Click to join the conversation with over 500,000 Pentecostal believers and scholars
| PentecostalTheology.com
Demonic Activity (chapter from “Thorn in My Flesh: A Biblical Theology for Ministry and Treatment of
Life-Controlling Problems”)
The mention of demonic activity by a client is usually a red flag, especially in my home country, the USA. Most
frequently it is a symptom of manipulative or blame-shifting behavior not unlike the famous comedian Flip Wilson’s
Geraldine character, “The devil made me do that!” If this is the case it is a diversionary tactic, whether conscious or
unconscious, that will impede the progress of treatment.
One way is to confront it is head-on, attempting to reason with the person who purports to being demon-possessed or
“having” a demon that it is not a reality. Let’s examine the various reasons why that is likely to not end successfully:
1. Do you suspect a person intentionally utilizing such diversionary manipulative tactics to avoid accepting reasonable
alternatives and address their issues which are repressed or suppressed?
2. The predominant theory about persons purporting or exhibitting such activity is that they have a severe psychiatric
disturbance. I can remember decades ago mental health practitioners, still under the residue of psychoanalytic
influence, tended to confront the irrationality of psychosisi.
The mention of demons is so controversial and yet no one can deny them being referenced throughout the Bible. I
must confess that when I first came back to the Lord I was too “intelligent” to believe they actually exist. I was willing
to accept the Word of God as true in every respect because I needed to “believe that a Power greater than myself could
restore me to sanity.”ii,iii I knew that, as an old street wino told me in my first AA meeting, where I was going on and
on about the 12 Steps, which I had seen for the first time just before the meeting, “It was your best thinking that got
you here!”
I suddenly realized how absurd my thinking was. I had determined that I needed external wisdom as mine had failed
miserably and repeatedly. So, as best I could at the time, I accepted scriptures as the Word of God, superior to my
own intellect, which had gotten in my way all too often. I did not realize all the ways and the extent to which that
commitment to God’s Word would be tested.
I still have reservations even about discussing the subject in this book for a variety of reasons. Nevertheless, after much
prayer and thought, I have decided to address the topic reservedly. Depending upon one’s eschatology, and where
they perceive we are in the timeline of it, we may be seeing much more in the way of demonic manifestations in the
world, particularly in this country.
1 John 4:3 ESV states:
and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you
heard was coming and now is in the world already.
We know that “the spirit of antichrist” is already in the world and manifesting primarily in countries where the Church,
the Body of Christ, is less prominent. There are other factors, as we will see, but a healthy, vibrant Church, full of His
Spirit seems to be the strongest deterrent to strong demonstrations of the demonic to any degree.iv,v
Early in my recovery, back in the mid-1980s, I started a Christian 12-Step ministry with another brother that grew to
over 365 people and had splinter groups at other churches. During that ministry I began to encounter persons who
appeared to exhibit symptoms of demonic activity, e.g., growling, writhing, speaking in guttural voices, etc.
While I believed the Bible I wasn’t sure what I believed about this. I suppose that I was willing to acknowledge the
phenomena was real but I think that I must have thought of it as severe psychological disorders. This was very new to
me, however, and very different from the analytical mind that majored in math and physics starting college. But such
notions are vague presuppositions about our worldview of which we are often unaware.
I had faced personal problems that my analytical mind could not resolve, came to a point where faith in the Lord was
my only option, and accepted God’s Word as being true where my thinking had obviously failed. I proceeded as best
as I could ministering what I was learning in my personal Bible study, which had become extensive, and my constant
reading, watching, and listening to teachers of God’s Word.
Confronted with such “demonic” manifestations I did what I saw in scripture, pronouncing the same words, believing in
the authority of the name of Jesus, and saw that it worked – but I still wasn’t ready for a real demonic possession, at least I was
not mentally prepared for it.
There was, however, one occurrence that was very much similar to the dramatic effects of certain movies. I will not
share what occurred because I neither want to glorify the theatrics of the devil, who was soundly defeated at every turn,
but I want to convey that I had such an experience to illustrate:
a . Demons are real spiritual beings, not delusions or a psychiatric problem.
b. The occurrence, at least in the USA at this time, of demon possession is rare.
c. But demonic activity occurs at some level, all the time, everywhere, in various degrees.
After the episode I referenced above the individual testified at a Charismatic megachurch outside of Dallas that I had
cast eight demons out of him. The response was overwhelming, I had an immediate “deliverance ministry” (see more
about his topic, below) that I never asked for. Almost all the people I to whom I was referred had mental illnesses of
some sort, frequently trauma survivors.
