Bible Verses About Magic

Friends, if you’re searching for “Bible Verses About Magic,” this content is for you. Today, I share Bible verses that will help you better understand the Bible’s perspective on magic and related practices. These scriptures offer insight into how the Word views sorcery, divination, and other supernatural activities outside of God’s power. Let’s explore what the Bible says about magic and its implications for believers.

What Does the Bible Say About Magic and Sorcery?

Hey there, friends. When it comes to magic and sorcery, the Bible has some pretty clear messages. It guides us to rely on God rather than seeking power or answers through magical means. Magic can be tempting, but it often distracts us from the true source of strength and wisdom. Let’s explore some verses that remind us to keep our eyes on God.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12 – Avoid sorcery; it is detestable to God

There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witchOr a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancerFor all that do these things are an abomination unto the Lord : because of these abominations the Lord thy God doth drive them out from before thee

Deuteronomy 18:10-12

Explanation:- This passage warns against engaging in practices like sorcery, divination, and witchcraft, considering them detestable to God. It underscores the importance of relying on faith and divine guidance rather than turning to supernatural practices that deviate from God’s teachings.

Leviticus 19:31 – Reject mediums, seek not spirits, follow God

Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I am the Lord your God

Leviticus 19:31

Explanation:- This verse warns against consulting mediums or seeking spirits, emphasizing the importance of relying on God for guidance. It encourages believers to turn away from practices associated with magic and sorcery, reinforcing a commitment to faith and divine teachings instead.

Isaiah 8:19 – Seek God, not mediums or spiritists, for guidance

When they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, unto wizards that peep, that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?

Isaiah 8:19

Explanation:- This verse warns against seeking guidance from mediums or spiritists, urging instead to rely on God for wisdom and direction. It underscores the importance of turning to divine guidance rather than engaging in practices associated with magic or sorcery.

Revelation 21:8 – Sorcerers face judgment and eternal separation from God

But the fearful, unbelieving, the abominable, murderers, whoremongers, sorcerers, idolaters, all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire brimstone: which is the second death

Revelation 21:8

Explanation:- Revelation 21:8 warns that those who practice sorcery will face judgment and eternal separation from God. This verse underscores the Bible’s stance against magic, emphasizing the spiritual danger and moral consequences of engaging in such practices.

Galatians 5:19-21 – Works of the flesh include sorcery

Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousnessIdolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresiesEnvyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God

Galatians 5:19-21

Explanation:- Galatians 5:19-21 highlights behaviors considered sinful, including sorcery, as expressions of the flesh. This passage warns against practices like magic, emphasizing their incompatibility with living a life guided by the Spirit and inheriting God’s kingdom.

Old Testament Verses That Condemn Magic Practices

In the heart of the Old Testament, we see God guiding His people away from magic and towards His love and wisdom. He knows that these practices can lead us astray. Instead of seeking the unknown, we’re encouraged to walk in faith, trusting His path for us.

Exodus 22:18 – Do not permit a sorceress to live

Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live

Exodus 22:18

Explanation:- This verse reflects the Old Testament’s strict prohibition against sorcery and magic, highlighting the serious consequences for engaging in such practices. It underscores the importance of maintaining purity and adherence to God’s laws, as magic was seen as opposing divine will.

Leviticus 20:6 – God opposes seeking spirits or practicing magic

The soul that turneth after such as have familiar spirits, after wizards, to go a whoring after them, I will even set my face against that soul, will cut him off from among his people

Leviticus 20:6

Explanation:- This verse highlights God’s clear opposition to seeking spirits or engaging in magical practices. It warns against turning to mediums or spiritists, as these actions are seen as unfaithful and lead to being cut off from the community, emphasizing the importance of remaining devoted to God.

Deuteronomy 18:10 – Reject divination and magic practices

There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch

Deuteronomy 18:10

Explanation:- This verse instructs believers to reject practices like divination, sorcery, and magic. It emphasizes adhering to God’s guidance instead of seeking supernatural insight through forbidden means, highlighting a clear distinction between divine wisdom and human attempts to control or predict the future.

