Magic has fascinated people for centuries.
From ancient civilizations to modern entertainment, stories about spells, sorcery, and supernatural powers have captured human imagination.
Some people see magic as harmless fun, while others believe it is deeply spiritual.
But what does the Bible say about magic?
Is it just a fictional idea, or is there a real spiritual danger behind it?
The Bible addresses magic, sorcery, and supernatural practices many times.
It makes it clear that not all supernatural power comes from God, and some sources of power can lead people away from Him.
Understanding what the Bible says about magic can help us know how to respond to it in our lives today.
Magic in the Bible: What Is It?
When the Bible speaks about magic, it is not referring to simple tricks or illusions, like those used by magicians in stage performances today.
Instead, biblical magic refers to supernatural practices that attempt to influence events, gain knowledge, or harness spiritual power outside of God’s will.
These practices include witchcraft, sorcery, divination, and consulting with spirits.
Throughout history, people have sought power through these means, but the Bible warns that such practices come with serious consequences.
God’s Warning Against Magic
The Bible strongly warns against practicing magic or seeking supernatural power apart from God.
One of the clearest passages is found in Deuteronomy 18:10-12, which says:
“Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.”
God gives this warning because He knows that these practices open the door to spiritual deception.
People who turn to magic for guidance or power may think they are in control, but they are actually being influenced by forces that do not come from God.
Magic often promises knowledge or power, but in reality, it leads people further from God’s truth.
The Story of Pharaoh’s Magicians
One of the earliest examples of magic in the Bible appears in the story of Moses and Pharaoh.
In Exodus 7:10-12, Moses and Aaron went before Pharaoh and performed miracles by God’s power.
Pharaoh’s magicians, using their own secret arts, were able to copy some of the signs.
However, their power was limited.
When Moses turned his staff into a serpent, the magicians did the same—but then Aaron’s staff swallowed up theirs.
This showed that God’s power was far greater than any magic or sorcery.
Later, when Moses brought plagues upon Egypt, Pharaoh’s magicians tried to replicate them, but eventually, they admitted, “This is the finger of God” (Exodus 8:19).
This story is a reminder that magic is real, but it is no match for God’s power.
Magic and the Occult in the New Testament
The New Testament also warns against magic and sorcery.
One powerful example is found in Acts 8:9-24, which tells the story of Simon the Sorcerer.
Simon was a man who practiced sorcery and amazed people with his supernatural abilities.
When he saw the apostles performing miracles through the Holy Spirit, he wanted that power for himself.
He even offered money to receive it.
Peter rebuked him sharply, saying, “May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money!” (Acts 8:20).
Simon’s story reveals an important truth—true spiritual power comes from God alone, and it cannot be controlled or purchased by human effort.
The Danger of Seeking Power Apart from God
Magic often appeals to people because it offers power and control.
Some turn to fortune-telling, astrology, or spells in an attempt to gain insight into the future or change their circumstances.
But the Bible warns that seeking power outside of God’s will is dangerous.
Isaiah 8:19 says, “When someone tells you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God?”
Instead of turning to magic, God calls His people to trust Him completely.
Magic may seem exciting or harmless, but it leads people into spiritual darkness.
God does not want His children to be deceived by powers that oppose Him.
The Defeat of Magic in Ephesus
A powerful moment in the early church happened in the city of Ephesus, where many people practiced magic.
In Acts 19:18-20, those who had once practiced sorcery repented after hearing the message of Jesus.
They brought their magic scrolls and burned them publicly.
The value of these scrolls was enormous, but they chose to destroy them rather than keep something that led them away from God.
This event shows that following Christ means leaving behind anything that does not honor Him.
True faith does not rely on magical practices, but on the power of God.
Why Magic and Faith Cannot Coexist
Some people wonder if it is possible to be a Christian and still practice magic.
The Bible makes it clear that believers cannot serve two masters.
Matthew 6:24 says, “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.”
Magic relies on seeking power outside of God.
Faith, on the other hand, requires trusting God completely.
When someone mixes magic with faith, they are putting their trust in something other than God.
This is why the Bible commands believers to stay away from all forms of sorcery.
The Power of God Is Greater
One of the greatest truths in the Bible is that God’s power is far greater than any magic or sorcery.
In 1 John 4:4, believers are reminded, “The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”
God does not need spells or rituals to accomplish His will.
His power is unlimited, and He works in the lives of His people through His Holy Spirit.
The enemy may try to use magic to deceive and distract people, but he is no match for the power of God.
What Should Christians Do About Magic?
If the Bible warns against magic, how should Christians respond when they encounter it?
First, they should avoid all forms of occult practices, including fortune-telling, astrology, witchcraft, and sorcery.
Even things that seem innocent, like reading horoscopes or using tarot cards, can open doors to spiritual deception.
Second, Christians should fill their minds with God’s truth.
Instead of seeking answers through magic, they should seek wisdom in God’s Word.
Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
God provides all the guidance His people need.
Finally, Christians should trust in God’s power alone.
There is no need for spells or supernatural shortcuts when God is in control.
Through prayer and faith, believers can experience the true power of God working in their lives.
Final Thoughts
The Bible makes it clear that magic is not just a fantasy—it is a spiritual practice that leads people away from God.
Whether in the form of witchcraft, sorcery, or divination, seeking power outside of God’s will is dangerous.
Magic may promise control, knowledge, or influence, but it cannot compare to the power of God.
The Bible calls believers to trust in God alone and reject anything that opposes His truth.
Instead of seeking magic, Christians are invited to walk in the light of Christ, knowing that His power is greater than anything in the world.
No matter what, God is in control, and His wisdom is more than enough for those who follow Him.