Inspired by Acts 19:11-20
“Then some itinerant Jewish exorcists tried to use the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, ‘I adjure you by the Jesus whom Paul proclaims.’ Seven sons of a Jewish high priest named Sceva were doing this. But the evil spirit said to them in reply, ‘Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?” Acts 19:13-15
It is said that imitation is the highest form of flattery, but in matters of Christian faith a mere imitation is no substitute for the real thing. Since the beginning of the Church, there have been those who have recognized the earthly benefits of claiming Jesus as their own and tried to do so for their own advantage, absent any real faith. In Paul’s day it was itinerant exorcists who wanted to enjoy the power to command spirits. In modern times it might be someone who wants to be perceived as possessing a certain morality, or someone who desires to hold a position of power and leadership, and a local congregation seems an easy and convenient venue to achieve that.
Such imitation might reap some rewards for a short time, but real faith is not about the power to cast out demons, living according to a specific moral code, or enjoying an elevated status in an organization. Real faith is about having an active, living relationship with our active, living Lord. Absent that relationship we cannot banish evil, be truly moral, or be recognized as a called leader, because by ourselves we cannot do any of those things. All of those earthly benefits and more are given to us by Jesus alone, and only true faith in him can transform us into people capable of great power, morality, and leadership. Anything else is just a pale imitation.
Let us pray. God of power, all wonders come from you. Grant us sincere and humble faith, that the works we do in your name will turn more hearts toward you. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
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