The #1 Reason I Believe the Enneagram is Deceptive

Ah yes… the Enneagram… how have I not made a video about this before? I want to briefly share 3 reasons with you why this popular personality trend isn’t what you think it is. When things like this come up I usually wait and learn as much as I can I thought it first before I give an educated opinion. Sometimes I see Christians making a bigger deal out of things than they need to be, and other times they were spot on. I believe it takes wisdom, time, and discernment to come to a solid conclusion. Though I'm still learning about this topic, I've come to a point where, indeed, this is a major issue within the Christian community. In this video, I share why.
Timestamps:
#1: False History- 3:12
#2: Richard Rohr- 3:46
#3: My Main Issue- 5:32 *
*(This was actually a point brought up by Jeremiah Roberts in their Cultish Podcast with Marcia Montenegro. You can listen to that here: thecultishshow.com/podcast/pa... )
The Book, "Richard Rohr and the Enneagram Secret":
midwestoutreach.org/enneagram/
Book Website:
enneagramsecret.com
Marcia Montenegro's Website: www.christiananswersforthenewa...
Joy and Don Veniot's Website:
midwestoutreach.org/
More Resources:
My Testimony: • From New Age-Thought t...
Sharing Truth in Love: • Sharing Truth in Love:...
What is the Gospel?: • A Different Jesus: Whi...
Scriptures Showing why Universalism, Mysticism, Oneness, Law of Attraction are not Biblical: • Why Law of Attraction,...
What is Progressive Christianity?: • What Is Progressive Ch...
Top 5 New Age Teachings in the Church: • Top Five New Age Teach...
Breaking Down Scriptures that seem to support Word of faith and new Age teachings with Mike Winger: • Are There Scriptures T...
Bethel Church embracing the New Age and the book Physics of Heaven: • Video
Why the Law of Attraction is garbage: • Video
What is Word of faith, and why is it important?: • What is the Word of Fa...
My Social Media:
Facebook: / newagetochristianity
Instagram: @melissadougherty77
If you are led, please consider donating:
paypal.me/MelissaDougherty77

[@nikionek1881]

"Perhaps Christians have gotten bored with what the Bible has to offer, so they go and find a deeper, more thoughtful structure, like the Enneagram, appealing." Sounds a lot like how the Israelites in the wilderness got tired of waiting for Moses to come back down from the mountain so they fashioned a golden calf for themselves instead, because it was something shiny and new.

[@khloecarver]

Oof, yes, good one.

[@Christwalker89]

Right on, Sis!

[@keshabritt-rose1294]

Truth!!!

[@marywebb9127]

👍

[@judithkillingsworth2965]

True!!

[@Shawn-363]

“My people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge” - Hosea 4:1 Many Christians fall to temptation and allow spiritual attacks into our lives simply because of ignorance, and unwillingness to do research and understand why the Bible tells us this: “Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness;” ‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭4:7‬ ‭

[@Renewed85]

Right on!

[@nicoles9497]

Amen!! So much truth in your comment. I could not agree more.

[@barbs1298]

But this is cool & hip in many churches...everybody who is into finding out more about themselves is into it. 🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️ So sad so many are ignorant.

[@moniquem3738]

Amen! I agree

[@jennymentor9191]

🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@msvanillary]

If people really dive into their Bibles, they will never get bored!

[@truthisfree]

Amen! The old testament is epic

[@ElliottWong2024]

@SHAMAR WASHINGTON Well tbh with you, sometimes I find certain chapters boring. Not trying to be offensive whatsoever. For example, I suffered trying to get past Numbers chapter 7. Personally I enjoy the New Testament more than the Old Testament.

[@Thestephouse1]

Have you tried the naked bible podcast? ❤🙏

[@msvanillary]

@@ElliottWong2024 I totally get it, but when you dive into the Word, and try to understand how everything points to Jesus, you’ll realize there are so much wisdom worth a life time of learning.

[@robertgreblheo]

#facts

[@merlyn9391]

I remember feeling a bit left out couple years ago when everyone was like “I’m number blah blah blah.” But for some reason .. never moved forward taking the test. It seemed weird to me. I understand now that it was the Holy Spirit protecting me...giving me discernment. 😳🙏🏼

[@scraytonify1]

Me, too, it just seemed simplistic and stupid. Who can discern the mind of the Lord--or the mind of His followers?

[@strangerinmoscow6858]

I did take the test, but my results were "no doesn't make sense... No doesn't make sense.. bye" its funny because that was all before I became a Christian and then later begin seeing videos how it's not good

[@Paola-jf2qf]

Right.

[@Adoozyofaday]

a friend sent it to me and wanted me to take it. I had never heard of it but I'm not interested in personality tests of any kind. I tried to take it to appease her, but I couldn't figure it out. I couldn't get the site to work, or open, or whatever. I just said, sorry, I guess I'm too stupid to take this thing.

[@howdyfellas920]

Same thing with me as a child but with horoscopes/zodiacs... i always found that stuff dumb and fake thank God i never picked up interest in it and never will

[@childoflight3388]

I learned about the enneagram last year from a Christian friend and thought it was a neat tool to use for improvement. Once I learned of my number I became fascinated with learning as much as I could about it. In time I started to feel unease about it. It highlighted aspects of my childhood that seemed inescapable and pointed to it as my identity. Our identity is not to be grounded in worldly ideals but in our Father Himself. I now see the Holy Spirit was moving in me.

[@chocolatepeque]

The biggest problem with personality tests like these is that they take your focus from the Lord, back to yourself. They stoke your ego, your pride. They do not further your walk with Christ; they do not glorify Him.

[@kristiwalls9585]

Well said! My thoughts exactly!

[@annabel6038]

Exactly, the make you look inwards instead of upwards!

[@kyleighb.limoges]

Amen

[@JulianCaesaro]

I absolutely agree with this! I was really into the “16 personalities” test a couple of years ago, and it started being weird, like I inadvertently had my whole personality fit into 1 of the 16, and it limited my life in so many ways that I didn’t even realize... And it was actually somewhat like an idol 🤔😨🤭 Glad that it’s in the past now, but I gotta pay better attention from now on 😪

[@skyemchugh2761]

@@JulianCaesaro Yeah, this is exactly how I've felt recently, thanks for sharing!