Too frequently they requested prayer from a small group of people who had read some books, listened to some
preachers, and were “armed for bear” ready to diagnose and cast those devils out. They had shaken, screamed at, and
otherwise ganged up on this poor person suffering from anxiety, low self-worth, and even psychosis. Then the
situation got worse.
They called in the “Big Gun”, me. I would get there only to find a person often quite terrorized. Usually, all I did is
reassure the person of God’s unfailing love for them and remove them from the situation, prayed with them, and
connected them to resources. Sometimes, I found persons who seemed to revel in the attention (I didn’t know then
about personality disorders). Then I tried explaining to the group leaders so that, maybe, this wouldn’t happen again to
someone else.
Father Gabriele Amorth, world renown exorcist and author, claimed that only 94 of his 30,000 exorcisms represented
full possession,vi However, that does not mean there was not tempting, tormenting, and other progressive demonic
activities where satan and his minions use his powers of lies, deception, and accusations to eventually convince a
person to fully surrender to the evil spirit or spirits.
We all encounter demonic activity, whether we realize it or not. For most of us it can range from a sudden thought
that pops into your head, to seductive temptations, to fostering the obsessive thought patterns, to compulsive acting
on their urges and temptations, yes, even toward possession.vii
Several scriptures in the Bible speak about demonic activity being present and active throughout the world. See the
verses enumerated, below. These verses are not provided to invoke fear in you but heighten your awareness. Paul
wanted us to be educated on this subject, “that no advantage may be gained over us by Satan: for we are not ignorant
of his devices.” 2 Corinthians 2:11 ESV
Scripture: Demonic Activity Present Today
Here are some key scriptural passages that illustrate that demons are active in the world today:
1. Satan’s Influence Over the World
1 John 5:19 – “We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one.”
2 Corinthians 4:4 – “In whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving, so that they might not
see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”
2. Demonic Powers at Work
Ephesians 6:12 – “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the
rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
Daniel 10:13 – “But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; but, behold, Michael, one of
the chief princes, came to help me.” (This passage suggests spiritual warfare in the heavens influencing earthly events.)
3. Demons Influencing Individuals
Luke 8:30 – “Jesus asked him, ‘What is your name?’ And he said, ‘Legion’; because many demons had entered him.”
Mark 5:8-9 – “For He had said to him, ‘Come out of the man, unclean spirit!’ Then He asked him, ‘What is your
name?’ And he answered, saying, ‘My name is Legion; for we are many.'”
4. Demonic Deception in the End Times
1 Timothy 4:1 – “Now the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will depart from the faith, paying attention to
deceitful spirits and teachings of demons.”
2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 – “The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs,
and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish.”
5. Satan Roaming the Earth
Job 1:7 – “And the Lord said to Satan, ‘From where do you come?’ So Satan answered the Lord and said, ‘From going
to and fro on the earth, and from walking back and forth on it.'”
1 Peter 5:8 – “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he
may devour.”
These verses collectively show that demonic activity is widespread, influencing individuals, nations, and even religious
teachings, while seldom displaying the dramatic exhibitions seen in the movies.
Having observed both real possession and other types of experiences, and cases where individuals were identified as
such but had other issues, I want to present as balanced a perspective as possible. Demonic possession, characterized by
the belief that individuals can be inhabited or controlled by malevolent supernatural entities, has been a part of human
culture for millennia, admittedly among more primitive cultures with less developed understanding of psychological or
neurological disorders.
While modern science often attributes such phenomena to psychological or neurological disorders, the persistence of
possession narratives and exorcism practices in a contemporary society warrants a closer examination.
