Demonic spirits are a reality in the Bible, but they are no match for God’s power. Today, we’ll explore how Scripture describes these spirits, their goals, and the victory believers have through Jesus.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Demonic Oppression
What Does The Bible Say About Demonic Spirits
1 John 4:1-3
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God.”
This verse emphasizes the need for discernment when it comes to spiritual matters. As Christians, we are called to test the spirits and examine their alignment with the truth of God’s Word. It also highlights the importance of recognizing the deity of Jesus Christ as a distinguishing feature between the Spirit of God and deceptive spirits.
By seeking wisdom and guidance from the Holy Spirit, believers can discern and resist the influence of demonic spirits that seek to deceive and lead people away from the true faith in Christ.
James 4:7
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
This verse instructs believers to submit to God and resist the devil. It reveals that when we align ourselves with God’s authority and stand firm against the enemy, he will ultimately flee. It reminds us of the power and authority we have in Christ to overcome the schemes and attacks of demonic spirits.
By staying rooted in our relationship with God, practicing obedience to His Word, and relying on His strength, we can resist the influence of demonic spirits and experience victory in our spiritual battles.
Ephesians 6:12
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
This verse highlights the reality of spiritual warfare. It reminds us that the battle we face as believers is not merely against human opponents but against the demonic forces operating in the spiritual realm. It emphasizes the need to be aware of the enemy’s strategies and to equip ourselves with the spiritual armor provided by God for our protection.
Understanding the spiritual nature of our battles helps us to approach challenges and conflicts with a discerning mind, relying on the power of God to overcome the influence of demonic spirits in our lives.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5
“For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
This verse emphasizes the spiritual nature of our battles and the power we have in Christ to overcome them. It highlights that our weapons are not physical, but spiritual, and carry divine power to tear down the strongholds of the enemy. It also points out the importance of renewing our minds and aligning our thoughts with the truth of God’s Word.
By relying on the authority and power of Christ, we can overcome the influence of demonic spirits, demolish false arguments, and bring every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.
1 Peter 5:8-9
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”
This verse serves as a reminder to be vigilant and watchful against the schemes of the devil. It warns that the enemy is actively seeking to devour and destroy believers, just as a roaring lion seeks to consume its prey. It encourages us to resist him, standing firm in our faith and remaining united with other believers who are facing similar challenges.
By staying alert and relying on God’s strength, we can withstand the attacks of the enemy and find comfort in the knowledge that we are not alone in our struggles.
Luke 10:19
“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.”
This verse highlights the authority that Jesus has given to believers over the power of the enemy. It assures us that as followers of Christ, we have the ability to overcome and be protected from any harm caused by demonic spirits. It emphasizes the power and protection that comes from our relationship with Jesus.
By embracing our authority in Christ, we can confidently face spiritual battles, knowing that the power of the enemy is ultimately defeated through the victory of Jesus on the cross.
Acts 16:18
“She kept this up for many days. Finally, Paul became so annoyed that he turned around and said to the spirit, “In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!” At that moment the spirit left her.”
This verse illustrates an encounter between the apostle Paul and a woman possessed by a demonic spirit. It demonstrates the authority and power the name of Jesus carries. Paul, in the name of Jesus, commanded the spirit to come out of her, and it immediately obeyed. It serves as a powerful example of how the name of Jesus can deliver and set individuals free from the influence of evil spirits.
As believers, we too can invoke the name of Jesus with confidence when facing spiritual oppression or encountering the presence of demonic spirits, knowing that His name carries authority and power.
Mark 9:17-18
“A man in the crowd answered, “Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not.”
This verse depicts a situation where a man’s son was tormented by a demonic spirit, and the disciples were unable to drive it out. It highlights the reality that not all spiritual battles are easily won and may require a deeper reliance on God’s power and intervention.
In our own lives, we may encounter challenging spiritual situations that demand persistence, faith, and an unwavering dependence on God’s strength to overcome the influence of demonic spirits.
Matthew 4:10
“Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’”
In this verse, Jesus rebukes Satan during His temptation in the wilderness. It showcases Jesus’ authority over the devil and his ability to resist the deception and temptations presented by demonic powers. It also emphasizes the importance of worshiping and serving God alone.
As followers of Christ, we are called to imitate His example by worshiping and serving God wholeheartedly while rejecting the deceptions and enticements of the enemy.
