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What are Demons, and How Do They Interact with the World Today?

Demons are called deceiving spirits (1Ti 4:1). They are also called impure spirits (Mt 10:1; see Lk 4:33). The origin of demons is not described in the Scriptures, but Jesus’ reference to the devil and his angels (Mt 25:41) suggests that demons are angels who fell when Satan rebelled (Rev 12:4).

Demons can speak and can possess people and animals (Mk 5:9,12; Ac 19:15). Deceitful spirits are also capable of appearing as angels of light (2Co 11:14). Yet despite their apparent beauty and power, their influence is ultimately destructive (Mk 5:2–5). Demonic manifestation during the New Testament era often resulted in symptoms similar to those of mental or physical illness (e.g., Mt 9:33; 17:15,18; Mk 5:15). Demonic influence is also a source of false religion (Dt 32:17; 1Co 10:19-21).

The fact that demons are rarely mentioned in the Old Testament has caused some Bible scholars to conclude that the high frequency of demonic activity in the New Testament era was unique and may have been a response to the presence of Jesus. Others believe that demons are just as active today. In either case, Jesus gave his disciples authority over evil spirits (Mk 6:7). This power is rooted in Jesus the Messiah’s kingdom authority (Mt 10:1,7-8), which remains very much in effect today.