Demonology 201
I want to start this lesson with a note of purely common sense and
reason. A typical paranormal researcher has NO BUSINESS trying to
conduct a demonic investigation on his or her own. DO NOT TRY to use
sage or any type of procedures usually effective with a entity. Unless
you are of the clergy DO NOT ATTEMPT to remove a demon.
Demons are not ghosts Demons are spiritual beings there are different
types.
Fates, who alter destiny
Incubi and succubi, who stimulate lust and perversion
Marching Hordes , who bring about war
Familiars, who assist witches
There is a list of demons in Demonology 101 on this web site so lets go
a bit deeper into
the correspondence of demons to the seven deadly sins
Lucifer Pride
Mammon Avarice
Asmodeus Lust
Satan Anger
Beelzebub Gluttony
Leviathan Envy
Belphegor Vanity and Sloth
Demonic FAQS
Q: Are Ouija boards really dangerous?
A: It is not the Ouija board itself which is dangerous. The potential
danger stems from the fact that by using a Ouija board to communicate
with spirits (or any similar divination device), an individual is opening up
his or her free will, thereby leaving oneself vulnerable to an invading spirit
presence. There are a great many examples of individuals successfully
contacting what at first appear to be "nice" spirits through the use of o
Ouija board...only to have these spirits turn on them once they have
gained a foothold. Demons can be very adept at masquerading as
departed loved ones, even going so far as to reveal hidden knowledge,
which was supposedly known only to the deceased...and this hidden
information will often eventually prove to be verifiable. However, once
demonic spirits have gained someone's trust, they will then cleverly
begin mixing lies with the truth, in an effort to confuse. Some individuals
eventually become emotionally dependant upon these "spirit friends"...
and a demonic presence will have no reservations about using a
person's loneliness or emotional vulnerabilities to gain a stronger
foothold. By the time it is too late, and a hostile entity has revealed it's
true colors, the person who has unwittingly been communicating with
these types of spirits will often find that they are much harder to get rid
of, than they were to bring in. Also, under no circumstances should
anyone ask a spirit to manifest itself (appear) to them through the use of
a Ouija board...since a demonic spirit will consider this an open invitation
to infiltrate that person's life!
Q: How true to life are the events portrayed in "The Exorcist"? A: "The
Exorcist", written by William Peter Blattey, is based upon an actual case
of demonic possession, and the subsequent exorcism, of a fourteen-
year-old boy, which took place in the U.S. in 1949. Some of the events
are documented as having actually occurred, such as writing appearing
on the boy's flesh, and his ability (while under possession) of speaking in
foreign languages. In the actual case, the exorcism eventually proved
successful, and the boy went on to live a normal, healthy life. None of
the priests involved actually died as the result of the exorcism, or
became possessed themselves, although one priest did suffer a broken
nose. Some of the more bizarre phenomena portrayed in both the book
and the movie never actually happened, such as the head spinning and
the "spider walk". Some of the events portrayed in "The Exorcist",
however, when taken in context, are actually supposed to be
telepathically projected into the minds of certain characters.
One thing I should mention about "The Exorcist" which happens to be
very true to life, is that these types of parasitic, hostile entities are often
initially and inadvertently "invited" in to begin oppressing certain
individuals, through the use of a Ouija board.
Q: What exactly are Demons? A: In the Judeo/Christian belief, demons
are "fallen angels" who conspired against the Heavenly Kingdom under
the leadership of Satan, were defeated by the Archangel Michael and the
holy angels, and were cast out of the Heavenly Realm...banished to
roam the earth and the earthly heavens. Although we know very little
about this terrible incident, it is assumed to have taken place long before
recorded human history. Demons, like Satan and like their angelic
counterparts, are inhuman spirit beings, never having been human...NOT
the damned souls of evil humans.
Q: Are Demons the same as "Ghosts"?A: HELL no. Whereas a ghost is
generally considered to be the disembodied spirit essence of a
deceased person (or animal, in some cases), a demon was never
physically alive, in the way in which we are familiar with life. Because
demons are spirit beings, and sometimes function in similar ways - even
sometimes intentionally masquerading as ghosts - they are often
mistaken as being ghosts. However, there is actually quite a difference
between the two, both in character and abilities.
Q: Can Demons materialize themselves as humans or animals?A: Yes,
although their ability to do so seems limited. Also, seemingly as a rule,
even on the rare occasions where they manifest themselves in
photographs, they are never "complete"...that is to say, either a body
part is missing (eyes, legs, or the entire head, etc.), or they are
disfigured in some noticeable way. Perhaps this is God's cosmic law at
work, commanding that they must in some way display that they are not
of human origin.
