Understanding Demonic Influence and Jesus' Authority
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the topic of demons and their influence, particularly focusing on the story of the man possessed by a legion of demons in Mark 5. We explored the Greek term for demon, which translates to "demonized," meaning to be affected or influenced by demons. This influence is not limited to non-believers; even Christians can give place to the devil through disobedience and sin. We examined various scriptures, including Ephesians 2:2 and Acts 5, to understand how disobedience opens doors for demonic influence.
The story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5 serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of lying to God and how it can fill our hearts with the enemy. We also discussed the importance of not giving place to the devil, as mentioned in Ephesians 4:27. Christians need to be vigilant and consistent in their walk with God to avoid fulfilling the lusts of the flesh, as stated in Galatians 5:16-17.
We emphasized that while a born-again Christian's spirit is regenerated and cannot be possessed by evil spirits, their mind, will, and emotions can still be affected. Therefore, it is crucial to walk in the Spirit consistently. The story of the man in the tombs, who was possessed by a legion of demons, illustrates the destructive power of evil spirits but also highlights Jesus' authority over them. When Jesus cast the demons into a herd of pigs, it demonstrated His power to set people free from demonic influence.
We concluded by reminding everyone that Jesus has the final say over any chaos or destruction in our lives. No matter how severe the situation, Jesus' authority and power can bring deliverance and peace. We need to continually seek the Holy Spirit's filling and submit ourselves to God to resist the devil effectively.
### Key Takeaways
1. Disobedience Opens Doors to Demonic Influence: Disobedience to God gives evil spirits the right to influence and work within us. Ephesians 2:2 and Acts 5 illustrate how even church members can fall prey to demonic influence through disobedience and lying to God. It's crucial to live in obedience to close these doors. [01:46]
2. Christians Can Be Affected by Demons: While a born-again Christian's spirit is regenerated and cannot be possessed, their mind, will, and emotions can still be affected by evil spirits. Walking in the Spirit consistently, as stated in Galatians 5:16-17, helps us avoid fulfilling the lusts of the flesh and keeps us protected. [07:35]
3. The Power of Consistent Faith: Persistent faith in God and knowledge of the truth are essential for spiritual growth and protection. James 4:7 teaches that submitting to God and resisting the devil will make him flee. This requires a continuous, not sporadic, commitment to God. [11:50]
4. Jesus' Authority Over Evil Spirits: The story of the man possessed by a legion of demons in Mark 5 demonstrates Jesus' authority over all spirit beings. Even the most chaotic and destructive spirits must bow to Jesus. This story reassures us that no matter how severe our situation, Jesus has the power to bring deliverance. [35:27]
5. The Importance of Being Filled with the Holy Spirit: Continuously seeking to be filled with the Holy Spirit is vital for maintaining spiritual health and protection. Ephesians 4:30 warns against grieving the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the need for a constant, deep relationship with God to keep demonic influences at bay. [12:33]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[00:59] - Introduction to Demons and Influence
[01:46] - Disobedience and Demonic Influence
[02:34] - Sons of Disobedience
[03:06] - Ananias and Sapphira
[04:23] - Giving Place to the Devil
[05:15] - Need for Deliverance
[06:33] - Christians Affected by Demons
[07:35] - Walking in the Spirit
[09:05] - Consistency in Faith
[11:50] - Persistent Faith and Knowledge
[12:33] - Being Filled with the Holy Spirit
[13:19] - Practicing Sin
[15:04] - Detaching from Demonic Influence
[16:56] - Regeneration and the Holy Spirit
[17:46] - Submitting to God and Resisting the Devil
[18:44] - Jesus Casting Out Demons
[20:33] - Ezekiel's Vision
[21:58] - The Temple of the Holy Spirit
[23:23] - Modern-Day Demonic Influence
[24:30] - Need for Deliverance in the Church
[25:19] - Deliverance from the Evil One
[26:25] - Jesus Praying for Us
[27:35] - Jesus' Power Over Generational Curses
[29:26] - The Importance of Staying Vigilant
[31:27] - The Power of the Will
[33:07] - Using God's Power
[34:07] - The Story of the Demoniac and the Pigs
[35:27] - Jesus' Authority Over Spirits
[37:32] - Unclean Spirits and Generational Influence
[39:01] - The Destructive Power of Evil Spirits
[41:20] - Jesus' Authority Over Chaos
[42:28] - The Final Say of Jesus
[44:53] - Conclusion and Worship
[49:42] - Closing Prayer and Worship
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Mark 5:1-20 - The story of the man possessed by a legion of demons.
