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False Miracles

Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia

(2 Thess. 2:9; Rev. 13:13-14; 19:20)—lying signs attributed to satanic power or used by false christs and false prophets to deceive and lend credibility to error (Deut. 13:1-3; Matt. 24:24; Rev. 16:14). Scripture condemns sorcery and occult practices (Lev. 19:31; 20:6, 27; Deut. 18:10-14). The source names Pharaoh’s magicians (Exod. 7:11, 22; 8:7), the medium of Endor (1 Sam. 28:7-14), Simon Magus (Acts 8:9-24), and Bar-Jesus or Elymas (Acts 13:6-12) as examples. Discernment rests not on spectacle alone but on fidelity to God and the truth He has revealed.

Scripture cited

2 Thessalonians 2:9 Revelation 13:13 Deuteronomy 13:1 Matthew 24:24 Revelation 16:14 Leviticus 19:31 Deuteronomy 18:10 Exodus 7:11 1 Kingdoms 28:7 Acts 8:9 Acts 13:6

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