Stories of possession in the Bible can seem mysterious or frightening. Today, we’ll learn what God’s Word says about being possessed and His power to set people free.
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What Does The Bible Say About Being Possessed
Mark 5:1-20
“They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes. When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet him. This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain. For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones. When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees in front of him. He shouted at the top of his voice, ‘What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? In God’s name don’t torture me!’ For Jesus had said to him, ‘Come out of this man, you impure spirit!’ Then Jesus asked him, ‘What is your name?’ ‘My name is Legion,’ he replied, ‘for we are many.’ And he begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area.”
This passage depicts a man possessed by multiple impure spirits, illustrating the reality of demonic possession. The man’s uncontrollable and self-destructive behavior demonstrates the power of the evil forces at work. However, when Jesus arrives, the possessed man recognizes His authority and begs not to be tormented. This story highlights the need for deliverance and the power of Jesus to set individuals free from spiritual oppression.
Understanding the existence of demonic possession reminds us of the spiritual battle we face as believers. It also emphasizes the importance of seeking the deliverance and protection of Jesus against the forces of darkness that seek to harm and control us. We can trust that just as Jesus had the authority to command the impure spirits to leave the possessed man, he also has the power to deliver us from any form of spiritual bondage.
Acts 19:11-12
“God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and their illnesses were cured and the evil spirits left them.”
This verse demonstrates the power and authority of God working through Paul to heal the sick and cast out evil spirits. It shows that objects in contact with Paul had become conduits of God’s miraculous power, confirming the reality of spiritual possession and the ability of God to set people free. The mention of evil spirits leaving the sick emphasizes the spiritual nature of certain illnesses and the importance of spiritual healing alongside physical healing.
This passage encourages believers to trust in the power of God to perform miracles and deliverance, not only through ordained leaders but also through ordinary objects. It reminds us that God’s power transcends physical limitations and can bring healing and freedom to those in bondage to evil forces. As we encounter situations of spiritual possession or oppression, we can rely on the power of God and seek His intervention for complete deliverance.
Matthew 12:43-45
“When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean, and put in order. Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation.”
In this passage, Jesus shares a parable about the dangers of empty spiritual lives. When an impure spirit is cast out and the person’s life is not filled with righteousness, it becomes vulnerable to greater spiritual oppression. The parable serves as a warning, highlighting the importance of personal spiritual growth and the need to actively pursue a relationship with God to avoid falling back into bondage.
As believers, this teaching emphasizes the significance of continually nurturing our spiritual lives and guarding against complacency. We must be diligent in filling our hearts and minds with the truth of God’s Word, cultivating a vibrant relationship with Him, and staying connected to a supportive Christian community. By doing so, we can fortify ourselves against the schemes of the enemy and ensure that our lives remain filled with the presence and power of God.
Luke 13:10-13
“On a Sabbath Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, ‘Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.’ Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God.”
This narrative recounts a woman who had been crippled by a spirit for a long period. Jesus recognizes her condition, calls her forward, and releases her from her infirmity. This event showcases the authority of Jesus over spiritual oppression and His ability to bring physical and spiritual healing simultaneously.
This passage encourages us not only to seek healing for physical ailments but also to acknowledge that certain physical conditions might have a spiritual root. It teaches us to approach Jesus with faith, knowing that He has the power to set us free and restore us completely. We can trust in His compassionate response to our cries for help and rely on His desire to bring restoration and wholeness in every aspect of our lives.
1 John 4:4
“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”
This verse reminds believers that they have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them, making them victorious over spiritual opposition. It affirms that God’s presence within us is more powerful than any evil force in the world. As Christians, we can take comfort in the fact that we are on the winning side because of God’s indwelling Spirit.
This truth should encourage us to face spiritual battles with confidence, knowing that we are not alone in the fight. Rather than living in fear or being overwhelmed by spiritual opposition, we can rely on the power of God within us to overcome and walk in victory. By staying connected to God, cultivating a strong relationship with Him, and relying on His strength, we can stand firm against any form of spiritual oppression.
Matthew 17:14-20
“When they came to the crowd, a man approached Jesus and knelt before him. ‘Lord, have mercy on my son,’ he said. ‘He has seizures and is suffering greatly. He often falls into the fire or into the water. I brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him.’ ‘You unbelieving and perverse generation,’ Jesus replied, ‘How long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me.’ Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed at that moment. Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, ‘Why couldn’t we drive it out?’ He replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.'”
This story recounts a man who sought Jesus’ help for his demon-possessed son. The disciples had attempted to drive out the demon but were unsuccessful. Jesus rebuked the demon Himself and healed the boy, highlighting the necessity of faith in dealing with spiritual oppression. The disciples’ lack of faith served as a hindrance, but Jesus emphasized the power of even a small measure of faith to accomplish the seemingly impossible.
