The Holy Spirit in Acts
Day 27 — Spiritual Warfare II: The Magicians Who Tried to Coopt Jesus' Name
Acts 19:11-20
A. God performing miracles in Paul’s hands.
1. Fabrics from Paul carried to the sick, healed.
2. Evil spirits left the sick with the fabrics.
B. Jewish exorcists attempted to use the name of Jesus over evil spirits.
1. 7 Sons of Sceva, a Jewish priest, attempted this
a. “I adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preaches”
b. Evil spirit answers: “I recognize Jesus, I know Paul, but who are you?”
2. The man jumped on them, overpowered them, they fled naked and wounded.
C. This encounter became known to all in Ephesus
1. fear on all
2. The name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.
3. Those who believed confessed and disclosed their evil practices
4. Many magicians brought their $5 million worth of books to burn
5. The Word grew and prevailed.
Questions:
4. What was the problem with the Sons of Sceva?
5. What happens when attempting to confront evil without the power of the Holy Spirit?
6. Have you ever tried to pray in Jesus name in confronting evil? How did it go? Did you see the Lord deliver someone, or did things stay the same?
Do you ever wonder when is the right way and time to do so?
Do you feel like the sons of Sceva did, or like the Holy Spirit is in charge?
The Holy Spirit in Acts *
Day 28 Spiritual Warfare III. When Their Evil is Exposed Acts 19:21-41
Reflection, Notes and Prayer