Evidence of Increased Reports
Several indicators suggest a rise in reported cases of demonic possession:
Increased Number of Exorcisms: Father Gabriele Amorth, a renowned exorcist, reported performing over 50,000
exorcisms by 2000, a number that escalated to 160,000 by 2013. He noted that while not all cases involved full
possession, the sheer volume indicated a growing demand for exorcism services. viii,ix
Overwhelmed Exorcists: In Italy, some exorcists have reported managing 30 to 50 cases daily, underscoring the
heightened demand for their services.x
Training Initiatives: The Vatican has responded to the increasing demand by organizing training sessions for exorcists,
reflecting a global acknowledgment of the issue.xi
Rising Number of Exorcists: In the United States, the number of Catholic exorcists has grown from fewer than 15 a
decade ago to over 100, indicating a response to the escalating reports of possession.xii
Vatican’s Recruitment of Priests for Exorcism Training: The Vatican has actively recruited priests to undergo
specialized training in exorcism as part of its response to the rising number of reported possessions. In recent years,
the Vatican-affiliated Athenaeum Pontificium Regina Apostolorum in Rome has hosted exorcism courses attended by
priests worldwide. These sessions aim to equip clergy with the skills necessary to identify and combat possession while
distinguishing cases of mental illness from supernatural influence.xiii
Contributing Factors
Several factors may contribute to the perceived rise in demonic possession cases:
Increased Occult Practices: Father Amorth linked the surge in possession cases to a rise in practices such as magic,
esotericism, and Satanism, suggesting that these activities might open individuals to malevolent influences.xiv
Media Influence: The portrayal of possession and exorcism in media, notably films like “The Exorcist,” has heightened
public interest and awareness, potentially leading to more reported cases.xv
Pentecostal Influence: The growth of Pentecostal and Charismatic movements, which emphasize spiritual warfare and
deliverance, may contribute to increased reports of possession and the practice of exorcism.xvi
Skeptical Perspectives
While reports of possession are on the rise, skeptics point out it is essential to approach the phenomenon critically:
Lack of Statistical Studies: Despite anecdotal evidence, there is a scarcity of comprehensive statistical analyses to
confirm the increase in possession cases.xvii They want to see a more scientific approach.
Alternative Explanations: Many cases attributed to possession may result from psychological or medical conditions,
necessitating careful differential diagnosis. However, this is not a mutually exclusive determination. In my opinion,
they often worked in tandem.
The reported rise in demonic possession cases reflects a complex interplay of cultural, religious, and societal factors.
While the increase in exorcisms and the growing number of trained exorcists indicate a heightened demand, they
believe it’s crucial to balance these reports with critical analysis and consider alternative explanations.
Further research is needed to understand this phenomenon comprehensively and to address it appropriately within
both religious and secular frameworks. Nevertheless, once one has experienced a true encounter with demonic
possession it is unmistakenly confirmed for them. If and when that occurs one had better know and understand what
the Bible says and stand firmly upon that within your innermost being.
MPD & Deliverance Ministries
The 1980s and 1990s witnessed a significant rise in the reported cases of Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD), now
known as Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), alongside an increasing prominence of Christian deliverance ministries
that sought to exorcise demonic influences. This period marked a unique intersection of psychiatric and religious
interpretations of identity fragmentation, often leading to debates over the nature of the disorder and the legitimacy of
spiritual interventions.
The Rise of MPD Diagnoses
MPD gained mainstream recognition in psychiatric circles during the late 20th century, largely due to the influence of
books such as Sybil (1973) and increasing clinical documentation. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
(DSM-III) officially recognized MPD in 1980, contributing to a surge in reported cases.xviii Clinicians suggested that
MPD was frequently associated with childhood trauma, particularly severe abuse, which led to the fragmentation of
identity as a coping mechanism.xix
However, skepticism about MPD’s legitimacy grew as critics argued that suggestibility and therapist influence played
substantial roles in the disorder’s proliferation. The debate intensified with the rise of recovered memory therapy, which
some argued contributed to the creation rather than the discovery of alters (alternate personalities).xx The rise in MPD
diagnoses tracked the increase in books written and the clinical seminars and workshops provided. It was a hot
business professionally. The DSM changed the name shortly thereafter and diagnoses dropped dramatically.xxi
The Role of Deliverance Ministries
Simultaneously, Christian deliverance ministries experienced a resurgence, particularly in charismatic and Pentecostal
circles. These ministries posited that certain psychological disorders, including MPD, were manifestations of demonic
possession or oppression.xxii Exorcists and spiritual healers reported encountering individuals who exhibited multiple
personalities, which they interpreted as either demonic entities or evidence of spiritual warfare.xxiii
Prominent figures in the deliverance movement, such as Frank and Ida Mae Hammond, authors of Pigs in the Parlor
(1973), and Bob Larson, a well-known exorcist, advocated for deliverance as a means of addressing MPD.xxiv Some
churches established specialized ministries that worked with individuals claiming to suffer from MPD, believing that
casting out demons would lead to the integration of fragmented personalities.xxv
Overlap and Controversies
The overlap between MPD reports and deliverance practices led to significant controversies. On one hand, some
patients diagnosed with MPD found comfort in spiritual explanations and experienced temporary relief following
exorcisms.xxvi On the other hand, mental health professionals raised concerns about the potential harm caused by such
practices, particularly regarding the reinforcement of false memories and the risk of psychological distress.xxvii
Critics also pointed out that the social and cultural climate of the Satanic Panic—an era marked by widespread fears of
ritual abuse—contributed to the convergence of psychiatric and religious interpretations of MPD.xxviii The
sensationalism surrounding cases of alleged Satanic ritual abuse, which were often linked to MPD diagnoses, further
fueled the belief in demonic influences among deliverance ministers.xxix
Poor Clinical Practices
In the 1980s, a significant psychological and legal controversy emerged surrounding the use of therapeutic techniques
that allegedly led to the creation of false memories in patients, through Memory Reconstruction Therapy, particularly
those diagnosed with Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD), now known as Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID).
