Archive for September, 2009
Posted by owner on
September 29, 2009
In our last Jesus vs Demons post we met a man who was at worship in the synagogue with his neighbors. But when Jesus began to teach, a demon within him cried out in fear. The text gives no indication that this man, unlike other demonized individuals we’ve met, had any outward symptoms. No chronic back pain is mentioned. No deafness or dumbness. Seemingly no indication that he was different from any other worshipper there that morning. Until the demon cried out.
Comparing this account with other accounts of Jesus’ confrontations with demons, the text’s silence about symptoms seems significant. While we can’t draw any certain conclusions from silence, this difference from every other account is highly suggestive. And at the least, forces us to ask a significant question. How can we tell–with symptoms or without–whether an individual is demonized?
Testimony of Deliverance Ministers
There’s a very large number of books that have been written by those involved in what is called “deliverance ministry.” “Deliverance” includes freeing individuals from the consequences of deep emotional hurts as well as from demonization. Often deliverance ministers must deal with both emotional and spiritual damage and the demons who use trauma to establish and maintain footholds in individual’s lives. Deliverance ministers with wide experience consistently point out that it is difficult and often impossible to determine whether the many symptoms indicate physical, emotional or spiritual problems or indicate demonization. Most say they have found that it is seldom an “either/or” proposition. Quite frequently a problem may have both physical or psychological causes and the person may also be demonized. The most reliable authors in this area, such as Horrobin in England and Kraft in the U.S., stress the need for deliverance ministers to deal both with the natural and supernatural causes. They tend to first tend to healing of the person, and then or in the process deal with any demons who may be present.
But, How Do We Know?
What I’ve suggested so far should make one thing clear. The kinds of symptoms displayed by the persons Jesus freed from demonization do not in themselves prove demons are present. So it’s unwise when ministering to jump to the conclusion a person is demonized without carefully exploring alternatives.
The first step that many deliverance ministers take is to take a history of the individual and his family. Has he or she been checked out for possible medical causes of the symptoms. Has he or she seen counselors or a psychiatrist. Does the presenting problem–whether depression, bi-polar behavior, whatever–run in the family?
It’s also important to learn as much as possible about the person’s personal experiences. Can he or she identify when the troubling symptoms appeared? What was going on in his or her life at that time? Has there been any involvement in the occult, either personally or by parents and ancestors? Has there been severe traumas? Are there habitual sins? Is there bitterness and unforgiveness? All of these can lie at the root of physical or psychological illness as well as give demons a foothold in an individual’s life. While some of these are markers that make demonization more likely–such as involvement in the occult–any may lie at the root of physical/psychological causation and/or provide a foothold for demons.
Recognizing this, as I noted, the wisest deliverance ministers seek to treat the physical/psychological/spiritual problems first. As Kraft emphasizes, successful treatment of these problems weakens the hold of any demons who may be present and makes them easier to cast out.
But, How can We Know?
Let’s assume the deliverance minister has successfully located a root of an individual’s problem, and successfully dealt with that underlying issue. There remains a question of whether or not demons are present in the individual’s life. So we again have to ask the same question. How can we know?
The deliverance minister so far has used spiritual and psychological resources to bring physical/psychological healing. Now his or her role is to use spiritual resources to deal with an evil spirit-being who has attached itself to the person. At this point we do need to know whether the individual is demonized or not.
The first spiritual resource that should be applied is “discernment.” Discernment is a spiritual gift, which not every Christian possesses. Not every deliverance minister has this gift either. While each Christian is indwelt by the Holy Spirit, and the deliverance minister needs to keep open to the Spirit’s leading, this leading is not of itself discernment.
The other night my wife and I were eating with three other couples. One of the husbands spoke of experiencing as overwhelming sense of evil at certain times and places. This is something I’m familiar with, since my wife has the same gift. She senses evil, and can tell the difference between a New Age Tea Shoppe where the owner is playing at the supernatural and a similar shop where demons are active and present. Reluctantly visiting a crystal shop in South Carolina with a friend, she not only sensed evil but had a clear impression of individual entities as they neared her.
So, in some cases, a deliverance minister or a member of a deliverance team will have the gift of discernment and clearly sense the evil spirits who are demonizing an individual.
If a person has consistently demonstrated the authenticity of his or her gift of discernment, that person’s testimony is a strong indication demons really are present.
Is there a Better Test?
In the account of the man in the synagogue, the revelation that he was demonized came when the demon cried out. Commanding a demon to speak in the name of Jesus, a command which may need to be repeated several times using the most likely names of the demon, is the final test.
Those in deliverance ministry agree that when a demon speaks through a person, there is enough change in the voice and in the person’s features to know that it is a demon and not the individual who is speaking.
There are two things to remember. While in ancient times demons were given and responded to personal names, in our era demons are called by the symptom or reaction they cause. Thus a deliverance minister might command the demon Anger, or the demon Depression, etc., to speak and reveal himself. The demon will respond to being named in this way, and at that point the presence of a demon is established. And the name by which he goes is also established, so that he can be cast out.
Summary
It’s difficult to know whether a troubled person is demonized. The same symptoms may be caused by physical or psychological factors or by demons. And in many cases both natural and supernatural causes are present at the same time.
The best deliverance ministers gather all the information they can from a person and then seek to deal with the natural causes, which often serve as entry points for demons, first. There always remains a possibility that demons are also involved. Determining whether or not demons are present calls for spiritual discernment, guidance by the Holy Spirit, and ultimately a revelation by the demon himself of his presence, typically by speaking through the person being ministered to. When demons have confessed their presence and been cast out in Jesus name, then we are certain that they were present.
Posted by owner on
September 29, 2009
New Items that indicate the spread of neopagan faiths and occult belief in today’s society.
University of Miami Religion Prof Saves Voodoo Doll
When a mysterious doll was discovered next to a crashed and “unfixable” computer, faculty and staff in the Art History deparment concluded it was a voodoo doll, and responsible for the disaster. When other faculty began having “bad luck,” they were sure. Out went a call to Mischell Maldonado of the religion department, who among other things teaches about Santeria and voodoo. The doll didn’t look like any voodoo doll she was acquainted with, and she found the idea of a bunch of PhD’s worrying about a doll and how to get rid of it ridiculous. So rather than take the traditional route — dig a hole, pour gunpowder and rum on the doll and bury it — Michelle propped the doll up between other artifacts of other “marginalized and often misinterpreted religious figures” in her office, pondering the “irrational superstition” of fellow faculty.