[@ceruleanblue09]

We have to remember that satan is also "ancient"!

[@bonniegirl5138]

Great t shirt.

[@JR-ee9xc]

This is scary because I got a degree from a Christian University that taught and used this. Thank you for your channel, it's really helping me recognize that I've essentially been apart of a church, which I left 6 months ago that was occultish and new age. They even started practicing sozo. I couldn't run fast enough.

[@CB-zv1ji]

Wow, this explains why I felt so uncomfortable with it! I didn’t even know 😳. Also, the whole “self” discovery, SELF actualization, SELF SELF SELF thing bugs the snot out of me. Can we just forget ourselves?

[@dazey100]

i think without knowing oneself, it's hard to know the things around us authentically. yes, i agree the Bible teaches us about being selfless and letting God and others be the focus on our lives and not ourselves. However, i believe they are speaking about different things ultimately. I see your point, but i don't think that's the point of Enneagram or personality tests or self-knowledge at all. How should we love others as ourselves if we don't even know our own deepest desires and fears? If this doesn't matter, much of therapy and counselling probably wouldn't be of much value either, but I guess you wouldn't agree with that. Whether Enneagram is a good tool for self-knowledge or not, that is one thing; whether self-knowledge is essential or not, is another. And i believe self-knowledge is essential to perceiving the things around us as real as we can.

[@shesings712]

I'm still not sure where I stand on this issue. I see both sides for now. But does anyone remember the song that goes "let's forget about ourselves, and magnify the Lord, He's coming soon?" This comment reminded me of that. I love that song💕 kzbin.info/www/bejne/o6CnlnuZZ9mSsNU

[@amberhammack3020]

Can we just DIE to ourselves as the Bible calls us to do?

[@jannmacdougall1448]

one thing I have noticed is that Christians who follow deceptive ways end up embracing those ways and leaving a relationshoip Christ, but they often don't realize it..

[@reesewitherfork6142]

Isn’t that terrifying?

[@AmberRose823]

Agreed! There is a woman from my church who is cleaving unto false teachings. Since she started leaning away, she has been "tired" and needing a lot more "personal time" to recharge. It is because she is not being refreshed in the Lord.

[@nick.mancinelli]

Am I the only person who didn't even know what an enneagram was before watching these type videos? 🤣

[@nyarjaluo8763]

@Nicholas Mancinelli: 🙋 clueless one here too...

[@bonniegirl5138]

This new creature in Christ had never heard about it before. I am glad to now be informed of this pitfall. Many thanks to Melissa.

[@fredweber6585]

I had never heard of it before this excellent video

[@deathangel523]

Reading the whole bible is important because this is divination seeking wisdom from spirits aka demons instead of seeking wisdom from God.

[@thonbecker]

Thank you for this video. I fell into this trap and nobody ever explained it was wrong. Better to read the Bible and watch God change us.

[@taylorcunningham7931]

@@ziz.ranchero But as Christians God can change anything, and anyone. The Enneagram implies we’re going to be like our type forever, but the Bible says that just isn’t true (when you think about all the types represent a certain sin too) so we should look to God not to this stuff. I fell into the enneagram and am still trying to climb out of personality typology, I don’t think there’s anyway I can use it to help spread the Gospel, Jesus is all we need!

[@sorelyanlie2784]

@@taylorcunningham7931 exactly. Interesting correlation with the seven points as well. "Here are six things the Lord despises, yea even seven". Enneagram excuses sin as "personality" and deceives even Christians into not realizing what they need to repent of and entrust to Jesus Christ. It lulls you into comfort, thinking you have nothing to be forgiven for, which is the ultimate path to destruct. It's heartbreaking.

[@Raque1]

Spirits aren’t necessarily demons, WE are spirits in physical form. I’m certainly not a demon. Our outside and our perspective is based off our inside, what we think, how we talk to ourselves, how were programmed to see the world and ourselves. God provided EVERYTHING. It’s what we DO with what is available.

[@user-bn7dg2km2d]

So many believers are practicing divination and don't think its a big deal. (enneagram, astrology, angel cards, etc) Even though the Bible expressly forbids it.

[@pedinurse1]

Its all witchcraft

[@edenrose1482]

Not forgetting yoga and meditation

[@moniquem3738]

I agree and people think its harmless. I think they are omignorant and just don't know any better. I think we should always be lead by the Holy Spirit.

[@walkwithtom236]

Then are they believers

[@ernestemerson7653]

It is wonderful to see a young woman who sees the deception invading the church and explains it well. God bless u daugther of the Most High God

[@vendradi]

Wowser Melissa. My daughter introduced me to the Enneagram about 6 weeks ago or so. I had never heard of it. We went through the questions to get to my type and I found the information about my number to pretty accurately describe some aspects of my personality. I did a quick search, found a few websites, and did some reading. And then thought to myself, this stuff seems off. I left it where I found it that day. But she is into it. She mentioned it again this past week. I made a mental note of her mention but did not acknowledge it during our conversation. And here you are shining a light on the lie of it all. Thank you! And no, my daughter is not a Christian. Please keep her in your prayers.

[@RoopaDudleyPaintings]

Your daughter is incredibly smart and if I were you, I would much rather listen to her than this false Prophet. I invite you to read Luke 17:20-21. Enneagram will give you a close glimpse of the Kingdom of God that lies within us, just as Jesus promised us.

[@jen9774]

@@RoopaDudleyPaintings rubbish

[@gecro3191]

I was deep in the Enneagram for a couple years and then last year during the pandemic, I discovered the truth and I was set free from the Enneagram. So thankful for people like you getting the word out there!

[@mommyk8989]

One of the pastors in my church is constantly posting about the enneagram, and it’s never sat right with me, even without me knowing anything about it. Maybe time to find a new church... Thank you for this video, your videos have helped me so much! God bless you🙏🏼

[@laurayoung8614]

Karen, please address this issue with your Pastor first. Send him this video. He may not be aware of what he is promoting. Abundant blessings to you 🙂

[@danielvillegas7013]

It's not a small issue but it's not heresy. By all means correct me, but it sounds like you're waiting for a reason to leave your church. Maybe you should. But your relationship to your pastor and your commitment to your local body is a very important and meaningful thing that you shouldn't dismiss so easily. Bring it up to the pastor like the word says in Matthew 18.

[@KKKaTTT123]

This is why I no longer go to church... I go to the Catholic ones and theres incence, altars and hail marys, I go to more modern ones and theyre talking about prosperity and superpowers, i went to a church of england, they went on bashing trump... I wish I could go to an orthodox service but its in greek 🤷‍♀️😂. I dont know...I wish I had a church

[@philotheoapolobrendon3653]

@@KKKaTTT123 Lots of good Biblical churches. Go to their webpage and look at "our beliefs" and test it to Scripture (1 The 5:21; Acts 17:11). If the church doesn't post their beliefs, then don't go. They could be hiding something.

[@abbysaucedo7871]

Video on yoga and chakras next!!!

[@OurHOMEschoolPlan]

Agree!!!

[@lindsay833]

Yes. I do stretches but I can't stand the integration of the chakra garbage.

[@Neleh]

Please!!🙌🏽

[@Renewed85]

YESSSSSSSSSS PLEASE

[@coreeparent6489]

Yes!

[@annabel6038]

Learning that the 'enneotypes' were channelled from a spirit via automatic writing leads me to put use of the enneagram under the category of consulting mediums. Consulting channelled material is the same as consulting a medium, it's just what the medium wrote down. Consulting mediums is clearly forbidden in Scripture so I don't know how any Christian can get around that. They burnt all the demonic witchcraft books and writings in Acts. Unfortunately I've heard Christians I love and respect defend using it as 'taking something the enemy meant for evil and using it for good' or 'redeeming it'. How do you redeem something that came from the mouth of a demon? And why would we be at all interested in what a demon might have to say about our personality when they are under the direction of the father of lies?

[@rabbig777]

Hello. I hope you are doing well today. I just wanted to let you know that there's actually no proof that that happened someone I think just made that up. sometimes people who are very legalistic in the faith will create ideas and stories in order to debunk them when actually there's no real evidence to that.

[@annabel6038]

@@rabbig777 Hi Mark, there is literally a video of an interview with Claudio Naranjo, the creator of the enneagram personality types, where he says how he channelled it from a spirit via automatic writing. I don't know how there could be any more solid evidence than that. Feel free to look it up of Doreen Virtue's channel, it's titled 'Proof that the enneagram is new age, not Christian'. We're not being sensationalist or legalistic, the guy literally said it himself.

[@FiveLoavesTwoFish1]

@@annabel6038 Yes, I watched that. The man next to Naranjo even repeated "automatic writing?" and Naranjo affirmed this and no one took him to task over it.

[@sarahthompson1407]

only Jesus can turn what the enemy meant for evil.

[@annabel6038]

​@@sarahthompson1407 Hi Sarah, I've heard this argument used before to defend Christians using new age tools like the enneagram, but unfortunately it's based on false application of that verse out of context. In Genesis 50:20, Joseph tells his brothers 'what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this-to preserve the lives of many people.' They had sold him into slavery, but God is so sovereign and powerful that he can achieve His will even through man's evil choices. This verse is about God's power and sovereignty. It's absolutely not giving permission for people to engage in sinful occult practices and say that God has redeemed it. There is not one instance of occult practices being 'turned' for good. Every time occult practices are mentioned in the Bible they are utterly condemned as an abomination and God is very clear that we are to have nothing to do with it. He tells the Israelites to tear down the altars of other nations' idols. They are not to worship Him as the pagans worship their gods (Deut 12:31). In the New Testament, the new believers publicly burned their spellbooks (Acts 19:19) and we are warned that Christians will be led astray by 'doctrines of demons' (1 Tim. 4:1). We have concrete proof that the enneagram is straight from a demon. Sarah, I pray that you are not led astray!

[@darlenewyche8318]

You’re awfully young to be so wise but I must say I greatly appreciate it your commentary on the majority of things that you are gracious enough to share with me truly helps God bless you Melissa and keep doing what you’re doing

[@christinam81]

My pastor referenced this in church yesterday, but briefly. I don't touch it. I'm beginning to see New Age practices in so many things.

[@Baileypatt97]

I had no idea about this until late last year and I first suspected something was fishy because it took my focus off of God but I placed it on myself. Then I discovered the origins and was shocked. I was deceived and praise Jesus I don’t use the enneagram anymore.

[@Jessica_Jones]

I have to say I didn't even get that far because as soon as I saw the shape itself -- my brain waved a red flag and went, WHAT IS THIS?!? But yeah, so creepy really to hear the origin story discussion between Melissa and the others!

[@freedomfirst1922]

Same!

[@ArnethProductions]

@Bailey Patterson I saw a video by Alisa Childers on it last year, when learned of it's true occultic origin.. I was shocked like you, because the churches were promoting it, so had no idea. I'm happy that I was already long gone from it as I never got that much into it at all.. maybe a few months? because like you, I felt it took my focus off of Jesus and instead onto myself.. . It was wrong.. its almost like a religion..ღ

[@ArnethProductions]

@@Jessica_Jones Praise God for your quick awarenessღ

[@joys.6347]

I had a similar thing, someone presented if to me as just a fun personality test. I did it, and thought it was cool, but a few months later began to see youtube videos pop up from trustworthy people who condemned it. I put off looking into it out of pride; I didn't want to know I had been deceived. Looking back, some things didn't quite sit right, and the "formula" for "becoming a better person" just seemed off. I thought people were too obsessed with it. Now, I try to let others know ths truth, especually those who I've discussed it with.

[@Maman_poule]

I LOVED the enneagram...until I learned it’s origins. Now I’ve been telling friends/family and am so discouraged at how unreceptive they are. I’ve been told things like “God redeems” or “it’s just a tool” . I’ve stopped being as vocal and am just praying God opens the churches eyes.

[@lindtothesayyy]

I told my friend about them this morning because she posted a book "Bible Verses for Ennegrams" or something like that. I told her these are new age/occult and not something Christians should be a part of. But she said "there's no wrong way to get into God's Word".... Unfortunately there is.

[@TheJdextreme]

I’ve had the same thing happen in my conversations. I think it’s indicative of someone pursuing ‘rightness’ as opposed to righteousness.

[@karenwebber9200]

You must stand for truth, then the Lord is your defender!