Q: Can demons actually possess dolls and statues?
A: Although demons do not technically "possess" inanimate objects
such as dolls and statues, they will sometimes attach or link themselves
to certain objects. Although there are a variety of reasons for this, the
most obvious cause would be if a doll or a statue has been
"personified," or given recognition as an object of profane worship, or
used in a ceremonial practice in which demonic entities were invoked.
(Two Scriptural references which specifically refer to this as the worship
of idols are: 1) Revelation 9:20, and 2) 1 Corinthians 10:20.)
Incidentally, demonic attachments to inanimate objects are not limited to
dolls and statues. In fact, I once knew someone who, as a young boy of
about five years old, picked up a glove which had been left in a
cemetery...and a demonic entity instantly began harassing him! The
vehicle in which screen idol Jimmy Dean was killed in is another
example. Also, it almost goes without saying that the most common
inanimate object to which a demonic entity will attach itself is the
infamous Ouija board.
Another cause of demonic entities having attached themselves to
inanimate objects such as dolls or statues, is if someone who was
demon possessed or severely oppressed, has owned or venerated this
particular object.
Of course, there is no reason to go through your house searching out
every inanimate object which you've ever felt slightly unnerved about.
However, if you do seriously feel there is something unnatural about an
object in your possession...be it a doll, statue, Ouija board or what have
you...it might just be a good idea to look up the history of this object, if
possible. For information pertaining to the disposal of such an object,
you may wish to contact a member of the clergy of your particular faith,
or perhaps a reputable paranormal research organization Such as Haunt
Analyst.
Many today seem to be fascinated with demons. The Bible does present
demons as being real (see Luke 4: 33-36 below). Where did demons
originate, what was their purpose, and do they possess people against
their own will today? The growth of the occult has also prompted more
interest in the demon world. Movies such as the Exorcist and Exorcist
Two (ca. 1974 and '77) created almost a cult following. Demons
represent the dark side, the opposite of good; hence, the obsession.
"33: And in the synagogue there was a man, which had a spirit of an
unclean devil, and cried out with a loud voice, 34: Saying, Let us alone;
what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to
destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy One of God. 35: And
Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And
when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt
him not. 36: And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves,
saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth
the unclean spirits, and they come out. 37: And the fame of him went out
into every place of the country round about" (Luke. 4).
Who or what are demons? Some view demons as simply the
personification of evil; hence, they are not entities. However, in the
above passage it is apparent demons were (are) entities. It was a
common belief among the Jews of the First Century that demons were
the spirits of the wicked that entered into men. Some early beliefs
relative to demons have continued until this present day. Some believe
demons were (are) the offspring of angels marrying women; others
contend that demons are the disembodied spirits of the inhabitants of a
pre-Adamic earth; and some maintain angels are fallen angels (Gen. 6:
4; 2 Pet. 2: 4). Regarding the first three views, there is no scriptural
evidence. In fact, the scriptures will not allow such explanations as being
even plausible. Concerning the fourth view, it is highly likely that demons
are fallen angels who were allowed to work their deeds during a special
period (2 Pet. 2: 4, Jude 6).
It should be understood that while demons and the devil are associated,
demons and the devil are separate and distinct entities. It is unfortunate
that some Translations will render "demons" (Gk. diamon) "devils" (see
King James in James 2: 19, it should be rendered "demons" ). For more
definition and clarification, please consider the observations of
lexicographer W. E. Vine:
"Noun, daimon '…a demon,' signified, among pagan Greeks, an inferior
deity, whether good or bad. In the NT it denotes 'an evil spirit.' It is used
in Matt. 8:31, mistranslated 'devils.' Some would derive the word from a
root da---, meaning 'to distribute.' More probably it is from a similar root
da---, meaning 'to know,' and hence means 'a knowing one.'
"Noun, daimonion …not a diminutive of daimon, No. 1, but the neuter of
the adjective daimonios, pertaining to a demon, is also mistranslated
'devil,' 'devils.' In Acts 17:18, it denotes an inferior pagan deity…. They
disseminate errors among men, and seek to seduce believers, 1 Tim. 4:
1…. 'Demons' tremble before God, Jas. 2:19; they recognized Christ as
Lord and as their future Judge, Matt. 8:29; Luke 4:41. Christ cast them
out of human beings by His own power. His disciples did so in His
name, and by exercising faith, e.g., Matt. 17:20. Acting under Satan (cp.
