In this episode, we explore Chapter 9 of Theosophy and New Thought by Henry Clay Sheldon — a sharp, theological look at the Theosophical Society and what made its teachings so influential in the modern spiritual movement. Sheldon examines its core ideas: the claim of a universal “Wisdom-Religion” behind all faiths, the promise of human spiritual evolution, the rejection of traditional authority in favor of inner revelation, and the call to a universal brotherhood.

But while Theosophy paints an inspiring vision of unity and higher consciousness, Sheldon challenges its speculative cosmology, its loose treatment of truth and revelation, and its subtle drift away from historic Christianity.

Join us as we unpack what Theosophy stood for, why it appealed to so many seekers, and how Sheldon’s Christian critique still speaks to today’s spiritual landscape — where ancient mysticism, modern psychology, and self-divinization continue to blur the line between enlightenment and deception.

Chapter 8: The Means of Spiritual Growth

Chapter 8: The Theosophic Principle of Authority Tested

In this episode, we scrutinize how Sheldon challenges Theosophy’s claims to authority—especially its reliance on Madame Blavatsky, the Mahatmas, and hidden masters. He investigates alleged falsifications in her history, accusations of trickery, and the idea that Theosophical teachings were often drawn from modern sources, not occult sources. He further presses: if the “masters” are silent or invisible, where’s the proof that their guidance has real merit? Join us as we probe whether Theosophy’s spiritual authority stands up under critical inquiry.

Chapter 7: Conceptions of Man and His Destiny

In this episode, we explore how Sheldon analyzes the Theosophical view of human nature and destiny—and how it compares with New Thought. Sheldon lays out the Theosophical belief that man is a multi-layered being, enmeshed in cycles of reincarnation, bound by karma, yet on a path toward self-realization and spiritual evolution. He then contrasts this with New Thought’s more psychological, individualistic view: that man has power through thought, consciousness, and inner belief to shape his own destiny. The chapter raises profound questions: how much of us is fixed by metaphysical law, and how much is our own making? What is the role of freedom, responsibility, and inner growth in spiritual life?

Chapter 6: Cosmological Theories

In this chapter, Sheldon examines how Theosophy constructs its vision of the cosmos—its structure, cycles, origin, and relationship to divinity—and then contrasts it with how New Thought either adopts, adapts, or rejects those cosmological ideas. We explore Theosophy’s complex ideas of emanation, periodic universes, root-races, planes of being, and how these cosmic views shape its view of humanity’s place in the universe. Sheldon critiques the plausibility of these theories, asking: do they serve spiritual insight or simply elaborate myth? Join us to unpack this cosmic blueprint and what it means for belief and spiritual life.

Chapter 5: The Doctrine of God

In this episode, we explore Sheldon’s take on how Theosophy and New Thought reimagine God. Theosophy presents an impersonal Absolute, while New Thought emphasizes a God immanent within human thought and experience. Sheldon critiques both, questioning whether these views strip away the moral depth and transcendence of the divine. Join us as we unpack his arguments and consider what they reveal about modern spiritual ideas of God.

In this episode, we explore the authority that theosophists such as madame Blavatsky and her cohorts derive their spiritual wisdom and knowledge.

Chapter 3, "The Attitude Assumed Toward Competing Faiths", examines how Theosophy positions itself against other religious and spiritual systems. While claiming that all major religions share an identical esoteric core, Theosophists often criticize rival beliefs—especially Christianity—while favoring Eastern philosophies like Hinduism and Buddhism. Spiritualism, despite historical ties to Theosophy, is frequently dismissed as dangerous necromancy or misguided mediumship, though some later Theosophists softened that stance. Astrology receives mixed treatment, with some leaders embracing it and others calling it superstition. The chapter also highlights Madame Blavatsky’s sharp denouncements of biblical religion, which she accused of borrowing from Eastern sources and promoting degraded or phallic symbolism. Prominent Theosophists like Annie Besant and W.Q. Judge are shown defending Hinduism and Buddhism as purer and more profound, often portraying Jesus as a student of Eastern wisdom. Overall, Sheldon depicts Theosophy’s “universalism” as heavily tilted toward glorifying Eastern traditions while marginalizing historic Christianity.

Chapter 2, "Appraisal of Theosophy by Theosophists", outlines how Theosophy is defined and defended by its own adherents. The movement presents itself as an ancient, universal wisdom underlying all religions, revealed anew through the Theosophical Society. Its leaders claim that Theosophy offers a more complete and rational explanation of life’s mysteries than traditional faiths, harmonizing science, religion, and philosophy. The chapter covers key Theosophical doctrines—such as reincarnation, karma, spiritual evolution, and communication with hidden “Masters”—and explains how followers see these as reviving truths lost or obscured in mainstream religions. Sheldon also notes that Theosophists portray their system as morally elevating, intellectually satisfying, and historically validated by esoteric traditions worldwide .