Topical Encyclopedia The term "demoniacal" refers to phenomena or conditions associated with demons or evil spirits, as depicted in the Bible. In the biblical context, demoniacal possession or influence is often characterized by physical, mental, or spiritual afflictions that are attributed to the presence or activity of demons. The Bible provides several accounts of demoniacal activity, particularly in the New Testament, where Jesus Christ and His disciples encounter and address such manifestations.Old Testament Context While the Old Testament does not explicitly use the term "demoniacal," it does acknowledge the existence of evil spirits and their potential influence over individuals. For example, in 1 Samuel 16:14, it is noted that "the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the LORD tormented him." This passage suggests that God permitted an evil spirit to afflict Saul as a form of judgment or correction. New Testament Accounts The New Testament provides more detailed accounts of demoniacal possession and the authority of Jesus over demons. One of the most notable instances is found in the Gospel of Mark, where Jesus encounters a man possessed by an unclean spirit in the synagogue at Capernaum. Mark 1:23-26 states, "Suddenly a man with an unclean spirit cried out in the synagogue: 'What do You want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!' But Jesus rebuked the spirit. 'Be silent!' He said. 'Come out of him!' At this, the unclean spirit threw the man into convulsions and came out with a loud shriek." Another significant account is the healing of the Gerasene demoniac, as recorded in Mark 5:1-20. In this narrative, Jesus encounters a man possessed by a legion of demons. The demons recognize Jesus' authority and plead with Him not to send them out of the region. Jesus permits them to enter a herd of pigs, which then rush into the sea and drown. This event demonstrates Jesus' power over demoniacal forces and His ability to restore individuals to wholeness. Characteristics of Demoniacal Possession The New Testament describes various symptoms and behaviors associated with demoniacal possession. These may include physical ailments, such as muteness or blindness (Matthew 9:32-33), self-destructive behavior (Mark 5:5), and supernatural strength (Mark 5:4). Additionally, those possessed by demons often exhibit a recognition of Jesus' divine authority, as seen in multiple accounts where demons acknowledge Him as the Son of God (Mark 3:11). Jesus' Authority Over Demons Central to the New Testament's portrayal of demoniacal activity is the authority of Jesus Christ over demons. His ability to cast out demons is a testament to His divine power and the inauguration of God's kingdom. In Matthew 12:28 , Jesus declares, "But if I drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you." This statement underscores the significance of Jesus' exorcisms as a sign of the breaking in of God's reign and the defeat of demonic forces. The Apostolic Ministry Following Jesus' ascension, His apostles continued to exercise authority over demoniacal forces. In Acts 16:16-18, the Apostle Paul encounters a slave girl possessed by a spirit of divination. Paul commands the spirit to leave her in the name of Jesus Christ, and she is immediately freed from its influence. This account, along with others in the Acts of the Apostles, illustrates the continuation of Jesus' ministry through His followers and the enduring power of His name over demonic entities. Theological Implications The biblical accounts of demoniacal possession and exorcism highlight the reality of spiritual warfare and the presence of evil in the world. They affirm the belief in a personal, malevolent force opposed to God and His purposes. However, they also emphasize the ultimate victory of Christ over these forces, offering hope and assurance to believers of His power to deliver and protect from demonic oppression. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Pertaining to, or characteristic of, a demon or evil spirit; devilish; as, a demoniac being; demoniacal practices.2. (a.) Influenced or produced by a demon or evil spirit; as, demoniac or demoniacal power. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia POSSESSION, DEMONIACALde-mo-ni'-a-kal (Matthew 4:24; Matthew 8:16, etc.). Greek 1643. elauno -- to drive or push (as wind, oars, or demoniacal ... ... to drive or push (as wind, oars, or demoniacal power). Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: elauno Phonetic Spelling: (el-ow'-no) Short Definition: I drive ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1643.htm - 6k 1141. daimoniodes -- demon-like Library Christ Cures a Demoniacal Youth after the Disciples had Attempted ... Discredit, from the Date of the Incarnation, of Idol-Cultus ... Note on Demons. The Peace-Bringer in the Spiritual World 'First to Mary' True Sabbath Observance The Ministry of Women The Perversive Heresy of the Manicheans which Began at this Time. Cure of the Infirm Woman on the Sabbath; the Pharisees ... Healing a Demoniac in a Synagogue. Thesaurus Demoniacal (1 Occurrence)... 1. (a.) Pertaining to, or characteristic of, a demon or evil spirit; devilish; as, a demoniac being; demoniacal practices. ... POSSESSION, DEMONIACAL. ... /d/demoniacal.htm - 7k Possession (251 Occurrences) Demoniac (7 Occurrences) Demoniacs (5 Occurrences) Devil (58 Occurrences) Apollyon (1 Occurrence) Madness (13 Occurrences) Mad (22 Occurrences) Exorcism Exorcist (1 Occurrence) Resources Demoniacal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Demoniacal (1 Occurrence)James 3:15 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |