Stay Sober, Stay Alert: A Christian Guide to Mysticism & Psychedelics

Is the psychedelic renaissance a spiritual threat — or just medicine? In this episode of Refining Rhetoric, host Robert Bortins sits down with Gary Stockton, a Classical Conversations Challenge IV graduate, to discuss his senior thesis: Stay Sober, Stay Alert: A Christian Guide to Mysticism. Gary's 32-source academic argument — drawing from Johns Hopkins research, C.S. Lewis, Voddie Baucham, and Hebrew and Greek primary sources — makes the biblical case that Christians should reject the spiritual experiences offered by psychedelic-assisted therapy. From the ancient cult of Asclepius and pharmakia to Margaret Sanger, Nazi eugenics, and the modern therapeutic boom, Gary traces a chilling historical thread connecting serpentine deities, manufactured spiritual states, and demonic deception across cultures and centuries. Robert and producer Chris Blackburn join Gary to explore what Scripture actually says about mysticism, what Galatians 5 and Deuteronomy 18 reveal about pharmakia, and why the very "benefits" of psychedelic therapy may be part of a much darker bait-and-hook. If you've heard about Joe Rogan's advocacy for psychedelic therapy, Trump's executive order on psychedelics for PTSD treatment, or the growing number of Christians open to these practices — this episode will give you the biblical framework to think clearly and respond wisely.   This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by Classical Conversations' new 2026 Product Line: This April, Classical Conversations launched an exciting portfolio of new products designed to strengthen math fluency, develop critical reasoning skills, and equip families with practical tools for classical, Christian homeschooling. From flashcard resources and reasoning curriculum to hands-on manipulatives and a foundational parent resource, these releases deepen the classical learning journey for families at every level. Visit https://classicalconversations.com/WhatsNew/ to explore the entire April 2026 product collection and start strengthening your family's classical, Christian education today.