“Then some of the traveling Jewish exorcists also attempted to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “I implore you and solemnly command you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches!”” – Acts 19:13 (AMP)
One of the narratives in the Scripture which gives a very succinct picture of the relationship between the name of Jesus and those who call on the name is in Acts 19:13ff. Paul had preached in Ephesus and great miracles had happened through him. Evil spirits feared the name of Jesus through him and God was glorified. But something happened that made fear fall on the inhabitants of the land.
Certain men who were Jewish exorcists tried to use the name of Jesus to cast out evil spirits. There were seven sons of Sceva who tried to do this. They approached one who had an evil spirit and said, “we adjure you by the Jesus whom Paul preached” (verse 13). The evil spirit responded, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are you?” What a question and since they had no solid response, the possessed man dealt with them mercilessly.
There are many believers today who are also faced with this same question. The question the evil spirit asked is that of a relationship with the Jesus who owns the name. You like to emulate men who have an intimate relationship with the Lord and try to do what they do through the name of Jesus but unfortunately, you don’t get results because you don’t have a personal relationship with Jesus.
Principalities and powers know Jesus and they know those who truly have a walk with Him. But do you? You cannot fake your relationship with the Lord Jesus. If the name of Jesus would work for you as you desire, you need to build intimacy with the Person of Jesus. And this intimacy can be built through consistent communion and submission to His Lordship. You have to allow the Holy Spirit lead you into all truth. The name of Jesus is powerful but this power is always manifested through men who know and follow Him truly.
Reflection: Do you truly know this Jesus and are you submitted to His Lordship?
Confession: I am saved and redeemed, empowered to be the light in darkness. The name of Jesus works through me and I experience His power.
Related Scripture: Acts 19
Bible Reading: Leviticus 13
