The Sons of Sceva

Scripture: Acts 19v13-16: "Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.
 14  And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so.
 15  And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?
 16  And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded."

If you ever need an example of how not to perform exorcism this should fit the bill perfectly. These men were the seven sons of a Jewish exorcist called Sceva. They were not followers of Jesus but had seen Paul casting out demons in His name and decided to try this at home!

They had a man who was possessed and they called on the name of Jesus, and mentioned that Paul preached about Him, as back up to their exorcism. The demon was not fooled by them and spoke through the one they were trying to help. He said he was very aware of Jesus and he knew Paul but he also knew these 7 sons had no spiritual authority over him. He said to them, "Who do you think you are?"

Only saints (born again Christians) cleansed of sin by the Blood of Jesus have authority over Satan and his demons. It is vital to have this power which helps us overcome all evil and control our environment in the love, peace and joy of Jesus.

Many people who need deliverance from oppression are deeply hurt by inexperienced Christians who enjoy chasing demons but neglect to concentrate on setting the captive free. Jesus was always mindful of the oppressed person and sent demons away quickly and spent time restoring the victim. We should follow His example.

These 7 sons of Sceva were overcome and defeated by the evil spirit manifesting in that man because they were not born again. The demon flew at them and they ran from that house wounded, naked and bleeding.  Jesus works with those who are His to keep sickness and demonic oppression away from us.  

I too had to be set free of some oppressive spirits, which was such a wonderful release, especially from the Spirit of Rejection which came into me in the womb when my birth mother gave me up for adoption and this demon had bothered me all my life. It caused me to never be able to know that I was capable of being loved, even by God.

Luke 10 v 17 - 20: "And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.
 18  And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.
 19  Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
 20  Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven."

It was not only the  twelve disciples closest to Jesus who were giving authority over evil spirits, but also these seventy men.  And from the time the baptism of the Holy Spirit was received, it is upon all believers who are empowered by Him.

The sad thing is that none of this is taught in the mainline churches, nor in many charismatic churches.  Some Pentecostal ministries carry out this work but far too few to rejoice about.

So there is a huge need for effective deliverance from experienced ministers who put the oppressed person first and dealing with demons next. There are very few people who are completely free of demons. Because of the way I was bound by them I became determined to learn how to help others and how to inform people that there is permanent help for addicts, alcoholics, sex offenders, witches, satanists, murderers, thieves and others whom satan has bound with his evil spirits.

It is recommended that you avoid those who are like the sons of Sceva who do more harm than good to themselves and others in exorcisms that are frightening and unlikely to help anyone.

Trust Jesus to lead you to the right person if you have need of deliverance. 

I share on this subject of deliverance because it is so neglected.  I learned much from the books and teachings of Derek Prince, whom I also met in a church in Johannesburg, where he was ministering on this subject and set many free that night.  Another helpful book was "Pigs in the Parlour" by Frank and Ida Mae Hammond.  A complete handbook on deliverance.

When you come face to face with a demon manifesting in someone and you challenge it and it leaves, and the person who was oppressed by it is set free before your eyes, your understanding goes through a complete revolution and your eyes are opened.  

Pastors and others who read this blog have communicated with me on how my writings on this subject have changed their lives and the way they minister to people.  They are excited to see victories and people being restored, healed and delivered as in the time of Jesus.

Prayer: Father God teach me to pray to set the prisoners free and to handle spiritual matters correctly so that I may do good and not harm. If I need help, Father show me where to go.  In Jesus' name. Amen.