DEMONS:INFLUENCE AND POSSESSION

In our personal testimonies introducing the topic of demonic influence we postulated the following questions:

1.) Do demons exist?

2.) Can demons influence and possess people?

3.) What are the signs of demon influence or possession?

4.) How should a Christian react when in demonic presence?

We explore these questions and much more in this article.

In this modern age of 'logic and reason', people just don't seem to believe demons can cause people problems, in fact, many believe demons do not even exist. In our pride of our scientific and medical knowledge, man has lifted himself up above the "stars" to believe that we, without God, have or can find the answers to anything. If demons are still present in this age, could we discern their presence? Or would we 'reason away' the possibility and have faith in our own incomplete knowledge based in this physical realm?

The following two tables represent survey results by level of education and by denomination. The results are nearly identical on many levels and reveal that less than 45% of all people, whether of a religious faith or claiming none, absolutely believe that demons are real - let alone that they can possess an individual. With increasing time spent in man's system of education being indoctrinated to secular humanism, the admission of belief in supernatural things lessens considerably.

(Baylor Religion Survey, 2005) Belief in Demons by Religion The Association of Religion Data Archives

Response/Faith	Protestant	Catholic	Other	None	Left Blank	TOTAL	Response
absolutely not	5.9% 55	6.6% 24	44.6% 99	19.3% 16	8	12.1% 194	absolutely not
probably not	16.5% 155	22.2% 80	41.0% 91	18.1% 15	9	21.2% 341	probably not
probably	22.1% 208	33.0% 119	7.7% 17	25.3% 21	4	22.7% 365	probably
absolutely	55.5% 522	38.2% 138	6.8% 15	37.3% 31	7	44.0% 706	absolutely
Missing/Blank	50	19	9	3	6	87	Missing/Blank
TOTAL	100% - 940	100% - 361	100% - 222	100% - 83	34	1606	TOTAL

(Baylor Religion Survey, 2005) Belief in Demons by Education The Association of Religion Data Archives

Response/Education	HIGH SCH	HS GRAD	SOME COLL	JR COLL.	BA DEGREE	GRAD DEGREE	Missing/blank	TOTAL	Response
absolutely not	7.1% 4	6.9% 16	10.8% 42	12.0% 16	11.6% 47	18.6% 74	3	12.3% 199	absolutely not
probably not	12.5% 7	14.2% 33	17.3% 67	20.3% 27	25.6% 104	27.7% 110	2	21.6% 348	probably not
probably	21.4% 12	21.6% 50	22.7% 88	23.3% 31	22.2% 90	22.7% 90	8	22.4% 361	probably
absolutely	58.9% 33	57.3% 133	49.2% 191	44.4% 59	40.6% 165	31.0% 123	9	43.7% 704	absolutely
Missing/Blank	6	25	22	7	9	9	9	87	Missing
TOTAL	100% - 56	100% - 232	100% - 388	100% - 133	100% - 406	100% - 397	31	1612	TOTAL

"My dear brothers, never forget, when you hear the progress of enlightenment vaunted, that the devil's best trick is to persuade you that he doesn't exist!"

The famous French poet Baudelaire "Le Joueur généreux," pub. February 7, 1864

As Christians, we should base our belief in the Word of God above all else. The bible emphatically tells us that demons do indeed exist.

Few paranormal topics invoke more passion and controversy than the subject of "demons." Also spelled "daemon" and "daimon", mention of this entity can be found, in some form, on every continent of the globe. Nearly every culture, civilized and savage alike holds a belief in some form of malevolent "spirit" or force, whose purpose is to torment humanity and oppose "God" or the innate goodness of the world.

