The Bible offers us an understanding of the spiritual realm, including the nature and activities of demons. These spiritual beings, also known as fallen angels, rebelled against God under the leadership of Lucifer (Satan). Their intention is to mislead us from getting to heaven.
Today’s message highlights 20 major activities of demons in the world and it will help you to know their secrets and to become vigilant. I don’t want you to be deceived because many of these demonic actions exist in many churches today.
20 Activities of Demons and Their Characteristics
1. Demons are created beings – Like all angels, demons were created by God but chose rebellion. (Colossians 1:16)
2. They are spirits without physical bodies – Demons are disembodied spirits seeking to inhabit living beings. (Matthew 8:16; Mark 5:12-13)
3. They are evil and unclean – Demons are referred to as “unclean spirits” in the Bible. (Mark 1:23-26; Luke 9:42)
4. They are organized under Satan’s authority – They operate in hierarchical ranks to execute Satan’s schemes. (Ephesians 6:12; Matthew 12:24)
5. They deceive and promote false doctrine – Demons lead people into lies and spiritual error. (1 Timothy 4:1)
6. They seek to oppose God’s purposes – They actively resist God’s work in individuals and the world. (Zechariah 3:1; 2 Corinthians 4:4)
7. Demons tempt people into sin – They entice individuals to disobey God. (Genesis 3:1-6; 1 Peter 5:8)
8. They oppress and afflict individuals – Demons cause various forms of torment and oppression. (Mark 9:17-22; Luke 13:11)
9. They seek to possess humans or animals – They desire to inhabit living beings to express their will. (Mark 5:2-13; Matthew 12:43-45)
10. They promote idolatry – Worship of idols is often tied to demonic influence. (1 Corinthians 10:20)
11. They instill fear – Demons thrive on fear to control and oppress. (2 Timothy 1:7)
12. They are limited in power – Demons are not omnipotent and can be restrained by God. (Job 1:12; Luke 10:19)
13. They are subject to Christ’s authority – Jesus has complete authority over demons. (Matthew 8:28-32; Mark 1:34)
14. They recognize Jesus as the Son of God – Demons know and fear Jesus. (Mark 3:11; Luke 4:41)
15. They know their ultimate fate – Demons are aware they will face eternal punishment. (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 20:10)
16. They are territorial – Certain demons seem to claim particular regions or people. (Daniel 10:13, 20)
17. They resist prayer and spiritual growth – Demons aim to hinder prayers and pronounce curses through speaking in tongues to many insensitive Christians who speaks without the leading of the Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 6:12; 1 Thessalonians 2:18)
18. They counterfeit miracles – Demons can imitate signs to deceive people. (2 Thessalonians 2:9)
19. They are defeated by Christ – Through His death and resurrection, Jesus Christ triumphed over demons. (Colossians 2:15)
20. They will be judged and destroyed – In the end, demons will face God’s eternal judgment. (Revelation 20:10)
You are to stand firm in the faith and put on the full armor of God to resist the activities of demons. It is through prayer, scripture, and the power of the Holy Spirit that you can be equipped to overcome demonic influences. You must not be afraid of the devil and demons but take authority through the name of Jesus Christ.
10 Effective Ways to Resist Demonic Influences
1. Submit to God and Resist the Devil
Surrender your life to God fully, as submission to Him strengthens you to resist the enemy. (James 4:7)
2. Put on the Full Armor of God
You will overcome all activities of demons when you equip yourself daily with the spiritual armor described in Ephesians chapter 6 verse 10-18 —including the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shield of faith, and sword of the Spirit (the Word of God).
3. Pray Continuously
Stay connected to God through prayer, seeking His guidance, protection, and strength. (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
4. Meditate on and Apply God’s Word
The Word of God is a powerful weapon against the enemy. Jesus Christ used Scripture to counter Satan’s temptations. (Matthew 4:1-11)
5. Guard Your Thoughts and Heart
Be vigilant about what you allow into your mind and spirit. Avoid influences that promote sinful behavior or compromise your faith. (Proverbs 4:23; Philippians 4:8)
6. Fellowship with Other Believers
Surround yourself with disciplined Christians to encourage and strengthen you. (Hebrews 10:24-25)
7. Be Watchful and Sober-Minded
Stay spiritually alert, recognizing that the activities of demons are seeking to devour and to destroy. (1 Peter 5:8)
8. Confess and Repent of Sin
Turn away from sin, as it can open doors to demonic influence. (1 John 1:9)
9. Declare the Victory of Jesus Christ
Claim the victory that Jesus has already won over demonic powers through His death and resurrection. (Colossians 2:15)
10. Speak the Name of Jesus with Authority
The name of Jesus Christ has power over demons. Use His name in prayer and rebuke. (Luke 10:17; Philippians 2:9-11)
Take caution when you notice any of the characteristics of demons mentioned above and constantly resist all demonic influences. By relying on God’s power and being diligent in spiritual practices, you can resist the activities of demons and walk in freedom.