Truth in Reality

In the ministry of Jesus Christ, healing and deliverance went along with preaching and teaching the gospel. Jesus cast out demons even the day before he was crucified. He said:

“Go ye, and tell that fox, Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures to day and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected.” (Lk 13:32)

The last instructions of Jesus to his disciples after His resurrection and before he ascended to the Father, came to be known as ‘The Great Commission’. No expiry date was provided. Jesus said:

“Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believes and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believes not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils;”          (Mk 16:15-17)

Jesus did not say these signs would follow only the apostles, but that these signs would follow ‘those who believe’ – that is, those who both came with and after the apostles.

“Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he follows not with us. And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us.” (Lk 9, 49-50)

The Bible tells us that the disciples, not just the apostles, went out and were preaching everywhere, the Lord working with them, confirming the word with signs following, chief of which was casting out demons in His name. Jesus told us to occupy until he comes.    (Lk 19:13)

“Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe ALL THINGS whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” (Mt 28:18-20)

The claim that there is no need for deliverance is not found in scripture

Those who claim deliverance is not scriptural, as it ceased, are unable to provide any scripture to confirm that belief. Nor are they able to explain why so many scriptures were given to us about deliverance if we were not supposed to practice it. The New Testament mentions Jesus casting out evil spirits 55 times and describes events in detail 5 times.

According to Bible prophecy, demonic activity would not cease but rather is set to continue to increase until Jesus returns. (Mt 24; Re chs 6 – 9)

“Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb: and he healed him, insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw. And all the people were amazed, and said, Is not this the son of David? But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils. And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand: And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand? And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? therefore they shall be your judges. But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. Or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house.” (Mt 12:22-29)

Can a Christian ‘have a demon’?

True believers cannot be ‘possessed’ as they are sealed by the Holy Spirit. (Ep 1:13-14, 4:30) The Greek word ‘daimonizomai’ is often translated as ‘demon-possessed’ but simply means to come under the influence of a demon or demons, or become subject to demonic oppression, and terms used are ‘with an unclean spirit’ or ‘have a demon’.

In the Bible, a temple of God is described as having an inner chamber where God dwells, corresponding to the spirit where the Holy Spirit can dwell. There are a number of scriptures which tell us that even so the outer courts of the temple can be defiled. For example, when heathens were worshipping in the outer courts of the temple. (Ez 8:16) Or when Jesus drove out the money-changers from the temple. (Mt 21:12-13) Demons cannot dwell in a genuine believer’s spirit which is sealed by God, but they can inhabit the mind, the heart and (uncrucified) flesh. (Ez 8:16, Ez 42:20, Mt 21:12, Re 11:2)

Paul spoke of a thorn in his flesh, and thorns are a term used in scripture to signify demons:

“Because of the surpassing greatness and extraordinary nature of the revelations [which I received from God], for this reason, to keep me from thinking of myself as important, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan, to torment and harass me—to keep me from exalting myself! Concerning this I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might leave me.” (2Co 12:7-8 AMP)

Demons are knowledgeable but evil spirits and they do not have to be inside someone to affect or influence them. According to scripture, it is the correct understanding that even a believer can suffer demonic oppression if he lets down his guard and allows his thoughts, actions, or attitudes to be influenced. We know from scripture that demons work together and that is why scripture strongly urges us to give them NO place. (Mt 12:45)

“Neither give place to the devil.” (Ep 4:27) [Do not give some place, or a little place, but give NO place.] Other versions say: “Do not give the devil a foothold.” Or “Do not give the devil an opportunity”.

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour:” (1Pe 5:8)  Other versions say: ”Be alert”, “Be watchful”, “Be clear-minded”, “Be on guard”.

“Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.” (2Co 2:11)

Evidence from scripture proves that believers can be influenced, afflicted, beguiled, bewitched, blinded, blocked, bound, compelled, deceived, distracted, driven, enchanted, entangled, enticed, tempted (to do evil), harassed, intimidated, misled, oppressed, seduced, stalked, tormented, traumatised, troubled, weakened and worried.

Demons can assault, corrupt, debase, defile, degrade, demean, denigrate, desecrate, destroy, detract, devalue, devour, diminish, disable, discredit, disrupt, distort, disturb, divide, downgrade, enslave, entrap, fragment, frighten, kill, pervert, pursue, steal, stifle, twist and, particularly, cause false doctrine to be taught.

We know from scripture that demons have weapons including especially weapons of deception and that is why we need to wear the armour of God (Ep 6).

Scriptures

Mt 15:22-28 – Children’s (believer’s) bread.
Mk 1:23-27 – Man in the synagogue (believer).
Mk 1:39-42 – Cast out devils in synagogues.
Mk 7:25-30 – Children’s (believer’s) bread.
Mk 8:33 – Jesus ‘called’ Peter Satan (Peter allowed himself to be used as a mouthpiece).
Mk 9:17-29 – Believer’s son.
Mk 16:17-20 – Last command of Jesus before ascent.
Lk 4:38-39 – Spirit of fever is a demon.
Lk 8:2-3 – Certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils, And Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.
Lk 9:52-56 – Jesus said to James and John: “You do not know what spirit you are of.”
Lk 13:11-17 – Daughter of Abraham (believer).
Lk 22:3 – Satan entered Judas.
Lk 22:31 – Satan desired to sift Peter as wheat.
Ac 5:3-4 – Ananias and Sapphira were believers.
Ac 8:5-7, 13 – Gave heed to things spoken of Christ.
Ac 8:20-24 – Simon was a believer.
Ac 10:38 – Sickness is oppression of Satan.
1Co 5:1-5 – Believer in Corinth delivered to Satan.
2Co 2:10-11 – Satan getting advantage of believer.
2Co 11:3-4 – Believers receive another spirit.
2Co 12:7-9 – Paul’s messenger of Satan in flesh.
Ga 3:1 – Galatians bewitched by spirits.
Ep 4:26-27 – Anger gives place to Devil.
1Ti 1:18 – Hymenaeus and Alexander are believers.
1Ti 4:1-2 – Believers depart from the faith.
2Ti 2:24-26 – Recover out of snare of Devil.
He 12:15-16 – Root of bitterness is a spirit.
1Pe 5:8-9 – Afflictions in the brethren.

Christians can be vulnerable for various reasons, such as false doctrine and following false teachers which can provide a gateway for the whisperings of seducing spirits. Some other ways Christians can be vulnerable are due to various circumstances in life, unconfessed sins, unforgiveness, pridefulness, and various forms of backsliding, disobedience, rebellion, etc.

“Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? This persuasion comes not of him that calls you. A little leaven leavens the whole lump.”        (Ga 5:7-9)

We know from numerous testimonies posted online that believers can be attacked, harassed and oppressed etc., long after they are saved, sometimes for many years. For example, someone who has suffered greatly from abuse may struggle with unforgiveness, which can result in bondage, and/or various addictions – or lusts such as for sex, money, drink or drugs – used for self-medication.

Demons cannot dwell in a genuine believer’s spirit which is sealed by God, but they can inhabit the mind, the heart and (uncrucified) flesh. Demons are adept and ingenious at using every means possible to achieve their aims.  They can easily formulate and carry out detailed plans and they can network effectively. Demons do not have to be inside people for their ideas and doctrines to influence that person’s mind and heart.