Although prevalent in the scripture, it seems most of Christendom has relegated demonic activity to horror films, lore and ancient superstitions. Some people believe that demons were only present in the times of Christ and the Apostles for signs of their authority. Does the bible say this? If not, then what does it say? Some people will try to tell you that the Jews did not believe in demons or the Devil but the bible speaks differently. Also, other Judaic sources about demons can be found in the non-canonical 'Book of Jubilees'(circa 110 BC) and in the apocryphal books of Tobit and Baruch (dating from the first and second centuries BC). These are neither authoritative nor inspired but, although being private interpretations of men, do reveal the truth that the ideology of the ancients included a concrete belief in demons. The Bible also warns about divination, witchcraft, soothsaying, enchantment, magic, sorcery, wizardry, astrology, etc., all of which are related to demonic activity. Putting it all together, there are, literally, hundreds of Biblical references to demons and demonic practices!

So if demons do exist (and they do) then, in today's world, we must ask "Where have all the demons gone?"

DEMONS IN THE BIBLE

Before we get started, lets look at and become familiar with some of the Hebrew and Greek terms used to denote demonic beings. The following table shows several of these words with their Strong's Concordance Definitions. The frequency and context of these terms, as used in the bible, alone lets us be sure that demons do indeed exist.

Translated in KJV as"devils"

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary 8163. sa`iyr ryes sa`iyr saw-eer' or sabir {saw-eer'}; from 8175; shaggy; as noun, a he-goat; by analogy, a faun:--devil, goat, hairy, kid, rough, satyr. (only used LEV 17:11, II CHRONICLES 11:15) See Hebrew 8175 Root Word Strong's Hebrew Dictionary 8175. sa`ar res sa`ar saw-ar' a primitive root; to storm; by implication, to shiver, i.e. fear:--be (horribly) afraid, fear, hurl as a storm, be tempestuous, come like (take away as with) a whirlwind.

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary 7700. shed dv shed shade from 7736; a doemon (as malignant):--devil. (only used DEUTERONOMY 32:17; PSALM 106:37) See Hebrew 7736 Related Word Strong's Hebrew Dictionary 7736. shuwd dwv shuwd shood a primitive root; properly, to swell up, i.e. figuratively (by implication of insolence) to devastate:--waste.

Strong's Greek Dictionary 1139. daimonizomai daimonizomai daimonizomai dahee-mon-id'-zom-ahee middle voice from 1142; to be exercised by a dæmon:--have a (be vexed with, be possessed with) devil(-s). (Mt 4:24; 8:16,28,33; 9:32; 12:22; 15:22; Mr 1:32; 5:15-16,18; Lu 8:36; Joh 10:21)

Strong's Greek Dictionary 1140. daimonion daimonion daimonion dahee-mon'-ee-on neuter of a derivative of 1142; a dæmonic being; by extension a deity:--devil, god. (Used Mt 7:22; 9:33-34; 10:8; 11:18; 12:24,27-28; 17:18; Mr 1:34,39; 3:15,22; 6:13; 7:26,29-30; 9:38; 16:9,17; Lu 4:33,35,41; 7:33; 8:2,27,30,33,35,38; 9:1,42,49; 10:17; 11:14-15,18-20; 13:32; Joh 7:20; 8:48-49,52; 10:20-21; Ac 17:18; 1Co 10:20-21; 1Ti 4:1; Jas 2:19; Re 9:20) See Greek 1142

Strong's Greek Dictionary 1142. daimon daimwn daimon dah'-ee-mown from daio (to distribute fortunes); a dæmon or supernatural spirit (of a bad nature):--devil. (Used Mt 8:31; Mr 5:12; Lu 8:29; Re 16:14; 18:2)

Translated in KJV as "evil spirit" (Hebrew: rah-ruach asin Jg 9:23; 1Sa 16:14-16,23; 18:10; 19:9 -- Greek: poneros-pneuma as in Ac 19:15-16 )

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary 7451. ra` er ra` rah from 7489; bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral):-- adversity, affliction, bad, calamity, + displease(-ure), distress, evil((- favouredness), man, thing), + exceedingly, X great, grief(-vous), harm, heavy, hurt(-ful), ill (favoured), + mark, mischief(-vous), misery, naught(-ty), noisome, + not please, sad(-ly), sore, sorrow, trouble, vex, wicked(-ly, -ness, one), worse(-st), wretchedness, wrong. (Incl. feminine raaah; as adjective or noun.). See Hebrew 7489 Compounded with Strong's Hebrew Dictionary 7307. ruwach xwr ruwach roo'-akh from 7306; wind; by resemblance breath, i.e. a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the sky; by resemblance spirit, but only of a rational being (including its expression and functions):--air, anger, blast, breath, X cool, courage, mind, X quarter, X side, spirit((-ual)), tempest, X vain, ((whirl-))wind(-y). See Hebrew 7306