Some therapists employed suggestive methods such as hypnosis and guided imagery to recover supposed repressed
memories of childhood abuse, often involving extreme claims of satanic ritual abuse. These recovered memories were
later criticized for being inaccurate or entirely fabricated, leading to false accusations and significant distress for families and
communities. The scandal culminated in a broader societal debate about the reliability of memory, the ethics of
therapeutic practices, and the legal ramifications of recovered memories.xxx
Media coverage played a crucial role in amplifying public concern and popularizing these therapeutic approaches.
Sensationalized television talk shows, magazine articles, and books often presented dramatic narratives of survivors
“remembering” horrific abuse through therapy. This coverage not only lent legitimacy to the recovered memory
movement but also increased public demand for therapists who specialized in MPD and ritual abuse recovery.xxxi
Programs like The Oprah Winfrey Show and best-selling books such as Michelle Remembers helped shape a cultural moment
where repressed memories and multiple personalities were not only accepted but expected in trauma recovery. These
portrayals often lacked critical scrutiny and contributed to a moral panic that further blurred the lines between genuine
trauma and suggestively induced false memories.xxxii
The result was a marked increase in clinical books written, seminars and conferences, and clinicians “specializing” in
MPD therapy utilizing these techniques. Psychiatric hospitals had specialized programs for the rising number of MPD
diagnoses. Ian Hacking recalls:
The multiplication of multiples, the sudden increase in diagnosis of MPD, was not merely a function of better
detection, but part of a cultural and clinical trend where therapy created the very kinds of patients it treated.(p,
24)… Clinics emerged with specialists trained in treating MPD, complete with protocols, support groups, and
institutional frameworks. (pp. 65–68)xxxiii
In 1989, Frank Putnam observed:
Many psychiatric hospitals have established specialized treatment programs for MPD, staffed by clinicians
experienced in dissociative disorders. (p. xiii)
[He also describes the increasing volume of clinical seminars and workshops]
A growing number of conferences, symposia, and continuing education courses are devoted exclusively to the
diagnosis and treatment of MPD. (p. 5)xxxiv
The controversy highlighted the susceptibility of memory to suggestion and raised concerns about the role of therapists
in unintentionally implanting false narratives. Legal cases in the 1990s, including malpractice suits against therapists,
further fueled skepticism about recovered memory therapy and led to more rigorous standards in psychological
practice.xxxv ,xxxvi Children were removed from homes and parents prosecuted over false memories that were
“reconstructed”.
The concurrence of poor MPD diagnoses and clinical practices; and deliverance ministries in the 1980s and 1990s;
highlights a complex interplay between psychology and religion. While both approaches sought to provide explanations
for profound psychological distress, their methodologies and underlying assumptions often clashed. The debates
surrounding MPD’s authenticity, coupled with concerns over the ethical implications of exorcisms, ultimately
contributed to a decline in MPD diagnoses following its reclassification as DID in the DSM-IV in 1994.xxxvii
An alternative trauma treatment for repressed memories and their healing is now Memory Reconsolidation Therapy. Such
renaming of the disorder and treatment methodologies, though reflecting actual clinical modifications, appears
suspiciously like an attempt to move past that unfortunate period toward a more constructive path. Certainly, the
clinical emphasis upon DID is much less as is deliverance ministries.
Understanding this historical period provides valuable insight into how clinical practice and religious ministry can be
swept up into excesses of popular demand. Media expose’s on satanic worship fed into both and the hype provided
monetary reward for both. Nevertheless, for reasons previously discussed, and those we shall discuss, it would not be
prudent to ignore or shy away from what the Bible clearly states on the matter.
The Stages of Demonic Activity: Tormenting, Demonization, and Demon Possession
Throughout history, various theological traditions have sought to understand the nature of demonic activity and its
impact on human beings. Christian theology, particularly in the charismatic and deliverance movements, categorizes
demonic influence into progressive stages: tormenting, demonization, and full possession. Of importance to note is
that while I differ from Wimber on methodology of exorcisms, which will be addressed later, I think his
conceptualization of the spectrum of demonization is profoundly accurate.
