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exorcism

theological_term theological_term standard

The expulsion of demons by the authority of God, especially as seen in the ministry of Jesus and His apostles.

At a Glance

The biblical term refers to the expulsion of demonic spirits from a person under God’s authority.

Key Points

Description

Exorcism is the casting out of demons from a person through the authority of God. In Scripture, this is especially associated with Jesus’ earthly ministry, where His power over demons displays the arrival of God’s kingdom and His supremacy over Satan and unclean spirits. The New Testament also records demons being cast out in apostolic ministry in the name of Jesus. Scripture clearly teaches the reality of demonic powers and Christ’s authority over them, but it does not provide a fixed ritual formula for later church practice. Any discussion of exorcism today should therefore remain tightly biblically grounded, avoid superstition and sensationalism, and recognize that deliverance from evil depends on God’s power rather than human technique.

Biblical Context

The Gospels present exorcism as a frequent sign of Jesus’ messianic authority, especially in the opening chapters of Mark and in accounts such as the Gerasene demoniac. The Acts of the Apostles shows this authority continuing through the apostles in Jesus’ name.

Historical Context

Exorcism was known in the wider ancient world, but the New Testament distinguishes Jesus’ ministry by His direct, sovereign authority rather than by magical formulas or manipulation. Early Christian ministry continued to distinguish itself from superstition and occult practice.

Jewish and Ancient Context

Second Temple Jewish literature and practice reflect a real concern with demonic powers and spiritual oppression, but the New Testament centers deliverance in the person and authority of Jesus Christ rather than in rituals or names used as charms.

Primary Key Texts

Secondary Key Texts

Original Language Note

The New Testament commonly describes exorcism with verbs meaning “cast out” and nouns for demons or unclean spirits rather than a single technical ritual term.

Theological Significance

Exorcism displays Christ’s authority over Satan and the demonic realm and serves as a sign of the kingdom of God breaking into history.

Philosophical Explanation

Biblically, exorcism is not a technique that manipulates spiritual forces. It is an act of divine authority exercised by God through Christ and, in the apostolic age, through His commissioned servants.

Interpretive Cautions

Do not treat every mental, emotional, or physical affliction as demonic. Do not build doctrine from experience alone. Do not normalize sensationalism, magic-like formulas, or fear-based ministry. Scripture, not anecdote, must govern practice.

Major Views

Christians generally agree that Jesus and the apostles cast out demons. Debate continues over whether exorcism as a distinct ministry office or practice continues in the same form today, and if so, under what safeguards and authority.

Doctrinal Boundaries

Affirm the reality of demons, the supremacy of Christ, and the authority of Scripture. Reject superstition, occultism, and claims that human rituals control spiritual powers. Do not imply that the New Testament mandates a universal exorcism liturgy for the church.

Practical Significance

This entry helps readers understand biblical deliverance ministry, spiritual warfare, and the uniqueness of Jesus’ authority. Pastoral care should be cautious, prayerful, and scriptural, with appropriate medical and pastoral discernment where needed.

Related Entries

See Also

Data

Machine-readable JSON for exorcism

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