What Does the Bible Say About Demon Possession?
What Does the Bible Say About Demon Possession? The Bible records numerous cases of demonic possession — and Jesus' authority over demons demonstrated His divine power and the arrival of God's kingdom.
Key verse: Mark 5:15 (KJV)
The Bible records numerous cases of demonic possession — and Jesus' authority over demons demonstrated His divine power and the arrival of God's kingdom.
The Bible records numerous cases of demonic possession — and Jesus' authority over demons demonstrated His divine power and the arrival of God's kingdom.
"They see him that was possessed with the devil... sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind." — Mark 5:15 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
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The Biblical Answer
The Gospels record many encounters with demon-possessed individuals. The Gadarene demoniac was possessed by a 'legion' of demons, living among tombs, cutting himself, and breaking chains (Mark 5:1-20). Jesus cast them out with a word, and the man was found 'sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind' (Mark 5:15). A boy suffered seizures from demonic oppression, and Jesus rebuked the spirit and healed him (Mark 9:17-27). Jesus gave His disciples authority over demons (Luke 10:17), and the early church continued this ministry (Acts 16:18). Jesus said, 'If I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you' (Matthew 12:28). Demons are real spiritual beings — fallen angels who followed Satan's rebellion. They can oppress, influence, and in extreme cases possess unbelievers. James 2:19 notes that demons 'believe, and tremble.' Believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit and thus cannot be possessed: 'Greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world' (1 John 4:4).
Topic Overview
What Does the Bible Say About Demons & Evil Spirits?
What the Bible teaches about demons, spiritual warfare, and the believer's authority over evil.
Key Scripture References
"They see him that was possessed with the devil... sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind."
"Greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world."
"If I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you."
Frequently asked questions
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Related Questions
What Does the Bible Say About Spiritual Warfare?
Ephesians 6 teaches that believers wrestle not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces, and provides the armor of God for defense.
What Does the Bible Say About Spiritual Warfare?
Ephesians 6 teaches that believers wrestle not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces, and provides the armor of God for defense.
What Does the Bible Say About the Antichrist?
The Bible describes a coming world leader empowered by Satan who will oppose Christ, deceive the nations, demand worship, and be destroyed at Christ's return.
What Does the Bible Say About Angels?
Angels are powerful spiritual beings created by God to serve Him, deliver messages, protect believers, and carry out His will.
Who Is Satan (the Devil)?
Satan is a fallen angel who rebelled against God and now leads the forces of evil, seeking to oppose God's purposes and destroy humanity.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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Read it in context
The answer above sits inside Mark. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read Mark on day 279 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
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