The demon battle

Revelation 12:7  And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,

 Demons have rank and file in their army

            Paul speaks of varying rank and position in the enemy’s host (Eph 6:12) where he mentions principalities rulers (magistrates),  powers (authorities), rulers (worldwide or far reaching) of darkness, shadiness, obscurity; spiritual wickedness in high places – spiritual, religious, in heavenly arenas – over reaching wickedness. These spiritual beings have authority over the influences in this age because the devil is the god of this age and influences all by the fashions, styles and worldly things that capture humans -- saved and unsaved – to conform everyone to his plans and purposes. It appears that the rank or position in authority that they hold whether they are fallen or not are all subject to the other’s authority (Jude 9; Dan 10:12-13, 20-21; Matt 17:18-21). Jesus alluded tothis when He cast out a demon in a boy and then told His disciples that this particular kind goes out only by prayer and fasting. The demon was apparently if higher authority that the rank and file (principalities).

 

Demonic activity

            There are three stages or states of demon activity among us today as well as in OT and NT times (possession, oppression, obsession). Medical science today often neglects or dismisses demonic activity in people today. There are also many that see everything wrong in humans as demonic – both of these excesses cause problems and result in improper treatment of people afflicted. Matthew gives us an understanding about the difference in Matt 4:18-21. There is a difference between demon caused mental issues and those naturally occurring as PTSD, alcohol and drug related problems – even though demons may be indirectly associated with them. There are differing activities and problems caused by demons which we often do not associate with them. Not only are there mental problems but also physical problems associated with demon oppression and possession – Mk 9:25; Lu 13:11-13, 16; Mk 5:1-8, 15. In Acts 8 we read of a man who strongly influenced the people by performing magic and they said that he had the power of God. When Peter spoke to Cornelius and preached he mentioned how Jesus came to deliver those “oppressed” by the devil Acts 10:38 where oppressed means to dominate. This he does thru physical, mental, psychological, doctrinal and chemical means. Paul warns about being tossed by wrong doctrine Eph 4:14 (wind implies the four corners of the earth). In other writings Paul, Peter and Jude warn of those who are used of the devil to influence others to keep them oppressed and under his dominion and also to lure them into false worship and eternal destruction.

 

Demonic influence

            A very strong attack that the devil uses against people and especially against God’s children is false or persuaded emotions. Emotions are a very powerful influence on our life and practice as people and Christians. The enemy pushes a spirit of fear upon us at times. Jesus often encouraged us ”fear not” because He knew that the enemy would try to control us thru a spirit of fear. The enemy also causes unrest among people. The enemy will use rumors, gossips and tale-bearers to bring about unrest among people. Two particular areas that are used is division and confusion – 1 Cor 14:33; James 3:14-17.