The distinctive claim of every gnostic belief system is that true enlightenment comes from some source beyond Scripture.

The distinctive claim of every gnostic belief system is that true enlightenment comes from some source beyond Scripture. Gnostics did not overtly deny Scripture, but they taught that the necessary key that unlocks the true meaning of the biblical texts is gnosis (the Greek word for “knowledge”)—supernatural enlightenment that comes "from a mystical experience. Gnostic enlightenment can be imparted to select people only by those who have had the mystical experience.

The belief that nearly dead or dying people are given special insight into the spiritual realm is a classic gnostic idea—a devilish doctrine. Thus it is no wonder that people who become obsessed with near-death experiences and back-"om-the-dead testimonies are easily drawn into superstition, mysticism, and occultism.

- John MacArthur

The Glory of Heaven