We will explore these stages, drawing from biblical sources and the work of John Wimber, along with other scholars in
the field of spiritual warfare.
I. Tormenting Spirits
The first stage of demonic activity is torment. This can manifest as mental, emotional, or even physical distress caused
by external demonic oppression. While the afflicted person retains control over their will and actions, they may
experience intense fear, anxiety, or spiritual oppression. John Wimber, founder of the Vineyard Movement,
emphasized that demonic torment often targets a believer’s mind, causing doubt and confusion.xxxviii
Scripture provides numerous examples of demonic torment. In 1 Samuel 16:14-23, an evil spirit tormented King Saul,
leading to distress and erratic behavior. In 2 Corinthians 12:7, Paul describes a “thorn in the flesh, a messenger of
Satan,” which some interpret as a form of spiritual torment permitted by God for a higher purpose.
II. Demonization
Demonization represents a deeper level of demonic influence, where a person begins to lose control over certain
aspects of their life due to spiritual bondage. Unlike torment, demonization implies a degree of internalized demonic
presence rather than external oppression. Wimber asserted that demonization does not equate to full possession but
rather manifests through behavioral, emotional, or spiritual struggles that seem resistant to natural or medical
remedies.xxxix
Biblical evidence of demonization can be found in Mark 9:17-18, where a boy is afflicted by a spirit that causes seizures
and self-harm. Unlike full possession, the boy still responds to external stimuli and is brought before Jesus by his
father, demonstrating that demonization, though severe, allows for divine intervention and deliverance.
A personal example of this was when I was attending a Signs & Wonders seminar class at Oral Roberts Seminary, this
session being taught by the late, great T.L. Osborne, missionary evangelist to Africa, a mother heard about the event in
Kansas and drove her adult son to Tulsa for deliverance.
Osborne finished, a prayer was offered by faculty while Osborne departed without the expected altar call as it was a
class, not a ministry service. The adult son ran after Osborne and was intercepted by senior students acting as ushers.
The demon began to manifest with growling and writhing. Those young seniors (I was in my mid-30s then) called for
me, knowing my “deliverance ministry” reputation.
I came running, commanding the demon to come out in Jesus’s name on the way. Before I got there the man fell to
his knees and it was over – for now. I will return to this story later in Preventing Demons in Life-Controlling Problems to
explain my differences with Wimber on methodology.
III. Full Demon Possession
The final and most severe stage is full possession, in which a demonic entity takes complete control over an individual,
leading to significant behavioral, psychological, and physical manifestations. Possession is marked by a total loss of self
autonomy, with the demon speaking and acting through the possessed person.xl
One of the most notable examples of possession in the Bible is the Gerasene demoniac (Mark 5:1-20). The man
exhibited supernatural strength, self-destructive tendencies, and a complete loss of personal identity until Jesus cast the
demons into a herd of pigs. This passage illustrates the destructive power of possession but also affirms the supremacy
of Christ’s authority over demonic forces.
The progression from torment to demonization to possession highlights the increasing severity of demonic influence.
While torment may begin as external oppression, deeper levels of influence can lead to spiritual bondage and, in
extreme cases, full possession. John Wimber and others stress that deliverance through Christ is available at every
stage, emphasizing the role of faith, prayer, and spiritual authority in overcoming demonic forces.
Recognizing these stages allows believers to seek appropriate intervention, whether through personal prayer, pastoral
care, or deliverance ministry. I will address such interventions in Preventing Demons in Life-Controlling Problems.
Increased Demonic Activity as End Times Approach
The Bible presents a vivid picture of increased demonic activity as humanity approaches the end times. Scriptural
prophecies indicate that spiritual warfare will intensify, deception will become rampant, and demonic influences will
play a significant role in leading people away from God. We will now examine biblical references to the escalation of
demonic activity in the last days, supported by theological insights from scholarly sources and ministerial perspectives.
Biblical References Increased Demonic Activity
1. The Rise of False Christs and False Prophets
Jesus warned that deception would mark the end times, particularly through false messiahs and false prophets. In
Matthew 24:24 ESV, He states:
For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if
possible, even the elect.
This deception is often linked to demonic influence, as false signs and wonders serve to mislead people away from the
truth of God’s Word. The Apostle Paul reiterates this warning in 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10, where he describes the
coming of the lawless one as “by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders.”