Luke 8:26-33
“They sailed to the region of the Gerasenes, which is across the lake from Galilee. When Jesus stepped ashore, he was met by a demon-possessed man from the town. For a long time, this man had not worn clothes or lived in a house, but had lived in the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell at his feet, shouting at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don’t torture me!” For Jesus had commanded the impure spirit to come out of the man. Many times it had seized him, and though he was chained hand and foot and kept under guard, he had broken his chains and had been driven by the demon into solitary places. Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him. And they begged Jesus repeatedly not to order them to go into the Abyss. A large herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside. The demons begged Jesus to let them go into the pigs, and he gave them permission. When the demons came out of the man, they went into the pigs, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned.”
This passage describes the encounter between Jesus and a man possessed by a legion of demons. It showcases the destructive power and control that demonic spirits can exercise over individuals. But it also highlights Jesus’ authority over these spirits, as He commands them to come out of the man and they obey.
It serves as a reminder of the power and deliverance we have in Christ, that no matter the intensity or complexity of the spiritual oppression we may face, Jesus is able to set us free and bring restoration.
1 Samuel 16:23
“Whenever the spirit from God came on Saul, David would take up his lyre and play. Then relief would come to Saul; he would feel better, and the evil spirit would leave him.”
In this verse, David’s musical worship soothes the tormented soul of Saul. It demonstrates the power of worship as a means to drive away evil spirits and bring peace to an individual. It highlights the therapeutic effects of worship in combating spiritual oppression.
Engaging in heartfelt worship and praising God can serve as a practical tool for believers to combat the influence of demonic spirits and find solace in the presence of the Lord.
1 Timothy 4:1
“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.”
In this verse, Paul warns Timothy about the presence and influence of deceiving spirits and teachings propagated by demons. It emphasizes the need for believers to be discerning and rooted in the truth of God’s Word, especially during times of spiritual deception.
It serves as a reminder that we must be vigilant, aligning our beliefs and actions with the teachings of Scripture and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to safeguard ourselves against the influence of deceptive demonic spirits.
Acts 5:3
“Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land?”
This verse illustrates the connection between Satan, deceit, and moral disobedience. It reveals how demonic spirits can influence individuals to engage in sinful behavior, as seen in the case of Ananias lying about the proceeds of a land sale.
It serves as a reminder to guard our hearts against the influence of demonic spirits, seeking the conviction and guidance of the Holy Spirit to live lives of integrity and obedience to God.
Matthew 8:28-32
“When he arrived at the other side in the region of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men coming from the tombs met him. They were so violent that no one could pass that way. “What do you want with us, Son of God?” they shouted. “Have you come here to torture us before the appointed time?” Some distance from them, a large herd of pigs was feeding. The demons begged Jesus, “If you drive us out, send us into the herd of pigs.” He said to them, “Go!” So they came out and went into the pigs, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and died in the water.”
This passage tells the story of two violently possessed men who encounter Jesus. The demons recognize Jesus’ authority and power, begging Him to send them into a nearby herd of pigs. Jesus grants their request, and the demons subsequently flee from the men and enter the pigs, causing them to drown.
It serves as a powerful demonstration of Jesus’ authority over demonic spirits and their ability to cause harm. It reminds us that no matter how fierce or destructive their influence may be, Jesus has the ultimate power to deliver and bring freedom.
1 John 3:8
“The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.”
This verse emphasizes the purpose of Jesus’ coming into the world. It declares that His mission was to destroy the works of the devil, which includes the power and influence of demonic spirits. It highlights the redemptive work of Christ and His victory over sin and darkness.
As believers, we are called to align ourselves with Jesus’ mission, participating in the destruction of the devil’s work through our obedience to Christ and the spreading of the Gospel.
Revelation 20:10
“And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever.”
This verse reveals the ultimate fate of the devil, who is the deceiver and influencer of demonic spirits. It describes his future judgment and eternal punishment in the lake of burning sulfur, emphasizing the just consequence for his evil actions.
It offers encouragement and assurance to believers that the power and influence of demonic spirits are temporary and that, in the end, they will be eternally defeated along with their leader, Satan.
2 Thessalonians 2:9-10
“The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with how Satan works. He will use all sorts of displays of power through signs and wonders that serve the lie, and all the ways that wickedness deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved.”
This verse speaks of the deceptive tactics that Satan employs through false signs and wonders. It warns that these displays of power are meant to deceive and lead people astray from the truth. It emphasizes the importance of loving the truth and accepting the salvation found in Christ.
It serves as a reminder for believers to be discerning, rooted in the truth of God’s Word, and aware of the enemy’s attempts to distort and deceive through the influence of demonic spirits.
2 Corinthians 2:11
“…in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.”
This verse emphasizes the need for believers to be aware of Satan’s schemes and strategies. It acknowledges the existence and presence of the enemy, highlighting the importance of spiritual discernment and understanding.