The dangers are ever-present and we would be wise to be armed with the whole armour of God (Ep 6) to protect ourselves from the devil’s fiery darts and to follow the whole counsel of God. (Acts 20:27) Those believers who claim that we should not pay heed to these matters have themselves already been misled, seduced, blinded and deceived into believing that there is no need to worry about that type of thing when scripture says otherwise.

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour:” (1Pe 5:8) Other versions say: ”Be alert”, “Be watchful”, “Be clear-minded”, “Be on guard”.

An important part of our daily spiritual warfare is the constant battle of the flesh and blood agents of the demonic, the enchanters, the pastors and teachers who – sometimes wilfully – deny plain scripture in favour of their own private interpretations.

They are those who have given heed to seducing spirits who, in turn, seduce them from the scripture by tempting them with any number of devices that they employ. Scripture proves the devil is able to gain an advantage, a foothold, an armhold, and a stronghold and then a stranglehold.

“Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices [AMP: wiles and intentions].” (2Co 2:11)

The way we combat the devil’s ploys is to study God’s word so that we know not only what it says but its meaning and application. We have clearly been instructed that there are no additions, subtractions, refinements, updates, improvements, expansions, comparisons, devotionals, and corrupted bible study guides, etc. Any ‘new’ translations should be carefully scrutinised as some are ‘New Age’ bibles.

“Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?” (He 2:1-4)

When we learn spiritual warfare, we learn how to apply scripture to help us guard our mind, cast down vain imaginations, and bring our thoughts into the obedience of Christ. (2Co 10:5)

This may seem difficult at first, but not once we experience the reality of what God offers us, and we know it is the truth that sets us free. (Jn 8:32)

More information: Can A Born-Again Christian Have A Demon?

Some Christian groups and leaders even recommend medications and counselling, etc. – anything but casting out demons!

There is no shortage of testimonies from believers who have been oppressed, harassed and tormented with various problems, including temptations and addictions. These Christian witness testimonies cannot be easily explained away, and we would have to discount not only their own testimony but also the testimonies of those around them, family and friends, etc. We would have to say they are imagining things, or they are mentally ill, and/or they have been deceived and they are in turn deceiving. It may be that they are indeed deceived, but then who – according to scripture – would be deceiving them?

One of the main priorities in the work of demons is to tempt believers with false teaching, particularly that there is no need to cast out demons. That is why 26 out of 27 books of the New Testament warn about false teaching. (Philemon with one chapter and 27 verses is the exception.) This goes along with doing whatever they can to influence people, especially believers, not to read the Bible and accurately understand what it says. It is also the work of demons to discourage a believer in every way and to deter them from prayer, and godly praise and worship.

Some Christians assert that their faith or belief in Jesus Christ is enough to protect them from attacks of the devil. But there are many who would testify that they know from personal experience that is not true. Or at least that is not their experience. Who or what are we to believe?

While believers are sealed by the Holy Spirit (Ep 1:13-14, 4:30) we know from scripture that believers are not always full of the Holy Spirit. The idea that Christians are somehow immune to the numerous ways that demons can attack – such as perhaps believing that is due to their own great faith – could lead to self-righteousness and pridefulness which scripture repeatedly warns against. These warnings are clearly addressed to believers.

The Bible story of the man who swept his house clean clearly illustrates it is not a good idea to cast demons out of non-believers. So that being the case, according to some, there is then no need to cast out demons from anyone at any time, whether believers or not?

“When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walks through dry places, seeking rest, and finds none. Then he says, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he finds it empty, swept, and garnished. Then goes he, and takes with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.” (Mt 12:43-45)

What about believers who backslide, or do not confess their sins, etc? 

If it were true that Christians are always full of the Holy Spirit so that there is no room for any other spirits why are we warned to test the spirits – of believers! – to see if they are of God?

“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God:” (1Jn 4:1)

“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?” (2Co 13:5)

“For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.” (2Co 12:20-21)

“Wherefore let him [believer] that thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” (1Co 10:12)

“Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” (2Pe 3:17-18 NIV)

Or: “Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.” (2Pe 3:17-18 KJV)

Why would Christians need deliverance when they are cleansed of all sin by their belief in Jesus Christ?

We still have our work to do with daily warfare and working out our salvation. (Ph 2:12) We still need to do our part and that’s why Jesus said: “Take up your cross and follow me”. (Mt 16:24‑26) That’s why we have scriptures such as:

“For this is my blood of the covenant, which is shed for many for the remission (forgiveness) of sins.” (Mt 26:28)

“For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.” (Ro 7:22-25)

“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.” (Co 3:5-7)

The claim that the work of salvation along with the need to practice deliverance was completed on the cross when Jesus said: “It is finished” is an example of wrested scripture, as this referred to the redemptive work of Jesus Himself on the cross, not to our work. We can know this with certainty as scripture tells us that the followers of Jesus were still casting out demons not only after Jesus was crucified and had ascended to the Father as per his last instructions to us at Mk 16:17-20.

In the book of Acts, we see that believers were delivered out of many afflictions, trials and troubles. They in turn delivered others in need including those afflicted by unclean spirits. Peter, Philip and Paul continued to cast out demons:

Peter: “There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one. Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,” (Ac 5:16-17)

Philip: “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.” (Ac 8:5-8)

Paul: “A certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met Paul. Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, ‘I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.’ And he came out the very hour.” (Ac 16:18)

“God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, 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. Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preaches …” (Ac 19:11-13)

We were given our work to do

Jesus was sacrificed once for all and for all time, for every sin we could ever commit or ever was committed. Jesus said “Take up your cross and follow me”. (Mt 16:24‑26) We are asked to present ourselves as a living daily sacrifice to God. (Ro 12:1) Jesus also said: “My burden is easy and my yoke is light”. (Mt 11:30) And so it is, compared to what Jesus went through. “For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.” (He 12:3)

If we say we have been once cleansed and always cleansed, we make God a liar and his truth is not in us. Hence, the continued need for repentance and confession of sin as part of our sanctification. The early Christians partook of the Lord’s supper not only to remember his death and resurrection but also they continued to pray for their repentance and forgiveness. This alone proves the error of believing that everything has been done and we need do nothing.

We know we are not saved by works but by grace. Nonetheless, the idea that Jesus did it all and we need do nothing contradicts many scriptures. Examples of this are the parable of the servant who hid his talents (Mt 25:14-30) and many others such as (Mt 25:31-46). Also, the story of the good Samaritan (Lk 10:30-37). Or the parable of the sower (Mk 4: 1–20; Mt 13: 1–9, 18–23). And many more such as the wide road to destruction and the narrow path to salvation (Mt 7:13–14).

Why did God make such a narrow path to salvation?

Our work has only just begun preaching the gospel of salvation with signs following, as per the Great Commission. (2Ti 4:7-8)  This work will continue on and through the Tribulation when demonic activity and deception will greatly increase, as per Bible prophecy.