[@tonic.9234]

I would explain to them that the Enneagram has the same roots & really is the same thing as Astrology which the Bible clearly condemns. They will say, no, it's just psychology. Then you can ask which psychologists developed it through human studies over a period of time (like all psychology is developed). They won't find an answer to this. There's also a video with one of the founders himself saying this information was given to him through automatic writing and spirit channeling. It's not science. Not psychology. It's now being used in professional psychology (much like other new age tools), but it's not a scientifically developed psychological tool.

[@straightouttadundalk]

I had to leave a church cause of the staff using it and saying it changed their lives. No repentance of it at all

[@tired_buthappy]

Your identity should be in Christ, not in a number or trait.

[@lifestylehomestead]

This sums it up.

[@saskiascott8181]

The enneagram doesn't give you an identity, it's just a tool to find possible ways you are veering away from Christ so you can "shed the old man".

[@sunshinegirl1967]

It's been so long since I was taken in by new age jibber-jabber, but I can still spot that kind of twisted talk given by this author at 05:03. I would add this. When a Christian gets "bored" with the Bible and wants something new, they will surely search until they find it. This is a dangerous place to be. That's why pastors have such a burden placed on them: "...Preach the word....reprove, rebuke, exhort....for the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires..." 2 Tim 4:2,3.

[@sorelyanlie2784]

Also, I don't really understand how you can even get bored with the bible. There's just way too much to unpack for that. And (especially the new testament writers) and genuinely engaging!! It's not lacking in sense of humor or pros. Anyone who thinks they're bores of the bible is reading it the wrong way.

[@wildblue7832]

Good video, Melissa! Thank you. The Ennegram was one of my last "tools" when I was in the NA, along with contemplative meditation. Both were useless because there was no change in me. I'm seeking and cherishing the holy spirit now for true healing of my ❤

[@lindtothesayyy]

Girl, so FREAKY! I literally just messaged a friend of mine this morning because I can tell, even though she says she loves Jesus, that she is going over to the new age side of things. She shared a pic of a "Bible Verses for Enneagrams" book so I told her about Enneagrams. Not sure if it was received well, but I did it with love and that's all I can do.

[@karenwebber9200]

I once shared with a church sister that astrology was witchcraft. She had NO idea... she was grateful I let her know! Praise God

[@Renewed85]

Wow

[@child_of_weakness7600]

@@karenwebber9200 me too! It's shocking how Christians don't know that occultism and astrology and witchcraft was Israel's idols God punished punished for

[@daverogg8701]

I’m reading Rohr’s book now and finding the “secret” is the enneagram will draw you away from God to Rohr’s universal believing in all religions lead to God, with this “tool” of destruction. Good teaching, Melissa!!!

[@claytonwilson1125]

2 Timothy 3:5 KJV - Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. this, zodiac, astrology ,etc. They have truth in them, but they deny the TRUTH.

[@kaya214]

You have misunderstood the scripture and there is no TRUTH in those. Salvation is the only TRUE way. This scripture is speaking specifically to discerning false followers who appear to have a form of godliness but deny the power. May God help them. So individuals who deny the Holy Spirit and His gifts and do not agree and live by the doctrine and who do not heed to the Spirit. Also Christians need to stop with all this zodiac nonsense. Study to show yourselves approved.

[@melbahall4564]

You have so well said. A form

[@bradleytwilson99]

"Everywhere you look, you'll see what you're looking for."

[@OurHOMEschoolPlan]

Thank you so much for this bc I had never heard about this until I became a leader in a homeschool group and EVERYBODY kept asking me, “what’s your enneagram number?” I had no idea, but kept being told what I was or why they did what they did.....I felt like we were all being put into a box. I was always a little uneasy with it. Yoga next. Another one that Christians are apathetic to.

[@saftis5304]

We used this at a Christian workplace and I participated in taking the test :(immediately when seeing the picture of the emneagram, something felt wrong about it. I should have listened to that feeling and I regret participating. I should have learned by now that even if something seems innocent or not that big of a deal, and even if I cannot pinpount why it feels wrong, I should just not do it. Jesus please help me stay away from bad things from now on and to listen to you when you warn me 🙏

[@patriothippie5881]

Is anyone reading their Bible ? Apparently not because we're even having this conversation

[@joelunruh6534]

Humor just the way I like it. Dry as the Sahara.

[@sorelyanlie2784]

I'll be honest and admit that I was not regularly reading my Bible until fairly recently. I seriously believed that I just didn't have time. How sad and ridiculous is that? Anyway, even just after a couple of months of TRULY SEARCHING the word, I already feel so much more aware and able to understand the world around me and why so many of the rules given to Christians in the new testament (which people always try to dismiss or weasle their way out of) actually make sense!!! Honestly, there are even people I know who DO read their bible every day, but do so with a specific devotional or only one verse out of time out of context and they have no more insight on what is truly intended by God through the writers than they did before.

[@dancdow]

As 4w3, INTJ, Phlegmatic, Ravenclaw, and Leo setting on Virgo. I think you are spot on. Well said.

[@mbb--]

lol

[@katyaintheact1786]

There’s nothing wrong about being a Leo. Just don’t make it your identity or be delusional about not being an actual cat.

[@MaubenEL]

When The Most High tells us to stay away from these corruptible things He isn’t saying it to spoil our fun, He wants to preserves and keep us from spiritual bondage

[@HelloBye..]

I’ve never seen or heard of an enneagram before until last week. I didn’t really care or thought much of learning about it. But then so many people have been posting what their personality was with this. I’m so glad I came to your channel and learn not to get caught up in all the new age thinking.

[@rabbig777]

Hello. I just wanted to clarify it is not new age thinking. Someone just labeled it that. Hope you have a wonderful day.

[@deripfina]

@@rabbig777 The video expresses why it is new age thinking. God bless you and keep you.

[@Learningthetruth7]

THANK YOU< THANK YOU!!! I was invited to a meeting and the Holy Spirit within me gave me a huge warning. I spent the whole time doing spiritual warfare over those that were there.

[@nixthelapin9869]

I’m really glad I haven’t gone to a church that promotes it. I have gone to an event where a woman mentioned it in passing, but it was just in the sense of personality. I spoke to her about it after and she seemed open to researching it. She had mentioned it in the first place as a tool similar to Meyers-Briggs to help find what you’re good at. She made it pretty clear that even that test wouldn’t bring you closer to God but rather help you see things better, like learning something new about yourself. She didn’t call it a Christian tool either, thank God, but it’s definitely important to address the occult origins. Similarly, no one should use personality types to determine compatibility. It’s all ridiculous.

