Participation in the Occult

Throughout human history, people have desired success – healthy bodies, prosperity, and all the good things life has to offer. Many individuals, not content to see these things by natural means or according to God’s laws, have tried to use magic and occultism to bring them about. Magic was often used in ancient times for selfish purposes. In pagan cultures, it was a popular way to harness the power of various deities (Ezekiel 13:20; Revelation 21:8, 15).

The New Testament records an incident with a magician named Simon Magus , who amazed the Samaritans with his magic. He became a Christian but apparently was still fascinated with such phenomenon. When he witnessed Peter’s bestowal will of the Holy Spirit, he tried to buy this gift from him. Peter immediately condemned and rebuked him (Acts 8:9 – 24).

Scripture indicates that God condemns all forms of occultism, including magic (Exodus 22:18; Leviticus 19:31; Deuteronomy 18:9 – 13; Ezekiel 13:18; Ask 19:19 – 20; Galatians 5:20; Revelation 9:21; 21:8).

Magic is not only an affront to God but also a distraction from trusting Him. Furthermore, God is greater than any form of magic. This is evident in Moses’ interactions with the magicians ofEgypt. The Egyptians sorcerers were not able to duplicate all the miracles Moses performed by the power of God (Exodus 7 – 9).