Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "hath a devil" appears in the New Testament and is used to describe individuals who are believed to be possessed or influenced by demonic forces. This expression is primarily found in the context of accusations against Jesus Christ and John the Baptist, reflecting the spiritual and social tensions of the time.Biblical References: 1. John 7:20 : "The crowd replied, 'You are demon-possessed. Who is trying to kill You?'" In this passage, Jesus is accused of having a demon by the crowd in Jerusalem. This accusation arises during the Feast of Tabernacles when Jesus is teaching about His divine mission and the source of His authority. The crowd's response reflects their misunderstanding and rejection of His message. 2. John 8:48-49 : "The Jews answered Him, 'Are we not right to say that You are a Samaritan and have a demon?' Jesus replied, 'I do not have a demon, but I honor My Father, and you dishonor Me.'" Here, the Jewish leaders accuse Jesus of being demon-possessed as a way to discredit His teachings and authority. Jesus refutes their claim by emphasizing His obedience to the Father and highlighting their lack of understanding. 3. John 10:20 : "Many of them said, 'He is demon-possessed and insane. Why would you listen to Him?'" This accusation occurs after Jesus declares Himself the Good Shepherd and speaks of His unity with the Father. The division among the people regarding Jesus' identity and mission is evident, with some dismissing Him as mad and demon-possessed. 4. Matthew 11:18 : "For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon!’" In this verse, Jesus addresses the criticism directed at John the Baptist. Despite John's ascetic lifestyle and prophetic role, some accused him of being demon-possessed, illustrating the resistance to his call for repentance and preparation for the Messiah. Theological Implications: The accusations of having a demon against Jesus and John the Baptist highlight the spiritual blindness and hardness of heart among those who opposed them. These charges were attempts to undermine their authority and discredit their divine missions. From a theological perspective, these incidents underscore the conflict between the kingdom of God and the forces of darkness. Jesus' responses to these accusations affirm His divine nature and mission, as well as His authority over demonic powers. Cultural and Historical Context: In the first-century Jewish context, accusations of demon possession were serious and often used to explain behaviors or teachings that deviated from accepted norms. The religious leaders and the general populace were wary of any claims to divine authority that challenged their understanding of the Law and the prophets. The charge of having a demon was a means to dismiss and marginalize those who threatened the established religious order. Application for Believers: For contemporary believers, these passages serve as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that accompanies the proclamation of the Gospel. The rejection and misunderstanding faced by Jesus and John the Baptist are experiences that followers of Christ may encounter as they bear witness to the truth. Believers are called to stand firm in their faith, recognizing that opposition may come, but trusting in the ultimate victory of Christ over all spiritual forces. Library John x. 14, 15 Note on Demons. In the Holy Land. John vii. 1, 2 John viii. 48, 49 Hebrews xi. 37, 38 Matt. xxvii. 11, 12 The Second Sermon, in the Afternoon. John Chapter x. 14-21 The Good Shepherd. Resources What are spiritual blessings? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible mean when it refers to a sound mind? | GotQuestions.org What did Jesus mean when He told people, “Your faith has made you well”? | GotQuestions.org Hath: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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