New Zeelander wins National Art Award
The L1anganui Chronicle honored art student Esther Topler for winning the first annual National Art Award for her creation, Glory. The work, “symbolically bringing all the religions of the world together to promote peace,” features Christian images, Buddhist images, and witches flying around in the background. Esther, a Wiccan, says that the witches express her own “spiritual belief.”
ABC15-TV in Phoenix Interviews Real Witches
In a feature timed to promote ABC’s new prime time witchcraft show, Eastwick, channel 15’s Christinea Boomer interviewed Rosemary Szymanski, high priestess for the Sacred Spiral Pagan Church of Arizona and witch Nancy Allocca. The two tried to set to rest the many misconceptions about wicca and witchcraft. “We are not evil,” Allocca told the reporter. “We try to live our lives for the good because we believe whatever we put out comes back to us now, in this life, as we are now and we live with it and have to deal with the consequences pretty immediately. Instead of being if I am a bad person in this life I’m going to go to hell, if I’m a bad person in this life I’m going to have bad problems in this life. So we try to live for the good so that way good things happen to us.” Both witches agree that they do spells, but just “as a way of raising and manipulating energy. Kind of like a prayer. It’s no different than going to church and lighting a candle and saying what your intent is and asking God to help you. Spell working is not all that different.”
The interview report concludes with the following. “If that works for you, then wonderful, then that’s your path whether it’s Christianity or whatever. For us, we just want to be able to follow our path without someone telling us you’re going to burn in hell. I don’t believe in hell, so I’m not going to burn in hell.”
Halloween’s a Coming
In the words of the Paranormal Guide, this is “all Hallow’s Eve, Hallow E’en, Halloween, Day of the Dead, Samhain: By whatever name it has been called, this special night preceding All Hallows day (November 1st) has been considered for centuries as one of the most magical nights of the year. A night of power, when the veil that separates our world from the Otherworld is at its thinnest.”
Neo-pagan Faith Threatens Candidacy
The Republican candidate for the Queens, NY, city council was well ahead of his democratic opponent until the Queens Tribune revealed that he is also the “First Atheling” of a local branch of the Theod religion, a neo-pagan religious group functioning in the greater New York City area. As First Atheling, or King, fellow pagans swear allegiance to him, an act which they believe allows “luck” from the Ancient Norse gods Odin, Tyr, and Freyr, to pass through the king to his kinsmen. According to the candidate, Dan Halloran, “We believe in and honor the gods and goddesses of the North, spirits of the land, and the memories of our ancestors.” The revelation of Halloran’s religion has stunned the local GOP leadership, who are reportedly debating whether to replace Halloran on the ticket with another candidate, or to stick with him. Some have suggested he be replaced om the ticket and be given a judgeship. Others say that Halloran should be kept on the ticket “regardless.” As for Halloran, who insists he is not ashamed of his religion, he simply says, “I’m not comfortable injecting my religion into politics.
Tax-payer Funded Investigation Clears Councillor
At first the the District Council’s standards committee in Suffolk, England, convicted Pat McCloud of accusing a fellow member of witchcraft. After an investigation that cost over three thousand pounds sterling, the Adjudication Panel for England reversed the verdict. McCloud’s comments were deemed “inadvisable,” but did not rise to the level of “personal abuse,” the Panel stated. The chairman of the Ipswich Pagan Community applauded the decision. “It’s not actually an insult to suggest that somebody has pagan beliefs,” Robin Heme commented. “It may be inaccurate, but it’s not like saying she’s a baby-eater.” He continued, “Most people just think we are a bit barmy. We’ve got a fair few Wiccans in Suffolk, the majority of whom are eccentric but completely harmless3. I think most of them would be quite bemused that she’s taken it as some horrendous insult. It’s a storm in a tea cup.”
There’s a New Store in Fox Lake, Illinois
On September 21st the Lake County Journal featured an article on the new Earth Elements, Metaphysical and Magickal Shoppe that’s come to Fox Lake. Jennie Miller sees her new venture as more than a place to buy pagan supplies. “Our main goal of what we’re trying to accomplish is to get people to understand other people’s spirituality,” she says. “And, rather than saying, ‘My god’s right, my religion is right, yours is wrong,’ find the similarity in all of them.” While the store “caters to all religions,”its specialty is metaphysical religions [neopagan]. The store sells books, candles, herbs, dolls, oil, candles, jewelery, and even bumper stickers. And each day of the week different classes are offered on such topics as Magick, Tarot, and Smudging. “We try to be family friendly,’ Miller says, “especially as I have kids.”
Salem’s “Official Witch” Scammed
The daughter of Lauine Cabot, Salem, Mass’ “official witch” is wanted for forging one of her mother’s checks. The $3,750 check was cashed and the money spent before the forgery was discovered.
Sacramento Press Helps Promote Obi Divination
On September 18 the Sacramento Press ran an article [not an advertisement] by jacqueline Mathers on Obi Divination, a method for gaining yes/no answers to questions from the Onchas, viewed as gods in indigenous Nigeran religions. The author of the article, who bills herself as an “educator and author,” uses Obi divination to give readings to clients. She is also a “certified Rootworker” in “the Southern style of conjure.” She also produces a Holistic Healing Expo in Elk Grove, CA. Jacqueline claims “we know that Obi does not lie,” and that the Revelation of Truth that Obi gives for her, “as well as for over 70 million plus devotees of the African religion” do come true. How fortunate for readers of the Sacramento Press that Jacqueline’s phone number and her email address are provided in the article.
Texas Tech University Pagan Pride Day
September 19th an “eclectic group of Pagans” gathered at Clapp Park to celebrate Pagan religion at the university’s fourth annual Pagan Pride Day. According to coordinator of the Lubbock, Texas, Pagan Pride chapter, “Paganism is a blanket term. It’s pretty much everything that is not the major three religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The day’s celebration began with a ceremony provided by a local Wiccan group. A guest sponsored by the Tech Pagan Student Union spoke on Moroccan Magic. And there were “lots of children’s activities,” including a workshop on making dolls from corn husks that “symbolize the goddess.” Also during the day the group collected canned good for the South Plains Food Bank. Sophomore Katie Garlington noted that people from all over Lubbock turn out for Pagan Pride Day. She explained that “Paganism is having more than one deity. Choosing a god is all very personal. My personal god is probably Aphrodite, because I am a nurturing, caring person and I take on a motherly role. This is about celebrating the goddess within me.” Asron Broadhurt, the [faculty?] advisor for the Tech Pagan Student Union, noted that twice as many people attended this year as the year before. ” He continued, “There is only one entity I worship, and by the very broad definition of Paganism, that might actually make me a Pagan Sympathizer. I admire and respect the wonders of Nature and ‘worship’ the Sun every opportunity I get, from floating on the raft in the swimming pool to enjoying a sun drenched drive up US 1 to Santa Barbara in my convertible.”