This passage reminds us that faith is essential in confronting spiritual battles and overcoming demonic influences. It encourages us to nurture and strengthen our faith in God, recognizing that through His power, we have authority over evil forces. Even the smallest amount of faith, when placed in God, can produce significant results and enable us to exercise authority over spiritual oppression in our lives and the lives of others.
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. When we submit to God’s authority and align ourselves with His will, we gain the power to resist and overcome the enemy’s schemes. By taking a stand against the devil, he will ultimately flee from us.
Understanding the need for submission to God reminds us that our strength lies not in our own abilities but in our surrender to Him. It challenges us to live in obedience to God’s Word, continually seeking His guidance and relying on His strength. Through our submission to God and our resistance against the devil’s influence, we can experience victory and deliverance from any form of spiritual bondage.
Ephesians 6:12-13
“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. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”
This passage reminds believers that their battles are not merely physical but spiritual in nature. It highlights the existence of spiritual forces of evil at work in the world and encourages us to equip ourselves with the armor of God to withstand and overcome these forces. With the armor of God, we can stand firm against the enemy’s attacks and not be swayed or defeated.
This verse invites us to consider the spiritual realm that underlies the challenges we face in life. It prompts us to be vigilant and intentional in putting on the armor of God, which consists of truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God. By consciously equipping ourselves with these spiritual resources, we can face spiritual opposition with confidence and remain steadfast in our faith.
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 passage highlights the distinction between the battles we face as believers and those of the world. It emphasizes that our weapons are not physical but spiritual, and they possess divine power to tear down strongholds. We are called to demolish arguments and thoughts that contradict the knowledge of God, aligning our minds with Christ.
This verse directs us to approach spiritual warfare with a renewed mindset—one that acknowledges the authority and power we have in Christ. It encourages us to actively engage in challenging false beliefs and ideologies that oppose the truth of God’s Word. By taking captive every thought and subjecting it to Christ, we can guard our hearts and minds against spiritual deception, ensuring that we remain firmly grounded in the knowledge of God.
Romans 8:37-39
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
This passage assures believers that in all circumstances, they are more than conquerors through the love of Christ. It emphasizes that nothing, including demonic forces, can separate us from God’s love and protection. We approach spiritual battles with confidence, knowing that Christ’s love envelops us and ensures our ultimate victory.
Understanding that we are more than conquerors instills within us a sense of security and assurance in our faith. It encourages us to face spiritual opposition fearlessly, aware that God’s love is greater than any force or power in existence. We can stand firm, assured of His unfailing love and confident that nothing can separate us from His presence and the victory we have in 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 passage serves as a warning to believers about the tactics of the enemy. It admonishes us to be vigilant and level-headed, recognizing that the devil seeks to devour and destroy. We are encouraged to resist him, remaining steadfast in our faith and finding strength in the unity and shared experiences of fellow believers.
This verse calls us to a state of alertness and attentiveness in our spiritual lives. It reminds us that we are engaged in a battle against a cunning adversary who seeks to undermine our relationship with God and hinder our spiritual growth. By standing firm in our faith, supporting and being supported by our brothers and sisters in Christ, we can safeguard ourselves against the schemes of the enemy and remain strong in our pursuit of God.
2 Timothy 2:26
“and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.”
This verse acknowledges that individuals can become ensnared by the devil, held captive and influenced to do his bidding. However, it expresses hope that they may come to their senses, recognize their captivity, and escape from the devil’s trap. It highlights the possibility of deliverance and restoration from spiritual bondage.
This passage reminds us of the power of God to set the captives free. It encourages us to pray for individuals who may be under the influence of the devil, interceding on their behalf and trusting in God’s ability to bring about transformation and freedom. We can also be inspired by this verse to actively share the message of salvation and deliverance with those who are lost in the darkness, holding onto the hope that they too can escape the clutches of the enemy.
John 8:44
“You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”
In this verse, Jesus confronts those who oppose Him, asserting that they are children of the devil and aim to fulfill his evil desires. Jesus exposes the devil as a murderer and a liar, emphasizing his innate nature of falsehood and deception.
This verse challenges us to be discerning and cautious, recognizing that the enemy employs lies and deception to hinder our relationship with God. It urges us to seek the truth found in Jesus and His Word, guarding ourselves against the lies and deceit of the devil. By anchoring ourselves in the truth, we can withstand spiritual attacks and experience a deeper intimacy with God, rooted in honesty and authenticity.
Ephesians 4:27
“and do not give the devil a foothold.”
This straightforward verse cautions believers against providing the devil with an opportunity to gain influence or control over our lives. It urges us to be vigilant and proactive in guarding ourselves against any foothold the enemy may seek to establish.
