When you think of witchcraft ... what comes to mind? Many imagine a medieval-era, warty-nosed woman hunched over a bubbling cauldron in a dark forest, muttering something incomprehensible as a black cat watches from a nearby tree stump. It is almost impossible to take seriously. And that is exactly the problem. But what if I told you the actual mechanisms of witchcraft occupy our social media, our standard newsfeeds, and often our churches undetected ... would you believe me?

I. Character of the Investigator 1. Discloses Bias, Personal Ties, and Conflicts of Interest Upfront Reveals relational, financial, ideological, or theological stakes and recuses oneself when impartiality is impossible, or functionally compromised. Deut 1:17; Prov 11:14 2. Walks in Integrity and Self-Examination Lives honestly and examines personal motives before assessing or arbitrating others. Matt 7:3–5; Prov 10:9 3. Maintains Humility and Recognizes Evidentiary Limits Cle

In the late 1990s, a friend, passionate about his megachurch, gave me a bag containing a sample of gold flakes that "fell from the sky" during worship. As a scientist, I tested the flakes, definitely proving they were glitter—plastic. For years, I distanced myself from that ministry and church. Yet, the leader’s gentle spirit still spoke to me of God’s presence. I’ve often wondered if I should publicize the truth. My initial response was anger and bitterness. The Christian wo