Pastor Godwin, I have Catholic friends who believe in apparitions like Fatima or Lourdes. Some even say Mary speaks to them or gives them visions. I’m not sure what to make of this. Are these things biblical or just emotional experiences?
― Rony L, Mumbai

Answer:
Thank you for your question, Rony. This is a common question that needs answers from the word of God.

Visions Must Be Tested

Visions and supernatural experiences must always be tested by Scripture. The Word of God is our only sure foundation, not feelings, not tradition, and not popular miracles.

1 John 4:1 — Beloved, do not believe every spirit [speaking through a self-proclaimed prophet]; instead test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets and teachers have gone out into the world. (AMP)

The Greek word “dokimazō” (δοκιμάζω) means to examine, prove, and approve after testing. The early Church didn’t blindly accept supernatural experiences. They tested them against apostolic doctrine and Christ’s supremacy.

Christ is the Final Voice from Heaven

God has already spoken fully and finally through His Son. All visions and revelations must point to Him, not to any other figure, not even Mary.

Hebrews 1:1–2 — God, having spoken to the fathers long ago in the voices and writings of the prophets in many separate revelations—each of which set forth a portion of the truth—and in many ways, has in these last days spoken with finality to us in the person of One who is by His character and nature His Son [namely Jesus], whom He appointed heir and lawful owner of all things, through whom also He created the universe. (AMP)

When any apparition becomes a source of doctrine, new instruction, or ongoing revelation, it violates the finished work of Christ. No angel, no vision, no Marian figure has the authority to speak a new word beyond the Gospel.

Deception Through Signs and Wonders

Even Satan can disguise himself with light. That’s why not all supernatural manifestations are divine.

2 Corinthians 11:14–15 — No wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. So it is no great surprise if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness; but their end will correspond with their deeds. (AMP)

The Greek word “metaschēmatizō” (μετασχηματίζω) means to transform outwardly, disguise under another appearance. The enemy knows how to appear holy, emotional, and convincing—especially in religious environments.

What About Fruit and Healings?

Some Marian shrines claim miracles, conversions, or answered prayers. But miracles alone are not a sign of truth.

Deuteronomy 13:1–3 — If a prophet arises among you, or a dreamer of dreams, and gives you a sign or a wonder, and the sign or the wonder comes true concerning what he spoke to you, saying, “Let us follow other gods (whom you have not known) and let us serve them,” you shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams; for the Lord your God is testing you to find out whether you love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul. (AMP)

Truth is not judged by results, it is judged by Christ. If a vision turns our eyes away from Jesus, it cannot be from the Holy Spirit.

Why Marian Apparitions Appeal to the Flesh

Many people crave something visible, emotional, and motherly. Marian apparitions often speak in comforting, maternal tones but the Spirit of Christ speaks with truth and grace, not religious sentimentality.

God does comfort but His comfort comes through the Holy Spirit, not apparitions.

John 14:26 — But the Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name—in My place to represent Me and act on My behalf—He will teach you all things. And He will help you remember everything that I have told you. (AMP)

No heavenly visitor is necessary when the Spirit Himself is within you.

A Final Word

If a vision, dream, or appearance:

• Replaces Christ as the centre
• Teaches doctrines not in Scripture
• Draws attention to a person or place instead of the cross
• Inspires worship, devotion, or prayer to anyone but Jesus

…it is not from God.

Galatians 1:8 — But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to that which we originally preached to you, let him be condemned to destruction! (AMP)

In the end, Mary herself would never appear to draw hearts away from Jesus. She would say what she said at the wedding in Cana:

John 2:5 — His mother said to the servants, “Whatever He says to you, do it.” (AMP)

Hope this answers your doubts.

For Christ,
Godwin.