2. Increased Wickedness and the Influence of Evil Spirits
Paul writes in 1 Timothy 4:1 ESV:
Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to
deceitful spirits and teachings of demons.
This passage suggests that the latter days will witness an increase in demonic teachings infiltrating human ideology,
leading to widespread apostasy. Furthermore, Revelation 16:13-14 depicts demonic spirits performing signs to deceive
world leaders into waging war against God.
3. The Prevalence of the Occult and Lawlessness
Revelation 9:20-21 ESV describes the persistent rebellion of humanity despite divine judgments:
The rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands nor
give up worshiping demons and idols of gold and silver and bronze… nor did they repent of their murders or
their sorceries or their sexual immorality or their thefts.
The Greek word for “sorceries” here is φαρμακεία (pharmakeia), often associated with occult practices and substance
abuse, both of which have historically been linked to demonic influence. Interestingly, this is the word from which we
get pharmacy and pharmaceutical. The use of mood and mind-altering drugs or potions was frequent in occult practicesxli.
It’s not a challenging stretch to see the correlation between the rise in substance use disorders and the rise in the
occult. However, the converse is also true, religious service attendance is associated “lowered the odds of substance
use and SUD across multiple substances…”:
Despite decreasing rates of religious belief and practice in the US, service attendance independently lowered
the odds of substance use and SUD across multiple substances. Results may inform religious leaders and
clinicians about the value of utilizing religious social support structures in the prevention and treatment of
substance use and SUD.xlii
Theological and Ministerial Perspectives
1. Early Church Writings
Church fathers such as Irenaeus and Augustine spoke extensively about demonic deception increasing in the last days.
Irenaeus, in Against Heresies, warned that Satan would use deceptive means to lead people astray.xliii Augustine
emphasized that spiritual discernment was crucial to recognize demonic deception.xliv
2. Modern Theological Insights
Contemporary theologians affirm the biblical warnings of heightened demonic activity. John MacArthur, President of
The Master’s University and Seminary, emphasizes that spiritual deception will be Satan’s primary weapon in the last
days, leading many into false doctrine and away from Christ.xlv Derek Prince, a scholar of Greek and Latin, attending
both Eton College and Cambridge University, also highlights that demonic forces will exploit moral decline and the
rejection of biblical truth.xlvi
Practical Implications for Believers
In light of the increasing demonic activity, Christians are urged to:
1. Remain Spiritually Vigilant – Ephesians 6:10-18 instructs believers to put on the full armor of God to stand
against the schemes of the devil.
2. Discern False Teachings – 1 John 4:1 calls Christians to “test the spirits” to distinguish between truth and
deception.
3. Stay Rooted in Scripture and Prayer – Regular study of God’s Word and prayer fortifies believers against spiritual
deception (Psalm 119:105).
4. Engage in Spiritual Warfare – James 4:7 exhorts believers to “resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
First, and foremost, is not to get into fear but maintain one’s position of faith. Jesus in Matthew 16:18 ESV states: “…
I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” This is not a picture of a church huddled in
fear praying the walls hold up against the onslaught of devils but quite the opposite. Christians are on the assault of
“the gates of hell” and they cannot prevail. Most Christians have no idea the authority and power that is in the
believer who is “in Christ.”
Biblical prophecy indicates and various theological opinion affirms that demonic activity will increase as the end times
approach. The rise of deception, false prophets, lawlessness, and occult practices all signal the intensification of
spiritual warfare. However, Scripture provides believers with the tools to resist and overcome these challenges.
We are well equipped for the task. Even in my ignorance, and relative vulnerability in early-stage recovery, the Lord
worked through me to defeat the greatest concentration of demonic activity I have ever seen in over 40 years. I am
not any more special than you, nor was I prepared other than the Lord spoke to me 1 John 4:4 just before the
encounter.
Preventing Demons in Life-Controlling Problems
As we will see in Soul Ties, under The Soul, Family, and Familiar Spirits, evil spirits familiarize themselves in the soul and
embed there to influence it in a progressive manner (see The Stages of Demonic Activity, above). For now, this is a stated
presumption as we proceed to the discussion of Preventing Demons in Life-Controlling Problems, or more accurately,
preventing or minimizing their influence on our behavior.
Let’s start by resuming the story about the demonized fellow at the T.L. Osborne seminar class at O.R.U. Seminary.
The ushers yelled for me to come and I sensed immediately the presence of an evil spirit, a.k.a., a demon, so I ran
toward that direction and simply yelled come out of him in the name of Jesus.