Rev. 16:13,14), 'demons' are permitted to afflict with bodily disease,
Luke 13:16. Being unclean they tempt human beings with unclean
thoughts, Matt. 10:1; Mark 5:2; 7:25; Luke 8:27-29; Rev. 16:13; 18:2, e.
g. They differ in degrees of wickedness, Matt. 12:45. They will instigate
the rulers of the nations at the end of this age to make war against God
and His Christ, Rev. 16:14. See DEVIL" (Expository Dictionary of New
Testament Words).
The nature of demons. There are many characteristics of demons found
in the New Testament. Demons are said to be evil (Lk. 7: 21, 8: 2). As
seen in Vine's statements, some demons are worse and stronger than
other demons, comparatively speaking (Matt. 12: 45, 43; Mk. 9: 17-29).
During the age of demon possession, demons were able to come and
go out of a person at will (Lk. 11: 24, 25). They were also able to take
possession of animals (Mk. 5: 13). Demons were able to speak out
through the mouth of the one whom they possessed, the demoniac (Lk.
4: 33-36). The fact demons possessed knowledge is seen in their
recognition of Jesus as the Son of God and they knew their destiny (Mk.
5: 7, Matt. 8: 29). Demons are said to have dwelt in desolate regions.
We read of them being in the mountains, among the tombs, and in dry,
waterless places (Mk. 5: 5; Mk. 5: 2; Lk. 11: 24).
Demons during the New Testament age (First Century). It was during the
First Century that demons obviously experienced their greatest freedom
and activity. Demons suppressed and possessed many. It was during
this time that Satan reigned predominantly. Demons possessed men,
women, a boy, and a girl (Matt. 4: 24; Lk. 8: 2; Lk. 9: 38, 39; Mk. 7: 25).
Demons affected those whom they possessed in different ways. They
caused some to be dumb (unable to speak); they caused blindness;
inability to hear; to be savage; to possess superhuman strength; and to
appear insane (Matt. 9: 32, 33; Matt. 12: 22; Mk. 9: 25; Matt. 8: 28; Mk.
5: 2-4; Mk. 5: 5).
Do demons or evil spirits possess people today? There is no doubt that
many are under the control of the devil (cp. 2 Tim. 2: 24-26). However,
the scriptures teach that if we resist the devil, he will flee (Jas. 4: 7).
Hence, our question pertains to the uninvited and severe bodily
indwelling of demons. An important verse in determining the answer to
our question is Luke 10: 18. "…I beheld Satan," Jesus said to his
disciples, "as lighting fall from heaven." Jesus' statement clearly has
reference to a defeat of Satan and the lessening of his powers. The text
or frame of reference of Jesus' statement has to do with "even the
demons are subject unto us through thy name" (vs. 17). The seventy thus
commissioned were given power over the demonic world, to cast out
demons. I, therefore, understand the kind and type of demon possession
of which we read in the New Testament to have been of a limited
duration, just as miraculous abilities were limited in their time frame (I
Cor. 13: 8-10). Demon possession would not continue pass the time of
the miraculous means of delivery (Click on "Have Miracles Ceased?" to
read more). Notice some germane comments by commentator Albert
Barnes on Colossians 2: 15 ("And having spoiled principalities and
powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it"):
"The 'principalities and powers' here referred to are the formidable
enemies that had held man in subjection, and prevented his serving God.
There can be no doubt, I think, that the apostle refers to the ranks of
fallen, evil spirits which had usurped a dominion over the world. The
Savior, by his death, wrested the dominion from them, and seized upon
that they had captured as a conqueror seizes upon his prey. Satan and
his legions had invaded the earth and drawn its inhabitants into captivity,
and subjected them to their evil reign. Christ, by his death, subdues the
invaders and recaptures those whom they had subdued" (Barnes on the
New Testament, Vol. 7, pg. 266).
Man's bondage to Satan today is voluntary and connected with man's
association with the truth. Jesus said, "And ye shall know the truth, and
the truth shall make you free" (Jn. 8: 32). Whosoever wills to serve God
may do so (Jn. 7: 17, 3: 16). We either serve God or mammon (Matt. 6:
24). In scriptural baptism, the "old man is crucified with him, that the
body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin"
(Rom. 6: 6, see entire chapter). The First Century is unique in that never
before or after has there been this kind or amount of demon activity so
manifest. It is evident that the world of evil spirits were allowed this
unprecedented freedom so Jesus' Sonship could be clearly
demonstrated (cp. Mk. 5: 1-20, Lk. 10: 18).
reason. A typical paranormal researcher has NO BUSINESS trying to
conduct a demonic investigation on his or her own. DO NOT TRY to use
sage or any type of procedures usually effective with a entity. Unless
you are of the clergy DO NOT ATTEMPT to remove a demon.
