Demon (daemon)

the Greek form, translated "devil" in the King James Version of the New Testament

Demons are spoken of as spiritual beings (Matt. 8:16; 10:1; 12:43-45) at enmity with God, and as having a certain power over man (James 2:19; Rev. 16:14). They recognize our Lord as the Son of God (Matt. 8:20; Luke 4:41). They belong to the number of those angels that "kept not their first estate," "unclean spirits," "fallen angels," the angels of the devil (Matt. 25:41; Rev. 12:7-9). They are the "principalities and powers" against which we must "wrestle" (Eph. 6:12).

The word demon(s) does not appear in the King James Bible, which uses the word "devils" instead. The New King James Bible uses the word "demon(s)" in 72 verses.

The only exorcist mentioned in the Old Testament is David (1 Samuel 16:23). In the New Testament, both Jesus and his Apostles cast out demons through the power of the Holy Spirit.

[This article is not yet completed. Look for additions and up-dates in the future.]

ALSO SEE:

• Angels
• What is the unpardonable sin? (discussed in connection with Christ's casting out of demons)