Will It, or Won’t It?
Sponsors of the Lexington-Bluegrass Pagan Pride day, scheduled for Sept. 26, hoped that attendance would increase over last year’s 200 plus. As of this post, attendance isn’t in.
Still, sponsors planned a active celebration. According to event spokeswoman Susan Kalch, the festival will have food, music, kids’ games, a petting zoo, diviners giving personal readings, vendors, arts and crafts. Just right for anyone, “regardless of religious belief.” And, of course, there will be pagan rituals at the festival, held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Lexingon, Ky. As Jim Warren, who wrote the article, commented, “Pagans might not appear in Kentucy news very often, but pagan events are not rare anymore.”
Baltimoe Sun Blog Invites Neo-Pagan Input
The Baltimore Sun’s Blog, “In Good Faith,” issued an invitation on September 20th to “all Baha’i, Mormons, Sikhs, Wiccans . . . ” to send in any interesting news, developments, or trends in neo-pagan faiths” so they can be covered in the blog. Fortunately, a number of people did respond, letting the blog writer(s) find some of the many sources that are already available on line.
Witch vs Satanist
When Satanists in Scotland began recruiting new members through online classified ads, Kevin Carlyton, high priest of the White Witches, quickly responded. “Anyone who joins this group would seriously be in danger of being used as a sacrifice,” he warned. “Satanists believe that human or animal blood gives them power and they will stop at nothing to get that.” Leslie Matthew, who established Scotland’s Ritual Abuse network, insisted police keep a close eye on the group “to prevent anything illegal happening.” She stated, “We have counseled a lot of people — many more than you’d think –who have been affected by Satanic ritual.
Posted by owner on
September 24, 2009
How does it happen there are so few references to demons in the New Testament epistles? It seems as if after the Gospels and Acts, demons just disappear from the Scripture’s radar.
It’s a common notion. But its wrong. And the answer is found in NT terms that are lost in translation. The Book of Ephesians is a classic example.
In the Book of Ephesians, the Apostle Paul uses a number of terms that are intimately linked to the practice of magic and sorcery in Asia Minor, and particularly in Ephesus, the leading city of the area. These terms are also associated with the worship of the goddess Diana (Artimis). Interestingly, in the NT and in the written material from the first two centuries AD, these spirits’ titles are derived from several terms for “power” in the Greek language. Thus when Paul writes that Christ as been raised up “far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given,” Paul isn’t using these terms in any abstract way. In first century Ephesus, “rulers,” “authorities,” “powers” and “dominions” were understood to be evil spirits; demons who controlled the destines of individuals, and who must be placated or influenced for a human to have a minimum of safety. And Diana—a goddess of the underworld and intimately linked to magical practices, the “great goddess” of the Ephesians– was generally believed to be most potent of these “powers.” And so this demon goddess was worshipped throughout Asia.
Rather than failing to mention demons in Ephesians, Paul frequently refers to these “powers,” who first century readers understood to be demons. In fact, Paul uses 13 Greek power words in his writings, which research contemporary documents show are references to supernatural beings! In Ephesians these terms are used to refer to spirit beings (demons, evil spirits) in Ephesians 1:10,21; 2:2; 3 ;10,15; 4:8,27; 6:11,12, and 16.
The notion that the New Testament letters are silent about demons is false, simply because references to supernatural beings using the “power” vocabulary is lost in translation. Today we simply do not this language in speaking of demons. Other letter of Paul which refer to demons using such terms are: Romans (8:38), 1 Corinthians (2:6-8; 10:19-21; 15:24-26), Galatians (4:3,9), and Philippians (2:10).
Hellenistic [Greek cultural] magick was based on the notion that through spells featuring the names of various supernatural powers the witch or sorcerer could enlist the aid of a supernatural being. This magick was used in attempts to gain the love of a desired person, to succeed in business, to maintain health or wealth, to heal, etc.. In a culture were every turn of fortune or any illness was thought to be caused by some spirit being, people were highly motivated to turn to magick. By magick one might gain the support of a powerful spirit being, who might casting out a less powerful demon that caused sickness, or turn the curse of a less powerful spirit being into a blessing.
In the book of Ephesians Paul shows that Jesus is supreme in the spirit world. And because the same power that raised Jesus from the dead now flows in us who believe, we need not fear the demons who terrorize the rest of humankind. In fact, equipped with the full armor of God, we are able to stand against all the strategies of Satan himself.
Posted by owner on
September 22, 2009
Illustrating the penetration of our culture by neopagan faiths and witchcraft
It Must be the Drums
The Broward-Palm Beach (Fl) New Times launched its September 14th article on the area’s 11th annual Pagan Pride Day and Fall Equinox Party with this affirmation: “The time has come to unlearn everything you’ve ever believed about pagans, and perhaps more importantly, about pagan celebrations.” It seems the reporter was entranced by the news that the event, open to the public, will collect donations for the County Cooperative Feeding Program, and will feature a “drum circle” performance by Witch’s Mark. I guess its the drums that convinced the reporter to “unlearn everything [she] ever believed about pagans.”
Doors Closed to Pagans
Folks in Pennsylvania’s Stoudburg Village were upset when pagan’s announced plans to meet and Celebrate Earth Spiritually. Shops in the small town some 65 miles from Philadelphia planed to close Saturday while the pagans were in town. What really happened when the day came? See below!
Incident? What incident?
Controversy shook the Reading, PA area at the news pagans would gather in Adamstown last Saturday for “Celebrating Earth Spiritually.” According to Lancaster ONLINE.com the event, which had aroused Christian opposition and debates over religious freedom, went off without incident. The hosting group, “a non-profit organization focused on celebrating pagans and witches and other nature-based religions,” had not mentioned the planned celebration to city officials before announcing it. The paper gave significant space to Christians who commented on the event and its significance. Reportedly many Christians turned out to circle the area in prayer. The president of Reading Pagan and Witches said afterward that several church groups had “laid hands on us and prayed.” She called it “an amazing spiritual experience.”
Community Garden Blessed
The Harrisburg (PA) community garden was blessed recently during the Harrisburg Harvest celebration. Christians, Muslims and pagans joined to contribute an irrigation system. Wiccan High Priest Joe Zuchowski led songs and “provided a blessing over the garden” during the ceremony. Commenting later on his prayer, he said, “We wanted to bless this that it would continue to grow, and that all in this community would appreciate what has been done here.”