2. Ephesians 4:27 - "And do not give the devil a foothold."
3. Galatians 5:16-17 - "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want."
### Observation Questions
1. What does the Greek term for demon, "demonized," mean according to the sermon? ([00:59])
2. How did disobedience open the door for demonic influence in the story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5? ([03:06])
3. According to Galatians 5:16-17, what is the result of walking in the Spirit? ([07:35])
4. What was the reaction of the demons when they encountered Jesus in Mark 5? ([35:27])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does disobedience to God give evil spirits the right to influence us, as illustrated in Ephesians 2:2 and Acts 5? ([01:46])
2. What does it mean for a Christian to be affected by demons, even if their spirit is regenerated? How does this align with Galatians 5:16-17? ([07:35])
3. Why is consistent faith and walking in the Spirit crucial for spiritual protection, according to James 4:7? ([11:50])
4. How does the story of the man possessed by a legion of demons in Mark 5 demonstrate Jesus' authority over evil spirits? ([35:27])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when disobedience in your life may have opened the door to negative influences. How can you take steps to close those doors through obedience to God? ([01:46])
2. In what ways can you ensure that you are walking in the Spirit consistently, as Galatians 5:16-17 commands? What practical steps can you take this week? ([07:35])
3. How can you submit yourself to God and resist the devil in your daily life, as instructed in James 4:7? What specific areas of your life need more submission to God? ([11:50])
4. Think about a chaotic or destructive situation in your life. How can you invite Jesus' authority into that situation to bring deliverance and peace? ([35:27])
5. How can you continuously seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit to maintain spiritual health and protection? What daily practices can help you stay filled with the Spirit? ([12:33])
6. Identify one area in your life where you might be giving place to the devil. What steps can you take to reclaim that ground for God? ([04:23])
7. How can you support others in your small group or community who might be struggling with demonic influences or spiritual battles? What practical actions can you take to help them find deliverance and peace? ([15:04])
Devotional
Day 1: Disobedience Opens Doors to Demonic Influence
Disobedience to God creates vulnerabilities that allow demonic influences to enter and affect our lives. Ephesians 2:2 and Acts 5 provide clear examples of how even believers can fall prey to these influences through acts of disobedience and deceit. The story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5 is a stark reminder of the consequences of lying to God and how it can fill our hearts with the enemy. To close these doors, it is crucial to live in obedience and truthfulness, aligning our actions with God's will. [01:46]
Ephesians 2:2 (ESV): "In which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience."
Reflection: Think of a recent time when you were tempted to disobey God. How can you take steps today to align your actions with His will and close any doors to demonic influence?
Day 2: Christians Can Be Affected by Demons
While a born-again Christian's spirit is regenerated and cannot be possessed by evil spirits, their mind, will, and emotions can still be affected. This is why it is essential to walk in the Spirit consistently, as stated in Galatians 5:16-17. By doing so, we avoid fulfilling the lusts of the flesh and keep ourselves protected from demonic influences. The key is to maintain a continuous, not sporadic, commitment to God, ensuring that our thoughts and actions are aligned with His will. [07:35]
Galatians 5:16-17 (ESV): "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do."
Reflection: Identify an area in your life where you struggle to walk in the Spirit. What practical steps can you take today to invite the Holy Spirit into that area and seek His guidance?
Day 3: The Power of Consistent Faith
Persistent faith in God and knowledge of the truth are essential for spiritual growth and protection. James 4:7 teaches that submitting to God and resisting the devil will make him flee. This requires a continuous, not sporadic, commitment to God. Consistent faith helps us to stand firm against the enemy's schemes and ensures that we are always aligned with God's will. It is through this unwavering faith that we can experience true spiritual growth and protection. [11:50]
James 4:7 (ESV): "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
Reflection: Reflect on your daily routine. What is one habit you can incorporate to ensure your faith remains consistent and strong in the face of spiritual challenges?
Day 4: Jesus' Authority Over Evil Spirits
The story of the man possessed by a legion of demons in Mark 5 demonstrates Jesus' authority over all spirit beings. Even the most chaotic and destructive spirits must bow to Jesus. This story reassures us that no matter how severe our situation, Jesus has the power to bring deliverance. His authority is absolute, and His power can bring peace and restoration to any area of our lives that is under attack. [35:27]
Mark 5:8-9 (ESV): "For he was saying to him, 'Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!' And Jesus asked him, 'What is your name?' He replied, 'My name is Legion, for we are many.'"
Reflection: Think of a chaotic or challenging situation you are currently facing. How can you invite Jesus' authority into this situation and trust in His power to bring deliverance?
Day 5: The Importance of Being Filled with the Holy Spirit
Continuously seeking to be filled with the Holy Spirit is vital for maintaining spiritual health and protection. Ephesians 4:30 warns against grieving the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the need for a constant, deep relationship with God to keep demonic influences at bay. By being filled with the Holy Spirit, we ensure that our lives are guided by His wisdom and power, providing us with the strength to resist the enemy and live in accordance with God's will. [12:33]
Ephesians 4:30 (ESV): "And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption."
Reflection: Consider your current relationship with the Holy Spirit. What steps can you take today to deepen this relationship and ensure you are continually filled with His presence?
