How can believers today "drive out demons" as stated in Mark 16:17? Setting the Verse in Context “ ‘And these signs will accompany those who believe: In My name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues…’ ” (Mark 16:17) Authority Given by Christ • Jesus delegates His authority, not just to the Twelve, but to “those who believe.” • Matthew 28:18-19—“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples…” • Luke 10:19—“I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy…” • The believer acts “in My name,” meaning under Jesus’ authority, not personal power. Understanding Demonic Reality • Demons are fallen angels (2 Peter 2:4) who oppose God and torment people. • They are real, personal beings that can inhabit or oppress (Mark 5:1-20). • The cross and resurrection have already guaranteed their ultimate defeat (Colossians 2:15). Conditions for Effective Ministry • Personal faith in Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9). • Clean conscience and confessed sin (James 4:7—“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”). • Knowledge of Scripture—Jesus repelled Satan with “It is written” (Matthew 4:1-11). • Willingness to fast and pray when needed (Mark 9:29). Practical Steps to Drive Out Demons Today 1. Discern the need • Signs can include unnatural rage, supernatural knowledge, bondage, or blasphemy (Acts 16:16-18). 2. Gather a small, spiritually mature team • Two or three believers provide accountability and support (Matthew 18:19-20). 3. Center everything on Christ’s authority • Verbally declare Jesus’ lordship and the victory of His blood (Revelation 12:11). 4. Command, don’t request • Speak directly: “In the name of Jesus Christ, come out.” 5. Call for repentance and faith • The person must renounce occult involvement, unforgiveness, and sin (Acts 19:18-19). 6. Fill the house • Encourage baptism, Scripture intake, prayer, fellowship, and worship so no “vacancy” remains (Matthew 12:43-45). 7. Follow-up care • Ongoing discipleship protects against relapse (Ephesians 6:10-18). Safeguards and Wisdom • Avoid sensationalism; focus on the gospel. • Never act alone or outside church oversight (Hebrews 13:17). • Test every spirit (1 John 4:1) and avoid confusing mental health issues with demonic cases—seek medical counsel when appropriate. • Maintain humility; power belongs to God, not us (2 Corinthians 4:7). Expect God to Confirm His Word • Mark 16:20—“And they went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked through them, confirming His word by the signs that accompanied it.” • Signs follow, they do not lead; preaching the gospel remains primary. Encouragement for the Church The same risen Christ who empowered first-century believers still reigns. When His people walk in holiness, obedience, and Spirit-filled faith, they can confidently confront darkness and see captives set free, all to the glory of God. |
    |