Voodoo Priest Heads for Wales
The 25-year-old priest, who compares voodoo to Catholicism and was linked to the death of a young woman, is off to Wales to preach his religion. Hector Salva performs secret “spiritual cleansing” ceremonies intended to remove curses and all “evil magic.” He is scheduled for secret meetings in Cardiff, Wales later this month. Back in New Jersey, where he now lives, the Puerto Rican-born Salva, is liked to the death of 20-year-old Lucie Hamilton, who died in his home. In Wales Sophia Fisher, who sells pagan and Wiccan supplies in her shop, Baron’s Magic, is promoting the secret meetings. She says, “Voodoo is s much-maligned and misunderstood but in fact very beautiful religion.”
Speaking of Voodoo
Did you know that for 99 cents you can get a voodoo application for your iPhone or iPod. It comes complete with a doll figure, pins to stick in it to curse enemies, end even a love potion to “concoct a wicked good romance.” The tongue-in-cheek copy promoting the voodoo app says, “Does your ex have it coming? Or the boss who makes you work all weekend? Or the barista who got snotty over your little order? With Voodoo Doll in your pocket, you have an easy way to get back at anyone.” All you do is snap a picture with your iPhone, download it onto the doll, and “start working your juju.” Care to check it out. Enter “Voodoo app” in any search engine.
Getting Rid of “Witch” in South Africa
The South African Pagan Rights Alliance (SAPRA) is objecting to the use of the term “witch.” It seems both “witch” and “witchcraft” are offensive. (It’s also dangerous! People accused of witchcraft in South Africa have been murdered.) Member of Parliament Adrian Williams agrees. “I am a Wiccan and I belong to a coven, but I believe the word “witch” is highly offensive in this country. This is not Australia or the United States. Here, people known as witches get killed.”
Why Didn’t I Think of That?
Marin County California author Cerridwyn Fallingstar is an author. Like authors everywhere she wanted to promote her latest book, her second. So she rounded up three friends to help her. Sandra, Pat and Lauren were glad to help. Now, I’m an author, with a couple hundred plus non-fiction books and three of a six-book set of Invisible War novels just off the presses. I’d like to promote my books too. But I’m not sure what I can learn from Carridwyn. You see, Carridwyn is a witch. So she went to the editor of MoreMarin.com, an online newspaper, and not only got space but even pictures! It helped, I suppose, that Carridwyn is a very attractive blond. And that she was photographed casting a spell on her readers.
Ah well. Since I’m not a witch I guess I’m not newsworthy. I’m sure not a young, attractive blond. Just a 78-year-old sloppy dressing male Christian. No wonder the response of editors to my approaches is, Ho Hum.
Speaking of Books
Alice Grist owes her new book, recently published in GB, to her white witch father. The vicar of St Anne’s Church in Royton in the 80’s, dad Tony divorced and then discovered Wicca. When he publicly announced he’d become a white witch, he was lionized by the media. Nowadays he lives quietly. But his daughter has capitalized on her unusual “spiritual upbringing” to tell the story in a book, The High Heeled Guide to Enlightenment.
By the way, “white” witches insist the never cast spells that harm or manipulate any person. The problem is they call on the same spiritual powers as black witches. And those spiritual powers are demons in disguise.
Poof! House Transformed into Wiccan Temple?
Neighbors of Robert de Mille von Schmidt objected at a meeting of the Shelton, Conn. Zoning board to his application to construct a front porch that is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The neighbors suspect that Schmidt, who uses his property to host Wiccan rituals and ceremonies, intends to turn his house into a Wiccan temple. No decision was made by the Zoning commission.
Nothing to Fear, Pagans Promise
The local News Channel 3 featured a notice recently of the 8th annual Autumn Moon Festival, celebrating Pagan Pride day in Virginia Beach this coming Saturday. Deborah Foley, practicing witch and co-owner The Mystic Moon, which she calls a “working witch-craft store,” explained that “we believe in honoring nature, honoring of humanity, and respect for all life in the universe. We just have an alternate way, according to the norms of society, of celebrating our spirituality.”
Webster University (Mo) Witches “Come Out of the Closet”
There’s a new student club on campus. The Webster Pagan Grove invites all students who are interested in paganism, witchcraft and other religions to join forces. SPG was formed last spring by students who took a course on Wicca and Neo-Paganism. The group meets every Saturday in its magic herb garden. According to the student newspaper, WU students and faculty “have shown a strong curiosity and acceptance toward the WPG.” The group is using the $2000 provided by the Student Government Association to “buy a bunch of books about paganism to donate to the library,” in order to “help people figure out what’s right for them spiritually.”
Posted by owner on
September 22, 2009
Studies of events reported in the Gospels
Each of the synoptic gospels contain stories of Jesus “driving out” demons from individuals. Luke also uses a passive construction, “demons came out of” this or that individual. In this series we take a look at specific incidents described in the Gospels.
The Case of the Shocking Discovery
“Then he went down to Capernaum, a town in Galilee, and on the Sabbath began to teach the people. They were amazed at his teaching because his message had authority. In the synagogue there was a man possessed by a demon, an evil spirit. He cried out at the top of his voice, ‘Ha! What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth! Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!’”
“‘Be quiet!’ Jesus said sternly. ‘Come out of him!’ Then the demon threw the man down before them all and came out without injuring him” (Luke 4:31-34; cf Mark 1:21-26).
Observations
1. It was no surprise that Jesus went to the synagogue on the Sabbath. All respectable Jewish males and most of the women followed this practice. It was one of the ways that the people of Israel honored God on the day he had set apart for rest.
2. It was no surprise when Jesus was asked to teach. He was a guest in Capernaum, and guests were often asked to comment on the passage of Scripture being read that Sabbath. It should be noted, however, that neither Mark nor Luke place any of Jesus’ public healings prior to this event. Jesus wasn’t yet a ‘celebrity.’
3. It was a surprise when Jesus taught “with authority.” Jewish rabbi’s based their teaching on the interpretations of previous rabbis, whom they cited as authorities for what they said. Jesus, rather than depending on past sages, Jesus spoke as if he himself had authority to interpret and apply the Word of God. This amazed his listeners. What happened next, however, was truly shocking, for several reasons.
4. “There was a man (present) possessed by a demon.” We can sense the shock as the demon unexpectedly shouted at Jesus. Here was a man who had come to the synagogue service just like everyone else. He was a neighbor, known by the other members of the closely knit community. He fit in; no one was surprised to see him at worship. No one drew away because he was “strange.”
