Astrology

Jesus Christ himself did not directly address astrology in the Gospels. The Bible, however, contains several passages in both the Old and New Testaments that are often interpreted to relate to astrology, which was a common practice among many ancient cultures, including those surrounding Israel. Here are a few verses that Christians often reference when discussing the topic of astrology and seeking guidance from celestial bodies rather than God:

1. Isaiah 47:13-14 (ESV): “You are wearied with your many counsels; let them stand forth and save you, those who divide the heavens, who gaze at the stars, who at the new moons make known what shall come upon you. Behold, they are like stubble; the fire consumes them; they cannot deliver themselves from the power of the flame. No coal for warming oneself is this, no fire to sit before!”
2. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 (ESV): “There shall not be found among you anyone who burns his son or his daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens, or a sorcerer or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord. And because of these abominations the Lord your God is driving them out before you.”
3. Leviticus 19:26 (ESV): “You shall not eat any flesh with the blood in it. You shall not interpret omens or tell fortunes.”

While these verses do not come from the direct teachings of Jesus, they reflect the broader biblical perspective on practices such as astrology, which is generally seen as seeking guidance from sources other than God.

Three Takeaways:

1. Seek Guidance from God: The Bible encourages believers to seek guidance directly from God through prayer and scripture rather than turning to astrology or other forms of divination. This is a core principle that reflects trust in God’s sovereignty and His plan for individuals.
2. God vs. Creation: While the Bible acknowledges the beauty and wonder of the stars and planets God created (e.g., Psalm 19:1-4), it distinguishes between appreciating creation and worshiping or seeking guidance from created things instead of the Creator.
3. Wisdom and Discernment: Christians are called to use wisdom and discernment in all things (James 1:5). This includes being cautious about practices like astrology that have roots in seeking knowledge or control over the future outside of God’s revelation and guidance.

In summary, while Jesus did not specifically mention astrology, the biblical narrative provides guidance on the matter, emphasizing trust in God, the distinction between creator and creation, and the importance of seeking wisdom and discernment from God above all.