2 Kings 21:6 – Manasseh practiced witchcraft, provoking God’s anger

He made his son pass through the fire, observed times, used enchantments, dealt with familiar spirits wizards: he wrought much wickedness in the sight of the Lord , to provoke him to anger

2 Kings 21:6

Explanation:- In this verse, King Manasseh’s engagement in witchcraft and divination is highlighted as a serious transgression against God. His actions, including sacrificing his son, provoked divine anger, illustrating the Bible’s strong condemnation of such practices as idolatrous and sinful.

New Testament Teachings on Witchcraft and Occult Activities

When we look at the New Testament, the lessons continue with a focus on living by the Spirit. Witchcraft and occult activities are seen as works of the flesh, not the Spirit. We’re invited to seek a life filled with love, joy, and peace, which brings us closer to God’s purpose.

Acts 19:19 – Converts burn sorcery books, renouncing occult practices

Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, burned them before all men: they counted the price of them, found it fifty thousand pieces of silver

Acts 19:19

Explanation:- This verse illustrates the transformative power of faith as new believers in Ephesus publicly renounce their previous occult practices by burning their sorcery books. This act symbolizes their commitment to abandoning former ways and embracing a new life in Christ.

Revelation 22:15 – Exclusion of sorcerers and immoral from the holy city

For without are dogs, sorcerers, whoremongers, murderers, idolaters, whosoever loveth maketh a lie

Revelation 22:15

Explanation:- In the New Testament, the verse highlights the exclusion of sorcerers and those engaging in immoral or occult practices from the holy city. It underscores the Bible’s stance against witchcraft and emphasizes the importance of moral purity for entering God’s kingdom.

1 Corinthians 10:20 – Sacrifices to demons, avoid idolatry

But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, not to God: I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils

1 Corinthians 10:20

Explanation:- This verse highlights the spiritual dangers of idolatry and occult practices, warning that such actions are offerings to demons rather than to God. It underscores the importance of avoiding these practices to remain faithful and devoted to God alone.

Why Does God Forbid Magic According to Scripture?

God’s wisdom is like a parent’s guidance, steering us away from magic because He knows the potential harm. Magic can lead us away from His truth and into dependency on things that don’t last. By staying close to His teachings, we find a life rich in purpose and love.

Deuteronomy 18:14 – God forbids seeking guidance from sorcery

For these nations, which thou shalt possess, hearkened unto observers of times, unto diviners: but as for thee, the Lord thy God hath not suffered thee so to do

Deuteronomy 18:14

Explanation:- In this verse, God warns against seeking guidance from sorcery and divination, emphasizing reliance on Him alone for wisdom and direction. By forbidding these practices, God seeks to protect His people from false influences and maintain their faithfulness to His commandments.

Isaiah 47:12-14 – Magic fails; God’s judgment is inevitable

Stand now with thine enchantments, with the multitude of thy sorceries, wherein thou hast laboured from thy youth; if so be thou shalt be able to profit, if so be thou mayest prevailThou art wearied in the multitude of thy counsels. Let now the astrologers, the stargazers, the monthly prognosticators, stand up, save thee from these things that shall come upon theeBehold, they shall be as stubble; the fire shall burn them; they shall not deliver themselves from the power of the flame: there shall not be a coal to warm at, nor fire to sit before it

Isaiah 47:12-14

Explanation:- In this passage, God condemns Babylon’s reliance on sorcery and spells, highlighting their futility. Despite their efforts, such practices cannot prevent divine judgment. This underscores the theme that seeking power outside of God leads to inevitable failure and consequences.

Micah 5:12 – God will remove sorcery and magic practices

I will cut off witchcrafts out of thine hand; thou shalt have no more soothsayers

Micah 5:12

Explanation:- This verse highlights God’s intention to eliminate sorcery and magic practices among His people. Such practices are forbidden because they divert trust away from God and rely on supernatural powers that oppose His will, leading people astray from true faith and dependence on Him.

