Paul in Ephesus - Demonic Encounter

In our passage in Acts 19:13-22, we encounter the dark demonic underbelly of Ephesus.

Acts 19:13-22

We can stand against the devils’ schemes.

I remember the first time I read the book “Chasing the Dragon” by Jackie Pullinger. A young English woman who felt called by God to go to Hong Kong to minister to the Triad gangs in the Walled City of Kowloon in 1966. What she faced as she walked amongst these people were lives devastated by drugs, prostitution, poverty, violence, and darkness. That darkness was rife with demonic spiritual activity.

From the outside, all people could see was someone who was naïve, innocent, and with limited resources. What God saw, and what Jackie grew to understand, was that she was a child of God who could stand firm in her identity and could call on her Lord to bring freedom and hope into this darkness. Over the years, she saw people come to Christ, people were freed from demonic oppression and possession, into hope and new life. Darkness was not stronger than the light.

In our passage in Acts 19:13-22, we encounter the dark demonic underbelly of Ephesus. This was a city known for its sorcery, magic, idol worship and occult practices. It was the place to go to find spiritual mediums. Some Jewish brothers had just tried to cast out demons from a man using the name of Jesus. They had no relationship with Jesus but tried to invoke his power using his name. The evil spirit responded to them: “ Jesus I know, and Paul I know but who are you?” (Acts 19:15 NIV) This demonic possessed man then severely attacked them. When the story became known in the city, many became fearful because Jesus was known and had authority over these evil spirits. Those practicing sorcery brought their scrolls and burnt them. The Word of God spread.

Evil spirits are still at work. Satan is still determined to destroy and break lives. Darkness and evil is still present in the world. But like Jackie Pullinger, Paul and other Christians, we walk with Jesus who has all authority and power. We can stand against the devils’ schemes. And we can pray for freedom and deliverance for those whose lives are held in darkness.

God bless.

Pastor Stephen