Demons are not ghosts Demons are spiritual beings there are different
types.
Fates, who alter destiny
Incubi and succubi, who stimulate lust and perversion
Marching Hordes , who bring about war
Familiars, who assist witches
There is a list of demons in Demonology 101 on this web site so lets go
a bit deeper into
the correspondence of demons to the seven deadly sins
Lucifer Pride
Mammon Avarice
Asmodeus Lust
Satan Anger
Beelzebub Gluttony
Leviathan Envy
Belphegor Vanity and Sloth
Demonic FAQS
Q: Are Ouija boards really dangerous?
A: It is not the Ouija board itself which is dangerous. The potential
danger stems from the fact that by using a Ouija board to communicate
with spirits (or any similar divination device), an individual is opening up
his or her free will, thereby leaving oneself vulnerable to an invading spirit
presence. There are a great many examples of individuals successfully
contacting what at first appear to be "nice" spirits through the use of o
Ouija board...only to have these spirits turn on them once they have
gained a foothold. Demons can be very adept at masquerading as
departed loved ones, even going so far as to reveal hidden knowledge,
which was supposedly known only to the deceased...and this hidden
information will often eventually prove to be verifiable. However, once
demonic spirits have gained someone's trust, they will then cleverly
begin mixing lies with the truth, in an effort to confuse. Some individuals
eventually become emotionally dependant upon these "spirit friends"...
and a demonic presence will have no reservations about using a
person's loneliness or emotional vulnerabilities to gain a stronger
foothold. By the time it is too late, and a hostile entity has revealed it's
true colors, the person who has unwittingly been communicating with
these types of spirits will often find that they are much harder to get rid
of, than they were to bring in. Also, under no circumstances should
anyone ask a spirit to manifest itself (appear) to them through the use of
a Ouija board...since a demonic spirit will consider this an open invitation
to infiltrate that person's life!
Q: How true to life are the events portrayed in "The Exorcist"? A: "The
Exorcist", written by William Peter Blattey, is based upon an actual case
of demonic possession, and the subsequent exorcism, of a fourteen-
year-old boy, which took place in the U.S. in 1949. Some of the events
are documented as having actually occurred, such as writing appearing
on the boy's flesh, and his ability (while under possession) of speaking in
foreign languages. In the actual case, the exorcism eventually proved
successful, and the boy went on to live a normal, healthy life. None of
the priests involved actually died as the result of the exorcism, or
became possessed themselves, although one priest did suffer a broken
nose. Some of the more bizarre phenomena portrayed in both the book
and the movie never actually happened, such as the head spinning and
the "spider walk". Some of the events portrayed in "The Exorcist",
however, when taken in context, are actually supposed to be
telepathically projected into the minds of certain characters.
One thing I should mention about "The Exorcist" which happens to be
very true to life, is that these types of parasitic, hostile entities are often
initially and inadvertently "invited" in to begin oppressing certain
individuals, through the use of a Ouija board.
Q: What exactly are Demons? A: In the Judeo/Christian belief, demons
are "fallen angels" who conspired against the Heavenly Kingdom under
the leadership of Satan, were defeated by the Archangel Michael and the
holy angels, and were cast out of the Heavenly Realm...banished to
roam the earth and the earthly heavens. Although we know very little
about this terrible incident, it is assumed to have taken place long before
recorded human history. Demons, like Satan and like their angelic
counterparts, are inhuman spirit beings, never having been human...NOT
the damned souls of evil humans.
Q: Are Demons the same as "Ghosts"?A: HELL no. Whereas a ghost is
generally considered to be the disembodied spirit essence of a
deceased person (or animal, in some cases), a demon was never
physically alive, in the way in which we are familiar with life. Because
demons are spirit beings, and sometimes function in similar ways - even
sometimes intentionally masquerading as ghosts - they are often
mistaken as being ghosts. However, there is actually quite a difference
between the two, both in character and abilities.
Q: Can Demons materialize themselves as humans or animals?A: Yes,
although their ability to do so seems limited. Also, seemingly as a rule,
even on the rare occasions where they manifest themselves in
photographs, they are never "complete"...that is to say, either a body
part is missing (eyes, legs, or the entire head, etc.), or they are
disfigured in some noticeable way. Perhaps this is God's cosmic law at
work, commanding that they must in some way display that they are not
of human origin.
