Before Riding On Lion’s Back Or Seizing AK-47 From Kidnappers, Remember Sceva’s Sons, by Isaac Asabor

In recent years, there has been a growing trend where individuals boldly declare their spiritual authority in the face of life-threatening situations, relying on their faith to confront dangerous circumstances. A common declaration often heard is, “I am a Chosen, who are you?”, a phrase that has become synonymous with absolute trust in divine protection. However, while the power of faith is undeniable, there is a vital caveat: spiritual grounding and preparedness are essential. Without it, one risks repeating the mistake of the sons of Sceva in the Bible, an event that offers a sobering lesson for those seeking to engage in spiritual warfare.

The story of the sons of Sceva is found in Acts 19:13-16. These seven sons of a Jewish high priest, Sceva, attempted to cast out demons by invoking the name of Jesus, whom Paul preached. They confronted a demon-possessed man, confidently declaring, “In the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out. “However, instead of being victorious, they were met with a harsh reality. The demon, recognizing their lack of spiritual authority, responded with the chilling words, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are you?” The possessed man then overpowered them, leaving them beaten and humiliated.

This biblical account serves as a warning to those who would venture into spiritual confrontations without the necessary foundation. The sons of Sceva made a critical mistake, they invoked the name of Jesus without a personal relationship with Him or the spiritual maturity required for such an act. They had witnessed the power of Jesus through Paul’s ministry but lacked the depth of faith, preparation, and authority to wield that power themselves.

In today’s society, we often hear stories of individuals who, in the face of danger, rely on their faith to overcome adversity. While faith is an essential aspect of the Christian journey, it is important to recognize that bold declarations, such as “I am a Chosen, who are you?”, should not be made without a deep understanding of the spiritual implications.

Faith is not a magic wand that one can wave in moments of crisis. Instead, it is the result of a committed relationship with God, nurtured through prayer, the study of His Word, and a life that aligns with His will. To attempt to confront the spiritual forces of darkness or physical dangers without this foundation is to invite unnecessary risk.

At this juncture, it is expedient to ask, what does it mean to be spiritually grounded?  To answer the foregoing question, it is expedient to opine that to be spiritually grounded means to have a solid foundation in one’s faith. It goes beyond attending church services or participating in religious activities. It involves a deep, personal relationship with God, characterized by regular prayer and communion with God. This is as prayer is the means by which we communicate with God, seek His guidance, and align our will with His. A spiritually grounded person understands the importance of prayer not just as a ritual, but as a lifeline to the Divine.

In a similar vein, the Bible is filled with promises of God’s protection, but it is also a guidebook for understanding spiritual warfare. Without knowing the Word, one is ill-equipped to confront spiritual challenges. Just as Jesus used Scripture to counter the devil’s temptations in the wilderness, a grounded believer must be able to stand on the Word in moments of crisis.

Also, faith without works is dead, as James 2:26 tells us. To be spiritually grounded means living a life that reflects God’s principles. Obedience to His commandments ensures that we are walking in His will, positioning us to invoke His protection when needed.

Still in a similar vein, spiritual authority is not something that can be assumed or borrowed; it is given to those who are aligned with God’s purpose. The sons of Sceva lacked this authority, and as a result, their attempt to cast out demons failed. True authority comes from a life dedicated to God and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Opinionating on this topic from the perspective of the foregoing viewpoints, there is no doubt that faith can move mountains, as Jesus said in Matthew 17:20. However, bold faith requires spiritual maturity. It is dangerous to assume that one can simply declare victory over evil without being deeply rooted in God’s Word and power. Spiritual warfare is real, and the enemy does not take kindly to those who challenge his dominion without the backing of divine authority.

Therefore, before one decides to ride on a lion or confront armed criminals, declaring, “I am a Chosen, who are you?”, there must be a serious self-examination of one’s spiritual state. Are you truly grounded in your faith? Do you have a deep relationship with God, or are you relying on the faith of others? Just as the sons of Sceva tried to use the authority of Paul without having their own, many today attempt to wield spiritual power without the necessary connection to the source of that power, God Himself.

Presumption is the act of assuming something without proper authority or justification. Spiritually, it is the dangerous assumption that one can act in God’s name without His backing. The sons of Sceva were guilty of this, and they paid a heavy price. Similarly, those who make bold declarations in moments of crisis without being spiritually grounded are risking the same outcome.

To avoid this, believers must take the time to cultivate their faith. Spiritual authority comes from a life lived in submission to God, and it cannot be shortcut by mere declarations. The Bible warns in 1 Peter 5:8 that the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. It is foolish to challenge the lion without being properly equipped for the battle.

There is no denying the power of faith in the life of a believer. However, before one decides to confront the dangers of life, whether physical or spiritual, with bold declarations such as, *”I am a Chosen, who are you?”*, it is essential to be spiritually prepared. The story of the sons of Sceva is a timeless reminder that spiritual authority is not to be taken lightly. Without proper grounding in prayer, the Word, and obedience to God, one risks facing the same humiliation and defeat they encountered.

In fact, faith is powerful, but it must be backed by spiritual maturity and readiness. Before you ride on the lion, make sure you are truly a Chosen, not just in name, but in spiritual reality. Only then can you stand confidently in the face of danger and declare victory.