[@carolinehansen7714]

New Age got woven into my Christian faith when I was an impressionable student at a Christian college. Now even 6-10 years later, I am still finding elements of New Age that I need to prune away from my belief system and these videos help me so much. I work for a Christian ministry and all the higher ups love the Enneagram and require it on the job application. I declined to answer that part. I don’t know how to lovingly encourage people away from the Enneagram. They are so attached to it and protective over it

[@michaelg4919]

I prefer the repentagram ;)

[@MuMu-fu7qe]

☺ good one!

[@CookingWithJackDaniels]

Pentagram you say?

[@amywoodard2852]

This is such a relief! I have a "rare" personality and have been thinking I'm doomed to never really acquire the skills in areas I've been lacking like social skills. I started looking into personality assessments because of interpersonal conflicts but it never really felt like the right thing to do. God knows me and created me exactly this way to do His work and this satisfies my soul. Thank you for this video! It relieves so much pressure.

[@BoSS-dw1on]

Our church just had Ian Cron to present the enneagram to the congregation during the sermon. That is when I researched it and found out it’s evil roots. Thanks Melissa for this very well done video.

[@Hitome315]

instead of running, bring the information to the church. Help others in your church see what it really is. If no one listens, then shake off the dust and leave.

[@judithellis8059]

I attended several classes on this at my former church and for a while I thought it was rather interesting. But all the teachers of the enneagram at this church always began with explaining that it really wasn't thus and such. If you have to start out explaining something by saying it really isn't this, you're in trouble, you are not the real deal.

[@joys.6347]

Good point. My mum's friend is one of those "enneagram coaches" and she told us to not believe people who said it was pagan, because "it has nothing to do with that." I believed her at first.

[@chekovcall2286]

The phrase, "This isn't for everybody, so..." comes to mind.

[@GApeech08]

@@chekovcall2286 , Yep, because Jesus IS for everybody.

[@llamasugar5478]

I was intrigued until I *saw* the diagram. Then I was repulsed, because it just looked occultic.

[@neverdonehomestead3596]

Same here!

[@long2baproverbs31woman2]

It is.

[@shareyah8]

Yes, I'm very into understanding people's psychology, so was intrigued when a few Christian friends told me about the enneagram.... until I looked at it myself. My very first thought was how occultic it looked. First red flag.

[@garciacentral]

I know, like I was going to have some of my abuela’s “cabrito” the other day and then I said, “No way, abuela, this cabrito is like real goat! Goats are satanic!” That’s a red flag, “¡Si mon!”

[@RebekahEdvalds]

I view the enneagram similarly to the love languages or the “lion/otter/golden retriever” personality quiz, and it helped my husband and I put words to how we viewed or processed things around us/events. Similarly to the love languages. Never used to find our “true selves” - just help articulate why we act or respond the way we do in different situations. Although obviously it’s not perfect because we’re all different. But it did help me not feel like an outcast in feeling a certain way about things. A personality quiz that you answer questions for is vastly different than the star signs that are based off a birthday. I hate that comparison. A better comparison would be love languages or another personality quiz like the Myers Briggs or something. Thank you for the heads up. This video reminded me a lot of a friend who used to be atheist and heavily into the spirituality stuff and yoga in particular and now can’t practice yoga because she knows the spiritual meaning behind each pose and doesn’t think other Christians should either. I’ve always avoided hippie type yoga and looked for more stretch-based “yoga” because it felt weird with the stuff they would say. I am in no way “bored of the Bible” because I like personality quizzes even if they’re as silly as my organizing style or “my color quiz”. As long as people aren’t making it their main identity or idolizing any of these things and putting God and the Bible first, I think people can use a lot of “worldly” things in a God-honoring way. Condemning people for using or doing something that they didn’t know the roots of does seem a bit self-righteous. I don’t know if any of this will make sense to anyone, but that’s my unpopular opinion I guess.

[@paigesumpter5621]

I had never heard of this until Casting Crowns Second Opinion song came out. Didn’t really care enough to to look into. Then I have followed the DAB Chronological reading of the Bible, and one of the readers mentioned it. Someone from the group shared your video about warning other listeners. Thank you for the knowledge!!

[@madisonroy735]

I’m curious about your thoughts on the Myers Briggs type indicator. While, as far as I know, it doesn’t have roots in the occult, I see it used in the same way as the enneagram a lot of the time. Some people see it as a way to better understand their preferences and behaviors rather than finding their “true self,” but I can see how it could also be a way to elevate self over Christ.

[@lindafry8015]

I had to do the Myers Briggs for college (degree in HR), but I never thought of it as religion. Maybe because I went to a Christian college or maybe because I'm strong in my faith (Lutheran, LCMS).

[@mr.civility389]

From what I do know about the Myers break typing, comma it is far more influenced by unions psychology than anything else, At the very least it was young who came up with the cognitive functions functions on which the typing is based These functions have more to do with how individuals individuals interpret and react to stimulus then it has to do with an ego driven view of the world

[@nanadeborah8717]

When I worked in the Catholic hospital,we were having a problem with a new charge nurse who disregarded most of what we told her. As experienced nurses,we could tell before the vital signs crashed that the patient was going downhill. The patient needed to be a higher priority. Unless that patient's vital signs were in the dumpster,she refused to even have interest. The reason I tell you this is because the nuns also owned the College of St. Catherine. They arranged an evening for floats to cover the evening shift. Then all of us had dinner at the college,and took a Briggs Meyer personality test. There was a professor who interpreted our results. She used a discussion to talk about the problems we were having. It turns out the new charge nurse was strictly scientific and wanted only hard facts. The rest of us scored intuitive which the professor explained as being able to notice small changes in our patients that would lead to a change in their condition. Since the charge nurse now understood our reasoning process,she changed her behavior. Intuitive doesn't mean psychic though some people think it does. It just means that a person unconsciously picks up signals from another person or situation. It saved her job.

[@jakiru8783]

I would recommend checking out content from David Hunt or the Berean Call ministry. Like this channel, he's exposed many occult practices and has talked about Carl Jung and Myers Briggs.

