'Casting Out Demons'

Should Christians speak to the devil and/or demons and cast them out or command them to leave us, and if so, how should this be done? What does the Bible say?

By Pastor Ken Burisek,
The Ole Country Church, Medford, Wisconsin
Email:
kburisek@Jesus answers.com

The answer to this question would be yes, but with a bit of a disclaimer. The Bible says quite clearly in Mark 16:17, And these signs shall follow them that believe (believers): In My name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues.

These verses are most likely directed toward mature Christians, well founded in their walk with God. When Jesus walked this earth, He went about casting out devils, among other miracles as it says in Mark 1:34. And He healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew Him. And the Bible goes on to say in John 14:12. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto My Father.

We also know there is great power and authority in the name of Jesus itself as we read in Mark 9:38-40 -- And John answered Him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in Thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbade him, because he followeth not us. But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in My name, that can lightly speak ...