You might suppose that people who are demonized aren’t to be found in worship services. But this story challenges that assumption. And our passage supports the experience of many involved in deliverance ministry who report casting demons out of the most unlikely individuals. From this text and from experience, we note:
a. People who display no
obvious telltale signs
can be demonized.
b. People who attend our
churches and worship
services and appear
to be “good Christians”
may be demonized.
c. It’s even possible
that the man at that
Synagogue service
didn’t realize himself
that he was demonized
until the demons
shouted out at Jesus!
5. The man “cried out.” We noted in earlier Jesus vs Demons studies that no demonized person is said to have come to Jesus for help. Rather the demonized were “brought to” Jesus, or were present where he was teaching and healing. The cry, uttered by the demons infesting the man rather than the man himself, must have totally shocked his neighbors, as it expressed both fear and hostility.
6. “Be quiet,” and “Come out of him.” Both these expressions are commands. Jesus didn’t pray ask God to cast out the demons. Jesus commanded them. As noted in a previous study, he simply spoke the command and the demon was forced to obey.
In the first century world exorcists used magical formulae, uttering spells that featured the names of powerful demons, in the hope of manipulating those demons into expelling less-powerful demons from demonized individuals. Just as Jesus taught as one who had authority, without citing others, so Jesus spoke to demons as one who had authority. There was no reliance on spells, or power words, or on supernatural beings. Jesus simply commanded, and the demons obeyed.
When we exorcise demons today we follow Jesus example. We speak commands with an authority given us by Jesus himself. And demons are forced to obey. There is nothing “magical” about contemporary deliverance ministry. There is simply a complete reliance on the Holy Spirit when as command demons in Jesus name.
Conclusions
This passage raises more questions than it answers. For example, if there may be no obvious telltale signs of demonization, how can we know if a person is demonized? And, is it possible for a believer not to be aware that demons are present in his or her life? And, what’s the basis for believing that we have authority to cast out demons as Jesus did, with a word of command? This last question will be answered in an upcoming series, Jesus’ Teachings on Demons.
I’ll interrupt the present series to take up the first two questions in posts titled “Demonized? How Can We Tell?,” “Can I Be Demonized and Not Know It?”
Until then don’t forget that our culture is especially vulnerable to neopagan religions and an occult spirituality that throws open the door to demonic activity.
Posted by owner on
September 16, 2009
Studies of events reported in the Gospels
Each of the synoptic gospels contain stories of Jesus “driving out” demons from individuals. Luke also uses a passive construction, “demons came out of” this or that individual. In this series we take a look at specific incidents described in the Gospels.
The Case of the Raving Madmen
“When he arrived at the other side in the region of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men coming from the tombs met him. They were so violent that no one could pass that way. ‘What do you want with us, Son of God?’ they shouted. ‘Have you come to torture us before the appointed time?’ Some distance from them a herd of pigs was feeding. The demons begged Jesus, ‘If you drive us out, send us into the herd of pigs.’ He said to them, ‘Go!’So they came out and went into the pigs, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and died in the water” (Matthew 8:28-32).
Oops!
At a dinner put on by one of my [now defunct] publishers, I listened to a couple of authors commenting on this passage and on the parallel passages in Mark 5 and Luke 8. “It just shows that Scripture has errors,” these wise men agreed. It’s true the that place names differ and that Matthew describes two men while Mark and Luke focus on one. It’s also true that the rest of the details make it clear they are describing the same scene. But to say the discrepancies show that “Scripture has errors” is a conclusion jumped at too hastily.
If I were to write a newspaper account of an event and say it happened in “central North Car0lina” and another account of the same event said it happened “near Raleigh,” no one would call that an “error.” As archaeological research has shown, the place names in all three accounts reference the same area, though by different names. And if in one account I included several people, while someone else’s account focused on one of those individuals, it wouldn’t mean that either of us had made an error.
Scripture certainly deserves enough respect for people to seek out explanations — and in my experience there are reasonable explanations for all the Bible’s so-called errors — before jumping to the conclusion the authors across the table recited so glibly. But, back to the passage, and our task of learning what we can from reports of Jesus’ encounters with demons.
Observations
1. Again we meet the term “demon possessed.” Again the Greek says ‘demonized.” But its possible that in this case demon possessed is an appropriate translation. These men were totally out of control. They ran naked and lived among tombs, howling at night, attacking anyone who passed by. They were isolated from normal human society, hostile and violent. In the 17th century they would have been classified as madmen, and ended up in an asylum.
The extent of their demonization is something we seldom see. Now and then, however, as in the case of the Virginia Tech massacre, we see individuals under the control of demons acting out a demonic hatred. As Scripture says, Satan’s goal is to “steal and kill and destroy.” And, at times, his demons gain enough control to do just this.
2. Jesus and his followers were in a Gentile district, something we know not only from the name of the district but from the fact that the residents herded pigs, an unclean animal to the Jews. This may be significant, as the other demonized people described in the Gospels are Jews. It is certainly true that non-believers have less protection against demons that do believers. I suspect that only in the rarest of cases are Christians as controlled by demons as these men were.
3. The shout, “What do you want with us,” is an expression of deep hostility. There is no hint here that the demonized person was approaching Jesus for relief from his situation. It is the demons who are speaking through the man, and they both hate and fear Jesus.
4. The demons recognized Jesus and called him “Son of God.” Their complaint,’have you come to torture us before the appointed time,’ is significant. The spirit world recognizes not only the authority of Jesus but also recognizes the fact that in his death and resurrection Jesus defeated Satan and, in the words of Colossians, exposed his utter defeat ['made of him an open show'].
This is something we should always remember when dealing with any case of demonization. The demons who torment and terrify are a defeated enemy–and they know it! It’s often a good idea during an exorcism to remind the demons of the weakness of their position and the destiny they face. If we show fear, they arrogantly boast about their strength. If we expose their weakness, their power to resist our command to “Go!” is drained.
5. The appointed time. There is a day set for the judgment of Satan and all his hosts. Until that time God permits them a limited freedom. We do not know why God has made this choice. But we do know that even today God has given believers authority to confront and to exorcise demons, casting them out of those they seek to harm. It’s as important for us to remember we face a foe who has already been judged and is awaiting punishment as it is to remind demons of their fate. The reminder comforts and strengthens us even as it weakens them.
