Topical Bible: Sorcery: Practiced by Elymas (Bar-Jesus)

◄ Sorcery: Practiced by Elymas (Bar-Jesus) ►

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Introduction

Sorcery, often associated with the use of supernatural powers or magic, is consistently condemned in the Bible as an abomination to God. It is seen as a practice that leads individuals away from the truth and into deception. One notable biblical account of sorcery involves Elymas, also known as Bar-Jesus, a Jewish false prophet and sorcerer who opposed the early Christian mission.

Biblical Account

The story of Elymas is found in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 13:6-12. Elymas was a sorcerer and a false prophet who resided in Paphos on the island of Cyprus. He was closely associated with the proconsul Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man who sought to hear the word of God from Barnabas and Saul (later known as Paul).

Acts 13:8-10 describes the confrontation: "But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith. Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked directly at Elymas and said, 'O child of the devil and enemy of all righteousness, you are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the straight ways of the Lord?'"

Paul, empowered by the Holy Spirit, rebuked Elymas for his opposition and deceit. As a result, Elymas was struck with temporary blindness, a divine judgment that demonstrated the power of God and validated the message of the apostles. This miraculous event led the proconsul to believe in the teachings of the Lord, as he was astonished by the doctrine of the Lord (Acts 13:12).

Theological Implications

The account of Elymas serves as a stark warning against the practice of sorcery and the dangers of opposing God's truth. Sorcery, in this context, is not merely a set of magical practices but a deliberate attempt to subvert the gospel and lead others astray. Elymas's actions are depicted as being in direct conflict with the righteousness of God, and his punishment underscores the seriousness with which God views such practices.

The Bible consistently portrays sorcery as a sinful act that is incompatible with the worship of the one true God. In the Old Testament, sorcery is condemned alongside other forms of divination and idolatry (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). In the New Testament, sorcery is listed among the works of the flesh that prevent individuals from inheriting the kingdom of God (Galatians 5:19-21).

Conclusion

The story of Elymas the sorcerer highlights the spiritual battle between truth and deception. It serves as a reminder of the power of God to overcome all forms of opposition and the importance of remaining steadfast in the faith. For believers, it is a call to discernment and a rejection of any practices that seek to undermine the authority and truth of God's Word. The account of Elymas ultimately points to the triumph of the gospel and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of those who believe.

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Acts 13:8
But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.
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