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FALSE DOCTRINE QUESTION 6

QUESTION 6:
Can a born again Christian be possessed by demons? ANSWER:
The question regarding Christian possession, by demons, is spoken of frequently; it seems to be in the minds of many people; in our day. This is likely because of the rise in occult activity in the last days.

In latter times, occult activity was foretold. "...giving heed to seducing spirits (evil) and doctrines of devils (demons)." 1 Timothy 4:1. There is no case in the history of the bible that a born-again child of God was ever possessed by demons. Some have mentioned Judas; he was possessed by a devil. Jesus made this clear in John 6:70 where He said, "Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil." In John 6:71 Jesus spoke this of Judas. However, Judas was never a true believer from the beginning for we read in John 6:64 that Jesus knew who would betray Him and who believed not from the beginning.

A true child of God has the Holy Spirit dwelling within. The Holy Spirit is the tenant of the house; you will not find the Spirit of God and a demon spirit in the same house. "Greater is He (Holy Spirit) that is in you then he (spirit of Satan) that is in the world.' 1 John 4:4. Though a true believer cannot be possessed of a demon, he or she can be oppressed by demons. That is why Peter said in 1 Peter 5:8-9, "Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, goeth about, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist steadfast in the faith." James said in James 4:7, "Resist the devil and he will flee from you." Even if a believer does not resist, the devil does not have possession of God's property. He has been cast out of those that trust Christ and are born again. Thank God, that a real born again believer has Christ within and is sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise, Ephesians 1:13, there is no need to fear Satan and demons entering, or overcoming them.

Are you a true born-again believer in the Lord Jesus Christ and His sacrificial death for you? There is no other way to God. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." John 14:6. He said, "I am the door, by me if any man enter in he shall be saved." John 10:9. Religion is not enough. It took a Saviour to leave heaven to come down to die on a cross for our sins. He conquered the devil and all his demons when He died for our sins. He could say, "Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out." John 12:31. Do trust him today and be saved.

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All comments and questions to: Harold Smith

Updated July 2009, by Shelly Allen