Quotes
1. "By disobedience, disobedience. Disobedience is the opposite of obedience. So you cannot be obedient if you're being disobedient. And the Bible, the Bible here literally calls us the sons of disobedience. And so we're, we're the sons of disobedience, the sons of the devil because we're disobeying God. And Acts chapter five, I'm not going to break it down now, but it's the story of Ananias and Sapphira. And the story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts five, Peter said, he said to Ananias that Satan has filled your heart. He actually alluded to Ananias. He said, Ananias, Satan has filled your heart, Ananias." [02:34] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We have to be careful. And we allow these doors to open up. Matter of fact, Ephesians 4, 27. I speak it a lot, especially with this, dealing with this subject. Paul told the believers in Ephesus. So I want us to know, because we always think that this, a teaching like this has to do with them. Tell the world, preacher, get out there, get on the main street. I told first services, same thing with us. This is a, this is a French church. It's, it's we, we, it's not them, them. It's not even, it's not even that Southern. It's not even y'all, y'all. It's we, we." [04:23] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "If you give place to him, he's not just going to leave because you, you decide to come to church today. You're going to need deliverance from these, these spirits because they have their own short by our own. Choice given up ground to Satan. So he says, don't give place. Don't give ground to the devil. And if you do someone stronger than you has got to command him to leave. Amen. That's why we worship the Lord. Like we do. That's why it is spent over 30 minutes in here, bringing our service, just begin to, to worship and praise and honor the one who the enemies cannot, cannot stay in the same room as he." [05:15] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Walk in the spirit. You shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. If it says, if we walk in the spirit, we shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. Then it would go to say that if we're not walking in the spirit, then we will fulfill the lust of the flesh. Well, I'm in church. I can't believe you're bringing this up today. Well, it's because the Bible says walk in the spirit. It's not a Sunday morning only suggestion. Matter of fact, it's not even a suggestion. It's a commandment. We sung a song while ago, pray about praising the Lord. How many knows that that's not a suggestion? You know, I'll suggest you praise the Lord. You know, that'd be a good thought if you praise the Lord. Uh-uh. It's a commandment. Praise ye the Lord is a commandment. Praise the Lord. Oh, my soul." [08:03] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You need consistency. You need balance. You don't, you don't defeat your adversary by having a few weeks that you're on fire from God. you don't fire for God. And so the enemy, all he's going to do, he's going to sit back and wait until you calm down and he'll pick right back up where he left off. But if you're walking in the spirit, always describe it this way to walk is consistency. We're just walking through this thing. If you're walking, one foot is up. While one foot is up, the other foot is down. You put this foot down and Owen comes up. That means you're consistently going, forward and the Bible. You're consistently having a relationship with God. You're consistently staying in the word and the Bible says, if you walk in the spirit, you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh." [09:05] (56 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "The Bible says in James four, verse seven, demons cannot stay with anyone who consists of them. Consistently submits to God and resist the devil. That means stand firm against the devil. Matter of fact, James four and seven says, if we submit ourselves to God, resist the devil, he will do what? Flee. Again, he's talking to Christians. He will flee. We have to submit ourselves to God. When we are doing this, we are not grieving the Holy Spirit. How many knows you can grieve the Holy Spirit? You can quench the Holy Spirit. And the Bible says in Ephesians four and 30, that we can grieve the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is making sure that no demons remain in the temple of God." [17:23] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "I'm here to remind the church that I'm speaking to this morning that our battle lies with that even though the enemy comes up against us, we will not allow him to attach himself to us. And whenever we allow him to attach himself to us, we need him to be detached from us. And the problem is, is that we come to church, we try to live as Christians, we try to raise our family the way we ought to, but we have demonic spirits that have attached themselves to us, and I'm here to tell you that we need to be, for them to be detached, we need deliverance. Boy, I'm going to drag you through it if I got to drag you through it." [15:04] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "I want to remind this church this morning that it's very important that we put God first in everything. If you put him first, there's no place for the enemy to, to supersede him. So we must be full of the Holy Spirit and full of the word of God. Not just enough to get us by. Don't be afraid to get full of the Spirit of God. Well, I got the Holy Spirit. Yeah, but let them fill you full. Well, my cup's halfway full. I'm here to tell you, if there's ever been a time, it's time right now to be full of the Holy Spirit. How do I stay full of the Holy Spirit? Just ask God to keep filling you. It's a continuous being filled. It's not a one time thing. It's a continuous being full." [12:33] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "We need deliverance. We need to be healed. We need to be delivered. We need to be set free. The Bible says in Matthew 6, 13, deliver us from the evil. Do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. They asked him, they said, how do we pray, Jesus? And he says, in the middle of that prayer, he said, make sure you pray that you are delivered from the evil one. Why would he tell us to pray that? Because we need it. As a man, I need it. As a woman, you need it. As a father, I need it. As a pastor, I need it. As a Christian, we need it. What? God deliver us from the evil one." [25:19] (63 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "I'm here to tell you that Satan has been planning and scheming before your grandmama winked at your grandmother. Before your mama made a promise to get your daddy. He had a plan. He's got a scheme. He's been lying. He's been waiting. He's been like a predator on the prowl. And he's been doing that. But one little prayer from Jesus, one little thing that Jesus can do is more powerful than all the generations that the enemy has been using to try to tear down your generation. He can reverse the curse right now because we have faith in who Jesus is and what he's doing. Do you believe it this morning?" [27:35] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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