“Now the Spirit speaks expressly, that in the latter times some [Christian believers] shall depart from the [Christian] faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and [‘Christian’] doctrines of devils;” (1Ti 4:1)

There are many scriptures about deliverance and some are addressed to believers. Paul warns us to resist the devil, to be on our guard, and to give no place to the devil, etc. Those who deny the wise admonition and advice of scripture are giving place to the adversary and his servants to do their work, preaching things for filthy lucre. (1Ti 3:8)

This starts with putting doubts into people’s minds which produce questions that lead to altering the word of God. This is what the serpent did to Eve in the garden of Eden when he whispered: “Yea, hath God said?” Eve – and Adam – should have stayed faithful to what God had told them, but they chose to believe a lie.

Did deliverance and casting out demons cease with the apostles?

There are many Christians who refuse to believe that deliverance and casting out demons should be practiced today. This includes certain denominational Christians and cessationists who teach casting out demons ceased with the apostolic gifts. That is even though casting out demons (or deliverance) is not an apostolic gift according to scripture, so that explanation does not fit even if it were true.

Scripture does not say the apostolic gifts have ceased – although to some extent it is possible they may have done. What scripture does say is that tongues shall cease and prophecies shall cease, although it doesn’t say when. We do know that prophecies have not ceased yet as although the redemptive prophecies have been fulfilled in part there remain many Old Testament prophecies yet to be fulfilled in the last days, the greatest of which is the return of Jesus Christ. But then why – and it’s a big why – does that scripture not mention deliverance?

“Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.” (1Co 13:8)

In short, cessationists are unable to provide a single scripture to confirm that deliverance ceased, or when it ceased. Neither can they explain why deliverance should have ceased if demonic activity has not ceased. Furthermore, the claim that we should not cast out demons today directly contradicts many other scriptures. We should listen only to the Jesus’s own words, as recorded in the Bible and to no one else.

Dispensationalism is a man-made interpretive system that provides a theological framework to attempt to ‘rightly divide’ the Bible. Many who teach that deliverance has ceased subscribe to the man-made doctrine of dispensationalism. Basically, this is the erroneous belief that there are two gospels and two plans for salvation, rather than one, which in turn allows for other errors to be introduced.

Dispensationalist theology has many variations and underlies many false doctrines we see taught today which repeatedly contradict what the Bible says, such as there will be a pre-tribulation rapture. (Da: 7:25; Mt 24:29-31; Mk 13:20; Lk 21:12-19; Re 6:9-11; 7:13-14; 12:10-11,17; 13:7-8; 15-17; 20:4; 24:29-31)

Dispensationalism teaches there is one gospel – the ‘Kingdom gospel’ – taught by Jesus to the Jews which contained ‘signs and wonders’ to prove to the Jews who He was.  Then there is another gospel as taught by Paul to the gentiles and only the Pauline gospel saves. This contradicts scripture as Paul himself said he was teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and Paul himself affirmed:

“For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (Ga 1:12)

Also, there were signs and wonders in Paul’s time and Paul himself was very much involved in them.

“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. Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preaches.” (Ac 19:11-13)

We don’t need any man to provide us with an interpretive system for God’s word. The Bible interprets itself, we just need to do what God has asked us to do, and rightly divide it, comparing scripture with scripture, etc.

“Study to show thyself approved unto God, A workman that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2Ti 2:15)

“These were more noble in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” (Ac 17:11)

“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” (1Jn 4:1)

“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” (1Th 5:21)

Robert Breaker and Gene Kim who are among those who teach dispensationalism which is very popular on the internet today. John MacArthur describes himself among other things as a ‘leaky dispensationalist’. This doctrine contradicts the words that Jesus gave to Paul:

“There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” (Ep 4:4-6)

“He has brought you back as his friends. He has done this through his death on the cross in his own human body. As a result, he has brought you into the very presence of God, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault. But you must continue to believe this truth and stand in it firmly. Don’t drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News. The Good News has been preached all over the world, and I, Paul, have been appointed by God to proclaim it.” (Co 1:22-23 NLT)

As there were some false teachers in the Corinthian church in Paul’s time who attempted to divide the body of Christ, so there are those today who attempt to divide the gospel of Christ, thereby weakening its power to save.

“But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your [believers’] minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.” (2Co 11:3)

We are informed to contend earnestly for the faith because we too have been set for the confirmation and defence of the gospel:

“Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.” (Jd 3)

There are no subsequent unauthorised alterations or additions, 0r other tampering with scripture.

“This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare;” (1Ti 1:18)

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believes; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” (Ro 1:16)

“For we write none other things to you, than what you read or acknowledge; and I trust you shall even to the end.” (2Co 1:13)

“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” (Re 14:12)

“To him the porter opens; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calls his own sheep by name, and leads them out. And when he puts forth his own sheep, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers”.(Jn 10:3-5)

“And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.” (Jn 10:16)

“If a man love me, he will keep my words and my Father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our abode with him. He that loves me not keeps not my sayings: and the word which you hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.” (Jn 3)

“Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, if you continue in my word, then are you my disciples indeed; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (Jn 8:31-32)

The whole Counsel of God and the doctrine of Christ

“Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.” (Ac 20:26-28)

“Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:” (1Co 15:1-5)

“Whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that bids him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.” (2Jn 1:9-11)

Scripture warns us about deception in the Last Days

Today we see that there are very many Christian teachers who have given heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of demons. The Bible itself explains how they arrived at with various interpretations that are not found there.

“If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof comes envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw yourself.”    (1Ti 6:3-5)

“I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.” (Ga 1:6-9)

“I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.” (1Ti 5:21)

“But understand this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of or comes from one’s own [personal or special] interpretation.” (2Pe 1:20 AMP)

“Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; but have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of god deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. But if our Gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world has blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine to them.” (2Co 4:1-4)

“That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.” (Ep 4:14)

“Therefore whosoever hears these sayings of mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: The rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that hears these sayings of mine, and does them not, shall be likened to a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” (Mt 7:24-27)

You too can cast out demons

If you have been seeking and asking God to run the devil out of your life, STOP! The Bible says that you are the one, who is supposed to overcome the enemy. Do you cast out demons? If the answer is yes, thank God! If no, you have to understand that you too as a child of God can drive out demons in the “name of Jesus”. Begin exercising the power and authority you have been given. Don’t accept defeat. Rise up in faith. Stand up on the Word of God and fight the enemy out. Rise up and receive the deliverance of the Lord.

“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. 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 lunatic, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.” (Mt 4:23-24)

“Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour. Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” (Mt 17:17-21)

Some ask why are there no demons today, or so few? Demons, of course, hide themselves. Also, they have found their niche where they can work effectively to destroy God’s plan for salvation and mislead as many people as possible. Some have turned a blind eye to demons due to their fear and unbelief and because they are – perhaps without even realising it – fearful of even contemplating the realities of spiritual warfare against demons. The days are coming soon when they will see greatly increased manifestations of demons and then many will be converted.

Deliver us from evil …

Jesus did not send anyone to do the work of God without giving them the authority to cast out demons. Jesus called His twelve disciples to Him; and gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease.

Jesus gave them – as he gave all those who believe in Him – the authority over all the power of the enemy, not just some. He said:

“The seventy-two returned again with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name. He replied, I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions [both terms used in scripture to signify demons] and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven. ¹⁹ 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.” (Lk 10:17-19)

No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; (Is 54:17)

“For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.” (Lk 21:15)

“And as you go, preach, saying, The Kingdom of heaven is at hand …. heal the sick …. cast out demons.” (Mt 10:7-8)

“But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you.” (Lk 11:20)

No instructions provided

Some claim it is not possible we were meant to cast out demons as we haven’t been given precise instructions on how to do it. This is not the case as the Bible clearly tells us all we need to know. The instructions are not complicated and they do not need to be because the power to cast out demons is when we say ‘in the name of Jesus’. This is not just a ‘tagline’ as is blasphemously taught by some. With particular regard to casting out demons, Jesus spoke of those weak in faith and hard of heart.

“Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” (Co 3:17)

“Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 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.” (Ph 2:9-11)

Keys for deliverance

1. Authority in the name of Jesus

If you’ve been standing there wringing your hands and worrying about what the devil is doing, it is time for you to put the devil under your feet. Cast out the evil spirits that are trying to destroy your home, your marriage, your finances, your church, etc.

You have been given the power of attorney that enables you to use the powerful name of Jesus, a name that is above every name:

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runs into it, and is safe.”                (Pr 18:10)

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” (Ac 4:12)

The Power of the Holy Spirit

The ‘ability’ to cast out demons comes from the ‘power’ of the Holy Spirit. Therefore if we have the Holy Spirit and we have faith, we will be able to cast demons out by using the name of Jesus:

“God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.”   (Ac 10:38)

“The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.” (Is 11:2)

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor…to set at liberty those who are oppressed.” (Lk 4:18)

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord has anointed me to preach good tidings to the meek; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; to appoint to them that mourn in Zion, to give to them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified.”          (Is 61:1-3)

“A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. and I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and you shall keep my judgments, and do them.” (Ez 36:26-27)

“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” (Jn 14:26)

3. There is great power in the words that we speak

With the tongue, we can uplift or curse, bless or condemn, praise or disgrace, ourselves or others. We must watch the words that come out of our mouth. We cannot talk defeat and expect victory. We should have the ‘bulldog’ faith. Never, never give up. Remember, we can never be defeated unless and until we give up.

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Ph 4:13)

“The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.” (Pr 12:6)

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” (Pr 18:21)

“Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.” (Ps 141:3)

4. The blood of Jesus, the word of our testimony and our willingness to fight

We can apply the blood of Jesus in prayer to a person or a situation. Also, we can ask God to cover a situation with the blood of Jesus. This is because the blood of Jesus represents the suffering and death he endured as a sacrifice (atonement) for our sins.

“But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.” (Ep 2:13)

“For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies to the purifying of the flesh: How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” (He 9:13-14)

“The worshipers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins… Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus… Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.” (He 10:2,19,22)

“And they overcame the enemy by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.” (Re 12:11)

5. We should not fear

As believers we are given power to cast out demons in the name of Jesus, and while there may be some temporary discomfort, psychologically, emotionally and physically, we can have faith that no lasting harm will come to us through this. Any discomfort experienced is minor compared with the damage that demons can do if they are left to do their work unhindered. Demons can cause havoc in a person’s life, through relationships, health, finances, and any and every other way they can.

“But the Lord is faithful, who shall establish you, and keep you from evil.” (2Th 3:3)

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2Ti 1:7)

“Cast your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.” (Ps 55:22)

“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” (Is 41:10)

The story of the Seven Sons of Sceva

This short Bible story tells us much. Read about this here.

“Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preaches. And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so. And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye? And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. And many that believed came, and confessed, and showed their deeds. Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver. So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.” (Ac 19:13-20)

Demonic doorways, gateways or portals

Demonic doorways – aka portals or gateways – are ways that demons can get access to believers, or provide a form of channel. These doorways provide licence grounds or legal rights to demons to get access to believers to harass, torment and destroy, in all the ways that they do. 

If a believer is experiencing the effects of one of the many forms of demonic harassment, we can become overcomers with prayer and fasting to break through eventually. Although for some, along with backsliding, etc., this can take many years and involve various difficulties caused by demons including health problems. The process can be greatly speeded up if the believer can find out what or where those open doorways are, and shut them down. So in spiritual warfare, it is important to know about demonic doorways and how to deal with them.

Some have expressed concerned that demonic doorways, gateway or portals are not mentioned in the Bible but while those words are not found in scripture, the concept is, only in different terms, such as in these scriptures and more besides which are addressed to believers:

“Neither give place to the devil.” (Ep 4:27) [Other versions say “Do not give the devil a foothold, or an opportunity.] [Not give some place, or a little place, but give NO place.]

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour:” (1Pe 5:8) [Other versions say: “Be vigilant”, “Be alert”, “Be on your guard”, “Be clear-minded”, “Be watchful“.] This scripture conclusively proves the need to be fully clothed with the armour of God – as per Ephesians 6 – as we are engaged in deadly warfare.

“Sin no more, lest a worse thing happen to you.” (Jn 5:14)

“For we – believers! – wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Ep 6:12)

“For though we – believers! – walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;” (2Co 10:5)

Any type of traumatic experience can be a demonic doorway. Any way in which we break the commandments, or we are rebellious or disobedient to God can provide a demonic doorway. Various forms of disobedience to God, such as the many forms of idolatry, unforgiveness, pridefulness, sexual immorality or impurity, or engaging in sinful practices or any form of disobedience such as having cursed objects in our home, garden, garage, transport or workplace, etc., can effectively open demonic doorways, particularly if it is not renounced and repented for.

“These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that devises wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaks lies, and he that sows discord among brethren. My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother [disobedience to parents breaks one of the ten commandments]:” (Pr 6:16-20)

Demonic doorways or channels can be provided by unholy soul ties which can be to things, or any way in which we turn to man rather than to God. We can say a simple prayer to renounce unholy soul ties.

Demonic doorways can also be passed down through the generations as a natural consequence of the sins – both by commission and by omission – failures and examples, etc. of our ancestors passed down to us through our blood (genes) and learned and inherited patterns. The Bible is replete with mentions of generational blessings and curses from Genesis through Acts to Revelation.

This is an inescapable reality without the deliverance and salvation that only God can provide through belief in His Son, Jesus Christ.

More about this here:

Renunciation Prayers

We are saved by grace and not by keeping the law or our own righteousness

Sin is lawlessness and scripture makes it clear we are not supposed to carry on sinning after we are saved. Believers backslide, some repeatedly, but as long as we confess our sins and repent, God will forgive us but there are warnings about this as we are not supposed to believe there is nothing wrong with that and accept it as fine and carry on that way;

“For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remains no more sacrifice for sins,” (He 10:26)

Legalism is teaching that we are saved by keeping the law – which is by our own righteousness – rather than by grace – which is by the righteousness of Christ through faith.

The subject of legalism can be complex and difficult to fully comprehend. Even though the Mosaic law passed away, the need to have faith in God through Christ and keep the commandments of God remain. There is a link at the end of this article to “Law and Grace Comparison Table”.

“And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.” (1Sa 15:22)

We are not to be ignorant of things that are an abomination to God and can put us under a curse from God. Jesus has redeemed us from the curse of the law, but we are not supposed to ignore the law, or wilfully go ahead and break it anyway.

“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” (Mt 5:17)

“All [meaning Old and New Testament] scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” (2Ti 3:16)

Jesus was a rabbi and he kept the law. The apostles were all practising Jews, so they knew the law, and aimed to keep it. But we cannot be saved by the keeping the law, but only by grace which is received through faith.

