Borrowed Faith
"And the evil spirit answered and said, 'Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?'" (NKJV) Acts 19:15
Faith is central to a believer’s walk with God, but it must be personal—never borrowed. Acts 19:15 clearly shows this truth through the failed attempt of the sons of Sceva to wield authority without true faith.
These seven sons of a Jewish chief priest saw Paul casting out demons in Jesus’ name. Hoping to replicate his power, they declared, “In the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out.” The evil spirit retorted, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are you?” before attacking them, leaving them beaten and humiliated (Acts 19:13-16).
This account underscores a vital truth: faith cannot be secondhand. It appears the sons of Sceva lacked a personal connection to Christ, just as earthly privileges like royalty depend on lineage. A prince enjoys benefits through birthright, but in spiritual matters, no one inherits salvation or forgiveness by human connections (John 3:16). Even growing up in a Christian home offers no automatic advantage. As John 1:12 affirms, “But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.”
Knowing about Jesus differs from knowing Him personally. The sons of Sceva recognized His name but lacked true faith, exposing their powerlessness. Jesus warns in Matthew 7:22-23 that many will claim to serve Him, yet He will say, “I never knew you.”
To cultivate authentic faith, we must engage in prayer, immerse in Scripture, and walk in obedience. Unlike worldly status, faith must be personally embraced. True salvation, spiritual strength, and victory come only through a genuine relationship with Christ (Mark 16:15-16, Acts 4:12). Faith cannot be borrowed—it must be owned and lived daily.