Demon Possession
How can I tell if someone is really demon-possessed, and what do I do about it if I think they are?
The whole issue of demon possession is not as simple as some may think. For example, some believe demon possession is really nothing more than mental illness that can be readily cured by mere therapy. Well, this view is clearly unbiblical since Scripture affirms the reality of demons who are capable of controlling and even possessing human beings.
Of course there is another extreme, and that is attributing all of your vices to demons. For instance, there's supposedly the demon of cigarette smoking, the demon of lust, the demon of cancer, and the list goes on and on. Again, this is clearly an unbalanced position because it diminishes the role of personal accountability. Demons, after all, aren't responsible for every evil in the world. Let's not forget that people are sinful and that we do live in a cursed creation.
Having dealt with these misconceptions, let's now look at some indications of possible (and I stress possible) demon possession. There are at least four questions that should be asked. First, is there a change mentally - does the person have paranormal or psychic knowledge? Secondly, is there a change physically - does the person have supernatural strength? Third, is there a change spiritually - does the person have negative reactions, for example, to the name of Christ? Finally, is there a drastic and abrupt change of personality accompanied by severe self-destructive tendencies? A "yes" answer to these questions indicates the possibility of demon possession.
Now remember, this is simply a guideline to help you discern whether a person may be demon-possessed. If someone appears to be demon-possessed, you ought to pray for him and lead him to a qualified, mature, and experienced Christian counselor. It may turn out to be what you initially thought was an instance of demon possession may in fact be nothing more than a case of mental, emotional, or physiological disturbance.
Now while much more can be said on demon possession, it is important that you as a believer recognize that while demons can bug you, harass you, and zap you, they cannot possess you. Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and it will not be defiled by any demon.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
We have available a Journal article "Can A Christian Be 'Demonized'?" by Elliot Miller and Brent Grimsley (DD075/$1), as well as Walter Martin's cassette tape entitled "Exorcism" (C032/$6). These resources are available through CRI. For shipping and handling information, please refer to our Resource Listing. To place a credit card order, call toll-free (888) 7000-CRI. To receive a free copy of our Resource Listing, fax us at (714) 858-6111 or write us with your request at P.O. Box 7000, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688-7000.
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