Chapter 14: Ascending into Light or Darkness This chapter is a discernment guide for anyone pursuing spiritual ascension. The core message: not every spiritual experience is from God. dT walks through the reality of spiritual deception — New Age counterfeits (chakra opening, astral projection, “Christ consciousness”), emotional manipulation in church environments that mimics genuine presence, and familiar spirits that imitate the Holy Spirit by mixing truth with deception (using the Acts 16 slave girl as an example). The chapter then lays out five biblical tests of discernment: the Doctrinal Test (does it confess Jesus Christ came in the flesh — 1 John 4:2-3), the Scripture Test (does it align with the whole counsel of God’s Word), the Character Test (does it produce fruit of the Spirit — Galatians 5:22-23), the Witness of the Spirit (internal confirmation aligned with the Word — Romans 8:16), and the Fruit Test (long-term outcomes over time). dT provides clear indicators of ascending into light (increased peace, greater love, desire for holiness, humility, clarity, freedom) versus ascending into darkness (confusion, pride, experience elevated over Scripture, emotional highs without character change, isolation from accountability, fear, bondage, departure from sound doctrine). The chapter closes with a six-step recovery path for those who’ve been deceived: repent specifically, destroy connected materials (Acts 19:18-19), seek deliverance if needed, immerse in Scripture, submit to accountability, and be patient with the renewal process. Chapter 15: Protection in the Heavenlies This chapter addresses spiritual warfare in elevated realms. The heavenlies are contested territory — Ephesians 6:12 describes the demonic hierarchy operating there: principalities (territorial rulers), powers (spheres of influence), rulers of darkness (cultural shapers), and spiritual wickedness in high places (the forces you encounter when you ascend). dT outlines the enemy’s five strategies in the heavenlies: blocking prayer (Daniel 10 — the 21-day delay), creating confusion, producing counterfeit experiences, inducing fear, and attacking identity through accusation (Revelation 12:10).

Happy birthday @Gillian Lawrence

Looking forward to seeing you all Sunday. Be prepared for communion and to worship as well as a word on transition.