[@gracezaky1192]

I completely agree that some Christians may be looking for external meaning and that putting the focus on themselves alone can lead them down a dark path, but I just don't think the core problem is necessarily that it has origins in familiar spirits. The only connection it has with the occult is the structure, the design. As you said, personality traits were only introduced later with their roots in some verified psychology. So if a Christian only uses it for that purpose, and disregards any New Age ideas of "enlightenment" and their "true self," I believe the Enneagram can be used to bring them closer to God. For me, understanding why I sometimes fail in my walk with God through the lens of my type has allowed me to overcome those habits and carry on in the fight. What does any of that have to do with spirits or the New Age? I believe that what the Enneagram was in the 1800s has nothing to do with what it is today, and is therefore not *inherently* dangerous. Only when it is used for extra-biblical purposes can it truly become a weapon of the enemy.

[@cherryblossom6702]

This reminds me of Numerology. It has personality types besed on numbers.

[@robs5252]

I had several books on this and the personality types that I had purchased many, many years ago. I had read through them, answered the questions to get my personality type, and had things highlighted as though it was divine insight. I forgot that I had them - they were boxed away and forgotten about until a recent move when I found them. I threw them out in the trash. I suggest anyone who has books about it to do the same.

[@strangerinmoscow6858]

You should have burned it. I want to burn any book I read that could lead ppl away

[@naomispencer2696]

@@strangerinmoscow6858 No, you should recycle it! Burning might be therapeutic but it releases a load of carbon into the atmosphere which isn't good. Much better that you tear the pages out and put them in with your paper recycling ♻️. That way they can make it into something that is ACTUALLY useful (such as toilet roll!)

[@TheNickels86]

@@naomispencer2696 A toilet roll! Haha, that is funny. I give my false teaching books to our pet rabbits, they tear them up good!!

[@robs5252]

@@strangerinmoscow6858 I live in a residential development that doesn't allow any kind of burning.

[@robs5252]

@@TheNickels86 I have rabbits...didn't think about that

[@mayachill1285]

First time hearing about this. But the second I saw it reminded me of the pentagram..

[@CookingWithJackDaniels]

Yeah. Different things entirely

[@TheExastrologer]

Thanks, Melissa! So glad you did this to get the word out. And thanks for the recommend of our book!

[@robinlazulite3167]

Hey Melissa! Wow, I elevated the enneagram more than I thought. A LOT of Christians I respect and follow use the enneagram as a tool to understand themselves and how to get along with other people better. Thats why I used it a lot too. But I found myself worried a lot about not meshing well with other personality types. All because of this widely accepted tool. So thank you for helping me clear up the iffy feelings I had about the enneagram. I feel better knowing that I don’t have to frequently consult this tool to understand myself or to know whether I’m compatible with someone 😅😂

[@chuckhyland893]

I have just started watching your videos recently. One thing that I really like that stands out from others that do this is how you have references for everything that you present. I look forward to future messages that you have to share.

[@newcreationcoachingllc6491]

Thank you for making a shorter video about this. Hopefully, it is enough to turn some away or to look deeper on the points you have brought up. Praying about this issue! I have heard of a few people being delivered after repenting of this.

[@natalie8698]

My husband was told by one of these "personality" tests that he couldn't serve in a church because his "personality" traits weren't compatible with the pastor's traits.

[@debtaber4558]

I get what you are saying and I do appreciate your thorough research, but I was introduced to enneagram via my therapist. Long story short, my mom passed away in 2020 and I desperately needed some Christian counseling. My therapist had me take the test, just to try and figure out my core personality, which was eye opening for me, but also not a surprise either (if that makes sense). It hasn't changed anything in the way I study the word of God, pray, seek the Lord, live for him, share the gospel with others, etc. The test just helped me understand the basic of who I am better. It hasn't altered friendships, it hasn't become my god, it isn't a gospel for me, but rather a tool in discovering this woman God created, how she processes things, how she is inclined to interact with others, etc. While the test was interesting, it doesn't diminish the work God is doing, who he created, how I worship or serve him. I do see how it could be dangerous in some circles, with some people, and do believe the word of God is our ultimate guide and where we need to be going for everything, but in the right context, I think the test can be useful.

[@Paola-jf2qf]

I have a good friend and priest who is an exorcist and once gave our youth group an on depth talk about the dangers of new age groups, movies, books etc. It scared me, to learn how we are surrounded by it, and so many Christians and Catholics will read the books and watch the movies, but in reality it is another way evil is trying to draw us in. I feel guilty, because I watched the secret, and loved the movie at the time and even invited friends from Church to watch it with me.🙀😿. During the movie, a friend turned around and asked, this is cool, but what does the Church say about this? I was glad she asked this question, which led me to ask even more questions.

[@thetruedaoster8863]

Thanks for sharing, Melissa! That diagram. . . I feel like I've seen it somewhere before, though I never knew the name. . . .thanks for raising awareness of this! The world needs the likes of you and other apologists who are faithful to the Word of God as He has revealed it. Keep at it, sister!

[@jessefunnell7661]

I have seen the enneagram stuff but never heard of the history. Honestly I think in part the enneagram looks at the psychology of one's personality. I agree it doesn't give me my identity and people need to be careful about it. I think of it as a tool. One may fall into a black and white fallacy here thinking this is all bad. I will give you an anecdotal instance. My family, friends and I looked at the psychology behind the enneagram and saw that it was helpful to understand certain personalities. But there was some untrue aspects about it, so we disregarded those things. I don't think it is something to be preached in the church necessarily. I think one just needs to understand what it is and the history and maybe just focus on the psychology of it.

[@memellie]

Thank you so much for posting this video. This is a subject I have felt uncomfortable with, but I could not articulate why. I plan on looking into the book you have recommended. I have at least two Christian friends that are into this so I would like to be able to discuss it with them, but first must become more knowledgeable about it and why they should leave it alone. 💜

[@christinec.2376]

thank you for being there for us, exposing the lies, demons, and false teachers.. i watched American Gospel with friends yesterday.. surprised not to see you in the mix.. next time. :)

[@freedomfirst1922]

THANK YOU for this! I myself have fallen into the enneagram, and I am so thankful you pointed me to truth. God is using you to point Christians to truth, so keep doing what you’re doing! GREAT VIDEO! Please do yoga if you haven’t already!

