Since we have briefly looked at Satan’s angels we can move forward. Personally, I feel that deep studies of the different types of demons such as demonology is vary dangerous ground. As the bible states:
Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. [1 Thess. 5:21-22 KJV]
The next category many should know about is demonic activity. This is something that all Christians, I feel, need to have a basic understanding in order to be prepared. I must say however that just knowing about this will not do any good. We, each and individually, must have a strong spiritual relationship with Jesus Christ. Nothing else will help protect you from them or have control over them.
Demon Possession
This would probably be the most commonly known activity which is apparently used frequently in horror movies. Demon possession in simple terms is when a demonic spirit fully takes over a persons body with them not being able to control the situation. A good understanding of this can be seen in Mark 5:1-20 and in Luke 8:26-39. Both are of the same event but with a different perspective. A different event is observed in Mark 9:16-29.
Below is a list of some characteristics of being possessed that can be observed from these passages mentioned above:
- Dwells around the dead
- Able to have unnatural human strength
- Wild beast-like behaviour
- Self afflicting pain
- Recognized Jesus
- Understood to be in torment
- They had a name
- Multiple demons were present
- Can possess animals
- Produce suicidal behaviour
- No regard towards nakedness
Obviously each situation can be different in some degree. For this situation to come about, something has to allow a demon or demons to “have access” to an individual’s body. With my personal opinion I believe part of that revolves around the individual not having the complete armor of God put on.
Finally, my brethern, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that i may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. [Eph. 6:10-20 KJV]
Demon Oppression
This type of activity may be less know or at least the phrase of such. Oppression itself is defined as harsh, cruel treatment or as that like a burden. Demonic oppression is quite similar in definition except that the oppression is obviously caused by demons/evil spirits. Another more clear definition would simply call it being harassed by them. One possible example of this, could be the well known situation that Job faced.
We should not that it is a clear difference of oppression rather than possession. In my belief any one, including Christians, can experience demonic oppression. A Christian facing oppression could simply be an attack from satan trying to prevent one from growing closer to God. Likewise this could also be a test of faith just like what Job went through.
Revelation Unfolding 