Old Philosophy Returning But It Still Lacks Common Sense

I have always tried to steer clear of controversy but I need to delve a bit into something that really bothers me. I have been reading about the controversy of the book by Eckhart Tolle, A NEW EARTH. I have not read this book nor do I intend to. But from all the reviews, I know it is about raising self-consciousness and is based on some "new age" beliefs. I am not doing a book review because I have not read it but rather stating my opinion about "new age" philosophy. Let me say before I begin that I do not pretend to be an authority on "new age" philosophy but I know it is sad when people think that "self" is the only important thing in their lives and exclude Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Excuse me while I confer with my guru (just joking).

The "new age" philosophy is hardly a new concept. It has been around for thousands of years in numerous sub-cultures. The concept of one world order has been tried before and failed. What could succeed without Jesus in the forefront?

"New Age" philosophy includes (of course, I don't know them all):

Divine practices like astrology (Could be a form of entertainment, not a belief.)

If it makes you happy - do it (Give me a break! What makes you happy could be very hurtful to someone else. How would this belief embrace the "new age" philosophy of karma and how would it create positivism?)

The need for meditation (I meditate in the most effective way by praying.)

Man is divine and perfect and the only problem is ignorance of that feeling and gnosticism will enlighten us (Huh?)

All of this reminds me of the sub-cultures of more modern times - beatniks in the 50's and hippies in the 60's. Oops! Where have all the flower children gone? Now, we have the "new age" people who are pushing a philosophy that lacks any common sense.

Now for the one "new age" belief that really makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up: belief that our Jesus Christ is a divine principle and is not an individual. I know the sacrifice Jesus made for me and I refuse to deny His existence for any one.

"See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ." Colossians 2:8 (NIV)

I also like the scripture found in John 10 about the Shepherd and His Flock. I will write part of it here but I recommend that you read it for yourselves.

"I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." John 10:9-10 (NIV)

"So, do you really want to know how to find fulfillment and how to find true happiness? Try the Bible and especially the Gospels. The Bible will instruct you on how to find these things - not just instant or short term self-gratification but fulfillment, happiness, and gratification for an eternity. When you get in dire straits- who are you going to call on - your guru or Jesus Christ?