Christian mysticism?

[ResidentAlien]

The sometimes abuse of a tool or skill does not make the tool or skill something that should be eschewed entirely. The wise approach is to understand the pros and cons of the tool and to lern to use it constructively. The analytical and reasoning side of the mind ca be just as easily abused and bring us into bondage to lying spirits. But that does not mean we should abandon all reason and analysis in our pursuit of God.

Sometimes a tool simply isn't right for the job. You don't use a hammer to cut a board. Even if you use it properly, a hammer is never the right tool to cut a board. At least if you want a proper cut.

 

[Edify]

I said before I think the word mystic is a trigger for people

THAT ALONE SAYS IT ALL.
Many of us ARE triggered because of the Holy Spirit. We are also triggered by the original definition of mystic that has changed over the years.
We remember the old definition, not the new one.
I suggest you get a hundred year old Webster's dictionary & see what it says. It does help, even with studying the Bible.
That's why you'll find one in some Bible software.

 

[Edify]

While I agree that Paul is content because of his relationship with God, contentment doesn't mean one is not to continually strive in our relationship with God. Paul clearly says he has not achieved or apprehended all there is to be achieved in a relationship with God. So he presses forward to the high mark of his calling in Christ Jesus. While you are content to be in relationship with God, you are also content not to press forward to your highest calling as per your own words. I suggested to you that there is more to experience as a Christian than you have come to know. You responded that you were content in your relationship with God as is. That's why I responded that your contentment is admirable concerning circumstances, but sad relationally. But don't worry. God will continue to will and do in you to bring you to relational maturity.

Well said.

 

[ResidentAlien]

There's not an old meaning of mysticism and a modern one. The definition of the word is still the same. What we seem to have in this thread are people coming up with their own definitions of mysticism, and using the word incorrectly.

 

[GWH]

Well said.

No, not well said, because what Paul said was to become more and more loving or morally righteous,
NOT mystic, as you seem to interpret it.

 

[HealthAndHappiness]

It is not that you lack anything from the bible but the basis of Christian mysticism is to look at the word of God in a more spiritual lens. hacing communion and personal intimacy with the spirit, many read his word yet look at how his word is so often used to cherry pick or to take out of context. But if you look at it through the lens of the spirit there is only one interpretation one truth one divine voice in scripture not many and not taken out of context either.

This is what google says about how a Christian mystic studies the bible
Christian mystics approach the Bible with a focus on personal experience and contemplation, seeking to encounter God directly through the text. They often engage in practices like Lectio Divina, which involves slow, meditative reading and reflection on scripture, aiming to internalize its wisdom and foster a deeper relationship with God. This approach emphasizes subjective experience and spiritual transformation over purely intellectual understanding.

Reading the Scriptures slowly, reflecting upon them is not at all sinful. Of course we should try to internalize God's wisdom and that sounds like an honorable practice.

Since that is your stated goal I don't see how the study of Scriptures requires a subjectivity.
My understanding is that we are to take every thought under the captivity of God's Word. A word study on the thoughts we should have is doctrinal perspective with virtues
like love as our main motive.
When we read we naturally engage the intellect. Then we build up on our prior understanding. The intellect is not the only part, because the Bible is spiritual, the Holy Spirit uses it to teach our spirit. Things are to be spiritually understood with the intellect being a necessary part of that. That's my understanding of the general theme.

The more I spend time in God's Word, the more I see the tests in life to apply it. That is where I find the experiential importance. Then the Lord reveals Himself more frequently to me in His Word and in experiences. I often say, that is no coincidence. The Lord is reminding me of His presence and wonderful attributes. That is an honor to behold.

 

[Blain]

THAT ALONE SAYS IT ALL.
Many of us ARE triggered because of the Holy Spirit. We are also triggered by the original definition of mystic that has changed over the years.
We remember the old definition, not the new one.
I suggest you get a hundred year old Webster's dictionary & see what it says. It does help, even with studying the Bible.
That's why you'll find one in some Bible software.

I think that instead of using the word mystic we should as @Daisy2 said call it divine audience I searched and searched and everytime I come across Christian mystic it says the same thing and I simply cannot find anything unbiblical about it but if the word mystic is a problem for people then we may need to take the definition of it and replace with divine audience

 

[ResidentAlien]

I think that instead of using the word mystic we should as @Daisy2 said call it divine audience I searched and searched and everytime I come across Christian mystic it says the same thing and I simply cannot find anything unbiblical about it but if the word mystic is a problem for people then we may need to take the definition of it and replace with divine audience

Doesn't make any difference to me, you're still talking about mysticism just calling it something else.

 

[GWH]

Doesn't make any difference to me, you're still talking about mysticism just calling it something else.

I agree, so Blain, please define how you think mysticism is affirmed in the NT.

 

[Edify]

1 Timothy 6 20Timothy, protect what has been entrusted to you, avoiding worldly, empty chatter and the opposing arguments of what is falsely called “knowledge”— 21which some have professed and thereby have gone astray [r]from the faith.

 

[Edify]

I think that instead of using the word mystic we should as @Daisy2 said call it divine audience I searched and searched and everytime I come across Christian mystic it says the same thing and I simply cannot find anything unbiblical about it but if the word mystic is a problem for people then we may need to take the definition of it and replace with divine audience

We already have a means of divine audience. The Bible calls it PRAYER.

 

[Blain]

We already have a means of divine audience. The Bible calls it PRAYER.

Yes and a Christian mystic practices deep prayer and meditation on his word while seeking the divine presence of the holy spirit

This is what google says about it
Christian mystics practice prayer through various forms, including contemplation, meditation, and engaging with liturgical practices, all aimed at deepening their connection with God. Mystical prayer often involves moving beyond structured, petitionary prayer to a more intimate and experiential encounter with the divine.

