Can a Christian Today Perform an Exorcism?
Can a Christian Today Perform an Exorcism?
The question of whether a Christian today can perform an exorcism—a formal act of commanding a demon to leave a person—is one that must be answered with theological clarity, biblical precision, and pastoral wisdom. While the New Testament contains numerous accounts of demons being cast out, the practice of exorcism today is often surrounded by confusion, excess, and unscriptural traditions. Therefore, our task is to discern whether such a practice is commanded, normative, or even necessary for believers today.
1. Exorcism in the Ministry of Jesus and the Apostles
During His earthly ministry, Jesus Christ frequently cast out demons to demonstrate His divine authority and the arrival of the Kingdom of God.
Matthew 12:28:
"But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you."
Jesus also gave His disciples temporary authority to cast out demons as part of their apostolic mission.
Matthew 10:1:
"And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease."
This power was delegated, not inherent. The exorcisms performed by the disciples were part of a unique, transitional period during which the gospel of the kingdom was being confirmed with signs and wonders (cf. Mark 3:14–15; Luke 10:17–20). Their authority over demons was proof that their message came from God.
2. A Shift in the Epistles: From Exorcism to Endurance
A noticeable shift occurs when we move from the historical books (Gospels and Acts) to the didactic books (Romans through Jude). These letters are the clearest instructions for the New Testament church, yet none of them command or even describe exorcism as a continuing ministry for the believer.
Instead, the epistles speak of resisting Satan and standing firm in spiritual warfare.
Ephesians 6:11–12:
"Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places."
James 4:7:
"Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you."
1 Peter 5:8–9:
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith..."
These commands emphasize standing, resisting, and remaining steadfast, not confronting demons in individuals with spoken commands.
3. The Authority of the Apostles Was Unique and Not Transferred
In Acts 16:16–18, the Apostle Paul cast out a demon from a slave girl who was possessed:
"Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, 'I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.' And he came out that very hour."
—Acts 16:18
However, this apostolic action is not prescriptive for all believers. It is descriptive of what took place under apostolic authority, which was authenticated by miraculous signs (see 2 Corinthians 12:12). Attempts by others to imitate this kind of authority without a true relationship with Christ failed dramatically.
Acts 19:15–16:
"And the evil spirit answered and said, 'Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?' Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them..."
This account stands as a warning against presumption and the misuse of Christ’s name apart from His authority.
4. The Christian's Battle is Primarily Internal, Not External
The New Testament epistles teach believers to focus on internal sanctification, putting off the old nature, and being transformed by the renewing of the mind.
Romans 12:2:
"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind..."
Ephesians 4:22–24:
"That you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt... and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness."
These are the tools of spiritual warfare—not casting out demons, but walking in truth, submission to Christ, prayer, and obedience.
5. Evangelism and Discipleship Are the Primary Means of Deliverance
Deliverance from demonic bondage comes not through rituals of exorcism, but through the gospel of Jesus Christ. The only effective and lasting solution for someone under demonic influence is regeneration by the Holy Spirit.
Colossians 1:13:
"He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love."
2 Corinthians 5:17:
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new."
6. Conclusion: Can Christians Perform Exorcisms?
While God is sovereign and may use any means He desires to deliver a person from demonic oppression, there is no biblical instruction or example that commands or encourages New Testament believers to perform formal exorcisms. The authority to cast out demons was a temporary apostolic sign, not a normative practice for the church.
Instead, believers are called to preach the gospel, disciple the saints, pray fervently, and stand firm in the truth. The Word of God, the name of Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit are sufficient to free men and women from the kingdom of darkness.
Let us not be distracted by man-made rituals of deliverance but remain firmly rooted in the authority of Scripture and the finished work of Christ.
