Matthew 7:22-23 English Standard Version

22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’

God wields the power in unauthorized works. Obviously God performed the works, but why?

Galatians 6:7 A. Do not be deceived: God is not mocked

When those that claimed the power of God proclaimed the name of Jesus, God used His power according to His will for those who needed to receive the blessing that would come by believing in Jesus Christ. God did not do it for those that claimed the power, God did it to protect the name of His Son.

Over the decades some have gained notoriety in healing ministries which gathered many needing a miracle from God. What began as a healing ministry became fame for the healer which overshadowed glory to God. Those that gained widespread media support became celebrities and like Simon the Magician eventually the intentions of the heart was exposed. Those who began with earnest intentions were rolled up in the media with those who defrauded the public with evil intentions. Suddenly no one trusted faith healers.

Now comes God’s greatest gift to each and every faithful believer. Anyone can be used by God to lay hands on others to reveal that the power of God is still here today to bless His people.

Some have laid hands on others who needed healing, not to show that they had a healing ministry but rather to show the will of God is to use any servant that is available at the appointed time.

Never discard the possibility that God is able to do what He wills with His children. He just might do it through you to prove He can. Just remember that glory belongs to God.

Acts 8 tells us this story of seeking power.

Simon the Magician Believes

9 But there was a man named Simon, who had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was somebody great. 10 They all paid attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the power of God that is called Great.” 11 And they paid attention to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his magic. 12 But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed.

14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, 15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” 20 But Peter said to him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! 21 You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.” 24 And Simon answered, “Pray for me to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may come upon me.”

Belief must be a reflection of the intentions of the heart. Simon was lucky in this respect as his mouth revealed his heart. Others claim the power but keep the intentions of their hearts hidden.

Matthew 7:22-23 English Standard Version

22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’

God wields the power in unauthorized works.