Brief Answer

Scientology is not Christian. It is a belief system founded by L. Ron Hubbard in the mid-20th century, centered around self-improvement, spiritual awareness, and the pursuit of personal enlightenment through prescribed practices. While it uses terminology that may sound spiritual, its teachings, practices, and theology contradict the central tenets of biblical Christianity. Many evangelical Christians regard it as a cult because it diverges significantly from the Bible’s teachings on God, Jesus Christ, salvation, and the nature of humanity.

Understanding Scientology from a Biblical Perspective

At its core, Scientology is incompatible with Christianity. Christianity is rooted in the belief in one God, revealed through Jesus Christ, and the authority of the Bible as God’s Word. Scientology, however, offers an entirely different framework for understanding humanity and spirituality. Its teachings include:

• A belief in an impersonal concept of “God”: Scientology refers to a “Supreme Being” but does not define or worship God as the Creator of the universe.
• Salvation through self-improvement: In Christianity, salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). Scientology teaches that spiritual progress is achieved through personal effort and advancement up a spiritual hierarchy.
• Denial of sin and the need for a Savior: Christianity emphasizes humanity’s sinfulness and the need for Jesus’ atoning sacrifice (Romans 3:23-24). Scientology denies the concept of sin and focuses on overcoming personal limitations through its practices.

Jesus declared, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). This clear declaration excludes any system, like Scientology, that denies Jesus as the sole path to God.

Historical Context

Scientology was founded in 1953 by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard. It emerged during a time of growing interest in self-help and alternative spiritualities in the United States. Hubbard claimed to have developed a science of the mind called Dianetics, which later evolved into Scientology.

Unlike Christianity, which is based on ancient scriptures inspired by God (2 Timothy 3:16), Scientology draws from Hubbard’s writings and is structured as a series of steps toward enlightenment. Its focus is on addressing the “reactive mind” to achieve a state called “Clear,” a goal entirely absent from Christian doctrine.

The rise of Scientology has often been accompanied by controversy. It is criticized for secrecy, its financial demands, and the way it exerts control over members-elements that have led many to categorize it as a cult.

Practical Implications

For Christians, it is crucial to discern the differences between biblical truth and alternative spiritual systems like Scientology. Some practical implications include:

• Guarding against deception: Paul warned believers to watch for false teachers who present a different gospel (Galatians 1:6-8). Understanding Scientology’s deviations from Christianity can protect believers from being misled.
• Sharing the gospel: Scientologists often seek meaning and purpose, which provides an opportunity to lovingly share the message of Jesus as the ultimate source of truth and life.
• Standing firm in biblical teaching: By growing in the knowledge of Scripture, Christians can confidently refute false teachings and engage with others in love and truth.

Theological Depth and Insight

Theologically, Scientology denies foundational truths of Christianity. Key differences include:

• The nature of God: Christianity proclaims one personal, triune God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). Scientology’s vague concept of a Supreme Being depersonalizes God and minimizes His sovereignty.
• The person of Jesus Christ: Scientology does not recognize Jesus as the Son of God or the Savior of humanity. This contradicts biblical Christianity, which declares Jesus as fully God and fully man, central to salvation (John 1:1-14).
• The path to salvation: Christianity emphasizes grace through faith in Christ, while Scientology relies on works-based progression, contradicting the biblical message of salvation as a gift from God.

Broader Biblical Themes

Scientology’s focus on self-improvement and personal enlightenment is fundamentally human-centered. In contrast, Christianity is God-centered, emphasizing:

• God’s sovereignty: God is the Creator and sustainer of all life, worthy of worship (Colossians 1:16-17).
• Human need for redemption: All have sinned and need salvation through Christ (Romans 6:23).
• The sufficiency of Jesus’ work: The Bible teaches that Jesus’ death and resurrection fully accomplished salvation for those who believe (1 Peter 3:18).

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a critical role in helping Christians discern truth from falsehood. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit as the “Spirit of truth” to guide believers (John 16:13). Through the Spirit, Christians can:

• Recognize teachings that align with Scripture.
• Experience spiritual transformation and growth.
• Share the gospel with others in wisdom and love.

Relevance for Today’s Christian

In a world filled with competing philosophies, Christians are called to stand firm in biblical truth. Scientology appeals to those seeking answers to life’s questions, but its human-centered approach falls short of addressing the deeper spiritual needs only God can fulfill. Today’s Christians can respond by:

• Cultivating a solid understanding of Scripture to engage thoughtfully with Scientology’s claims.
• Offering hope and love to those searching for meaning.
• Trusting in the Holy Spirit to lead conversations with grace and discernment.

Connection to Jesus Christ and God’s Love

At the heart of Christianity is the love of God demonstrated in Jesus Christ. While Scientology focuses on achieving personal freedom, Christianity offers the assurance of God’s unchanging love and the promise of eternal life through Jesus (John 3:16). This message of hope is the ultimate answer for those seeking purpose and meaning.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How can Christians lovingly share the truth of Jesus Christ with those involved in Scientology?
2. What are the dangers of mixing Scientology’s practices or beliefs with biblical faith?
3. How does the biblical view of salvation differ from Scientology’s focus on self-improvement?
4. In what ways can the Holy Spirit guide believers in engaging with people drawn to Scientology?

By understanding Scientology in light of Scripture, Christians can confidently point others to the truth of Jesus Christ, the only way to eternal life.