Q: Can demons actually possess dolls and statues?
A: Although demons do not technically "possess" inanimate objects
such as dolls and statues, they will sometimes attach or link themselves
to certain objects. Although there are a variety of reasons for this, the
most obvious cause would be if a doll or a statue has been
"personified," or given recognition as an object of profane worship, or
used in a ceremonial practice in which demonic entities were invoked.
(Two Scriptural references which specifically refer to this as the worship
of idols are: 1) Revelation 9:20, and 2) 1 Corinthians 10:20.)
Incidentally, demonic attachments to inanimate objects are not limited to
dolls and statues. In fact, I once knew someone who, as a young boy of
about five years old, picked up a glove which had been left in a
cemetery...and a demonic entity instantly began harassing him! The
vehicle in which screen idol Jimmy Dean was killed in is another
example. Also, it almost goes without saying that the most common
inanimate object to which a demonic entity will attach itself is the
infamous Ouija board.
Another cause of demonic entities having attached themselves to
inanimate objects such as dolls or statues, is if someone who was
demon possessed or severely oppressed, has owned or venerated this
particular object.
Of course, there is no reason to go through your house searching out
every inanimate object which you've ever felt slightly unnerved about.
However, if you do seriously feel there is something unnatural about an
object in your possession...be it a doll, statue, Ouija board or what have
you...it might just be a good idea to look up the history of this object, if
possible. For information pertaining to the disposal of such an object,
you may wish to contact a member of the clergy of your particular faith,
or perhaps a reputable paranormal research organization Such as Haunt
Analyst.
Many today seem to be fascinated with demons. The Bible does present
demons as being real (see Luke 4: 33-36 below). Where did demons
originate, what was their purpose, and do they possess people against
their own will today? The growth of the occult has also prompted more
interest in the demon world. Movies such as the Exorcist and Exorcist
Two (ca. 1974 and '77) created almost a cult following. Demons
represent the dark side, the opposite of good; hence, the obsession.
"33: And in the synagogue there was a man, which had a spirit of an
unclean devil, and cried out with a loud voice, 34: Saying, Let us alone;
what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to
destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy One of God. 35: And
Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And
when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt
him not. 36: And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves,
saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth
the unclean spirits, and they come out. 37: And the fame of him went out
into every place of the country round about" (Luke. 4).
Who or what are demons? Some view demons as simply the
personification of evil; hence, they are not entities. However, in the
above passage it is apparent demons were (are) entities. It was a
common belief among the Jews of the First Century that demons were
the spirits of the wicked that entered into men. Some early beliefs
relative to demons have continued until this present day. Some believe
demons were (are) the offspring of angels marrying women; others
contend that demons are the disembodied spirits of the inhabitants of a
pre-Adamic earth; and some maintain angels are fallen angels (Gen. 6:
4; 2 Pet. 2: 4). Regarding the first three views, there is no scriptural
evidence. In fact, the scriptures will not allow such explanations as being
even plausible. Concerning the fourth view, it is highly likely that demons
are fallen angels who were allowed to work their deeds during a special
period (2 Pet. 2: 4, Jude 6).
It should be understood that while demons and the devil are associated,
demons and the devil are separate and distinct entities. It is unfortunate
that some Translations will render "demons" (Gk. diamon) "devils" (see
King James in James 2: 19, it should be rendered "demons" ). For more
definition and clarification, please consider the observations of
lexicographer W. E. Vine:
"Noun, daimon '…a demon,' signified, among pagan Greeks, an inferior
deity, whether good or bad. In the NT it denotes 'an evil spirit.' It is used
in Matt. 8:31, mistranslated 'devils.' Some would derive the word from a
root da---, meaning 'to distribute.' More probably it is from a similar root
da---, meaning 'to know,' and hence means 'a knowing one.'
"Noun, daimonion …not a diminutive of daimon, No. 1, but the neuter of
the adjective daimonios, pertaining to a demon, is also mistranslated
'devil,' 'devils.' In Acts 17:18, it denotes an inferior pagan deity…. They
disseminate errors among men, and seek to seduce believers, 1 Tim. 4:
1…. 'Demons' tremble before God, Jas. 2:19; they recognized Christ as
Lord and as their future Judge, Matt. 8:29; Luke 4:41. Christ cast them
out of human beings by His own power. His disciples did so in His
name, and by exercising faith, e.g., Matt. 17:20. Acting under Satan (cp.
