I was directed to this scripture as especially applying to modern spiritualism: Colossians 2:8 : “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Thousands, I was shown, have been spoiled through the philosophy of phrenology and animal magnetism, and have been driven into infidelity. If the mind commences to run in this channel, it is almost sure to lose its balance and be controlled by a demon. “Vain deceit” fills the minds of poor mortals. They think there is such power in themselves to accomplish great works that they realize no necessity of a higher power. Their principles and faith are “after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Jesus has not taught them this philosophy. Nothing of the kind can be found in His teachings. He did not direct the minds of poor mortals to themselves, to a power which they possessed. He was ever directing their…
"Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ."
Ellen White directly references Colossians 2:8 in this passage.
"evil; and they follow out the instructions purporting to be from their dead friends now angels in a higher sphere. 1T 297.2"
"And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light."
The EGW passage directly refers to the deception of evil spirits masquerading as deceased loved ones, which is a specific instance of the broader principle that Satan can transform himself into an angel of light, as stated in 2 Corinthians 11:14. The connection is strong and direct.