Strong's Greek Dictionary 4190. poneros ponhroV poneros pon-ay-ros' from a derivative of 4192; hurtful, i.e. evil (properly, in effect or influence, and thus differing from 2556, which refers rather to essential character, as well as from 4550, which indicates degeneracy from original virtue); figuratively, calamitous; also (passively) ill, i.e. diseased; but especially (morally) culpable, i.e. derelict, vicious, facinorous; neuter (singular) mischief, malice, or (plural) guilt; masculine (singular) the devil, or (plural) sinners:--bad, evil, grievous, harm, lewd, malicious, wicked(-ness). See also 4191. See Greek 4192 See Greek 2556 See Greek 4550 See Greek 4191 Compounded with Strong's Greek Dictionary 4151. pneuma pneuma pneuma pnyoo'-mah from 4154; a current of air, i.e. breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e. (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital principle, mental disposition, etc., or (superhuman) an angel, demon, or (divine) God, Christ's spirit, the Holy Spirit:--ghost, life, spirit(-ual, -ually), mind. Compare 5590. See Greek 4154 See Greek 5590

Translated in KJV as "unclean spirit" or "foul Spirit" (Hebrew: tumah-ruach as in Zec 13:2 -- Greek: akathartos as in Mt 12:43; Mr 1:23,26; 3:30; 5:2,8; 7:25; Lu 8:29; 9:42; 11:24 )

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary 2932. tum'ah hamj tum'ah toom-aw' from 2930; religious impurity:--filthiness, unclean(-ness). (As Arnold Schwarzenegger says in Kindergarten Cop: ITS NOT A TU-MAH!) See Hebrew 2930 Root Word Strong's Hebrew Dictionary 2930. tame' amj tame' taw-may' a primitive root; to be foul, especially in a ceremonial or moral sense (contaminated):--defile (self), pollute (self), be (make, make self, pronounce) unclean, X utterly. Compounded with Strong's Hebrew Dictionary 7307. ruwach xwr ruwach roo'-akh from 7306; wind; by resemblance breath, i.e. a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the sky; by resemblance spirit, but only of a rational being (including its expression and functions):--air, anger, blast, breath, X cool, courage, mind, X quarter, X side, spirit((-ual)), tempest, X vain, ((whirl-))wind(-y). See Hebrew 7306

Strong's Greek Dictionary 169. akathartos akaqartoV akathartos ak-ath'-ar-tos from 1 (as a negative particle) and a presumed derivative of 2508 (meaning cleansed); impure (ceremonially, morally (lewd) or specially, (demonic)):--foul, unclean. See Greek 1 See Greek 2508 Compounded with Strong's Greek Dictionary 4151. pneuma pneuma pneuma pnyoo'-mah from 4154; a current of air, i.e. breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e. (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital principle, mental disposition, etc., or (superhuman) an angel, demon, or (divine) God, Christ's spirit, the Holy Spirit:--ghost, life, spirit(-ual, -ually), mind. Compare 5590. See Greek 4154 See Greek 5590

DEMONIC POSSESSION

What is it? The words "demon possessed" conjures up images of utterly crazed, evil being(s) who control a person in every way causing them to commit evil atrocities, swear, vomit pea-soup and generally strike fear into all men. The Bible paints a different image, in fact, there is no such actual expression as "demon possessed" in the original text. The Greek word daimonizomai is derived from the word demon (daimon) but "demonized" would be a more literal and appropriate translation. It might be better to think of someone being victimized or harassed by a demon, rather than "possessed" as in a bad horror flick. Although, it would seem, at times, that the demon can manipulate the actions and deeds of its host.

