A man in church with an unclean spirit
The next character is a group of unclean spirits. These are the extras in The Devil’s act. When he can’t be there he will send in his followers and they often stick around almost permanently. Often we see them in groups. They also know who Jesus and his followers are.
“Just then a man with an unclean spirit was in their synagogue. He cried out, “What do You have to do with us, Jesus — Nazarene? Have You come to destroy us? I know who You are — the Holy One of God! ”
“And He healed many who were sick with various diseases and drove out many demons. But He would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew Him.”
“For He had told him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit! ” “What is your name? ” He asked him. “My name is Legion,” he answered Him, “because we are many.”
Some churches claim that Demons were destroyed by the work of Jesus on the cross. I would ask them to ponder this verse:
“And these signs will accompany those who believe: In My name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new languages; they will pick up snakes; if they should drink anything deadly, it will never harm them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will get well.”
Mark 16:17-18 HCSB
Why would those who believe in Jesus have the ability to drive out demons in his name? Because they are still around! Nothing has changed except their power is controlled and conquered by Jesus’ work on the cross.
So how might we know if we are welcoming those evil characters into our act? A general idea would be to avoid situations of fear and uncertain spiritual practices. Some specific would include Horror movies, ouija boards, and cult practices. If you find yourself in a situation where you feel a deep fear or dread get out of there. Look for places that feed true love, true peace, and true joy. As God to show you the true spirit behind what you are doing and He will show you!
Did you happen to notice that this demonic man was in their synagogue? Those who are demon-posed will be looking for Christ-followers for relief. The devil will try to establish a hold on our churches. Let us not let him!
Lastly, I said they like to stick around almost permanently. It is primarily by the name of Jesus that demons are cast out. Some deep-rooted demons will take a greater amount of prayer and fasting on our part. We should not take this whole conversation lightly but we also should not be afraid of it either. For God is on our side and therefore we have God’s power backing us!
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