What Does The Bible Say About Witchcraft Pt. 1
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Main Question
What do you know or have heard about Witchcraft?
Witchcraft basics
Today, we’re going to take a look at what the Bible says about witchcraft, its practices, and how God feels about witchcraft.
So based upon your biblical understanding of witchcraft alone, what do you think the Bible actually says about witchcraft? Pause the audio and write down some of your answers. Listen along to hear what the class has said.
In general, in the Bible, witchcraft is the practice of magical skills, spells, and abilities. Specifically, invoking supernatural powers that are not from God, but instead from some other source. What this source is, is not necessarily always clear.
Practices
Divination: What do you think Divination in the Bible is referring too?
In the Bible, divination refers to seeking knowledge of the unknown by supernatural means other than from the knowledge of God.
Examples include: Joseph’s silver divination chalice in Genesis 44:5, 15; and 1 Sam 28 and the witch of Endor seeking knowledge from the spirit of Samuel, Lev 18:21; Lev 20:2-4 and child sacrifice to appease/commune with the gods.
Sorcery: What do you think Sorcery in the Bible refers to?
In the Bible, sorcery involves the use of spells and the invocation of Spirits or supernatural forces
Examples include: Jannes and Jambres in the Book of exodus and replicating the 10 plagues; the Witch of Endor, the people of Ephesus in Acts 19:18-20 burning their grimoires, Exodus 22:18
Enchantments: What do you think enchantments are in the Bible?
In the Bible, Enchantments is the use of spells/charms/ talismans/ omens to bring about change.
Examples may include: Prohibitions against their use (Lev 19:26 + Deut. 18:9-12) as they lead to idolatry;
Necromancy: What do you think necromancy is according to the Bible?
In the Bible, necromancy us communicating with the dead to predict the future or inquire of the unknown.
Examples include: the witch of Endor 1 Sam 28, Deut. 18:9-12 as a prohibition, 2 Kings 21:6
NT examples
Sorcery: Acts 8:9-24– Simon the sorcerer
Magic Arts: Acts 19:18-20
How does God feel about witchcraft
It is clear throughout Scripture that God strictly forbids any form of witchcraft. Witchcraft is seen as a rebellion against God, the natural order of creation, God’s will for humanity, and our role within creation care.
References:
Deut. 18:9-12
Leviticus 19:31
Galatians 5:19-21
Isaiah 8:19-20
Why witchcraft is forbidden
Witchcraft represents a distrust in God’s sovereignty. Witchcraft also represents a usurpation of God’s control and power within creation.
1 Chron. 10:13-14– Saul’s unfaithfulness because he wanted to seek the guidance of a medium rather than God
Spiritual deception
Witchcraft opens individuals up to deception by evil spirits
Isa 8:19
Take away
Why do you think people are drawn to witchcraft based on our discussion?
How can we avoid the temptations of witchcraft in modern times?
What can we do to strengthen our faith and trust in God?