It must be said that people should not attempt to place the blame for their own sin on demons. The demonic realm can influence a believer’s morality primarily in the form of temptation. You can be enticed but if you fall to sin it was you - not an ethereal being to blame. Some folks truly pass this 'doctrine' off in seedy "deliverance ministries;" which makes one recall the old Flip Wilson comedic skit where he played "Geraldine Jones," whom, whenever she did something she shouldn’t have done, excused her actions by claiming, "The Devil made me do it!" Take responsibility for your own actions to avoid being deceived.

Demons, in the bible, are shown to sometimes afflict their victims intermittently, rather than constantly. Remember that "Legion" "For oftentimes it had caught him" (Luke 8:29), and of the boy with seizures, "hath a dumb spirit; And wheresoever he taketh him, he teareth him: and he foameth, and gnasheth with his teeth, and pineth away" (Mark 9:17-18). This suggests that, between bouts, a person might have no observable symptoms.

The spirit of the Lord left King Saul and he ended up with an evil spirit (1 Samuel 16:14 But the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the LORD troubled him.) and yet despite his affliction he was still able to function as king. This evil spirit would come and go from its "Saul house". 1 Samuel 16:23 And it came to pass, when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took an harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him.

John the Baptist was accused of having a demon. Apparently, and quite notably, the Jews did not think that to have a demon one must be dysfunctional. Matthew 11:18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil. (also found in Luke 7:33)

People often accused Jesus that he had a demon when he said something spiritual they did not understand or performed a miracle. He was not raving mad or foaming at the mouth. His face was not contorted into an evil grimace nor had he enlarged baleful eyes. Yet, as you can read in the following passages, they thought it probable that he had a devil (demon) of they would not make such an (false) accusation.

	Mark 3:22 And the scribes which came down from Jerusalem said, He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils. Mark 3:30 Because they said, He hath an unclean spirit.
	John 7:20 The people answered and said, Thou hast a devil: who goeth about to kill thee?
	John 8:48 Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil? John 8:52 Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death.
	John 10:19-21 There was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings. And many of them said, He hath a devil, and is mad; why hear ye him? Others said, These are not the words of him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind?

The point here is that demonic possession may not always manifest itself in observable behavior or appearance. We see that demons can inhabit a host for a long time or short time; constantly or intermittently.

The Bible is replete with references to evil spirits throughout the Old and New Testaments. It also warns about familiar spirits, divination, witchcraft, necromancy, soothsaying, enchantment, magic, sorcery, wizardry, astrology, etc., ... which are all related to demonic activity. So we can see that there are, literally, hundreds of Biblical references to demons and demonic practices!

There are a myriad of biblical references to demons. Many demons were cast out of people by Christ, the twelve apostles and the seventy disciples in the first century A.D. Here are a few passages to remind us that demonic habitation of people was not only occurring but also very common!

There are those who say that demons were only manifested to prove Jesus' Messiah-ship. These folks will say that demons no longer roam the earth possessing (inhabiting) individuals. Yet, fully disproving that notion, we see demons cast from people's bodies even after the crucifixion (Acts 8:7 & 19:12 are just two of several examples).

There are others who say that the 1st century schizophrenic was thought to demon-possessed due to ignorance and superstition but NOW along comes science with an "explanation" and "drug-induced control" of the disease, chemical imbalance or mental state (because it can't be a demon, because a demon would mean a devil and a devil would mean there's God). What about today's psychiatric medications? Is that perhaps an equivalent of hiding/masking symptoms (demons) by relying on drugs?

In the time of Christ demonic possession was everywhere. If, at the death of the early apostles, demons didn’t become so upset that they left the planet THEN where did they go? Or did they "go" anywhere at all?

If demons are about ... then cast them out! Nowhere in the New Testament are believers ever depicted as living in servile fear of demons, that is precisely the state from which they have been delivered by the gospel.