The man began writhing and growling, as I approached but then instantly jerked and dropped to his knees, at the
command in the name of Jesus. The situation seemed to be over. However, a seminary brother who had studied under
a well-known deliverance ministry, and read all of this minister’s books on the subject, came running up behind me
asking if he could “try something,” to which I replied, “Sure!”
So, the student whipped out a notepad and began asking what the demon’s name was. The man who had been on his
knees exhibiting relief from the evil-inspired torment now rose to his feet, replying a name, and began snarling,
growling, and writhing again. My friend was writing down the name, and asked by what authority he possessed this
man, not noticing the man was drawing back to strike him. There are numerous cases where demon possessed people
have exhibited superhuman strengthxlvii, so this should not have been taken lightly.
I shoved the young student aside, more for his own oblivious safety, and yelled with even more authority, “Be silent!
Come out of him, in Jesus’ name!” and, once again, it was immediately over. The young student was doing essentially
the process that he was taught, painstakingly, as a matter of fact. He studied John Wimber’s methodologies and was
duplicating what he had read and heard.
Let me hasten to observe that Jesus did ask on ONE occasion, of the many times that He cast out demons, what their
names were:
Luke 8:30 – “Jesus asked him, ‘What is your name?’ And he said, ‘Legion’; because many demons had entered him.”
Mark 5:8-9 – “For He had said to him, ‘Come out of the man, unclean spirit!’ Then He asked him, ‘What is your
name?’ And he answered, saying, ‘My name is Legion; for we are many.'”
Presumably, this is the same occasion described by two separate authors, evidenced by many facts, including the name
of the demonic host. Since it occurred once of many occasions, one must see this as an exception, not the rule for an
exorcism protocol.
In my opinion, Jesus sensed a host of demonic concentration and was diagnostically assessing how powerful a situation
that He was facing because He had a crowd of non-believers, hence, unprotected by the presence of Holy Spirit in
them, that He had to be concerned about. Demons, once expelled, will seek a new host and Jesus did not want to
infect, so to speak, the crowd of people.
His sense was confirmed by the revelation that “’My name is Legion; for we are many.'” So, Jesus cast them into the
herd of pigs who went over the cliff, problem solved. Once He assessed the situation the actual exorcism was simple.
Luke 8:31 states,
And they begged him not to command them to depart into the abyss. 32 Now a large herd of pigs was
feeding there on the hillside, and they begged him to let them enter these. So, he gave them permission.
They immediately recognized His authority and “begged”. His response was to grant permission for their own self
destruction, vs. influencing the poor man known as The Gadarene Demoniac to self-destructive behavior, not unlike our
Life-Controlling Problems have been.
Yet, Wimber and others have built a theology of exorcism based upon this exception vs. the overwhelmingly
predominant pattern Jesus used which was simple, understanding and having faith in His own authority over all
“principalities, powers, might and dominion.” That not only is not unbiblical, in my opinion, it is dangerous.
As in my example, of the young student who was schooled and ordained in the Wimber’s church organization, asking
questions of demons entertains their existence vs. acknowledging it. In addition, asking their names honors their
identity. And asking what authority they possess/influence/torment recognizes at some level they have authority to be
there. I do none of these things. Instead, like Jesus, I simply give orders in His name, as He would – because I am
acting FOR Him.
While the young man’s ministerial credentialing organization would distinguish themselves from the more ritualistic
ecclesiastical denominations, their process was not dissimilar to the rituals of exorcism in the Roman Catholic
Churchxlviii. One’s authority does not come down from ecclesiastical hierarchy or from conforming to a process, as
though it were a magical incantation one must say and do correctly to have power. One’s authority comes from “in
Christ” relationship and a faith position based upon His Word.
In an effort to remain consistent with the previously established hermeneutic of this book, we shall look primarily to
Scripture as our authoritative source, avoiding what “others say”. And we will discover why this is critical.
Authority in the Name of Jesus
Jesus cast out demons by His own authority, most often with a simple command. This sets the precedent that exorcism
is not about ritual but divine authority which flows from relationship with Him.
Mark 1:23–26 – Jesus rebukes an unclean spirit in the synagogue: “Be silent, and come out of him!” The spirit obeys
immediately – as they did in my account. This illustrates total control, not entertaining any theatrics or displays of a
type of “power”. Satan’s power is not even comparable to the power that cast him out of heaven with a third of the
angels. There is no discussion, just command.