6. Why pigs? It may seem strange, but during exorcisms demons may ask permission to enter a cat or a dog or other animal. Many have testified that demons seem intent on inhabiting a physical body. The answer to any such request is, of course, no! The pigs infested with demons rushed into the water and their own destruction. No animal, much less human, deserves to be demonized. Instead of acceding to such a request, we tell them to go wherever Jesus sends them. And we place the cross and resurrection between them and their victim, ordering them to never return or send their fellows.
Why did Jesus permit this legion of demons to enter the herd of pigs? Perhaps to demonstrate the danger of permitting demons access to any animal. Demons are spirit creatures, and have no place in any living creatures of this world.
7. Note that it was with a single word “Go!,” that Jesus expelled the demons. As we saw in our last study, words have power. I don’t mean the words of a ritual or ceremony. I mean the words of one to whom Jesus has given authority over demons; ordinary words like “Go!” spoken in full reliance on the Spirit of God who empowers them. We’ll deal more with authority in future studies.
Conclusions
There are situations in which demons may gain fuller control over the demonized. In the case we’ve just looked at the result was an obvious and apparent madness. But the demons who torment humans are well aware of the fate that awaits them, and well aware that they serve a defeated master. The Jesus who commands demons “Go” is the risen Son of God, and it is before his power–not ours–that demons bow today.
Posted by owner on
September 16, 2009
I’ve always liked vampires,” my informant said. “Why would anyone like vampires?” I asked, amazed.
The question came out of a remark by the youth minister at our church that young teen girls are gaga over vampires. With a minimum or research I found out that lots of adults are gaga over vampires too. In fact, there are vampire communities, on line and in the “real world.” There are even types of vampires, some actually suck blood from cooperating friends (or victims), some, who call themselves vampyres, supposedly suck energy from other people. Some find vampirism a door to sexual encounters. Some simply dabble, watching TV shows such as True Blood and the new Vampire Diaries. Some follow a trail set in some of the many vampire books and are led into witchcraft and other occult practices. Many are engaged in Vampire role play games, or play electronic games on Wii or other electronic platforms. Many visit vampire chat rooms available on the Internet, or go to the some 30,000 sites dedicated to vampire lore and the sale of vampire books and videos. But still the question. “Why would anyone like vampires?”
“Real” Vampires
The roots of the vampire legend lie in Transylvania, a dark and superstitious milieu where once-human creatures survive by prowling the night and sucking vital life-force from their victims by drinking their blood. If anyone has seen the old vampire movies with Bella Legosi, the human reaction to these undead creatures is horror; horror at the two hollow fangs they clamp on the throat of a beautiful woman, horror at the coffins in which they lie dormant during the day, horror at their supernatural ability to turn into some other creature to enter or escape a victim’s open-windowed room which she sleeps.These “real” vampires–real in the sense of remaining faithful to the ancient legends–are fascinating, but and unmistakably evil. Only by sucking life from another can they continue their unnatural existence.
Modern vampires
If you tune on your TV to the extremely popular program, True Blood, you’ll be shocked to discover a truly sympathetic vampire. In the modern world vampires aren’t evil. They are in fact an evolutionary advance over ordinary humans. There are good vampires, and there are bad vampires, just as there are good and bad humans. Only the relatively few bad vampires [after all, any drama worth it's salt has to have villains!] drink real blood. Most in the vampire community drink “true blood,” a man-made substitute.
In True Blood, as in most of the more recent vampire books and movies that have stimulated young teen fascination, vampires are young, attractive, and somewhat tragic figure that awaken sympathy as well as romantic ideas. And there’s a real attraction in identifying with another person who is struggling with a sense of isolation while trying to discover one’s independent identity. For many who sense that they are “different” and somehow fail to fit in with peers or family, the attraction to vampires who are “different” is unusually powerful.
The upshot is that a growing number of preteens and young people in their 20s and 39s actually identify themselves as vampires. The form communities. They find partners who will offer their blood or energy. They sleep during the day, and come out at night. In short their sense of identity with vampires is so strong that they become pseudo-vampires, not the true undead of legend, but sacrificing an ordinary life that holds no interest for them in exchange for what seems to them a rich and satisfying imaginary life; a life that is more like a dream than reality.
But why?
When I asked my informant, who doesn’t identify herself as a vampire but merely “likes” them, she gave a variety of answers. “The movies present them as attractive persons. No ordinary or ugly person is given a vampire role those days. They only drink a little blood, like licking a cut. They’re sexy. They’re semi-tragic figures, with problems just like mine with relationships and misunderstandings. What’s not to like?”
In short, the modern vampire is cast as a sympathetic figure whose struggles resonate with young people who haven’t yet adjusted to life’s realities. Modern vampires are an escape; a doorway into an imaginary world that’s enough like the real world to be familiar, but enough unlike it to seem exotic.
A Harmless interest?
At this point some might point to those who have gone overboard on vampirism and committed serious violations of other persons. We probably should note that “vampire crimes” do take place, but also reject the “slippery slope” argument that’s so tempting to use. “If you watch vampire shows you’ll end up practicing witchcraft and become a criminal.” While some certainly have skidded down this path, the percentage of those who do is relatively small.
A larger percentage of those who become fascinated with vampires will try witchcraft, and this is more serious as involvement in the occult opens the door to demonization. This alone should be enough to warn anyone away from more than a passing interest in vampires. The demonic is a realm to avidly avoid. But even setting aside this very real danger, the modern concept of vampires is crafted on a foundation of dangerous lies. While vampire lore and Christianity both focus on the significance of blood, and agree that “the life of the flesh is in the blood” (Leviticus 17:11), from this point on the two diverge significantly.
Bbiblical Christianity Vampires
Christ sacrificed himself Others are sacrificed
Christianity focuses on giving Vampirism focuses on taking
Christians seek identity in Vampirism seeks identity in
relationship with God difference from others
Christianity emphasizes the Vampirism emphasizes
community isolation
Christianity emphasises light Vampirism emphasizes darkness
Christianity serves others Vampirism uses others
Christianity stresses openness Vampirism stresses hiddenness
Christianity emphasises truth Vampirism emphasizes fiction
In short, the danger in the current fascination with vampires doesn’t lie so much in that it can lead to occult involvement or to criminal activity. The danger in vampirism is in the subliminal messages it conveys about life and reality. Anyone who takes more than a very passing interest in vampires is buying into Satanic lies about life and life’s meaning. Those lies are both subtle and destructive. Modern vampirism is one of Satan’s most carefully crafted deceits, designed to pattern the minds of those who become involved it truly destructive ways.
