Topics

Sorcery

Sorcery is the practice of attempting to manipulate supernatural forces through magic, divination, or occult means, which Scripture consistently condemns as incompatible with faith in God. The Bible forbids sorcery as a form of rebellion against God's authority and a violation of His exclusive claim on our worship and trust.

Overview

Sorcery encompasses practices such as witchcraft, divination, and occult manipulation that attempt to access supernatural power outside God's revealed will. The Old Testament law explicitly prohibited such practices, and the New Testament identifies sorcery as a work of the flesh that excludes people from God's kingdom. The fundamental issue is that sorcery represents trust in false spiritual powers rather than in the living God.

Key Scriptures

"Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God" (Galatians 5:19-21, ESV).

"Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourselves unclean by them: I am the Lord your God" (Leviticus 19:31, ESV).

Application

Believers should reject all forms of divination, tarot, astrology, and occult practices, instead seeking God's guidance through prayer, Scripture, and wise counsel.

Scripture References 40
Full Topical Reference List 47 total — Nave's Topical Bible

Belongs to the works of the flesh

Books of, destroyed

Diviners shall be confounded

Vainness of

Wickedness of