Tag: Name of Jesus

Satan’s Feigned Retreat

Demons retreat in exorcism, not because it is of divine efficacy, but because they want to further entrench men in superstition. That demons would feign to be defeated by the use of mere formulas of words, crucifixes, holy water, prayers to Mary, or any other carnal means should be no surprise to us. Scripture teaches that Satan is the father of lies (John 8:44), and that he presents himself as “an angel of light” (2 Cor. 11:14) in order to deceive us into error and sin. False teachers likewise appear to us “in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves” (Mat. 7:15; cf. 2 Cor. 11:13). Demons love to harden men in their superstitions by pretending that carnal means are inherently efficacious, so that men will be turned away from true remedies and sound doctrine.… Read More Satan’s Feigned Retreat

Paul J. BarthLeave a comment

Do Demons Flee At The Name Of Jesus?

The Church’s method of countering demonic influences should be grounded in the Bible’s teachings, not emotional responses or popular trends. Using the name of Jesus as a magic formula against demons is misleading. Rather, declaring “the name of Jesus” signifies proclaiming the truth of Christ’s person, work, and salvation freely offered. Scripture warns against false phenomena performed in Jesus’ name (Mat. 7:22-23), and Satan himself can use it for deception (2 Cor. 11:13-15). “The devils also believe, and tremble” (James 2:19); and demons even profess “Jesus, thou Son of God most high” (Luke 8:28). So merely uttering His name is not inherently effective and does not automatically work to exorcise demons or to deliver someone from demonic attacks. Rather, we must trust in Christ alone to be delivered from the kingdom of darkness; employ the means of grace, and put on the whole armor of God to stand against the devil and his schemes.… Read More Do Demons Flee At The Name Of Jesus?

Paul J. Barth1 Comment