationship with God. I think you are using the term gnosticism to refer only to the movement within Christianity (and earlier, in Judaism). Then, you are confusing this unorthodox movement with mysticism which has never been outcast from orthodox Christianity.
When we compare the beliefs and teachings of the Gnostics in Christianity they are miles apart from what Lee/Nee taught. Denial of the incarnation etc. Mysticism on the other hand is orthodox. There is nothing which mysticism teaches that contradicts the Bible. It doesn't challenge the nature of God or the incarnation. Contemplation and self surrender are both biblical concepts. The Bible mentions many types of prayer and mysticism is a different way of praying and approaching God, nothing more.
You can't just compare apples (gnosticism) to oranges (mysticism) and claim that because both are round fruits they are the same thing.