Control & Witchcraft: What the Bible Teaches

The Bible is clear that control and witchcraft are closely connected. At their core, both involve a desire to manipulate people or circumstances to achieve an outcome that benefits the one exerting control. While witchcraft seeks supernatural power outside of God, control operates in the natural realm through fear, intimidation, and coercion. But God calls His people to a different way—one of faith, trust, and submission to His authority.

Control in the Modern Christian Context

Control is not just an ancient problem—it exists in today’s churches, workplaces, and personal relationships. In fact, some forms of control are so common that they go unnoticed. Here are a few examples:

Spiritual Abuse in Leadership – When pastors or church leaders use fear, guilt, or manipulation to control members rather than guide them in truth, they step into dangerous territory. Jesus, the ultimate Shepherd, never forced people to follow Him. He led with truth and love (John 10:11-14).
Legalism – The Pharisees sought to control others through rigid religious rules, missing the heart of God’s grace. Legalism replaces a relationship with God with performance-based faith, making people feel enslaved rather than free (Galatians 5:1).
Unhealthy Relationships – Whether in marriage, family, or friendships, some people use manipulation to get what they want, resorting to emotional blackmail, gaslighting, or guilt-tripping. True love doesn’t seek to control; it seeks the best for the other person (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
Fear-Based Decision Making – When people try to control situations because of fear, they act out of distrust in God. Saul lost his kingdom because he let fear drive his decisions rather than obedience (1 Samuel 13:8-14).

A Strong Call to Action

The Bible warns against both witchcraft and control because they replace faith with manipulation. As believers, we are called to trust in God’s sovereignty, not force outcomes in our favor. Here’s how to break free:

Examine Your Heart – Are there areas in your life where you’re trying to control instead of trusting God?
Surrender to God – Release the need to control situations and allow God to direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Pray for Discernment – Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any influence of control or witchcraft in your life and break free from it (2 Corinthians 3:17).
Walk in Love & Truth – Replace manipulation with honest, Spirit-led communication. Lead others by example, not by force.

A Prayer for Freedom:

“Lord, I surrender every area of my life to You. Forgive me for any ways I have tried to control others or situations instead of trusting You. Break every chain of fear, manipulation, and deception in my life. Teach me to walk in faith, love, and obedience to Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”