Sorcery
Sorcery is the attempt to use occult powers, magic, or forbidden spiritual practices rather than seeking God. In Scripture it is condemned as a work of darkness and incompatible with faithful obedience to the Lord.
At a Glance
Sorcery is the attempt to use occult powers, magic, or forbidden spiritual practices rather than seeking God. In Scripture it is condemned as a work of darkness and incompatible with faithful obedience to the Lord.
Description
Sorcery in Scripture is the use of occult, magical, or forbidden spiritual practices in an effort to gain power, knowledge, protection, healing, or influence apart from the living God. The Bible consistently treats such practices as sinful and spiritually dangerous, linking them with idolatry, false worship, and opposition to God’s revealed will. Old Testament law expressly forbids these practices, and the New Testament includes sorcery among the deeds of the flesh and the corrupt works of the unbelieving world. While interpreters may discuss the precise range of terms in particular passages, the biblical conclusion is clear: God’s people are not to seek supernatural help, control, or hidden knowledge through occult means, but are to trust, worship, and obey the Lord alone.