Be Alert, But Not Alarmed

Every winter, Hobart welcomes one of its most famous events: Dark Mofo.

The festival fills the city with red lights, unusual art installations and plenty of discussion. Some Christians are worried. Should we be worried?

The Upside-Down Crosses

One of the most common questions Christians ask concerns the upside-down cross.

The symbol is frequently used in ways that are intended to shock, provoke, or communicate opposition to Christianity. At Dark Mofo it is often employed for artistic effect and to create controversy.

But be comforted. These symbols do not possess power in themselves. Shock value? Yes. Gateways to the demonic? Nope.

A Rise in Pagan Rituals

Human beings have always been fascinated by the mysterious, the supernatural, the dark, and the forbidden. Long before Dark Mofo arrived in Hobart, people were telling ghost stories, exploring spiritual ideas, reading horoscopes, visiting psychics, and experimenting with alternative spiritualities.

The Bible itself recognises this fascination. Throughout history people have sought meaning, power, and transcendence outside of God. This is not a new phenomenon. It is simply another expression of the human heart misguided and confused as it searches for something beyond itself. Dark Mofo may package these ideas in modern artistic forms, but the underlying fascination is as old as humanity itself.

What Does the Bible Say About Darkness?

The Bible does acknowledge a spiritual realm. It teaches that there are real spiritual forces opposed to God and his people.

Yet the Bible's picture is not one of two equal powers fighting for control of the universe.

Scripture presents a spiritual realm that remains entirely under God's authority.

Even the powers of darkness are ultimately subject to Jesus Christ.

The New Testament repeatedly reminds believers that Christ reigns over every authority and power. Demons recognise his authority. Evil spirits fear him. Satan himself is a defeated enemy awaiting final judgment.

The Bible's message is not that darkness is powerful. The Bible's message is that Jesus is greater.

What Is Dark Mofo Really About?

While there are certainly spiritual and symbolic elements to the festival, we should remember its primary purpose. Dark Mofo is, above all else, an economic event.

The festival was designed to attract visitors to Tasmania during the coldest and quietest part of the year. Hotels fill up. Restaurants become busy. Flights are booked. Businesses benefit. It's amazing that even today darkness sells like crazy!!!!

Be Alert, But Not Alarmed

So, friends, be alert. Christians should not be naïve to the spiritual realm and the deception of Satan. We should avoid practices that draw us away from Christ. We should think carefully about the messages embedded within our culture.

But neither should we live in fear. There is no need for alarm. Dark Mofo is not evidence that darkness is winning. Nor is Hobart on the verge of some new pagan awakening. The Christian message is not that darkness is absent. the real message is that in the darkness light shines. In your weakness and fear know that the Lord Jesus reigns.

Darkness has not overcome Him. And it never will.