Speaker: Special guest, Alexa Kramer, from Michigan, writer for Mama Bear Apologetics blog.
Context: Addressing arguments for the Enneagram (referred to as "enag" in transcript) and addressing potential problems with these arguments.
Background of Guest: Alexa experienced a faith crisis and was led out by apologetics, igniting her passion to expose lies and encourage discernment among fellow believers.
Overview of the Enneagram
What is the Enneagram?
Description: A personality typing system with a nine-sided figure diagram, each point assigned a number with associated traits.
Purpose: To identify one's "true self" as opposed to "false self".
Origins: Commonly associated with spiritual growth, but disputed in terms of ancient roots.
Origins and Development
Early Development: Credited to mystic George Gurdjieff, who associated it with universal laws and knowledge.
60s Development: Enhanced by Oscar Ichazo, who introduced "ego fixations".
Further Developed by Claudio Naranjo: Added personality types via automatic writing, claiming spiritual contact.
Controversial Figures: Richard Rohr, known for integrating Enneagram into Christianity, and promoting panentheism.
Common Arguments and Responses
Addressing the Origins
Genetic Fallacy: Origins matter if they inform the current use, unlike other practices with dissociated origins.
Valid Concerns: Enneagram retains original spiritual goals much like tarot cards.
It's Just a Tool Argument
Comparison to Other Personality Tests: Unlike Myers-Briggs, Enneagram involves moral and spiritual dimensions.
Intent Matters? Arguments that intent purifies use are countered by the spiritual nature inherent in the Enneagram.
Redeeming the Enneagram
Possibility of Redemption: Questioned due to its inherent spiritual roots.
Biblical References: Compared to Acts 19, where occultic books were burned, not redeemed.
Community and Variation in Teaching
Enneagram’s Flexibility: While adaptable by different teachers, core spiritual concepts remain intact.
True Self vs. False Self: These core ideas conflict with Christian concepts of sin and redemption.
Practical Applications and Concerns
Perceived Benefits
Marriage Help: Some claim it saves marriages by increasing understanding, yet the Enneagram might not objectively diagnose flaws.
Therapeutic Use: Therapists report it aids in understanding clients, though claims lack scientific backing.
Self-Understanding: Provides insight into motivations but with potential misleading simplification.
Deception Tactics
Outs: Ability to connect to multiple numbers makes it feel accurate.
Rainbow Ruse: Uses opposite traits to ensure broad applicability.
Barnum Statements: Generic statements that fit many people.
Conclusion
Potential Erosion of Faith: Subtle worldview shifts from the Enneagram can erode foundational Christian beliefs.
Emphasis on Discernment: Encouraging Christians to focus on Biblical truth and understand the nature of sin and grace realistically.
Recommendation: Study of the Trinity and reliance on the Holy Spirit, turning to scripture for guidance and understanding.