Topical Bible: Defilement: Moral, Caused by Seeking After Wizards

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In the biblical context, defilement refers to a state of impurity or corruption, often in a moral or spiritual sense. One specific cause of moral defilement mentioned in the Scriptures is the act of seeking after wizards, which is strictly prohibited in the Bible. This practice is associated with idolatry and the rejection of God's authority, leading to spiritual contamination and separation from God.

The Old Testament provides clear instructions regarding the prohibition of engaging with wizards and those who practice divination. In Leviticus 19:31, the Berean Standard Bible states, "You must not turn to mediums or spiritists; do not seek them out, or you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God." This command underscores the seriousness with which God views the act of consulting with those who claim to have supernatural knowledge or power apart from Him.

The defilement caused by seeking after wizards is not merely a ceremonial impurity but a profound moral and spiritual corruption. It represents a turning away from the worship of the one true God and an embrace of practices that are detestable to Him. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 further elaborates on this, stating, "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, practices divination or conjury, interprets omens, practices sorcery, casts spells, consults a medium or spiritist, or inquires of the dead. For whoever does these things is detestable to the LORD, and because of these detestable things the LORD your God is driving out the nations before you."

The moral defilement associated with seeking after wizards is linked to the broader biblical theme of idolatry. By turning to wizards, individuals place their trust in powers other than God, violating the first commandment, which calls for exclusive devotion to the LORD. This act of spiritual adultery is seen as a betrayal of the covenant relationship between God and His people.

The consequences of such defilement are severe. In 1 Samuel 28, King Saul's decision to consult the witch of Endor serves as a cautionary tale. Despite knowing the prohibition against such practices, Saul's desperation leads him to seek guidance from a medium, resulting in his further alienation from God and ultimately contributing to his downfall.

The New Testament continues to affirm the dangers of engaging with occult practices. In Galatians 5:19-21 , the apostle Paul lists sorcery among the "acts of the flesh" and warns that "those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." This reinforces the understanding that seeking after wizards is not only a violation of God's commandments but also a barrier to experiencing the fullness of life in Christ.

Throughout Scripture, the call to holiness and purity is paramount. Believers are urged to avoid all forms of spiritual defilement and to seek after God with undivided hearts. The moral defilement caused by seeking after wizards serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining fidelity to God and His Word, rejecting all practices that lead away from His truth and righteousness.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Leviticus 19:31
Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I am the LORD your God.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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