We talk a lot on Gospelbound about secularism and the post-Christendom West. But secularism does not necessarily mean that people have become less spiritual. In fact, increasing numbers across the West describe themselves as “spiritual but not religious.” They have left religion—usually Christianity—in favor of self-defined, individualistic spirituality.

This trend may appear to be new. But Michael Horton aims to unveil its ancient pedigree in his new book, Shaman and Sage: The Roots of ‘Spiritual but Not Religious’ in Antiquity (Eerdmans). Horton is the J. Gresham Machen professor of systematic theology and apologetics at Westminster Seminary California.

In short, he wants us to see that what we call “New Age spirituality” wasn’t invented by the “flower power” generation of the 1960s but goes all the way back in Western civilization. Christian theism may be out, but it’s not being replaced so much by atheism and agnosticism but the occult. Searching for the “divine spark” within is stuff of seemingly endless bestsellers.

This interview is unusually dense and complex at times. This book—the first of three in the series—is even more so. But I think the basic thesis is significant and sound, not to mention applicable and practical for our personal ministry.

What do you see among your family, friends, and neighbors? Do they have a materialist view that rules out anything they can’t sense? Or do they opt for alternative spiritualities with a longer lineage? I’d love to hear your stories and learn how you share the love of Christ with them.