Summing up
Christ offers us an abundant life . . . as one version puts it, “life that is really living.” To experience that life we’re to avoid letting the world squeeze us into its mold, and have our understanding — our perspective on life — transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:1,2). And that transformation involves more thanaccepting Jesus as Savior. That transformation calls for a focus on servanthood and giving, a realization that our identity as God’s children is formed through relationship with God and with others, and with a commitment to live in community with other believers, sharing openly, giving and receiving love.
The Apostle Paul has the last word on vampirism and all those other fictions that human beings find so attractive: “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).
And surely vampirism is
not true
not noble
not right
not pure
not lovely
not admirable
and neither excellent or praiseworthy
Posted by owner on
September 14, 2009
Studies of events reported in the Gospels
Each of the synoptic gospels contain stories of Jesus “driving out” demons from individuals. Luke also uses a passive construction, “demons came out of” this or that individual. In this series we take a look at specific incidents described in the Gospels.
The Case of the Easy Cure
“When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed the sick” (Matthew 8:16).
Observations
1. The translation “demon-possessed” is unfortunate. The Greek simply means “demonized,” or “has a demon.” The English translation is unfortunate because it implies demonic control or ownership, when the fact is that while demons may be present in a person’s life they are seldom in control of the person’s choices or actions.
2. This individual was “brought to” Jesus. It’s interesting that most who suffered physical illnesses “came to” Jesus on their own. Yet in the incidents recorded in the Gospels, demonized individuals were either “brought to” Jesus, or “were there” when Jesus was. This shouldn’t be taken as evidence that no one who is demonized will come to Christ or one of his people for help. But “brought to” here and in other passages does indicate that there’s a significant role for family and friends in recognizing and seeking help for a person who’s under demonic attack. Often its necessary for family members or friends to take the initiative and “bring” an individual to receive help. What I’d suggest if you suspect demonization is to first talk with someone who understands deliverance ministry. Then if the friend or relative is willing, bring him or her to talk with the same person or whoever he or she recommends. Then, if the demonized person consents, the deliverance process can take place.
3. When the demonized individual of Matthew 8:16 was brought to Jesus, Christ “drove out” the spirits. Again, it’s clear from the fact that evil spirits were driven out of those Christ freed that \ spirits were in some sense “inside” the individual. Charles Kraft makes an important distinction in discussing this phenomenon, and especially addressing the question of whether a Christian can be demonized. The argument generally raised against the demonization of believers is that the Holy Spirit indwells believers, and no evil spirit can keep company with the Holy Spirit. This argument is flawed, however. The fact is that, as Paul notes in Ephesians, believers are to “put on the new man” and “take off the old man.” That is, the believer has two natures, the natural and the born again. Conversion to Christ does not eradicate the old nature which is characterized by sinful motives and desires. Why should we be surprised that while the new nature is energized by the Holy Spirit, evil spirits may be present in and energize the old nature? If evil spirits are present with and working through our old nature [the "old man"], its important that they be expelled and that the grip our old nature has on us be loosened.
4. The text uses the plural, “spirits.” We’re reminded that demons generally work in concert and that most exorcisms involve driving out more than one evil spirit. In view of the legion of spirits Jesus expelled from a single individual–and a Roman legion was made up of about 2,000 men–we shouldn’t be surprised if a half-dozen or more evil spirits are found in the typical demonized individual. Those who do deliverance ministry agree that in nearly every case those who are demonized are infested by several rather than a single demon.
5. Jesus drove out the spirits “with a word.” One of the most fascinating elements in the accounts of Jesus’ confrontations with demons is the apparent ordinary-ness of the event. That is, there was no ranting or shouting. No posturing. No striking a person on the forehead to “slay in the Spirit.” Instead, as this verse specifically states, Jesus simply spokw. He “drove out the spirits with a word.”
It’s important to remember the significance of words. God spoke, and with a word he created the universe. Jesus speaks, and with a word drove out evil spirits. As Hebrews reminds us, “the Word of God is living and active.” As Jesus spoke, his words were infused with power by the Holy Spirit, and no evil spirit could resist that power. In deliverance ministry we speak to demons in the name of the Lord Jesus, relying not on ourselves but on the authority Christ gives to his followers who rely on his cross and resurrection not only for salvation but also for that resurrection power that gives life to our moral bodies. Thus deliverance ministry is a matter of prayer and of words: prayer led by the Spirit, and words empowered by the Spirit. Don’t expect fireworks when demons are exorcised. They are driven out by words, and generally they go quietly.
Conclusions
Even a brief verse like the one we’ve been looking at is packed with significance. It’s important to give each word and each phrase its due as we study, for “unpacking” a verse can reveal many important truths. To me, the most significant thing in this verse is the last one I commented on. Jesus drove out the spirits “with a word.” It’s on the basis of the Word of God that we are qualified for a deliverance ministry, as we’ll see in future studies. And it’s the words we speak in Jesus’ name that no demon can resist, for simple words can be, and are, empowered by the Holy Spirit, who works through us to release the captive, and set the prisoners free.
Posted by owner on
September 14, 2009
September 8th and 9th Sue and I were privileged to attend the annual meeting of ISDM, the International Society of Deliverance Ministers, as observers. As well as attending sessions we had some private time with Tom and Diane Hawkins, whose books on Dissociative Identity Disorder I’ve reviewed here, and with Charles Kraft and his wife, whose books I’ve also reviewed on Demondope. These private private times with the Krafts and Hawkins’ were the highlight of the two day convention for us.
The program included a half-day presentation Islam that was very significant. The next day panels discussed Witchcraft and Curses, and the interrelationship between demonization and mental illness.
I won’t try to summarize all that was said — there’s too much — but I will share a couple of things I learned about Islam.
1. Islam is not a religion concerned with salvation, but with guidance. The Koran provides guidance for living which it promises will make believers successful in this life and the next. So success and failure are two polar opposites in Islam, and according to their belief system Muslims should be successful and followers of other religions should be failures.
[My observation] If we look for the cause of the hatred of the West and of Israel by the Muslim world, we need to look no further that this deeply rooted concept in Islam. For hundreds of years the Islamic world was a poverty-stricken backwater, while the West prospered. It wasn’t supposed to be that way! Then to make matters worse the Jews moved into Palestine and turned the barren desert into fertile fields by their industry and genius in developing effective irrigation methods. Again the followers of the prophet were shown to be the failures, while the Jews were successful. No wonder there’s hatred of the West and Israel, for at the root of their religion is the conviction that Muslims are to be the head, not the tail. And they have not been.
