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    In Context

    What Does the Bible Say About Demon Possession — In Biblical Context

    The Bible records numerous cases of demonic possession — and Jesus' authority over demons demonstrated His divine power and the arrival of God's kingdom.

    Quick Answer

    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)

    The Biblical Context

    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).

    Where It Sits in Scripture

    The core passage for this question, Mark 5:15, sits inside Mark 5. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.

    "They see him that was possessed with the devil... sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind."
    — Mark 5:15 (KJV)

    Supporting Passages

    1 John 4:4
    "Greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world."
    Matthew 12:28
    "If I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you."

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