By staying vigilant, rooted in the truth of God’s Word, and relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can guard ourselves against the schemes and deceptions of demonic spirits, ensuring that we do not fall into their traps.
Acts 8:7
“With shrieks, impure spirits came out of many, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed.”
This verse illustrates the power and authority of Jesus’ name, as impure spirits are cast out and individuals are miraculously healed. It reveals the supernatural manifestations that can occur when confronted with the presence of demonic spirits and the intervention of God’s power.
It serves as a reminder that where God’s power is present, bondage can be broken, oppression can be lifted, and healing can take place, bringing freedom and restoration to those affected by the influence of demonic spirits.
Acts 10:38
“How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil because God was with him.”
This verse highlights Jesus’ ministry of deliverance and healing. It reveals that those who were under the power and influence of demonic spirits found freedom and healing in His presence. It demonstrates the compassion and power of God towards those who are oppressed and tormented.
It serves as a source of hope for individuals who may be struggling with the influence of demonic spirits, reminding them that God is near, and His power is available to bring deliverance and transform lives.
Acts 19:13-17
“Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. They would say, “In the name of the Jesus whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out.” Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this. One day the evil spirit answered them, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know about, but who are you?” Then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding. When this became known to the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, they were all seized with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor.”
This passage recounts an incident where seven sons of a Jewish chief priest attempted to drive out evil spirits by invoking the name of Jesus. However, they lacked a genuine relationship with Jesus and were not empowered by the Holy Spirit, resulting in a humiliating defeat.
It serves as a reminder that our authority over demonic spirits is not based solely on uttering the name of Jesus but on our intimate relationship with Him and the power of the Holy Spirit at work in our lives. It also highlights the importance of a genuine, personal faith in Jesus Christ.
1 Timothy 1:20
“Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.”
This verse portrays the apostle Paul’s act of delivering Hymenaeus and Alexander to Satan as a disciplinary measure. It reveals the potential use of the influence of demonic spirits as a means of correction and instruction.
While the exact nature of this act is unclear, it serves as a reminder that God can use various methods and circumstances, even involving the exposure to demonic forces, for the purpose of teaching and discipline in the lives of believers.
Acts 16:16-18
“Once when we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a female slave who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. She earned a great deal of money for her owners by fortune-telling. She followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved.” She kept this up for many days. Finally, Paul became so annoyed that he turned around and said to the spirit, “In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!” At that moment the spirit left her.”
This passage recounts the encounter between Paul, his companions, and a slave girl possessed by a spirit of divination. Although her words were initially accurate, the constant harassment became irritating to Paul, prompting him to cast out the spirit in the name of Jesus Christ.
It emphasizes the importance of discerning the source of spiritual manifestations. While some manifestations may appear true or aligned with godliness, it is crucial to test the spirits and ensure their alignment with the truth of God’s Word.
1 Corinthians 10:20-21
“No, but the sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, not to God, and I do not want you to be participants with demons. You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot have a part in both the Lord’s table and the table of demons.”
In this verse, Paul warns the Corinthians against participating in pagan rituals and sacrifices, highlighting that such practices are ultimately associated with demonic powers. He stresses that believers cannot simultaneously engage in fellowship with God and partake in worship or activities involving demonic spirits.
It emphasizes the necessity of making a clear distinction between serving God wholeheartedly and engaging in any form of worship or association tied to demonic forces.
Acts 13:10
“You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the right ways of the Lord?”
In this verse, Paul confronts a sorcerer named Elymas who opposed his preaching. He denounces Elymas as a child of the devil and one who actively deceives and perverts the ways of the Lord. It reveals the association between engaging in deceitful and wicked practices and aligning oneself with demonic forces.
It serves as a reminder of the importance of discerning the intentions and actions of individuals, recognizing that those who actively oppose and work against the truth of God may be influenced by the demonic.
1 Samuel 18:10-11
“The next day an evil spirit from God came forcefully on Saul. He was prophesying in his house, while David was playing the lyre, as he usually did. Saul had a spear in his hand and he hurled it, saying to himself, “I’ll pin David to the wall.” But David eluded him twice.”
In this passage, Saul, the first king of Israel, experienced the torment of an evil spirit that was sent by God as a form of divine judgment. It demonstrates the influence that demonic spirits can have on individuals, leading them to engage in harmful and destructive actions.
While this instance may seem different from other accounts of demonic possession or manifestation, it serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of disobedience and rebellion against God, which can open the door for demonic spirits to operate in someone’s life.