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Articles
Do demons still dwell within us today?
In the New Testament we see numerous examples of people who were demon possessed. It’s only natural for us to ask that question today. What does the bible say about the subject?
What is it? Was there a purpose for it? Does it happen today? Let’s begin by looking at what it is not.
Demon possession is not: A disease, though sometimes the symptoms were the same.
Matthew 4:24 says, Then his fame went throughout all Syria, and they brought to him all sick people who were afflicted with various diseases and torment, those who were demon possessed, epileptics, and paralytics; and he healed them. It is not being influenced by the devil to sin.
Acts 5:1-3 tells us, But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphria his wife, sold a possession. And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet. But Peter said, Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself?
There is one Devil and many demons. We must be careful to distinguish between them. Satan is king of the demons; they answer to him, and they work for him.
Another definition of demon possession is A demon residing in a person, exerting direct control and influence over that person, with certain derangement of mind and /or body. Demon possession is to be distinguished from demon influence or demon activity in relation to a person. The work of the demon in the latter is from the outside; in the demon possession it is from within. By this definition a Christian cannot be possessed by a demon since he is indwelt by the Holy Spirit. However, a believer can be the target of demonic activity to such extent that he may give the appearance of demon possession.
An evil spirit residing in a person’s body would take over the person’s body.
Mark 9:20-22 says, Then they brought him to Him. And when he saw Him, immediately the spirit convulsed him, and he fell on the ground and wallowed, foaming at the mouth. So, he asked his father, how long has this been happening to him? And he said, from childhood and often he has thrown him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion for us and help us.
In conclusion we see Christ had the power to cast out evil spirits, demons and when he went to the cross of Calvery he showed us and Satan who is in control. He overcame the power of death when he was resurrected and gave you and I the same power. James 4:7 reminds us to, Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the Devil, and he will flee from you!
Robby Cable
Providence Church of Christ
