Sceva
PeopleWhat 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
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Sceva reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Sceva in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Sceva clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Sceva." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/sceva/