Demonic Activity Today
Satan blinds the minds of unbelievers – 2 Corinthians 4:4
Satan pacifies unbelievers through the world system – 1 John 5:19
Satan energizes his sons—those sent to mimic Christians – Ephesians 2:2; 5:6
Satan battles spiritually with believers – Ephesians 6:12
He seeks to ensnare them to do his will – 2 Timothy 2:26
He transforms his servants into servants of righteousness – 2 Corinthians 11:15
There is no indication of demonic possession occurring today:
Unbelievers are still influenced by demons.
Superstition, a work of the flesh, also contributes to the appearance of perceived demonic activity.
Those who formerly possessed humans are now bound – Luke 8:31
A description of the lower ranks of demons—those involved in demonic possession – Revelation 9:6, as compared to the higher ranks, who bring plagues – Revelation 9:17
They wear fake victor’s crowns – Revelation 9:7
They possess authority to harm people – Revelation 9:10
The Christian’s Authority Over Demons
Authority of the Disciples
During the earthly ministry of Christ – Mark 3:14
Given authority by Christ – Luke 9:1
The Seventy-One – Luke 10:1, 17
This authority had no implications for the Church – Matthew 10:5–6
Authority of Peter and the Other Apostles
After the resurrection of Christ and the establishment of the Church:
Used as a sign for the Jews – Acts 5:12
Healing and casting out demons – Acts 5:14–16
Authority of Paul
A steward of our dispensation (the Dispensation of Grace) – Colossians 1:25
Signs used for the Jews – Acts 19:11–12
Casting out demons – Acts 16:16–18
Turning a saint over to Satan – 1 Timothy 1:20
Did not have authority over all demons – 2 Corinthians 12:7
Authority of the Church
Resist demons – James 4:7
Stand firm in the faith – 1 Peter 5:9
Traditions of Men for Battling Demons
Anointing a house perceived to be full of demons
Angelic and Demonic Warfare
The Impact of Prayer
Often presented as a physical battle
Our prayers assist in the battle
Improper Ways Taught to Overcome Satan
Through prayer and sayings
Pleading the blood of Jesus
Fasting
Solitude
The Cross
The Issue with the Ending of Mark
Major Textual Issues
Most of the last chapter is derived from Latin sources
Contradicts other accounts of Christ’s resurrection
Used to justify traditions of men – Mark 16:17–18
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