[@TS-fj2lo]

Thank you! Someone introduced me to the enneagram in Church and I looked into it. At first it seemed like fun and was accurate, people described it as Christian. On social media it was posted in a fun way, then I started getting more into it and the Holy Spirit stopped me. I saw the symbol and thought it looked like witchcraft, then God also was showing me that my identity is found in Him, not a personality quiz or the enneagram. Finally a Sister posted about it on FB in an article that warned us to stop looking at and delving into the enneagram. I deleted all the screenshots and repented. I’ll be sharing this video on my page to help others. Thanks for your ministry. To God be all Glory. Amen.

[@mackenzielee6405]

GIRL THIS POPPED UP IN MY RECOMMENDATION ON PURPOSE... I think this was actually the first video I watched today, Later on, in my time on KZbin I watched a Faith channel and she started talking about how she was a 2 on the enneagram, i watched this travel channel (who r Christian) and they talked about the enneagram too! Btw- (todays the very first time I've heard of this enneagram) If it wasn't for this video I watched earlier today I would have gotten really deep into this enneagram stuff! Coincidence? I think not!!

[@Rita-23]

I had never heard of this until I heard your "Women's Bible study" video (30 mins ago). Thank you for teaching.

[@chekovcall2286]

Wasn't it amazing? (:

[@klarag7059]

I was forced to do this as part of a church leadership workshop. I was driven and had no way to leave. NO ONE complained about it but me. I could sense the demons and see how people were being affected. I staved off a panic attack the whole day. I had no idea how to deal with spiritual attacks or as a young person dealing with older men who were in leadership over me. It was awful. The two men leading it were not Christian and I could see the evil over them! This was in the end of the 1990’s. All I can do now is repent and pray for those who participated. It was a huge number of mostly under 50’s men and women involved in some form of ministry in one particular denomination. There’s a lot of progressivism coming from that denomination now. I feel ill thinking of it all even now. I thank Jesus for His patience with me and forgiving me.

[@houseofclure4867]

Funny how something intended to decode the stars and use math to map out the universe turned into an egocentric discovery tool. Vanity of vanity. I'm glad your calling this stuff out. Thats why I subscribed to this channel.

[@thomasrogers3008]

One way I have found it really helpful, is in understanding my wife more and improving the way I communicate with her. I guess I have found it less practically helpful for me personally - as it's a bit abstract. I believe there is value in understanding yourself, but only to a certain extent - true humility or godliness isn't thinking more or less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less (which the enneagram does not encourage - so I'm in agreement with you there)

[@shermantrigg61]

Our church staff has been using this. They have also been promoting a book by Peter Scazzero titled “Emotionally Healthy Spirituality”. I read the first two chapters and had a lot of red flags. Lots of “true self” talk. Could you please comment on this.

[@chekovcall2286]

Depending on the denomination, it sounds like the practitioners have an allegorical POV of the bible. You still are obligated to show them via scriptures the warnings in Lev, and Deut as well as the NT warnings about being deceived and the punishment for heresy. Many people do not believe in hell or in the Day of the Lord. If they don't listen, move on. Someone corrected me once and it made a difference. (:

[@makenab.6725]

Interesting because I'm actually reading it right now. I agree that at first a lot of it seemed interesting, but getting to the latter half of the book, it provides practices that are very biblical and focus entirely on relationship with the Lord as the source of our growth and change. Pulling in the importance of the Sabbath. Just my thoughts. Haven't finished the book yet

[@lindaellmore4821]

Love the core question: Can you form your identity based on information acquired by contact with a familiar spirit? This really drives it home for me and gives me a simple way to show friends its dangers. Thanks Melissa!

[@OAlem]

It's called a loaded question, my friend. It's a common trick of deception. But maybe your friends are gullible and will believe this familiar spirit story without any evidence whatsoever.

[@annabel6038]

I keep on hearing Christians say 'What the enemy meant for evil, God meant for good' as an argument to defend Christians using the enneagram when they learn of its demonic origins. That's based on false application of that verse out of context. In Genesis 50:20, Joseph tells his brothers 'what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this-to preserve the lives of many people.' They had sold him into slavery, but God is so sovereign and powerful that he can achieve His will even through man's evil choices. This verse is about God's power and sovereignty. It's absolutely not giving permission for people to engage in sinful occult practices and say that God has redeemed it. There is not one instance of occult practices being 'turned' for good. Every time occult practices are mentioned in the Bible they are utterly condemned as an abomination and God is very clear that we are to have nothing to do with it. He tells the Israelites to tear down the altars of other nations' idols. They are not to worship Him as they worship their Gods (Deut 12:31). In the New Testament, the new believers publicly burned their spellbooks (Acts 19:19) and we are warned that Christians will be led astray by 'doctrines of demons' (1 Tim 4:1). We have concrete proof that the enneagram is straight from a demon. Praying that people who use this argument dig into Scripture and are not led astray!

[@rhjklgrtmaaxsdgosn1288]

I love the enneagram, but only the part where it helps me understand my own behavior and relationships. Not the 'spiritual enlightenment' part. This is the first I have heard of it. I always thought it was simply a personality test. It has helped me understand myself better. But most definitely not a 'path to enlightenment',

[@gracezaky1192]

Completely agree, and I think it's important to discern between those who view it in that way and those who don't. For me, understanding myself leads to wisdom which leads me closer to Christ. I have been a more faithful follower because I understood why I sometimes struggle to be. But for others, they stop at the introspection. Their focus is on themselves and only themselves, and they forget to recenter their lives in Christ. While I disagreed with some points in her video, I think it's very important for the Christian community to continue making them so that those who are on the New Age path can be warned and realize that they can never save themselves.

[@shelleybuker4544]

Thank you! This short, clear and concise format is a fantastic tool to share with others!

[@chrishackworth5745]

Thank you, Melissa! I am so tired of people, even those who seem to be "on-fire" Christians, introducing and defending things like yoga for themselves and in the church. It seems that most people in church don't truly understand what it means to glorify God through His bride. Ugh.

[@soccerchamp0511]

This is really interesting. I get what you're saying, but I think things like the enneagram and MBTI can be used in a positive way as tools. For example, they are great for giving other people insight into how you think/operate and vice versa. I think, just as with most things, that your intent and how you use things are more important than how or why something was created in the first place.

