Problem: The sorcerers of Pharaoh were able to perform supernatural signs, but they were clearly opposed to God. How can this be?
Solution: Satan has the ability to affect the physical world. Consider Satan’s power in the book of Job. He had a supernatural power to bring a “fire… from heaven” to kill Job’s servants and sheep (Job 1:16); he could bring a “great wind” to kill Job’s children (Job 1:19); he could strike Job with “boils” (Job 2:7). Satan is also capable of empowering occult practitioners (Rev. 16:14; 2 Thess. 2:9; Mt. 24:24). Of course, God’s power is greater than the power of Satanic sorcery (Ex. 8:19; 1 Jn. 4:4).
“Then Pharaoh also called the wise men and the sorcerers: now the magicians of Egypt, they also did in like manner with their enchantments. (Ex 7:11)”
