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ELIMAS THE SORCERER IS STILL AT WORK TODAY .

The human heart never develops a particular behavior or tendency without a source behind it. That source may be a person, an influence, a spiritual atmosphere, or a place. When a person dies or departs, the spirit or pattern of their character can continue influencing others. Once these patterns take deep root in people, Scripture refers to them as “spirits”—not in the sense of ghosts, but the spiritual nature or influence that empowered that person.

This principle is found throughout Scripture.

THE SPIRITUAL PATTERN OF JEZEBEL

In the Old Testament, Jezebel was a pagan queen who introduced sorcery, idolatry, and moral corruption into Israel (1 Kings 16:31–33).
She persecuted prophets, supported false prophecy, and turned the nation away from God.

Even after her physical death, her spiritual influence continued. This is why the Lord Jesus, in the book of Revelation, refers again to “that woman Jezebel”:

Revelation 2:19–20 (ESV)

“I know your works, your love and faith and service and patient endurance…
But I have this against you, that you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching and seducing my servants…”

Jesus was not referring to the literal Jezebel—she had died centuries earlier—
but to the Jezebel spirit, a recurring influence of false prophecy, seduction, manipulation, and spiritual rebellion.

This shows how a sinful pattern can permeate generations.

THE SPIRITUAL CONTINUITY OF ELIJAH

Likewise, Elijah’s influence continued after his departure. His ministry anointing rested on:

• Elisha (2 Kings 2:9–15)

• John the Baptist, who came “in the spirit and power of Elijah” (Luke 1:17)

Malachi prophesied this long before:

Malachi 4:5 (ESV)

“Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and awesome day of the LORD comes.”

This is not Elijah reincarnated, but the same prophetic spirit—boldness, repentance preaching, confrontation of evil, and restoration of true worship.

THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST AMONG BELIEVERS

Jesus ministered for 33½ years, but when He left, He intentionally sent His Spirit to remain on earth:

John 16:7 (ESV)

“It is to your advantage that I go away… if I go, I will send him [the Holy Spirit] to you.”

Thus, Christ’s character continues through the Holy Spirit in His followers.

ELIMAS THE SORCERER — A CONTINUING PATTERN OF RESISTANCE AGAINST THE GOSPEL

Now we turn to the case of Elimas the sorcerer (also called Bar-Jesus) in Acts 13. His story is not only historical; it demonstrates an ongoing spiritual resistance against the gospel.

Acts 13:6–12 (ESV — summarized with key quotes)

Elimas was a sorcerer and false prophet (v. 6).

• He attempted to turn the proconsul away from the faith (v. 8).

• Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, rebuked him:

“You son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness” (v. 10)

God struck him with temporary blindness (v. 11).

The proconsul believed after witnessing the power of God (v. 12).

Elimas represents more than one man—he represents a spirit of opposition against the gospel.

His mission was simple:
to distract, confuse, and turn people away from the truth of Christ.

**THE THEOLOGICAL IMPLICATION:

THE SPIRIT OF ELIMAS STILL OPERATES TODAY**

Though Elimas died long ago, his spiritual pattern continues. Today:

Many people instinctively oppose the gospel.

Some automatically reject every message about Christ.

Others constantly criticize every pastor, every sermon, every testimony. Some mock the Bible and discourage believers from following God.Many spread misinformation about Christ, Scripture, or salvation.

According to Scripture, this behavior is spiritual warfare:

2 Corinthians 4:4 (ESV)

“The god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers…”

Those who oppose the gospel may not know it, but they are acting under the same spiritual influence Elimas operated in—
a spirit of deception, resistance, and confusion.

Paul calls such people:

Enemies of righteousness

Perverters of God’s straight paths

Sons of the devil (speaking spiritually)

This is why Jesus warns us:

Luke 8:18 (ESV)

“Take care then how you hear…”

Not every opinion should be welcomed.
Not every critic of the gospel is harmless.
Some are operating under a destructive spiritual influence.

PRACTICAL WARNINGS FOR BELIEVERS TODAY

1. Avoid people who constantly tear down the things of God

If someone never speaks anything good about Scripture, preachers, worship, or faith—
they may be spiritually harmful.

2. Guard your heart against spiritual discouragement

The enemy uses people to weaken your faith.

3. Recognize spiritual resistance

Some arguments are not intellectual—they are spiritual.

4. Focus on Christ

Seek God sincerely through prayer, Scripture, and obedience.

5. Reject mockery of holy things

Jesus warned about casting pearls before swine (Matthew 7:6).

6. Understand that spiritual influences travel through generations

Just as Elijah’s spirit empowers righteousness,
the spirit of Jezebel and Elimas empowers deception and rebellion.

FINAL EXHORTATION

We are in the final generation.
Discernment is essential.
Do not give room to voices that oppose the gospel.

Walk with God.
Stay in His Word.
Avoid those who weaken your faith.

Maranatha — The Lord is coming.

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