“And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:” (Ph 3:9)

“For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” (2Co 5:21)

Paul warns us against legalism:

“Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, (Touch not; taste not; handle not; which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?”          (Co 2:20-22)

“For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.” (Ja 2:10)

Easy-believism and hyper-grace churches can be lukewarm Christians who confess Jesus as Savior but do not submit to Him as Lord. These types of teachings so popular today provide a good example of combining truth with error, focusing on God’s grace while neglecting what Paul called the “whole counsel of God”. (Ac 20:27)

“Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”        (2Ti 3:5)

“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin.” (Ro 6:1-7)

“Submit yourselves therefore to God, resist the devil, and he will flee from you. draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double minded.” (Ja 4:7-8)

“He told them: This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things.”        (Lk 24:46-48)

To repent is to change one’s mind but also to acknowledge our sinfulness before God and to turn away from evil and to good. If man doesn’t believe he is ill, he will not realize his need for healing. Due to pride, he will not believe the medicine – faith in Jesus Christ – as per 1 Cor 15:1-4 – can heal him as he doesn’t believe there is anything wrong with him in the first place. This verse clearly informs us of a need for continual confession and repentance from sin and so renunciation.

“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” (1Jn 1:8-10)

“When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, “So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life.” (Ac 11:18)

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,” (Ac 3:19)

“In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;” (2Ti 2:25)

“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2Pe 3:9)

Renunciation Prayers

Renunciation prayers are formulaic prayers which are always addressed to God and said ‘in the name of Jesus’.  These prayers provide a means of confession that can help to bring us to repentance and therefore give us deliverance.  They can be particularly helpful for new believers who are not sure how to pray or what to say, etc.

Renunciation prayers are freely available on the internet to help with various difficulties such as struggling with various forms of bondage, backsliding, and /or unconfessed sin. They can be personalised and altered to suit particular circumstances and details, names, etc. removed or added, as required.

These prayers can be said for anything such as unforgiveness, unholy soul ties or past transgressions, or anything else that can hinder our spiritual progress.   The proof for this is given in many scriptures, such as:

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1Jn 1:9)

“Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (Ja 5:16)

“When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long. For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah. I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah. For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a time when thou mayest be found: surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him.” (Ps 32:3-6)

We can say a renunciation prayer that is specific to any practice we may need to repent for such as the occult, the New Age, freemasonry, witchcraft, idolatry, etc. Renunciation prayers have been likened to cancelling spiritual ‘subscriptions’. If something has been renounced it has been rejected, cut off, or the individual is refusing to follow or obey.

Some renunciation prayers are quite long as they can go into detail on the subject but they only need to be said once. Reading through details can help bring someone to true heartfelt repentance as it helps them to see what was wrong with whatever the prayer is about and may bring to their attention some things they had not realised before.

“Many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds.” (Ac 19:18)

“But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.” (2Co 4:2)

“Lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.” (2Co 12:21)

“Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord God; Repent, and turn yourselves from your idols; and turn away your faces from all your abominations.” (Ez 14:6)

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” (2Ch 7:14)

“For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin.” (Ps 38:18)

“Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, ‘Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness’. (2Ti 2:19)

“Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” (Pr 28:13)

“When anyone becomes aware that they are guilty in any of these matters, they must confess in what way they have sinned.” (Le 5:5)

“And must confess the sin they have committed.” (Nu 5:7)

“And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes: And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments; We have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts and from thy judgments: Neither have we hearkened unto thy servants the prophets, which spake in thy name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land. O Lord, righteousness belongeth unto thee, but unto us confusion of faces, as at this day; to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and unto all Israel, that are near, and that are far off, through all the countries whither thou hast driven them, because of their trespass that they have trespassed against thee. O Lord, to us belongeth confusion of face, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against thee. To the Lord our God belong mercies and forgivenesses, though we have rebelled against him; Neither have we obeyed the voice of the LORD our God, to walk in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets. Yea, all Israel have transgressed thy law, even by departing, that they might not obey thy voice; therefore the curse is poured upon us, and the oath that is written in the law of Moses the servant of God, because we have sinned against him. And he hath confirmed his words, which he spake against us, and against our judges that judged us, by bringing upon us a great evil: for under the whole heaven hath not been done as hath been done upon Jerusalem. As it is written in the law of Moses, all this evil is come upon us: yet made we not our prayer before the LORD our God, that we might turn from our iniquities, and understand thy truth. Therefore hath the LORD watched upon the evil, and brought it upon us: for the LORD our God is righteous in all his works which he doeth: for we obeyed not his voice. And now, O Lord our God, that hast brought thy people forth out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and hast gotten thee renown, as at this day; we have sinned, we have done wickedly. O Lord, according to all thy righteousness, I beseech thee, let thine anger and thy fury be turned away from thy city Jerusalem, thy holy mountain: because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and thy people are become a reproach to all that are about us. Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord’s sake. O my God, incline thine ear, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city which is called by thy name: for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousnesses, but for thy great mercies. O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not, for thine own sake, O my God: for thy city and thy people are called by thy name.” (Da 9:3-19)

Generational Iniquity

Renunciation prayers could be for generational family inquity – that is sin and the results of sin, by both commission and omission – passed down the generations. Generational curses appear all the way through the Bible from Genesis through Matthew to Revelation. It is clearly nonsensical to claim – as some do – there is no such thing and any and all renunciation prayers for this and anything else are unscriptural.

“The Lord is longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression, and by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation.” (Nu 14:18)

“Thou shalt not bow down thyself unto them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me,” (De 5:9)

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! Because you build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the monuments of the righteous, and say, ‘If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.’ Therefore you are witnesses against yourselves that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers’ guilt. Serpents, brood of vipers! How can you escape the condemnation of hell?” (Mt 23:29-33)

“And they that are left of you shall pine away in their iniquity in your enemies’ lands; and also in the iniquities of their fathers shall they pine away with them. If they shall confess their iniquity, and the iniquity of their fathers, with their trespass which they trespassed against me, and that also they have walked contrary unto me; And that I also have walked contrary unto them, and have brought them into the land of their enemies; if then their uncircumcised hearts be humbled, and they then accept of the punishment of their iniquity: Then will I remember my covenant with Jacob, and also my covenant with Isaac, and also my covenant with Abraham will I remember; and I will remember the land.” (Le 26:39-42)

“Those of Israelite descent had separated themselves from all foreigners. They stood in their places and confessed their sins and the sins of their ancestors. They stood where they were and read from the Book of the Law of the Lord their God for a quarter of the day, and spent another quarter in confession and in worshiping the LORD their God.” (Ne 9:2-3)

“While I was speaking and praying, confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel and making my request to the LORD my God for his holy hill.” (Da 9:20)

“While Ezra was praying and confessing, weeping and throwing himself down before the house of God, a large crowd of Israelites—men, women and children—gathered around him. They too wept bitterly.” (Ez 10:1)

“Let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father’s family, have committed against you.” (Ne 1:6)

Is Repentance Part of Salvation?
Prayers for Release
Prayer to Renounce Generational Family Iniquity

Cursed objects and occult symbolism

Anything in our lives which is an abomination to God and therefore cursed by Him can provide demonic doorways. Such as cursed objects or occult symbols in our home, garden, transport, workplace, etc. and any items connected to various forms of idolatry, false religion including the New Age, and false doctrine including Christian false doctrine.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not possible to purify and cleanse cursed objects, whether to use the materials in them or repurpose them. Only human beings can be cleansed or purified in this way – whether by prayer and repentance, fasting, and renewing our mind, etc. or by casting out demons – and animals who can also get demons in them or even be possessed.

“Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? not one.” (Jb 14:4)

Occult symbolism is everywhere today so we cannot worry unduly about company logos etc. but there are certain objects and symbols we should not wear or bring into our homes on decorative items, clothing or jewellery etc. Some of these are everywhere today and include celtic crosses and other patterns, Greek keys, etc. and many occult symbols often found in our homes, in decorative objects, clothing and jewellery. There are many such things Christians should avoid and there is a link to a comprehensive list of cursed objects here.

“Neither shalt thou bring an abomination into thine house, lest thou be a cursed thing like it: but thou shalt utterly detest it, and thou shalt utterly abhor it; for it is a cursed thing.” (De 7:26)

“Little children (believers), guard yourselves from idols—[false teachings, moral compromises, and anything that would take God’s place in your heart].” (1Jn 5:21 AMP)

Cursed objects and occult symbolism can provide demonic doorways and by having them in their home, even unknowingly, people can lay themselves open to demonic harassment. Many do not recognise the work of the demonic, not realising that this can take many forms, such as things not working out quite right in one way or another. Any form of mental unrest or emotional problems, such as depression, problems with concentration, with sleeping, any health problems at all, if not caused by demons, can be exploited by them. Demons can exacerbate any condition, physical, mental or emotional, and to a greater or lesser degree prevent healing by the Holy Spirit.

This is not because demons are stronger – although the Bible tells us that the devil does have a great deal of power which is often under-estimated – but because if given conditions to operate, demons are perfectly capable of hindering the experience of salvation. Whether problems in relationships, or problems with finances and livelihood, home, addiction/s, concentrating, or sleeping, or depression, etc. In anything that isn’t the peace of God that passes all understanding, demons can be implicated in some way and usually are. As demons are bullies, if they didn’t cause the problems in the first place, they will certainly capitalise on them.

Cursed objects comprise those things which are an abomination to God including some perhaps surprising things which on the face of it appear harmless or good. Such as fairies and imps which are in effect a type of demon. Or ‘Care Bears’ which appear heavenly but a closer look shows the promotion of an atheistic humanism. Then there are more obvious things such as anything to do with witches and wizards, or stories about or including them, such as ‘The Lord of the Rings’ or ‘Harry Potter’.

Some Christians believe – and some also teach – that if something is fiction it cannot or should not affect anyone. That does not consider those who have difficulty in separating fact from fiction, including younger people and the mentally challenged. Anyway, we know that fiction is, in fact, capable of having a very strong effect on people’s minds and emotions. Otherwise why would anyone watch movies or play video games? Therefore there can be not a shadow of a doubt that so-called fantasy can have a very real effect on people’s minds. Any fantasy can constitute a form of black magic which is in essence to affect people’s minds and way of thinking but not for the good. Why would anyone attempt to claim otherwise?

We should also beware of superstition which is itself cursed, such as believing black cats are cursed because people associated them with witches who may not been witches at all. We should not be deceived, witches do not wear tall black hats and dance around cauldrons, casting spells. Many witches are in fact male and wear a suit. The 850 followers of Queen Jezebel in the Old Testament who were all male and they would effectively have been witches. Anything to do with superstition, or luck (the word derived from ‘Lucifer’), or anything that has come out of folklore, which is pagan in origin, or any false religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism or Taoism etc. is cursed.

Even so-called Christian items can be cursed, especially Roman Catholic items of idolatry, statues, icons, relics, rosary beads and so forth. For example, a cross with a figure on it, particularly if Roman Catholic in nature or in origin could also be regarded as a cursed object particularly as many such larger crucifixes are embellished with occult symbolism. The crucifix was a Roman method of torture and early Christians would not have venerated a crucifix in any way. An upside-down crucifix is used in satanism and there are variations of a cross which are used as occult symbols. For example, a rose cross is connected to the Rosicrucian Order yet often seen in Christian churches, in stained glass windows. Or the fleur-de-lys which has been said to be ‘the devil’s flower’. Much more besides can be found inside and around churches, for example, gargoyles.

“Go not after other gods to serve them, and to worship them, and provoke me not to anger with the works of your hands; and I will do you no hurt.” (Je 25:6)

Strongholds

Basically a stronghold is what it says: “a strong hold”. This means a strong hold on our mind, will and emotions. Strongholds are a subject that is worth some study, as it reveals much about how demons are able to deceive, and acquire and keep power over people once they have gained access through one of more of the above-listed means.

Satan has something for everyone, and ‘more subtle than any beast of his field’ his way of working is often slow and imperceptible. The devil and his demons know exactly how to find a chink in armour, to get a toehold, a foothold, then a stronghold, and then a stranglehold.

One important element of a demonic stronghold usually is deception as to their existence and the presence of the demons that they facilitate, so that people are not aware of them. Demons work together and are easily able to ‘network’ in the spiritual realm. One demon will prepare the way for another, or work to conceal the presence of another. A gatekeeper demon will open the door for other demons to come in. Scripture doesn’t tell us, but it has been said a gatekeeper demon is or can sometimes be the strongman demon that Jesus spoke about:

“Or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house.” (Mt 12:29)

Spirits are mentioned many times in the Bible

Angels are spirit beings and are mentioned in 34 books (of 66) in total. Demons are evil spirit beings and like angels they do not have physical bodies but they do have a will and a personality, emotions, knowledge and self-awareness. It is believed there is a hierarchy, with ‘princes’, ordinary demons and generic-type demons which don’t have a name.

There are seven Spirits of God. (Is 11:2–3; Re 1:4, 3:1, 4:5, 5:6)

According to Wikipedia: “The Koine Greek word pneûma (πνεῦμα, pneuma) is found around 385 times in the New Testament, with some scholars differing by three to nine occurrences. Pneuma appears 105 times in the four canonical gospels, 69 times in the Acts of the Apostles, 161 times in the Pauline epistles, and 50 times elsewhere. These usages vary: in 133 cases it refers to “spirit” and in 153 cases to “spiritual”. Around 93 times, the reference is to the Holy Spirit, sometimes under the name pneuma and sometimes explicitly as the pneûma tò Hagion (Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον). (In a few cases it is also simply used generically to mean wind or life.) 

There are likely many thousands of types of demons but there is no need, of course, to know all their types and names, we can just cast them out. It is said using names can help and lists of names can be helpful in some circumstances. Deliverance ministers know from experience that calling out demons by name – however odd the names may seem – can actually work in practice.

“He asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.” (Mk 5:9)

Also, deliverance ministers will say – and the personal experience of many has confirmed – that many things – such as for example states of mind – people don’t realise and perhaps wouldn’t think were demons, actually are. Or those states of mind may be connected to demons or have demons working them through them, or be exploited by demons. Demons are bullies and will take any opportunity to exploit any sort of weakness or get through into any gap in our armour in whatever way they can.

