Secondhand Spirituality

eDevotion

Encouragement for your daily walk with God

Paul’s walk with God was powerful—extraordinary miracles occurred throughout his life. Furthermore, his preaching and teaching were instrumental in building a strong church throughout Asia. So it stands to reason that others would try to duplicate it.

An example of this involves the seven sons of the chief priest, Sceva. In an attempt to cast out demons like Paul, they confronted an evil spirit with these words; “We cast you out by the Jesus whom Paul preaches” (Acts 19:13). Well, they could imitate Paul’s words, but they could not duplicate the power he gained through his vital, personal relationship with Christ.   

Read the story yourself. The demons then viciously attacked the sons of Sceva and humiliated them. They were fully aware of Jesus, and they were familiar with Paul’s influence over the powers of darkness, but the demons had no knowledge of the sons of Sceva.

The same it true of us. Imitating the faith of others will not make you victorious. You can duplicate their words and works, but inherit his or her walk with God? Never! It takes effort for the Christ follower to mature. To become a mature Christ follower with spiritual power, you must nurture your own relationship with Christ.

Here is the biblical truth to be learned: There is no secondhand spirituality. No one else can develop Christian maturity on your behalf. A strong Christian heritage is an asset, but it cannot take the place of your own vital, personal [growing] relationship with Christ.

“And the evil spirit answered and said, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?" (Acts 19:15)