The topic of spiritual warfare and exorcism is controversial in Christianity today. There are differing views on whether Christians should be engaging in exorcisms and casting out demons. To understand the biblical perspective, we need to examine what Scripture says about spiritual forces of evil and the authority given to believers in Christ.
The Reality of Spiritual Forces of Evil
The Bible affirms the existence of Satan and demons. Satan is described as “the ruler of this world” (John 12:31) and “the god of this world” who blinds unbelievers (2 Corinthians 4:4). Demons are fallen angels who rebelled against God and now serve Satan (Revelation 12:7-9). Jesus confronted demons and evil spirits on multiple occasions, demonstrating their reality (Matthew 8:28-34, Matthew 9:32-33, Matthew 17:14-20). The apostles also cast out demons in Jesus’ name (Mark 16:17, Acts 16:16-18). Scripture is clear – demonic forces of spiritual evil are real.
Authority Over Evil Spirits
Jesus gave His disciples authority over demons as part of the Great Commission, saying “these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons” (Mark 16:17). When sending out the twelve disciples, Jesus gave them “authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out” (Matthew 10:1). Later, Jesus appointed seventy-two others and commissioned them to heal and cast out demons (Luke 10:1,17).
After Jesus’ ascension, the disciples continued to exercise authority over demonic spirits. Philip cast out evil spirits in Samaria (Acts 8:7). Paul commanded a demon to come out of a slave girl (Acts 16:18). Evil spirits were subject to the name of Jesus when invoked by those with faith (Acts 19:13-16). Scripture shows Jesus gave authority over demonic forces to His disciples.
Should Christians Today Perform Exorcisms?
Based on the biblical evidence, Christians affirm the existence of demons but disagree on whether exorcism is meant for today. Some believe the authority over evil spirits was only intended for the original apostles. Others say spiritual gifts like exorcism ceased with the completion of the New Testament canon. But many Christians believe demons can still oppress and even possess individuals today, so the gift of exorcism persists.
Those who think exorcism is still valid today base their belief on biblical passages about spiritual gifts including casting out demons (1 Corinthians 12:7-10). They also point to the lack of any biblical statement declaring the cessation of exorcisms. Further evidence comes from Christian history, which records exorcisms being performed by believers in various eras up to the present day.
On the other side, those who don’t think exorcism is for today argue that demons operate in less overt ways now compared to biblical times. Possession-like symptoms may actually stem from mental illness. They caution against seeing demonic forces behind every evil act, saying this could lead to false accusations and harm against people with mental disorders. They prefer to focus on preaching the gospel rather than engaging directly in exorcisms.
Prerequisites for Exorcism
For those who believe Christians today can still perform exorcisms, they emphasize it must be done with care, humility and wisdom. Here are some prerequisites they propose:
- Mature faith and prayer life
- Spiritual discernment to distinguish demonization from medical issues
- Proper motivation of love to free the oppressed, not personal glory
- Biblical methods relying on God’s power, not formulas or rituals
- Accountability to other Christians to prevent abuse and sensationalism
- Sensitivity to avoid emotional, physical or psychological harm to the individual
Overall, exorcism is a controversial and complex issue. There are reasoned cases on both sides of whether Christians today should engage in it. Those open to exorcism emphasize the authority Christ gave believers, but say it must be done with wisdom, accountability and safeguards to prevent abuse.
Signs of Demonic Influence
For Christians who believe exorcism has a place today, identifying possible signs of demonic influence can aid discernment. They look for patterns like these:
- Unnatural strength or violent, erratic behavior
- Blatant resistance to God, Jesus Christ, and the gospel
- Obscene rage, hatred or blasphemy
- Presence of a distinct wicked persona
- Speaking in a different voice or ancient language they don’t know
- Knowledge of hidden things they shouldn’t naturally know
- Aversion to touch, noise, Scripture reading or Christian symbols
- Healing or deliverance when praying against evil spirits
However, these signs alone are not conclusive proof of demonic possession. Many stem from mental illness or neurological disorders. Professional medical assessments should rule out these natural explanations first. Christians who suspect demonic influence must pray for spiritual discernment and seek wise counsel.
Biblical Methods of Deliverance
For Christians who engage in deliverance ministry, Scripture provides examples of how to confront demonic spirits:
- Prayer – Jesus said “this kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer” (Mark 9:29). Prayer demonstrates dependence on God’s power rather than rituals or formulas.
- Commands – Jesus and the apostles directly commanded demons to leave, often repeatedly or forcefully (Mark 1:25, 9:25, Acts 16:18). This shows their authority in Christ’s name.
- The name of Jesus – Demons were subject to leave when Jesus’ name was invoked (Luke 10:17). This displays Jesus’ supremacy and delegated authority to believers.
- The word of God – Scripture can expose demonic lies and deception while affirming God’s truth (Matthew 4:1-11). The gospel message also sets people free (Romans 1:16).
Reliance on rituals, symbols, relics or formulas lacks biblical precedent. Focus should remain on God’s power and authority in Christ’s name, not elaborate ceremonies. Praise and worship calling on Jesus’ name weakens demonic strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4-5).
Safeguards Against Abuse
Because of the potential for abuse, exorcisms should be approached carefully. Here are some safeguards:
- Seek medical assessments first to rule out mental illness or disorders
- Look for godly character and spiritual maturity in anyone performing exorcisms
- Exorcisms should be done privately to protect dignity and privacy
- Have other mature Christians present for accountability and prayer support
- Focus on resolving any sin issues that may be giving the enemy a foothold
- Full deliverance may be a process requiring ongoing discipleship and counseling
If proper precautions are not taken, attempted exorcisms can harm individuals and discredit Christian witness. But done responsibly within biblical guidelines, deliverance from spiritual oppression can demonstrate God’s love and power to set people free from bondage.
Cautions About the Spiritual Realm
For Christians who accept exorcism as valid today, some words of caution are warranted:
- Avoid sensationalism or an unhealthy preoccupation with demons
- Don’t see a demon behind every problem – look for natural causes first
- Remember Satan is a defeated foe, so don’t be afraid but stand firm in Christ
- Focus on salvation and discipleship more than deliverance ministry
- Continue to pray, put on spiritual armor, and resist the devil (Ephesians 6:10-18)
Spiritual warfare must emphasize God’s sovereignty and power. Deliverance is part of a greater mission of advancing the gospel and making disciples. Exorcism has a place but should not dominate Christian ministry or distract from proclaiming Christ.
Conclusion
The Bible recognizes the reality of spiritual evil forces but calls believers to respond with truth, faith and prayer. Jesus has given His followers authority over demons, but cautions against rejoicing in that more than their salvation. Christians disagree on whether exorcism gifts remain active today. Those who do practice deliverance emphasize spiritual discernment, accountability, and safeguards to prevent harm or sensationalism when attempting to free people from demonic influence. While a controversial and secondary issue, exorcism can reveal God’s compassion and liberating power when done biblically, carefully, and ethically.