Demons are experts at imitating and impersonating not only the living but also the dead.  Communicating with the dead is expressly forbidden in scripture, so there is a demonic doorway right there for anyone who attempts to do that. It is also important to understand there is a counterfeit Holy Spirit. For that reason, we should not be listening to any voice ‘in our head’ without checking everything against scripture, even if it seems to be someone we know, someone we trust, etc. Remember demons are liars and deceivers and it is only by discerning spirits using scripture that we can distinguish between the two.

“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God:” (1Jn 4:1)

“If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” (Is 8:20)

The belief or claim that once we are saved – once we have put our faith in Jesus Christ and that he died for our sins and rose again – we then somehow become immune to demons is a dangerous delusion, allowing demons to work unhindered. Demons work night and day to deceive Christians and they are masters of deception. They can sound for all the world like a perfectly normal human being going about his daily business, eating, drinking, passing the time pleasantly, who is not doing anyone any harm. While secretly plotting and working to steal, kill and destroy and torment.

Any demon is better out than in, so it may be a good policy to say, “When in doubt, cast it out”. 

A list of demon names such as follows can be useful to help understand the nature of demons and what they can do. Some of the names in the list may seem odd and you may think is that actually a demon? But that is one reason why a list like this can be helpful.

Even those with decades of experience in Christian deliverance say that while there is a great deal that has been found out through scripture and through hands-on experience, there is a great deal that is not yet known. Then perhaps we don’t need to know it, but it would be wise to bear that in mind.

Abuse	Accusation
Accuser of the brethren	ADD – attention deficit disorder
Addiction	ADHD-attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Adultery	Affectation (pretending)
Affliction	Agitation
Ahab	Aids
Alcohol Addiction	Alcoholism
Alzheimer’s disease	Anger
Another Jesus	Anti submissiveness
Antichrist	Anxiety
Apprehension	Argument
Arrogance	Arthritis
Asmodeus – ruler of lust	Asthma
Astrology	Automatic handwriting
Awakening – at base of spine	Backbiting
Bahaism	Beelzebub
Belittling	Bestiality
Bickering	Bilderbergers
Bitterness	Blackout
Blackwell	Blasphemy
Blood pressure (high/low)	Broken spirit
Bronchitis	Buddhism
Bullying	Cancer
Burden	Candle magic
Card reading	Catatonic stupor
Catholicism*	Charms
Cigarettes/Nicotine	Claustrophobia
Cocaine	Competition
Compromise	Compulsion
Condemnation	Confrontation
Confucianism	Confusion
Contention	Control/Controlling
Controlled by eating/addictions	Coarse jesting
Covetousness	Cripple
Criticism	Cruel
Cruelty	Curse inheritance
Cursing	Daydreaming
Deaf and dumb	Death
Deceit	Defeatism
Defiling	Dejavu
Dejection	Deliverance blocker
Demanding	Depression
Despair	Desperation
Despondency	Destruction
Difficult breathing	Disease
Discontent	Discouragement
Disgust	Disobedience
Distraction	Distrust
Divination	Divorce
Division	Divisiveness
Doctrinal error	Doctrinal obsession
Dominance	Doubt
Dread	Driving
Drugs	Drunk at church
Dungeons and dragons	Eating
Ego	Electromagnetic waves
Embarrassment	Emotional inheritance
Emulations	Envy
Escape	ESP
Evil eye	Evil heart of unbelief
Excitement	Exposure
False burden	False compassion
False religions, cults and doctrine	False responsibility
Fantasy	Fantasy lust
Father of lies	Fatigue
Faultfinding	Fear
Fear of accusation	Fear of authority
Fear of condemnation	Fear of demons
Fear of disapproval	Fear of end-times
Fear of failure	Fear of god
Fear of hell	Fear of judgment
Fear of lost salvation	Fear of man
Fear of rejection	Fear of reproof
Fear of satan	Fears
Fears (all kinds)	Feel good
Fetishes	Fighting
Forgetfulness	Formalism
Fornication	Fortune telling
Freemasonry	Frequencies extremely low/high
Frequencies very low/high	Frigidity
Frustration	Funk (fear)
Gloom	Gluttony
Gossip	Greed
Grief	Grieving
Guilt	Hallucinations
Handwriting analysis	Harlotry
Hatred	Haughtiness
Headache	Hearing voices
Heartache	Heartbreak
Heaviness	Hernia
Hexebus – a cloning demon	Hinduism
Homosexuality	Hopelessness
Horoscope	Hurt
Hyperactivity	Hyperactive disorder
Hypnotism	Hysteria
Idleness	Impatience
Importance	Inadequacy
Incantation	Incest
Incoherence	Incubus
Indecision	Indifference
Indigestion	Ineptness
Inferiority	Infirmity
Inheritance	Insanity
Insecurity	Insomnia
Intellectualism	Intolerance
Irritability	Islam
Jealousy	Jezebel
Judging	Kleptomania
Kundalini-serpent power	Laziness
Legalism	Legion
Lesbianism	Lethargy
Leviathan	Levitation
Liar	Listlessness
Lodges, societies, social agencies or any organisations using the Bible and God as a basis but omitting the blood atonement of Jesus Christ	Loneliness
Lasciviousness	Lust
Lying	Madness
Magic – black, white, yellow, grey	Mania
Marijuana	Mariology
Mary	Masons
Masturbation	Material lust
Medications	Mental illness
Mental inheritance	Mind-bending
Mind-bending	Mind control
Mind idolatry	Mind occult
Mindset	Misery
Mockery	Morbidity
Mormonism	Murder
Music blues	Music classical
Music country	Music heavy metal
Music jazz	Music pop
Music rap	Music rock and roll
Music wrong Christian	Music worldly
Necromancy	Negative Expectations
Nervous habits	Nervousness
New Age	New World Order
Nightmares	Not good enough
Obesity	Obscene jesting
Obsessive compulsive disorder	Occult
Osmodeus – destruction	Osteoarthritis
Ouija board	Pain
Palmistry	Panic disorder
Paranoia	Passivity
Pathway	Pendulum
Perfection	Persecution
Personality undevelopment	Perversion
Phobias (all kinds)	Physical inheritance
Pity party	Playacting
Pneumonia	Possessiveness
Pouting	Poverty
Prejudice	Pressure
Pretense fantasy	Pretension
Pride	Procrastination
Psoriasis	Quarreling
Queen of heaven	Railing
Rape	Rationalization
Rebellion	Rejection
Rejection of Self	Rejection False
Religiosity	Religious
Resentment	Respiratory infections
Restlessness	Retaliation
Retardation	Rheumatoid arthritis
Ritalin	Ritualism
Rockefellers	Rosicrucianism
Rothschilds group	Rottenness of bones
Roving	Sacrifice of darkness
Sadism	Sadness
Scars	Schizophrenia
Seance	Seduction
Self-accusation	Self-awareness
Self-condemnation	Self-deception
Self-abuse	Self-delusion
Self-derision	Self-hatred
Self-indulgence	Self-rejection
Self-pity	Self-reward
Self-righteousness	Self-satisfaction
Self-seduction	Self-will
Selfishness	Senility
Sensitiveness	Sexual impurity
Shaman	Shame
Shintoism	Shiva – deity of destruction
Shyness	Sinusitis
Skepticism	Skinwalking
Sleepiness	Smoking
Social phobia	Sodomy
Sophistication	Sorrow
Sorrow of heart	Spirit guide
Spirit of satan	Spiritism
Spiritism spirits	Spite
Sprite	Stealing
Sting of death	Stoicism
Strife	Stubbornness
Scorn	Succubus
Stupidity/stupid	Stupour
Sugar	Suicide
Suspicion	Taoism
Tarot cards	Temper
Tension	Terminus
The way	Theatrics
Theosophy	Thief
Timidity	Tiredness
Torment	Trance
Toothache	Tuberculosis
Unbelief	Uncleanness
Underdeveloped personality (demons that keep us as children) Arrested development	Undisciplined eating
Unfairness	Unforgiveness
Unitarianism	Unity
Unreality	Unworthiness
Urantia	Vagabond
Vampirism	Vanity
Violence	Water witching
Weariness	Weeping
Whoredom	Witch
Witchdoctor	Witchcraft
Withdrawal	Worry