Luke 4:41 – “And demons also came out of many, crying, ‘You are the Son of God!’” His identity and authority are
central to the process. They recognized Jesus and His authority immediately; Jesus did not identify Himself. We see
this same pattern when the demon possessed girl followed Paul around in Acts 16:16-34, taunting him. She reacted to
Holy Spirit within Paul.
Darkness cannot tolerate light (John 3:20). Evil senses the righteousness of God in a person and reacts to it. If you
are getting an unexplainable reaction from a person, it may be that there is some psychological transference going on –
or maybe, if there is evidence of demonic influence at some level, they (not the client) could be reacting to the Spirit of
God in you.
This does not require you even bringing the matter to the attention of the client in most cases. In usual course of
practice, I pray silently in a clinical session, taking authority over demonic spirits in the name of Jesus, and binding
them, commanding them to cease and desist tormenting the person. The person often has no idea what I have
done, nor is it therapeutic to bring it up. Instead, I take a more positive approach encouraging the person in
righteousness, healthy behavior, etc. Theatrics simply are not necessary and often are not helpful.
Matthew 8:28 – “And when he came to the other side, to the country of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men
met him, coming out of the tombs, so fierce that no one could pass that way. 29 And behold, they cried out, “What
have you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?”
Again, the demons seem to recognize, not only Jesus’ divine authority, but they also seem to have some understanding as to
the spiritual season of His mission, i.e., “before the time.” This seems to be a reference to the time of Matthew 25:41,
“Depart from me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels.”
The greater lesson is that they know they are defeated before Jesus even addresses them. In my “Exorcist” movie-like
experience, as I prayed on the way to minister, the only thing the Lord gave me was 1 John 4:4 ESV, “He who is in you
is greater than he who is in the world.”
I was about to go into a gross concentration of evil, relatively new in my recovery and walk with the Lord, and this
verse was all that I had, that The Greater One was in me, much “greater than he who is in the world.” But I heard it
from Holy Spirit!
Apparently, that was all that I needed to know to face the greatest concentration of evil power that I have ever
encountered. I was like “Little children”, completely vulnerable–except for Him. I had made a commitment to myself
that I would believe God’s Word over anything that I perceived, thought or felt, anything my soul would tell me. That
commitment was about to be tested in ways I could not have imagined.
I refuse to speak of the theatrics the devil used to persuade me to get into fear rather than faith, “exchange the truth
for a lie” (Romans 1:25), to believe him, the devil, vs. The Greater One. I won’t do that because describing his
theatrics would be honoring him, ascribing power or authority to him. Instead, I will focus upon the fact that while the
three other people in the room saw and experienced the same things that I did – that miserable imp and his seven
other devils were soundly defeated.
Mind you, this time I learned a few things in the process:
• Never lay hands on a person you suspect may have a serious demonic influence. – 1 Timothy says, “Do not
be hasty in the laying on of hands, nor take part in the sins of others; keep yourself pure.” I had read over that
several times, and never understood it, but it came to me clearly when I laid hands on a man possessed by eight
demons and was knocked over a coffee table. I was able to more effectively cast the devil out from the other
side of the table. The reaction to Holy Spirit in you by a concentration of demonic power is explosive. You
have just as much authority in Christ from the other side of the room. Give yourself space.
• Maintain your focus upon Jesus and connection with Holy Spirit. – The Greater One is you source of
authority and the devil knows it and wants to talk you out of it. He is a liar, deceiver, and accuser of the brethren.
Don’t fall for it. Hang onto your focus no matter what you see or hear. That is irrelevant. Your life is dependent
upon this focus and connection. At one point a 6’3” inch, mixed martial art master, with eight demons, towered
over me against a kitchen counter about to plunge a knife in my chest. I then sensed Holy Spirit say to me,
“Not by might, not by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord!” (Zechariah 4:6) I saw him struggle against
something unseen. I am not one to see angels or visions as some do. But I saw him attempt to plunge the
butcher knife in my chest three times, struggling as I bound him in the mighty name of Jesus. I saw the knife
fly across the room and he gave a jerk as the third demon came out.
• Assess the situation as Jesus did. – In most cases you may not even need to say anything out loud. Remember
what I said about my loudness being about convincing my soul when my soul is quaking with what I see, hear,
and otherwise perceive. A simple command otherwise works sufficiently, silently just as well as aloud in most
cases. Also assess your surroundings. Are there people around who might be vulnerable should evil spirits be
expelled and seek another host? Make sure that everyone is safe. Finally, assess your own spiritual condition.
Are you ready for this? Have you “given place to the devil” (Ephesians 4:27) for which you haven’t repented
and may not be spiritually prepared?