Leviticus 19:26 – Do not practice divination or seek omens

Ye shall not eat any thing with the blood: neither shall ye use enchantment, nor observe times

Leviticus 19:26

Explanation:- This verse prohibits practices like divination and seeking omens, which were common in pagan cultures. God forbids these activities to prevent reliance on occult practices and to encourage trust in Him alone for guidance and wisdom, emphasizing faith over superstition.

Biblical Examples of People Who Practiced Magic

The Bible shares stories of individuals who turned to magic, often with challenging outcomes. These stories serve as reminders that relying on magic can lead us away from God’s plan. Instead, we’re encouraged to seek His wisdom and guidance for a life that truly fulfills.

Acts 8:9-11 – Simon’s sorcery amazed the people of Samaria

But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great oneTo whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of GodAnd to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries

Acts 8:9-11

Explanation:- In Acts 8:9-11, Simon the sorcerer captivates the people of Samaria with his magical practices, claiming to possess great power. This passage illustrates the allure of magic and highlights the need for discernment between true divine power and deceptive sorcery.

1 Samuel 28:7-8 – Saul consults a medium for guidance

Then said Saul unto his servants, Seek me a woman that hath a familiar spirit, that I may go to her, enquire of her. his servants said to him, Behold, there is a woman that hath a familiar spirit at EndorAnd Saul disguised himself, put on other raiment, he went, two men with him, they came to the woman by night: he said, I pray thee, divine unto me by the familiar spirit, bring me him up, whom I shall name unto thee

1 Samuel 28:7-8

Explanation:- In this passage, Saul seeks guidance from a medium at Endor, despite God’s prohibitions against such practices. This act highlights the desperation and disobedience of Saul, illustrating the dangers and consequences of turning to forbidden practices for guidance.

2 Kings 9:22 – Jezebel’s witchcraft and harlotries condemned

It came to pass, when Joram saw Jehu, that he said, Is it peace, Jehu? he answered, What peace, so long as the whoredoms of thy mother Jezebel her witchcrafts are so many?

2 Kings 9:22

Explanation:- In this verse, Jehu confronts King Joram, condemning the influence of Queen Jezebel’s witchcraft and immorality. It highlights how Jezebel’s practices of sorcery and idolatry led Israel astray, serving as a biblical warning against engaging in such forbidden activities.

2 Chronicles 33:6 – Manasseh practiced sorcery, angering God

He caused his children to pass through the fire in the valley of the son of Hinnom: also he observed times, used enchantments, used witchcraft, dealt with a familiar spirit, with wizards: he wrought much evil in the sight of the Lord , to provoke him to anger

2 Chronicles 33:6

Explanation:- In this verse, Manasseh engages in sorcery and other forbidden practices, provoking God’s wrath. His actions serve as a cautionary tale against the use of magic, highlighting its incompatibility with faithfulness to God and the importance of adhering to divine commandments.

How Should Christians Respond to Modern Magic and Witchcraft?

In today’s world, magic and witchcraft might appear in different forms, but our response remains rooted in love and truth. We’re called to approach these topics with understanding and compassion while standing firm in our faith. By sharing God’s love, we can guide others towards His light.

Ephesians 5:11 – Expose and avoid deeds of darkness

Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them

Ephesians 5:11

Explanation:- Christians are called to discern and reject practices linked to darkness, such as modern magic and witchcraft. They should expose these deeds, avoiding participation, and instead focus on living in the light, promoting truth and righteousness.

1 Peter 5:8-9 – Be alert; resist evil with steadfast faith

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devourWhom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world

1 Peter 5:8-9

Explanation:- Stay vigilant and maintain strong faith to resist evil influences like modern magic and witchcraft. These practices can be deceptive and harmful, so Christians are encouraged to stand firm, trusting in God’s protection and guidance to overcome such temptations.

Romans 12:9 – Love genuinely; reject evil, embrace good

Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good

Romans 12:9

Explanation:- In addressing modern magic and witchcraft, this verse encourages Christians to maintain sincere love while firmly rejecting practices that oppose their values. By focusing on goodness and distancing themselves from evil, believers can navigate challenges with integrity and faithfulness.

