God

Animists believe many gods and spirits are found in trees, rocks, plants, and other things. Some also believe in a great god who is above all the others.

There is one God. “The Lord our God, the Lord is one,” (Deuteronomy 6:4).

What is God like?

If there is a great god, he is far away from humans and does not care about their daily lives, animists believe. Spirits and gods are unpredictable. They may bring sickness or other misfortune to people who do not please them.

God “is not far from each one of us, for in Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:27b,28a). “God is love” (1 John 4:16). Cast “all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

Free will

Animists believe that spirits rule the world so completely that humans have little free will.

God rules the universe, but lets people choose who or what they will worship.

Ancestor worship

Many animists make offerings to their dead relatives. They hope the spirits of their ancestors will bring them good fortune.

God alone is to be worshipped. (See Exodus 20:3 and Deuteronomy 32:21a.)

Witchcraft

Animists believe Shamans, medicine men, and witch doctors have a special understanding of the spirit world. Animists go to them for help and protection.

The Bible says that witchcraft is “detestable” to God. (See Deuteronomy 18:10-12, NIV.) God desires what is best for His children.