Today, there are many Christian denominations that practice "deliverance" of victims from demonic possession. The rite is mainly thought to be practiced by the Roman Catholic Church, but some Orthodox and Protestant denominations such as the Pentecostals and other charismatic groups practice it as well. These groups refer to the practice as "deliverance ministry" where "gifted" people drive out devils and heal while they touch the persons with their hands, called laying on of hands, and pray over them. Often they will make a show of casting demons from professed believers but a true believer cannot be possessed in his/her being but only can be troubled/buffeted in this life from without. Notwithstanding what has been said, many Christians remain functional deists. They don’t deny that God exists or that there is a spiritual realm in which angels and demons are active. They simply live as if neither God nor spiritual beings of either sort have any genuine, influential, interaction with them.

There are also Exorcisms among the Jewish religion of Judaism, examples of which may be seen in Talmud (Schabbath, xiv, 3; Aboda Zara, xii, 2; Sanhedrin, x, 1)... and exorcisms in other religions, as in the Babylonian, Greek and Egyptian cultures. In fact, exorcism is one of the most widespread practices in human history. Almost every known religion has some context regarding exorcisms. In his book, American Exorcism, Michael Cuneo, a sociologist at Fordham University, writes: "Exorcism is more readily available today in the United States than perhaps ever before. By conservative estimates, there are at least five or six hundred evangelical exorcism ministries in operation today, and quite possibly two or three times this many" referring to the addition of numerous exorcisms performed by charismatic, Pentecostal and other brands of Christianity."

"Exorcism" is derived from the Greek preposition "ek" with the verb "horkizo" which means "I cause [someone] to swear" and refers to "putting the spirit or demon on oath," or invoking a higher authority to command it to act contrary to its own will.

The Bible includes a number of references to demons and exorcism. The New Testament describes occasions when Jesus Christ expelled evil spirits by prayer (sometimes in conjunction with fasting) and the power of his command. The followers of Jesus also cast out demons. But so did the mystic Jews [Acts 19]. Today, as throughout history, many religions and denominations "bind and cast out demons." Many, assuredly, real; and many, assuredly, staged acts.

	1. The twelve: Matthew 10:1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease. Mark 6:7 And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits; Luke 9:1-2 Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick.
	2. The seventy: Luke 10:17-20 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.
	3. An unknown Believer: Mark 9:38-40 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us. But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is on our part. (parallel account told in Luke 9:49)
	4. Philip [the Deacon]: Acts 8:5-8 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city.
	5. Paul: Acts 16:16-18 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying: The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour. Acts 19:11-12 And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.

Demons trembled when Jesus walked near. They often manifested themselves and spoke to Him; recognizing His power and authority. On the other side of that coin, the demon in the psychic slave girl recognized the special anointing on Paul and Silas and the demon manifested itself by being infatuated with them; following them around day after day, crying aloud that they were servants of the Most High God (Acts 16:16-18). This doesn’t prove that all evil spirits necessarily manifested themselves when Jesus or apostles were near, but many certainly did. I believe demons tend to be attracted to God's people like this. One of the gifts of the holy spirit is "discerning of spirits" (I Cor 12:10) and I believe God gives that discernment to identify demons for a reason.

Could we miss some cases of the demons because our spiritual gifts do not include the ability to discern evil spirits? Or because we are not exercising the gifts that we have? Hebrews 5:14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

All Christians have a divine mission and power over demons. Demons still do exist but have free reign until the proper authority over them is invoked. What distinguished Jesus and the apostles from the average Christian was not that they had spiritual authority but that they KNEW it and, thusly, EXERCISED it.

THE POWER IS NOT IN THE PERSON OF THEMSELVES

The power lies in the authority of the one who gave it.

	Matthew 10:1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he (Jesus) gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.
	Luke 9:1-2 Then he (Jesus) called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick.
	Acts 3:12-13;16 And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk? The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go. Acts 3:16 And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.
	John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

There are many false teachers who either falsely think they cast out demons; or assume to do do under their own power, or usurped authority. (Mt 7:22 Workers of Iniquity casting out demons in Jesus' name; Vagabond Jews-seven sons of Sceva Acts 19:13-16)

Most "deliverance ministries" focus on the intrigue of esoteric events rather than on living a life of humility and lowliness of mind before the Eternal. It is important that the Church of God knows that the (apparent or real) ability to cast out a demon is NOT an indicator that God is "with" that person or ministry. If all the other religions can imitate it (like the Egyptian magicians Jannes and Jambres before Moses) then it, by itself, is no proof of holiness. Please watch and do not be deceived by the many deliverance ministries in Christendom - look for the fruits - subjection to the Lord in all things.

