How can we apply Exodus 22:18 to modern-day practices and beliefs? The Historical Command in Context Exodus 22:18—“You must not allow a sorceress to live.” • In Israel’s theocratic setting, sorcery was treason against God’s kingship. • The death penalty underscored the seriousness of spiritual rebellion and protected the covenant community from deception (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Recognizing the Ongoing Danger of Sorcery • God’s character has not changed (Malachi 3:6). What He once called detestable remains detestable. • Sorcery, divination, and occult practices still aim to access power apart from the Lord (Acts 16:16-18; Galatians 5:19-21). What Sorcery Looks Like Today • Ouija boards, tarot readings, astrology charts, séances, spirit guide consultations. • “White magic,” spell-casting apps, crystal energy rituals. • Entertainment that glamorizes occult themes, desensitizing hearts to real spiritual darkness. Practical Applications for Believers • Reject participation: – “Have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” (Ephesians 5:11) • Remove occult objects from the home (Acts 19:19). • Test every spiritual teaching or practice by Scripture (1 John 4:1). • Fill the void with worship, prayer, and Scripture meditation so that counterfeit power loses its pull (Psalm 119:9-11). Guarding Our Homes and Churches • Equip children and teens with clear teaching on biblical authority and the unseen battle (Ephesians 6:10-18). • Encourage accountability in media choices and hobbies. • Intercede for one another, trusting Christ’s victory over every power of darkness (Colossians 2:15). Responding with the Gospel • Confront occult involvement with truth and compassion, remembering that Jesus “came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). • Offer hope of deliverance: “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36) • Celebrate testimonies of those who, like the Ephesian believers, turn from magic to wholehearted allegiance to Christ (Acts 19:18-20). |
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