Understanding the importance of not giving the devil a foothold compels us to assess our actions, attitudes, and thoughts, ensuring they align with God’s will. It encourages us to live in intentional obedience to His Word, allowing no room for compromise or spiritual compromise. By maintaining a strong spiritual defense, we can effectively resist the devil’s schemes and protect ourselves from falling into his grasp.
1 Peter 1:5-9
“who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In all this, you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.”
This passage assures believers that through faith, they are shielded by God’s power. It acknowledges that believers may face trials and sufferings but emphasizes that these refine and prove the genuineness of our faith. It encourages us to persevere, anchoring our hope in the promises of Christ, and anticipating the ultimate salvation of our souls.
This verse reminds us that our faith is not in vain and that we have a glorious and unwavering hope. It reassures us that God’s power is our shield, protecting us from the attacks of the enemy, including spiritual oppression. As we endure trials and tribulations, we can find strength and joy in the knowledge that God’s hand is upon us, leading us toward an eternal salvation that surpasses any suffering we may face.
Luke 7:21
“At that moment, Jesus cured many who had diseases, sicknesses, and evil spirits and gave sight to many who were blind.”
This verse speaks of the healing and deliverance ministry of Jesus, showcasing His power to overcome physical illnesses and cast out evil spirits. It revels in the numerous miracles Jesus performed, strengthening the belief in His ability to bring about total restoration in those who were oppressed and suffering.
This passage invites us to have faith in Jesus as the ultimate source of healing and deliverance. It encourages us to approach Him with confidence, knowing that He has the authority to set us free from spiritual bondage and bring about healing in all areas of our lives. Just as Jesus demonstrated His power in performing miracles during His earthly ministry, we can trust in His willingness to bring about supernatural transformation in our lives today.
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 narrative recounts an encounter with a slave girl who possessed a spirit of divination. She often followed Paul and his companions, proclaiming their connection to the Most High God. However, Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, commanded the evil spirit to leave her, and it obeyed, setting the girl free from her spiritual bondage.
This story reflects the authority and power the followers of Christ have through the name of Jesus to confront and cast out evil spirits. It demonstrates the need for discernment and spiritual discernment when encountering supernatural manifestations, highlighting that not all spiritual encounters are of godly origin. As believers, we can follow Paul’s example by exercising our authority in Christ and seeking to set individuals free from oppression through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 10:1
“Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.”
This verse describes Jesus equipping His disciples with the authority to cast out impure spirits and heal physical ailments. He bestows upon them the power to confront and overcome spiritual oppression, demonstrating that deliverance and healing are integral aspects of the ministry of Jesus and His followers.
This passage highlights the responsibility and privilege believers have to exercise the authority given to them by Jesus. It reminds us that spiritual deliverance and physical healing are part of the transformative work God desires to accomplish through His followers. As we walk in the footsteps of the disciples, we can rely on the authority bestowed upon us by Jesus to bring liberation and healing to those in need, recognizing that our actions are not our own but an extension of the power of God at work within us.
Colossians 2:15
“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”
This verse declares the triumph of Christ over the powers and authorities through His death on the cross. It proclaims the victory Jesus achieved over spiritual forces, parading them as defeated and powerless before all creation. Through His sacrifice, Jesus disarmed the enemy, rendering him powerless against those who belong to Christ.
This passage serves as a reminder of the decisive victory Jesus won through His death and resurrection. It assures us that, as followers of Christ, we can stand in the authority and power of His victory. We can confront spiritual oppression and demonic forces with the confidence that the enemy has already been defeated. By embracing the truth of Christ’s triumph, we can walk in the freedom and authority that come from being united with Him.
Psalm 34:17-18
“The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
This psalm assures the righteous that when they cry out to the Lord, He hears them and delivers them from all their troubles. It promises the nearness of God to the brokenhearted, offering salvation to those crushed in spirit. The psalmist acknowledges that God is intimately involved in the lives of His people, providing deliverance and comfort in times of distress.
Understanding the intimate relationship between believers and God enables us to approach Him with confidence in times of spiritual oppression. This verse assures us that God not only hears our cries but also responds with deliverance and salvation. It reminds us that no matter how dire our circumstances may seem, we can depend on God’s faithfulness to rescue us from the grip of the enemy and bring us into a place of healing and restoration.
Psalm 91:1-2
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'”
This psalm speaks of finding refuge and rest in the Lord’s shelter. It describes Him as a fortress, emphasizing the security and protection He provides. The psalmist declares his trust in the Lord and acknowledges Him as the ultimate source of comfort and safety.
The imagery presented in this verse encourages us to seek God’s presence and take refuge in Him when facing spiritual battles. It reminds us that He offers a place of safety and peace, shielding us from the attacks of the enemy. By placing our trust in Him, we can find solace and strength as we navigate the challenges of life, including spiritual oppression. In His presence, we are fortified and empowered to withstand any form of attack.