Key elements of Christian mystical prayer:

• Contemplation:
  This involves a deep, loving gaze upon God, often focusing on Christ, and allowing oneself to be transformed by God's presence.
  
  
• Meditation:
  This can involve reflecting on scripture, images, or experiences, allowing the mind to be drawn into deeper understanding and connection with God.
  
  
• Silence and Stillness:
  Many mystical practices emphasize cultivating silence and stillness to quiet the mind and create space for God's presence to be experienced.
  
  
• Liturgy and Ritual:
  Some mystics engage with liturgical practices, such as the Divine Office, as a framework for prayer, while others personalize and adapt these practices to their own needs.
  
  
• Personalized Prayers:
  Mystical prayer can involve crafting personal prayers that reflect one's own journey and relationship with God.
  
  
• Love as Motivation:
  A central aspect of mystical prayer is the desire to love God and to be united with God, often expressed through acts of love and service.
  
  
• Letting Go:
  Mystical prayer can involve letting go of expectations, anxieties, and even the need for words, allowing oneself to be present with God in a state of loving surrender.
  
  
• Singing and Music:
  Some mystics incorporate singing and music into their prayer practices, recognizing the power of sound to elevate the soul and connect with the divine.
  
  
• Physical Labor:
  While not always emphasized, some mystics integrate physical labor into their prayer life, viewing it as a way to serve God and neighbor and to cultivate humility.
  

Examples of Mystical Practices:

• Centering Prayer:
  .
  A method of prayer that involves choosing a sacred word and using it to return to God's presence when the mind wanders.
  
  
• Hesychasm:
  .
  An Eastern Orthodox practice that emphasizes inner prayer, often involving the Jesus Prayer and a focus on silence and solitude.
  
  
• Walking Meditation:
  .
  Some mystics engage in walking meditation, using the rhythm of their steps to connect with God's presence.
  

Goal of Mystical Prayer:
The ultimate goal of mystical prayer is to experience God's presence more fully and to be transformed by that experience, ultimately leading to a deeper union with God.

• 
  

 

[Edify]

Also, the Bible says Matthew 18:20
New American Standard Bible
For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst.
Go to church & find your divine audience.

 

[Edify]

Christian mystics practice prayer through various forms, including contemplation, meditation, and engaging with liturgical practices, all aimed at deepening their connection with God.

Those things are NOT prayer.
BTW, what is a liturgical practice, & what denominations practice them within your list above?

 

[Blain]

Those things are NOT prayer.
BTW, what is a liturgical practice, & what denominations practice them within your list above?

How are they not prayer? like can you explain? aslo as for your question I looked it up

Key aspects of liturgical practices include:

• Sacraments:
  Rituals considered visible signs of God's grace, such as baptism and the Eucharist (Lord's Supper).
  
  
• • Prayer:
    A fundamental aspect of worship, often incorporating specific prayers, litanies, and forms of intercession.
  • Hymnody:
    Singing of hymns, often with theological themes and historical significance.
  • Liturgical Calendar:
    A structured calendar that organizes religious observances, feasts, and fasts throughout the year

 

[Daisy2]

Most of the individuals now called mystics in the Catholic tradition did not define themselves by that label, nor did they seek out extraordinary experiences. Instead, they focused on serving God in their daily lives. If they received visions they typically recorded them out of obedience or for the benefit of others. Saint. Ignatius of Loyola developed structured meditations (like the Spiritual Exercises), which involved imaginative contemplation of Gospel scenes. While he did experience visions, his methods were primarily aimed at fostering a personal relationship with God and discerning His will.

 

[DeanM]

Most of the individuals now called mystics in the Catholic tradition did not define themselves by that label, nor did they seek out extraordinary experiences. Instead, they focused on serving God in their daily lives. If they received visions they typically recorded them out of obedience or for the benefit of others. Saint. Ignatius of Loyola developed structured meditations (like the Spiritual Exercises), which involved imaginative contemplation of Gospel scenes. While he did experience visions, his methods were primarily aimed at fostering a personal relationship with God and discerning His will.

The same Loyala that persecuted protestants as jesuit or was that a different catholic saint?

 

[DeanM]

Most of the individuals now called mystics in the Catholic tradition did not define themselves by that label, nor did they seek out extraordinary experiences. Instead, they focused on serving God in their daily lives. If they received visions they typically recorded them out of obedience or for the benefit of others. Saint. Ignatius of Loyola developed structured meditations (like the Spiritual Exercises), which involved imaginative contemplation of Gospel scenes. While he did experience visions, his methods were primarily aimed at fostering a personal relationship with God and discerning His will.

The same Loyala that persecuted protestants as a jesuit or was that a different catholic saint?

 

[Daisy2]

The same Loyala that persecuted protestants as a jesuit or was that a different catholic saint?

Saint Ignatius of Loyola himself never persecuted Christians. His order the Jesuits was sent along with the Catholic Church to places like South America to you’re referring. They were missionaries, not persecutors. the catholic tribunal were the one that with and civil authorities—not by the Jesuits. His order still has some of the greatest reach within the Catholic Church today. Every year, many Jesuit missionaries give their lives in places others would never dare to go. all in search of the lost sheep of our Lord.

 

[Edify]

I am perplexed at how at one time when the RCC practiced something, christians ran from it.... now, they run to it.
Since WHEN has the RCC did anything considered holy & upright?
Let's not forget they teach Universalism, when Jesus said "I am the way, the truth, and the life, no man comes to the Father but by Me".