Sceva
Peopleâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
A Jewish chief priest residing in Ephesus, Sceva is known because his seven sons attempted to use the name of Jesus to cast out evil spirits. He likely belonged to a prominent priestly lineage or headed one of the twenty-four temple courses.
What is the meaning of Sceva in the Bible?
A Jewish chief priest residing in Ephesus, Sceva is known because his seven sons attempted to use the name of Jesus to cast out evil spirits. He likely belonged to a prominent priestly lineage or headed one of the twenty-four temple courses.
SIGNIFICANCE
The account of Sceva and his sons demonstrates the early Christian understanding that spiritual authority derives from a relationship with Jesus rather than the mere recitation of his name, clarifying the distinction between genuine faith and magical manipulation in the New Testament narrative.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
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Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.