The Exorcists

I

When the apostle wonders wrought,
And heal’d the sick in Jesu’s name,
The sons of Sceva vainly thought
That they had power to do the same.

II

On one possess’d they tried their art,
And naming Jesus preach’d by Paul,
They charged the spirit to depart,
Expecting he’d obey their call.

III

The spirit answer’d with a mock,
“Jesus I know, and Paul I know;
I must have gone if Paul had spoke;
But who are ye that bid me go?”

IV

With fury then the man he fill’d,
Who on the poor pretenders flew;
Naked and wounded, almost kill’d,
They fled in all the people’s view.

V

Jesus! that name pronounced by faith,
Is full of wonder-working power:
It conquers Satan, sin, and death,
And cheers in trouble’s darkest hour.

VI

But they who are not born again
Know nothing of it but the sound;
They do but take his name in vain
When most their zeal and pains abound.

VII

Satan their vain attempts derides,
Whether they talk or pray or preach;
Long as the love of sin abides,
His power is safe beyond their reach.

VIII

But you, believers, may rejoice,
Satan well knows your mighty Friend;
He trembles at your Saviour’s voice,
And owns he cannot gain his end.