Unclean spirits, also known as evil spirits or demons, are supernatural beings that are under the control of Satan and in opposition to God. They are mentioned numerous times throughout the Bible, especially in the New Testament. Here is an overview of what the Bible says about unclean spirits:
Their Nature and Origins
The Bible does not provide a definitive explanation of where unclean spirits came from, but it is clear they are part of the spiritual realm created by God, just as angels are (Colossians 1:16). At some point, a number of these spirits rebelled against God and became followers of Satan (Matthew 12:24-27). They are now evil, unclean and opposed to the work of God. Several names used for them in the Bible include “unclean spirits,” “evil spirits,” “deceiving spirits” and “demons.”
Their Desire to Inhabit Bodies
Unclean spirits desire to inhabit and control the bodies of humans and animals. Accounts in the Gospels tell of Jesus and the disciples encountering many individuals who were possessed by demons and driven to disturbing behavior (Mark 5:1-20, Matthew 8:28-34, Luke 8:26-39). The demons would cause people to act irrationally, harm themselves, cry out loudly, have seizures, and display supernatural strength. They knew who Jesus was and were afraid of him. Jesus would order the spirits to leave, healing the person.
Their Knowledge and Power
Demons possess knowledge far beyond that of humans. They recognized Jesus as the Son of God when many people did not (Mark 1:23-27). They understand spiritual matters, the future and events happening far away (Acts 16:16-18). However, their power is limited, especially compared to God. Jesus displayed his complete authority over demonic spirits, showing he could command them whatever he desired. Believers who have the Holy Spirit residing in them also have power over unclean spirits in Jesus’ name (Acts 19:11-16).
Their Activities and Influence in the World
Demons are active in the world today just as they were during biblical times. They promote idolatry and false religions (1 Corinthians 10:20-21). They try to deceive people spiritually and turn them away from God (1 Timothy 4:1-2). They can influence and/or possess people, causing mental anguish, abnormal behavior, violence and disruption of society (Matthew 9:32-33, 12:22, 17:14-18). They can also inflict physical infirmities (Luke 13:10-17). However, Christians have the power to resist the influence of demons through faith in Jesus Christ (James 4:7, 1 Peter 5:8-9).
Their Eventual Destiny
The Bible teaches that Satan and his demons have already been defeated by Jesus Christ through his death on the cross and resurrection (Colossians 2:15, Hebrews 2:14-15). At the end of the age, they will be thrown into the lake of fire for eternal punishment (Revelation 20:10). Their power and influence will one day come to a complete and permanent end.
Our Defense Against Unclean Spirits
As believers in Jesus Christ, we have resources to defend ourselves against the influence and deception of unclean spirits:
- The Holy Spirit lives within us, protecting and empowering us (1 John 4:4).
- We have the authority to resist them and cast them out in Jesus’ name (Mark 16:17).
- Putting on the full armor of God enables us to stand against their attacks (Ephesians 6:10-18).
- Jesus gives us authority to overcome all the power of the enemy (Luke 10:19).
- Humility, sobriety and vigilance are key to resisting their deception (1 Peter 5:8-9).
The victory has already been won by Christ, so we need not live in fear. But we must be aware of the reality of spiritual warfare and use the resources God has given us to stand firm in our faith.
Examples of Unclean Spirits in the Bible
Here are some examples of encounters with unclean spirits recorded in the Bible:
- A man in the synagogue with an unclean spirit calls out to Jesus, who casts it out (Mark 1:23-27).
- Jesus casts a legion of demons out of a man into a herd of pigs (Mark 5:1-20).
- A boy foams at the mouth and convulses due to an unclean spirit Jesus rebukes (Mark 9:14-29).
- A slave girl with a spirit of divination follows Paul until he commands it to leave (Acts 16:16-18).
- The seven sons of Sceva try to cast out spirits but are attacked (Acts 19:13-16).
- Jesus gives the disciples power over unclean spirits as they preach the gospel (Matthew 10:1).
Signs of Unclean Spirit Influence Today
While overt demonic possession seems rare in the western world today, unclean spirits can still influence people’s lives. Some possible signs include:
- Involvement with occult practices like witchcraft, fortune telling and séances
- Unusual violence, self-harming or significant mental disturbance
- Blasphemous thoughts and hatred toward God persisting against the person’s will
- Compulsive engagement in windributed behaviors that seem difficult to control
- Nightmares, visions or voices commanding the person to act
- Reacting strongly against Christian practices and items like prayer, the Bible or crosses
However, discernment is needed, as mental illness could also account for some of these symptoms. Consulting mental health professionals, medical doctors, and mature spiritual leaders is advisable whenever a case of potential demonic influence is suspected.
The Authority and Power of Jesus Over Unclean Spirits
A prominent aspect of Jesus’ earthly ministry was demonstrating his absolute power and authority over satanic spirits. Many passages emphasize this:
- “He healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons.” (Mark 1:34)
- “Whenever the unclean spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, ‘You are the Son of God.'” (Mark 3:11)
- “He called the Twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases.” (Luke 9:1)
- “Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him, and the boy was healed instantly.” (Matthew 17:18)
- “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons.” (Matthew 10:8)
Jesus often cast out demons with just a word or command (Matthew 8:16). The spirits knew they had to obey him. This authority was then delegated by Christ to his followers who acted in faith (Mark 16:17). The victory Jesus secured over Satan and his minions is an essential element of the gospel message.
The Role of Unclean Spirits in the End Times
The Bible warns that deception by demonic spirits will increase in the end times before Christ returns. Some key passages include:
- “The Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons.” (1 Timothy 4:1)
- “For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.” (Matthew 24:24)
- “For they are demonic spirits, performing signs, who go abroad to the kings of the whole world, to assemble them for battle on the great day of God the Almighty.” (Revelation 16:14)
As the return of Christ draws closer, the activity and influence of unclean spirits will escalate as Satan tries to deceive people and turn them away from the truth of the gospel. But believers who put their faith in Christ can overcome these spirits and their lies until the final victory is accomplished.
Concluding Thoughts
In summary, the Bible makes clear unclean or evil spirits are very real and active forces opposed to God and his people. But Jesus Christ demonstrated his supreme power over these demonic beings, and his victory is ours by faith. By humbly submitting to God and resisting the devil, using the spiritual resources he provides, believers can stand firm to the end, assured of triumph through Christ.