Can Christians Cast Out Demons? The Role of Salvation and Obedience

Can Christians cast out demons? This is a question that often arises in discussions about faith and spiritual warfare. Many believe that commanding evil spirits to leave in the name of Jesus should be straightforward, yet there is more to it than simply commanding demons to go.

The Doctrine of Deliverance

Commanding demons to leave in the name of Jesus Christ is absolutely a commandment. However, as someone with years of experience in deliverance, it is crucial to ensure that the individual seeking deliverance is saved before any such action is taken. We want the Holy Spirit in that vessel. Otherwise, the Bible warns in Matthew 12:43-45, “When an impure spirit comes out of a person it goes through arid places seeking rest, but does not find it. When it arrives, it says, ‘I will return to the house I left?. When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first.’

The wicked spirits must be cast out if commanded in the name of Jesus, but first, scripture must be produced and salvation offered. God's Word does not return to Him void. Sometimes, the process is lengthy as there should be a sincere understanding of the need for salvation and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit... acceptance of Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. A discussion about how to keep the door shut to demons, which can regain entrance through deliberate sinful behaviors, is also very important. It opens the person up to further attack. Inviting the newly delivered Christian to church to learn how to live in obedience to Christ to avoid further attack from the demonic realm is also vital. There is a lack of knowledge about how these beings gain entrance. Some through sinful behaviors…some through generational curses committed by past ancestors. But the important thing to remember is that it is the Holy Spirit who casts these beings out, not man. We can command in the name of Jesus, but it is His power, not ours, that delivers from such things. We are simply instruments in His hand.

For those being tormented, here is a step-by-step guide:

Do Not Be Afraid to Be Delivered: You do not want to live in torment and you do not have to. However, you need to first receive Christ, ask Him to come and dwell inside of you, and forgive all of your sins. Ask for His Holy Spirit to fill you. Fill Your Mind and Body with His Holy Spirit: Fill your mind and body with His Holy Spirit first, then when the enemy, Satan, comes back to jiggle the doorknob and see if the house is empty, he will find it occupied and full. Learning to obey Jesus will keep the house full. Develop a Personal Relationship: The best way to do this is to go to a good Christian church, read your Holy Bible, and develop a personal relationship through daily prayer.

God bless you. Never give up.

Key Points to Remember:

Salvation is Crucial: Before any deliverance, ensure the person is saved and the Holy Spirit is in their heart. Obedience is Key: Teach the newly delivered Christian to live in obedience to Christ. Understanding Entrance: Learn about how demons gain entry—through sinful behaviors or generational curses.

Conclusion: It is the Holy Spirit who casts out these beings. As Christians, our role is to command in the name of Jesus, recognizing that it is His power that delivers. We are simply instruments in His hand, emphasized by the importance of teamwork and the presence of a mature, obedient Christian for support. This not only helps in the deliverance process but also ensures the person remains secure and free from further attacks by the demonic realm.