The concept of summoning within the biblical context often refers to the act of calling upon spiritual entities, whether divine or otherwise, for a specific purpose. This practice is seen throughout the Scriptures, where individuals or groups call upon God, angels, or even attempt to summon spirits. The Bible provides various instances and teachings regarding the act of summoning, emphasizing the importance of seeking God alone and warning against the dangers of summoning other spiritual entities.

Summoning God

The most prevalent form of summoning in the Bible is the calling upon the name of the Lord. This act is encouraged and seen as a demonstration of faith and reliance on God. In Genesis 4:26, it is noted, "At that time people began to call upon the name of the LORD." This practice is further exemplified by the patriarchs, prophets, and kings who sought God's guidance, intervention, and presence. For instance, in 1 Kings 18:24, Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal, saying, "Then you call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the LORD. The God who answers by fire, He is God." This highlights the belief in God's power to respond to those who earnestly seek Him.

Summoning Angels

While the Bible does not explicitly describe humans summoning angels, there are instances where angels appear in response to God's command or in answer to prayer. In Daniel 9:21-23, the angel Gabriel is sent to Daniel as a result of his prayers and supplications. Similarly, in Acts 12:5-10, an angel of the Lord appears to Peter in prison, following the fervent prayers of the church. These accounts suggest that while humans do not summon angels directly, angelic intervention can occur as a response to prayer and divine will.

Prohibition of Summoning Spirits

The Bible explicitly warns against the practice of summoning spirits or engaging in necromancy. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12, it is written, "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD." This prohibition underscores the belief that seeking guidance or power from sources other than God is both dangerous and sinful.

The account of King Saul consulting the medium of Endor in 1 Samuel 28:7-20 serves as a cautionary tale. Desperate for guidance, Saul seeks to summon the spirit of the prophet Samuel, an act that ultimately leads to his downfall. This narrative illustrates the futility and peril of attempting to summon spirits outside of God's will.

Summoning in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the focus shifts to the power of Jesus' name and the Holy Spirit. Believers are encouraged to call upon Jesus for salvation and help. Romans 10:13 states, "For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." The early church also experienced the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, who was sent by Jesus to guide and empower believers (Acts 2:1-4).

The event of summoning, as depicted in the Bible, is ultimately about seeking divine intervention and guidance. It is a practice that underscores the importance of faith, obedience, and reliance on God alone, while warning against the dangers of seeking power or knowledge from other spiritual sources.