1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 – Test and avoid every form of evil

Prove all things; hold fast that which is goodAbstain from all appearance of evil

1 Thessalonians 5:21-22

Explanation:- 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 encourages Christians to carefully examine all things and hold onto what is good, while rejecting anything that appears evil. In the context of modern magic and witchcraft, this means discerning truth from deception and avoiding practices contrary to Christian teachings.

The Difference Between Magic and God’s Miracles in the Bible

While magic and miracles might seem similar, they’re worlds apart. Magic relies on human manipulation, while miracles are divine acts showing God’s power and love. Miracles point us to His presence and purpose, reminding us of His constant care and mighty hand in our lives.

Exodus 7:11-12 – Pharaoh’s magicians replicate Aaron’s miracle

Then Pharaoh also called the wise men the sorcerers: now the magicians of Egypt, they also did in like manner with their enchantmentsFor they cast down every man his rod, they became serpents: but Aaron’s rod swallowed up their rods

Exodus 7:11-12

Explanation:- In Exodus 7:11-12, Pharaoh’s magicians mimic Aaron’s staff-to-snake miracle, illustrating the distinction between human magic and divine power. While magicians replicate the act, God’s miracles hold true supremacy, underscoring His ultimate authority over all creation.

Matthew 12:22-24 – Jesus accused of using demonic power for miracles

Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind, dumb: he healed him, insomuch that the blind dumb both spake sawAnd all the people were amazed, said, Is not this the son of David?But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils

Matthew 12:22-24

Explanation:- In this passage, Jesus heals a demon-possessed man, showcasing divine power. However, the Pharisees accuse Him of using demonic forces. This highlights the distinction between God’s miracles, which bring healing and restoration, and magic, often viewed with suspicion and as deceitful.

Acts 8:6-7 – Miraculous healings through Philip astonished the crowds

The people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing seeing the miracles which he didFor unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: many taken with palsies, that were lame, were healed

Acts 8:6-7

Explanation:- Philip’s miraculous healings, performed through divine power, captivated the crowds, highlighting the stark contrast between God’s genuine miracles and human attempts at magic. This demonstrates the awe-inspiring nature of true divine intervention, which surpasses any form of illusion or trickery.

Prayer and Scripture for Protection Against Occult Influences

In moments when we feel the pull of occult influences, prayer and Scripture become our shield. They ground us in God’s truth and offer protection. By keeping His Word close to our hearts, we’re fortified against any darkness, standing firm in the light of His love.

Psalm 91:11-12 – God’s angels protect and guard you always

For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy waysThey shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone

Psalm 91:11-12

Explanation:- This verse reassures believers of divine protection through God’s angels, who safeguard them from harm. It serves as a reminder that faith and prayer can shield us from negative influences, including those associated with the occult, by invoking God’s protective presence in our lives.

Ephesians 6:10-17 – Armor of God for spiritual protection

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, in the power of his mightPut on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devilFor we wrestle not against flesh blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high placesWherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, having done all, to standStand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, having on the breastplate of righteousnessAnd your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peaceAbove all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wickedAnd take the helmet of salvation, the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God

Ephesians 6:10-17

Explanation:- Ephesians 6:10-17 teaches about the spiritual armor believers must wear to stand firm against occult influences and spiritual challenges. It emphasizes the importance of truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Word of God as essential defenses for spiritual protection.

2 Thessalonians 3:3 – The Lord strengthens and protects from evil

But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, keep you from evil

2 Thessalonians 3:3

Explanation:- This verse assures believers that they can rely on God’s faithfulness for strength and protection against evil, including occult influences. It highlights the Lord’s role as a steadfast guardian, offering comfort and assurance to those seeking refuge from spiritual threats.

James 4:7-8 – Submit to God; resist the devil, draw near

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, he will flee from youDraw nigh to God, he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; purify your hearts, ye double minded

James 4:7-8

Explanation:- This passage encourages believers to seek protection from occult influences by submitting fully to God and resisting evil. Drawing near to God strengthens faith and provides refuge, ensuring that negative spiritual forces lose their power over one’s life.