*A list of catholic practices, dogma and doctrines, etc. is available here:

Self-deliverance

Audio and video deliverances do work perfectly but it is vital to ensure these recordings are from a pastor who teaches the doctrine of Christ along with deliverance as part of the full gospel of Christ, which Paul calls the whole counsel of God. (Ac 20:27)

Self-deliverance using scripture also works very well if we learn to discern the voice of the Holy Spirit, from the voice of unholy – unclean – spirits. We can learn how to recognise and to stop listening to the three lies of the serpent in the garden and all their modern variations. (1) “Yea, hath God said?” (2) “Ye will not surely die” (3) “Ye shall become as gods” – in all its modern-day variations.

In-depth study of God’s word will lead us into knowledge of the truth and understanding and enable us to discern between good and evil. (He 5:14) We can also pray to ask God to give us more discernment:

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” (Ja 1:5)

“I am Your servant; give me understanding [the ability to learn and a teachable heart] That I may know Your testimonies [decrees, rules, laws].” (Ps 119:125 AMP)

“Teach me good judgement and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments.”     (Ps 119:66)

“And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ.” (Ph 1:9-10)

“Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad:” (1Ki 3:9)

We can learn how to wage spiritual warfare by knowing what God’s word says and applying it to every situation in our lives.

“These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” (Ac 17:11)

The Holy Spirit

Scripture provides us with all we need to know to learn to identify the true Holy Spirit who will always point to – and glorify – Jesus. Scripture tells us this:

“If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” (Jn 14:15-21)

“A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. and I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and you shall keep my judgments, and do them.” (Ez 36:26-27)

Caution is advised

Casting out demons does not require any special abilities. It is a simple process that requires us to take the authority that Jesus gave us and act in faith. There is nothing in scripture that could lead us to believe the ability to cast out demons is a special gift. Although ‘the gifts of healing’ and ‘the discernment of spirits’ are mentioned as two of the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit. (1Co 12:8–10)

Deliverance is always to be carried out “in the name of Jesus” as casting out demons is done by the power and authority of the Holy Spirit. It need not usually be a long drawn-out process. Scripture tells us sometimes prayer and fasting is necessary for a certain type of demon. (Mt 17:21)

We should not make entertainment out of people who are demonized. Nor should we give those people sort of special honour or status to those giving deliverances as they are only our brothers and sisters in Christ. That could even be idolatry.

Jesus is the good shepherd and ALL ALL ALL the others are HIRELINGS who will flee when the antichrist wolf comes. (Jn 10)

The authority to cast out demons is available to all believers by the power of the true Holy Spirit when we say “in the name of Jesus”. We do not need to use any form of physical aid, a Bible or a crucifix, as that could be a form of Roman Catholic or even Christian witchcraft. We do not need a ‘deliverance manual’ or any extra books as the word of God is the best and only deliverance manual we will ever need.

Talking to demons is not only pointless as they are liars but also dangerous. Demons can play up, act up and put on a show. They can go out and even come back again with others so the state of that person is worse than before as we are told in the parable of the man who swept his house clean. (Mt 12:43-45)

This is why we must be careful to wear our armour of God at all times so we are able to ‘walk out’ our deliverance.

“Put on the whole armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith you shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit.” (Ep 6:11-18)

Casting out demons is only part of the gospel not the whole of it

The casting out of demons is not a small insignificant part of the gospel as evidenced by the number of scriptures which reference it. Paul advised us to teach the whole counsel of God:

“Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. for I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.” (Ac 20:26-29)

Jesus warned of a great increase in deception in the last days including in the Christian church which Paul called ‘the apostasy’, ‘the falling away’ or ‘the great rebellion’. (2Th 2:2)

“Whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, has not God. He that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he has both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that bids him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.” (2Jn 9-11)

“Notwithstanding I have a few things against you, because you suffer [tolerate, allow, permit] that woman Jezebel [an enchantress who intoxicates] who calls herself a prophetess [false doctrine, cults] to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication [adultery with the world] and to eat things sacrificed to idols [commit idolatry].” (Re 2:20)

We should focus on Jesus and all that He told us and on all of God’s word

The belief that deliverance has ceased does not benefit anyone but demons and their workers. Satan and God are not “equal” or “balanced” opposites. (1Jn 4:4) Satan is a created, finite being who possesses only the power God allows him to have. (Jb 1:9-10)

Among those who do believe demons are at work today, there are a variety of perspectives. Some tend to over-emphasize the work of Satan, giving him more attention than he deserves. Our focus should be on the glory of God and His righteousness. (Mt 6:33)

Our eyes are to be fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith”. (He 12:2). That is where the victory is. Nevertheless, we ignore the presence of the demonic at our peril.

‘Got Questions’ says this:

“There are two extremes in people’s thinking about demons. One says that what we call demons are nothing more than negative thoughts and behaviours that any human being is capable of. Those who hold this view believe that ‘deliverance’ from a ‘demon’ is brought about by the application of self-control; this view is usually accompanied by the discounting of anything supernatural. The other extreme says that any bad happening whatsoever is the work of demons. Those who hold this view often ‘rebuke’ everything from a common cold to a drop in the stock market. The correct emphasis on demonic deliverance lies somewhere between these two extremes. Scripture is clear that demons are real and that they interfere in human affairs. (Mt 12:43; Mk 1:26; Ac 8:7) Demons were very much at work in Bible times, and there is no reason to assume that demons are inactive now. (1Pe 5:8)

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Refutation of Claims Made by Cessationists
Can a Christian Have a Demon?
Can a Born-Again Christian Have a Demon?
Blessings and Curses
Binding and Loosing
Angels and Demons – A Survey of Biblical Doctrine
What Is Occultism?
How To Help Those in the Occult
Occult and Cursed Objects List

Satan’s Biggest Lie “You Shall Not Die”
What We Know About God and Jesus From the Bible
Does Our Worship Please God
The Meaning of Shalom
The Biblical Meaning of Grace
The Armour of God
Various Levels of Faith

Renunciation Prayers
The Blood Is Enough for Complete Forgiveness
Prayer for Forgiveness Made Possible by Jesus Christ
Prayer To Renounce Unholy /Ungodly Soul Ties
Prayer To Restore a Fragmented Soul
Prayer for Protection Against Demonic Oppression
Prayer To Renounce Generational Family Iniquity
Prayer for Spiritual Warfare – Daily