Matthew 7:21-23 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

THE POWER IS NOT IN THE WORDS ARTICULATED

There is no 'magical' incantation or secret words involved in casting out demons. Here are some of the words spoken when casting demons out:

	Mark 5:8 For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit.
	Matthew 8:32 And he said unto them, Go. And when they were come out, they went into the herd of swine: and, behold, the whole herd of swine ran violently down a steep place into the sea, and perished in the waters.
	Mark 9:25 When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.
	Matthew 15:28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.
	Mark 1:25 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him.
	Acts 16:18 And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.

THE POWER IS IN THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS (Y'SHUA)

	John 14:12-14 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.
	John 16:23 And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.
	Acts 4:7-12 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this? Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
	Luke 10:17-20 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.

The structure for the Roman Military was like this: The Caesar (Emperor), Provincial Governor and then the Legatus (Usually former senator. In a province with only one legion, the legatus also serves as governor). The Legatus commanded a Legion. (usually comprised of 2000-6000 soldiers) Second in command of the legion was the tribunus laticlavus or senatorial tribune, the praefectus castrorum or camp prefect, Then came the five tribuni angusticlavi or equestrian tribunes. A Legion was made up of 10 Cohorts and 120 Horsemen. Six Centuries made up each Cohort. (There are six distinct steps of seniority in each cohort, from lowest to highest: hastatus posterior, hastatus prior, princeps posterior, princeps prior, pilus posterior, pilus prior.) The Senior Centurion led the Cohort. A Centurion led each Century or 60-100 men (There were up to 60 Centurions' in a Legion).

The Centurion in the passage KNEW from whom his authority came. When he spoke it was just as if Caesar himself was doing the speaking! When He told his men to "go" they, also, KNEW whose authority the Officer wielded ... so they would "go" as commanded.

Jesus Christ (Yashua ha Maschiach) gave His authority to all who would follow Him. The demons MUST obey His every command and so they must, likewise, obey His Saints.

I believe that the TRUTH we’re meant to know about the AUTHORITY that WE CHRISTIAN'S (Messiah-followers) have IN JESUS' NAME is so simple, a child could understand it. It’s simply this: when we make our requests in Jesus’ name, we are to be fully persuaded that it is the same as if Jesus Himself were asking the Father.

1 Corinthians 12:27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

Ephesians 5:30-32 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

Jesus unequivocally told us in Mark 16:17 "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils;" Jesus is not a liar. He gave us His own authority over demons. Today, all who believe in The Father through the Son Jesus are Sons and Daughters of God too. The heavenly Father receives us as lovingly as he receives his own Son. Through his Crucifixion and Resurrection, Jesus has made us one with the Father. John 17:20-23 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.

We are now family — one with the Father, and one with the Son. We have the full rights of inheritance possessed by any child. This means all the power and resources of heaven are made available to us, through Christ. And, because we are clothed in Christ — joint heirs with him, partakers in his inheritance — we know our requests are also heard by the Father. And he answers our requests, just as he answered his Son’s. We also know the demons, yea even Satan Himself, recognize Jesus as the Son of the Living God and they TREMBLE. We, the saints of YHWH (God), carry Y'shua's (Jesus) FULL AUTHORITY and I think He does NOT like when we shirk our responsibility to do as He commanded. So, go ye forth, as a fully commissioned agent of the Kingdom of Heaven. Preach the coming Kingdom, the curse of transgression of the law (sin) and the sacrifice on the cross of Jesus Christ which takes away all our sins. Set the captives free! (and believe the signs follow!)