Rev. 16:13,14), 'demons' are permitted to afflict with bodily disease,
Luke 13:16. Being unclean they tempt human beings with unclean
thoughts, Matt. 10:1; Mark 5:2; 7:25; Luke 8:27-29; Rev. 16:13; 18:2, e.
g. They differ in degrees of wickedness, Matt. 12:45. They will instigate
the rulers of the nations at the end of this age to make war against God
and His Christ, Rev. 16:14. See DEVIL" (Expository Dictionary of New
Testament Words).
The nature of demons. There are many characteristics of demons found
in the New Testament. Demons are said to be evil (Lk. 7: 21, 8: 2). As
seen in Vine's statements, some demons are worse and stronger than
other demons, comparatively speaking (Matt. 12: 45, 43; Mk. 9: 17-29).
During the age of demon possession, demons were able to come and
go out of a person at will (Lk. 11: 24, 25). They were also able to take
possession of animals (Mk. 5: 13). Demons were able to speak out
through the mouth of the one whom they possessed, the demoniac (Lk.
4: 33-36). The fact demons possessed knowledge is seen in their
recognition of Jesus as the Son of God and they knew their destiny (Mk.
5: 7, Matt. 8: 29). Demons are said to have dwelt in desolate regions.
We read of them being in the mountains, among the tombs, and in dry,
waterless places (Mk. 5: 5; Mk. 5: 2; Lk. 11: 24).
Demons during the New Testament age (First Century). It was during the
First Century that demons obviously experienced their greatest freedom
and activity. Demons suppressed and possessed many. It was during
this time that Satan reigned predominantly. Demons possessed men,
women, a boy, and a girl (Matt. 4: 24; Lk. 8: 2; Lk. 9: 38, 39; Mk. 7: 25).
Demons affected those whom they possessed in different ways. They
caused some to be dumb (unable to speak); they caused blindness;
inability to hear; to be savage; to possess superhuman strength; and to
appear insane (Matt. 9: 32, 33; Matt. 12: 22; Mk. 9: 25; Matt. 8: 28; Mk.
5: 2-4; Mk. 5: 5).
Do demons or evil spirits possess people today? There is no doubt that
many are under the control of the devil (cp. 2 Tim. 2: 24-26). However,
the scriptures teach that if we resist the devil, he will flee (Jas. 4: 7).
Hence, our question pertains to the uninvited and severe bodily
indwelling of demons. An important verse in determining the answer to
our question is Luke 10: 18. "…I beheld Satan," Jesus said to his
disciples, "as lighting fall from heaven." Jesus' statement clearly has
reference to a defeat of Satan and the lessening of his powers. The text
or frame of reference of Jesus' statement has to do with "even the
demons are subject unto us through thy name" (vs. 17). The seventy thus
commissioned were given power over the demonic world, to cast out
demons. I, therefore, understand the kind and type of demon possession
of which we read in the New Testament to have been of a limited
duration, just as miraculous abilities were limited in their time frame (I
Cor. 13: 8-10). Demon possession would not continue pass the time of
the miraculous means of delivery (Click on "Have Miracles Ceased?" to
read more). Notice some germane comments by commentator Albert
Barnes on Colossians 2: 15 ("And having spoiled principalities and
powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it"):
"The 'principalities and powers' here referred to are the formidable
enemies that had held man in subjection, and prevented his serving God.
There can be no doubt, I think, that the apostle refers to the ranks of
fallen, evil spirits which had usurped a dominion over the world. The
Savior, by his death, wrested the dominion from them, and seized upon
that they had captured as a conqueror seizes upon his prey. Satan and
his legions had invaded the earth and drawn its inhabitants into captivity,
and subjected them to their evil reign. Christ, by his death, subdues the
invaders and recaptures those whom they had subdued" (Barnes on the
New Testament, Vol. 7, pg. 266).
Man's bondage to Satan today is voluntary and connected with man's
association with the truth. Jesus said, "And ye shall know the truth, and
the truth shall make you free" (Jn. 8: 32). Whosoever wills to serve God
may do so (Jn. 7: 17, 3: 16). We either serve God or mammon (Matt. 6:
24). In scriptural baptism, the "old man is crucified with him, that the
body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin"
(Rom. 6: 6, see entire chapter). The First Century is unique in that never
before or after has there been this kind or amount of demon activity so
manifest. It is evident that the world of evil spirits were allowed this
unprecedented freedom so Jesus' Sonship could be clearly
demonstrated (cp. Mk. 5: 1-20, Lk. 10: 18).