[@AP-zm4ep]

The creepiest part about the enneagram is how scarily accurate it is. I didn’t know it was occultic at the time of taking the official test on the enneagram site but when I did read the results it literally described every single aspect of my personality to a T. Like 100%. And I’m a very deep and overly complex person so the fact it laid all things bare I was shocked. Still don’t know what to think of it but have since repented.

[@brizaksmommy]

Just bought the book. Thanks! The comparison to astrology is spot on in so many areas. I laughed cause I am "Taurus". I have a friend that believes in all that new age stuff and any time I decide I'm not going to do something that is "expected" of me she calls me "The Bull" and then leaves me alone. There's good and bad in that... My boss this year brought in people that taught on arch-types. Because I identified with the "orphan" category, now everytime I bring something to her that needs to be discussed she's all, "The Orphan is speaking." The good is she actually listens to me but seriously? It's just another version of astrology being taught by "Christian" leaders. 🙄 I just found you last week. Really like your teaching. 😊 For once, YT made a great recommendation for me. ❤️

[@grantcampbell3949]

Thank you Mel. I really enjoying learning from you. Love your heart for God & His People. God bless you & your family

[@misskingschild3670]

I totally agree. To be honest when I started reading the enneagramm I felt so overwhelmed and thought "Wow FINALLY someone understands me". I LOVED it and recommended it to so many people, even read it to my husband and family. Then I got informed about where it comes from etc. and wow.. This is so toxic. It's a lie that the enneagramm knows me best - it's JESUS! He's always loved me (and you!), we're made in his image with our own personality. Other personality tests etc can be helpful I think but the enneagramm is definitely deceiving. The problem is: it seems to be so close to truth but it's still not the truth. So thank you for the video, brothers and sisters let us remember Jesus loves and knows us best and HE is the one who can change and transform us day by day! God bless you all.

[@romymarcondes6943]

This is kind of confusing. I don’t use the enneagram at all but your definition of it wasn’t how I’ve ever seen it used. It definitely has occult roots but this is kind of misleading. It’s been described as a tool to help you see where you have weaknesses because of your personality type or causes like trauma etc and then to help you be aware and work through them. It’s not at all used like astrology to blame your personality on a “type”. So that explains better why churches fell for this. And for all the people saying your identity should be in Christ: YES. But identity and personality are different things. We all have the same identity as sons and daughters of God but we all have different personalities and we can’t deny that there are personality types. Should we use that as a means to attain anything or define ourselves? NO But I don’t think that’s why any churches have used it. It’s used differently and that’s how they never even looked at the roots of this thing before running with it.

[@leonardoantonio216]

Adding to this, if you look up the definition of 'identity', it refers to the collective caracteristics of a group that tells them apart from the rest, meanwhile 'personality' is the _individual_ caracteristics of someone. Several people can have the same identity, but have different personalities, since the former is collective and the latter individual

[@TrudyConway]

I just wanted to thank you for sharing what you do. That you do this is a blessing to others & I look forward to your videos. There are so many ways that the Enemy comes at us today & we have to warn each other to stay on guard. God bless you.

[@lavenderflowers1075]

Our true self is that we are sinners in need of God's grace; and we find that grace at the foot of the cross.

[@katja.brodt-de-sousa]

All you share makes sense and resonates. I use the Enneagram and introduced others to it - as it actually really made a positive impact on my and peoples lives. And yet, deep down I do get a funny uncomfortable feeling whenever I see the symbol of the numbers to the point I avoid looking at it. I will pray for not being mislead! Thanks 🙏 for this video

[@elizabethmedinavallejo7958]

Where were you when I was looking into this!? Lol I’m glad you made a video on this.

[@MerBlack]

Great video, Melissa (sister)! Thank you!!grateful for how your sharing the only true Gospel so humbly and lovingly... 🙏🏼🙌🏻

[@kristabrammer6410]

Yes, thank you for making this video! I sadly had to leave a church I loved bc they really got into the enneagram - it was a whole sermon series and something about it didn’t sit right with me.

[@forgivenandredeemed9460]

I never even knew what the enneigram was, but when I saw images of it as I would scroll through KZbin, I had this feeling that is was of the New age. Great video! Thanks for explaining it and warning us!

[@chekovcall2286]

I was glad that you equated the use of this practice to identifying w/astrological signs. I hadn't encountered this topic until I discovered your channel. Thank you.

[@Christwalker89]

Thanks Melissa! I don't know much about the enneagram other than what I've learned from you and Marcia!! Thanks for the info! How would I address this in my church though, if I found out someone in the church is practicing enneagram?

[@philtimedavidfpw]

Thank you so much for posting this video. I never heard of the enneagram until the pandemic hit. It was never clear to me what it was all about. It just looked weird to me. Thank you for all of your videos and all the hard work you do. God bless. Edit: I just found out Ms. Marcia was interviewed for a KZbin video on the Unbelievable KZbin channel. It's a debate with Todd Wilson. So now I want to watch what Ms. Marcia says about it, too. Thank you.

[@adamkissel4168]

Great video Melissa... reminds me of astrological types. and personality types ... The simplicity that is in Christ is liberating!

[@rrjohn5]

Oh how I wish my loved ones would understand this. It really saddens me.

[@sunshinegirl1967]

Does "ancient" make anything reliable?

[@dani_vonne]

I've been waiting for this!!!!!!

[@deathangel523]

Just another pentagram lol.

[@cristyvillarreal224]

Great video!! 😁👏🏾 Love ur channel!! I started watching as a recommendation by The Beat w/Allen Parr. Nice work you're doing Melissa!! 💙

[@valeriemckenna4590]

Thank you Melissa I’ve never done this and won’t.. I appreciate your videos and I love your parody of the women’s group. I’ve watched that video numerous times. I thank you.. hope you have a blessed day. God Bless You and you have blessed me. Take care!!!

[@nanonkay5669]

I never thought the Enneagram had anything to do with religion. I just thought it was a psychological tool used to best describe your personality traits and use that to find a way out or solutions to improve yourself as a person. I don't think it has a strict religious backing to it

[@elissabellajoy]

Thanks Melissa. I really appreciate your channel. May the Lord bless you and strengthen you to further His Kingdom by speaking the truth lovingly. 🙏🙏