Philippians 2:10-13 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

Love to You Saints in Christ Jesus, Kenneth M. Hoeck for Truth On the Web Ministries

	When Satan revolted against God some angels followed his lead. These 'bad angels' are commonly called demons or evil spirits. Some demons are confined (cast into 'tartaroo' or spiritual prison and delivered into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment), but many demons are still active in the world.
	Demons seek to destroy the purposes of God (we are instructed to stand against the wiles of the devil).
	Demons promote a seductive system of doctrine- anything that distorts or denies the Word of God (1 Timothy 4:1 "Now the Spirit explicitly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons"). The have a 'form' of godliness but deny the power thereof.
	Demons can inflict diseases They can cause sickness and disease (no, not all sickness is caused by demon activity), inhabit animals, as well as people, and can be cast out by the proper authority. ("Lunatic" in (possibly epileptic) Mt 17:14-21; Mk 9:17-29; Lk 9:37-42; Dumb (Mute) demoniac in Mt 9:32-34; Blind & dumb demoniac in Mt 12:22; Lk 11:14; Daughter of a Greek-Syro-phenician woman in Mt 15:22-28; Mk 7:24-30; " Woman bent over - spine locked Luke 13:11)
	Demons can possess or inhabit the bodies animals. (Swine in Mk 5:9-13).
	Demons can possess or inhabit the bodies of people: Saul in 1 Sam 16:14-16,23; 18:10; 19:9; "Legion" in Mt 8:28-34; Mk 5:1-20; Lk 8:26-37; "Lunatic" in (possibly epileptic) Mt 17:14-21; Mk 9:17-29; Lk 9:37-42; Dumb (Mute) demoniac in Mt 9:32-34; Blind & dumb demoniac in Mt 12:22; Lk 11:14; Daughter of a Greek-Syro-phenician woman in Mt 15:22-28; Mk 7:24-30; "certain damsel" slave girl in Acts 16:16-19; Synagogue demoniac: Mk 1:23; Lk 4:33-36
	Sometimes individuals can be inhabited by multiple demons: Mt 12:43-45; Lk 11:24-26; "Many, Legion" (Legion=6000 men, 2000 swine were drowned) Mk 5:9; Lk 8:27; Mary had "7 demons cast out of her": Mk 16:9; Lk 8:2; Mat 12:45 parable of cast out demon returning and bringing back 7 evil friends.
	Demons can exhibit supernatural abilities in their hosts: Psychic ability (Acts 16:16) Supernatural strength (Mark 5:3-4; Acts 19:14,16)
	Demons may exhibit other odd behaviors or attitudes: Refusing to wear clothes (Luke 8:27); Demonically driven to homelessness (Luke 8:27,29); Self-harm (Mark 5:5); Fear (1 Samuel 16:14 compare 2 Timothy 1:7); Fits of anger (1 Samuel 18:10-11); Screaming or Shrieking (Mark 5:5)
	Demons differ in their power or authority from one another ("this kind" Mk 9:29 and "more wicked' in Mt 12:45)
	Some demons are bound in a spiritual prison (tartaroo rendered in English as 'hell') Peter 2:4 For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; Jude 1:6 And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.; Revelation 20:1-3 And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season.; Revelation 20:7 And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison.
	The Devil and all demons will be cast into Gehenna Fire (hell) at the end of the age: Matthew 25:41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:; 2 Peter 2:4 For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; Jude 1:6 And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.; Revelation 20:10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.

	Matthew 4:24 And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.
	Matthew 8:16-17 When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.
	Mark 1:34 And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.
	Mark 6:13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.

	EXORCISTS = Strong's # 1845. exorkistes from 1844; one that binds by an oath (or spell), i.e. (by implication) an "exorcist" (conjurer):--exorcist.
	CAST OUT = Strong's # 1544. ekballo from 1537 and 906; to eject (literally or figuratively):--bring forth, cast (forth, out), drive (out), expel, leave, pluck (pull, take, thrust) out, put forth (out), send away (forth, out).

	Mt 10:1¶ And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.
	The twelve Jesus sent forth and commanded them, saying, (Mt 10:7) "And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give."
	Mark 16:14¶ Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen. 15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. 19¶ So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. 20 And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.