2. The Koran cannot be interpreted without an understanding of the life of Mohamed, for while both Koran and Mohamed are the equivalent of Scripture, the Koran must be interpreted through the life of Mohamed. This approach has led to the development of a doctrine called Abrogation to resolve apparent conflicts. Abrogation is rooted in the interpretive principle that what comes later in the life of the prophet takes precedent over that which came earlier. The classic example of the application of this principle relates to Jihad [holy war]. We’ve heard people quote passage of the Koran that tell believers to live peaceably with “people of the book” (Jews and Christians) to counter those passages which require conversion or death. But the Suras (chapters) of the Korean which call for peaceful coexistence are from Mohammed’s early life, when Islam was a powerless and persecuted cult. On the other hand, Sura 9, which requires conversion or extermination, dates from Mohammed’s later life, when he had many followers and military superiority over his old foes. According to the principle of Abrogation, the earlier, peace-proclaiming passages of the Koran have been nullified by the later-in-time command to conduct holy war against the “infidels.”
[My observation.] It’s popular to depict Muslim terrorists and groups like the Taliban as fringe elements that do not represent the “real teaching” of Islam. In fact the Muslim terrorists do reflect the core values taught in the Koran. What’s more every major Muslim commentary on the Koran uses the principle of Abrogation in treating Sura 9 material, and affirms that Islam is at war with Christians and Jews.
3. The third most salient point is that the relationship between Muslim and non-muslim is one expressed in the Dhimma Pact. This pact for hundreds of years governed Muslim relationships with non-muslims living in Muslim lands. Without going into the horrid details, ithe Pact makes it clear that non-muslim populations may be tolerated but have no civil rights and must live under severe restrictions. Given this mindset, any concessions, calls for negotiation, aid packages, etc. offered by the West are viewed in the Muslim world as acts of submission by inferiors, rather than as the gracious acts of equals.
[My observation.] Why in the world doesn’t our government find out something about the way Muslim’s think before trying to negotiate anything with the Muslim world? For example, in that world President Obama’s low bow to a Saudi prince was read as an acknowledgment of Muslim superiority rather than a gesture of mutual respect. The world didn’t see the Saudi bowing back! And our desperate efforts to get the Iranians to meet and discuss Iran’s nuclear program is perceived as a sign of weakness, and will never lead to a change in Iran’s course.
You’ll notice I didn’t credit the above to the conference speaker. He’ll shortly come out with a book on Islam in which the above and much else will be documented. Untill then he’s purposrly remaining anonymous. When the Book does come out I’ll let you know. If you have any interest in the issue of the West’s relationship with the Muslim world it will be must reading.
Posted by owner on
September 10, 2009
Each of the synoptic gospels contain stories of Jesus “driving out” demons from individuals. Luke also uses a passive construction, “demons came out of” this or that individual. In this series we take a look at specific incidents described in the Gospels.
The case of the speechless man
“A man who was demon-possessed and could not talk was brought to Jesus. And when the demon was driven out, the man who had been dumb spoke. The crowd was amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel” (Matthew 9:32-33).
Observations
1. The term “demon-possessed” is an unfortunate translation of a Greek word which simply means “demonized.” “possessed” implies that a demon has taken control of an individual, so that the demon not only “owns” the person but also has robbed him of all freedom of choice. In contrast, “demonized” simply implies that a demonic being has an impact on a person’s experience.
2. In the present case the demon influenced the man’s power of speech. We’re not told how the demon prevented the man from speaking> It may have been paralyzing his vocal cords, affecting the part of the brain that controls speech, etc. What we are told that the observable symptom of the demon’s presence in this individual was his inability to speak.
3. In other reports of demonization in the Gospels we see other physical symptoms. from blindness to chronic back pain to grand mal seizures. It’s significant that in at least one case Jesus addressed an evil spirit by the symptoms he caused (Mark 9:25). In the ancient Middle East as in ancient cultures demons were known by personal names. For instance, the demon thought to attack newborns and their mothers was known as Lilith in Judaism and Lamashtu in Sumeria. There are however no personal names of demons used in the Gospels except for Beelzebub for the Prince of Demons, and this name was introduced by Jewish leaders in an attack on Jesus.
4. Here as in most gospel reports of events involving demons or evil spirits, Jesus is said to have “driven out” the demon that was causing the man’s symptoms. This phrases makes it clear that a power struggle is involved in dealing with demons and demonization The fact that in each confrontation between Jesus and a demon or demons, no evil spirits were able to resist Christ’s power. In every case the demon was forced to leave the individual.
5. Luke’s use of the phrase “demons came out of” the person, along with the verb translated “drive out,” makes it clear that in some sense the demon was “in” the demonized individual. Whether the demon was “in” the man’s physical body, as might be suggested by the physical symptom, is unclear. In other cases of demonization described in the Gospels there’s evidence, as we’ll see, that demons also can affect a person emotionally and/or mentally. The significant point made in the use of “drive out” and “came out of” is that demons in some way have the ability to be inside an individual, rather than being outside of him.
It is this “inside” condition that is described as demonization.
6. The reaction of observers to Jesus’ healing is significant. The Gospels frequently credit Jesus with healings which have no demonic dimension. Not only did the crowd of observers recognize the exorcism of a demon in this case, the following passage describes Jesus’ enemies charging Christ with driving out demons “by the prince of demons.” It would be a foolish mistake to assume observers and enemies both were too “primitive” or “naive” to distinguish between natural and demonic causes of a debility.
7. The crowd’s stunned response, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel,” draws a sharp contrast between this exorcism and the common practice of Jewish exorcists of the time. Jewish exorcists were in great demand in the first century Roman world, in part because they were reputed to know the secret name of their powerful God. Exorcism in the ancient world rested on the assumption that the exorcist knew the names of powerful deities or demons, and that by calling them up by name the exorcist could request or require them to drive out less powerful demons. Jesus used no such approach. Rather than call on powerful spirit beings to drive out the demons to be exorcised, Jesus simply commanded. He was able to drive out demons and to heal on his own authority, in the power provided by the Holy Spirit.
Conclusions
There are a number of important conclusions we can draw from this brief, two verse description of an exorcism Jesus performed. It’s clear from this brief account that demons can get “inside” a person, and may cause debilitating physical symptoms. It’s also clear that Jesus has the power to drive demons out. In this power confrontation, Jesus has the advantage, and no demon can stand against him.
We also have gained some insight into identifying demons. Rather than identify them by name, as nearly all ancient cultures have done, we can identify demons by the symptoms they cause, and address them by those symptoms. This is a practice everyone in contemporary deliverance ministry follows, and the practice has a clear biblical basis.
In our next study we’ll look at another report of Jesus vs demons, and see what we can learn from it.