How should believers today respond to spiritual disturbances, as Paul did in Acts 16:18? Paul’s Pattern in Philippi Acts 16:18: “She kept doing this for many days. Finally Paul became greatly annoyed and turning to the spirit, he said, ‘I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her!’ And it came out at that very moment.” • A real demonic spirit was harassing the mission • Paul did not address the girl; he addressed the spirit • He invoked the authority of the risen Christ, not personal power • Deliverance was immediate and complete Recognizing Spiritual Disturbances Today • Persistent opposition that distracts from gospel advance • Words or actions that glorify darkness and confuse the truth • Atmospheres of fear, oppression, or unexplainable turmoil • Discerned through the Holy Spirit and measured against Scripture (1 John 4:1) Biblical Authority for Confrontation • Mark 16:17: “In My name they will drive out demons.” • James 4:7: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” • 1 John 4:4: “Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” • Ephesians 6:10-11: “Be strong in the Lord … Put on the full armor of God.” Practical Steps for Believers 1. Saturate the mind with Scripture so truth instantly exposes counterfeit claims 2. Stay submitted to Christ; unconfessed sin undercuts authority 3. Discern the source—fleshly annoyance is different from spiritual disturbance 4. Speak directly to the demonic influence in the name of Jesus when led by the Spirit 5. Command, do not plead, because Christ has already triumphed (Colossians 2:15) 6. Expect the Spirit to act; leave timing and outcome to God 7. Follow up with continued worship and thanksgiving, keeping the atmosphere Christ-centered Guardrails for Wise Engagement • Never seek a dramatic encounter; respond only when the Spirit prompts • Keep compassion for the human vessel, separating the person from the spirit • In public settings, maintain order so Christ—not spectacle—remains central (1 Corinthians 14:40) • Stand with other mature believers when possible; agreement reinforces faith (Matthew 18:19-20) • Avoid formulas; rely on the living relationship with Jesus and the guidance of the Holy Spirit Expected Fruit • Freedom for the oppressed • Advance of the gospel without distraction • Glory directed to Christ alone • Strengthened faith and boldness in the believing community Living in Continual Readiness Ephesians 6:18 urges believers to pray “in the Spirit at all times.” Consistent communion with God keeps armor fastened, discernment sharp, and hearts courageous. When disturbances arise, the pattern of Acts 16:18—clear discernment, Christ’s authority, confident command—remains both sufficient and victorious. |
    |