There are many methods put forth for dealing with demons which involve elaborate attempts to identify particular demons and their relation to other demons. This can involve dealing with the demons at work in a specific person's life. It also can be used for evangelism, by attempting to identify the specific demon in charge of certain geographic areas. All this can be good fun, but I am forced to wonder if there in any real spiritual point to it. I certainly do not want to discourage prayer for the assistance of others or for the work of evangelism (Ephesians 6:18-20; Philippians 4:6,7; 1 Timothy 2:1-8). Nor should we forget the fact that we have adversaries who would like to hinder us and who we should stand up against (Ephesians 6:10-13; 1 Peter 5:8,9; 2 Corinthians 10:3-6). But there seems to be no place in Scripture that encourages us to make detailed inquiries into demons' names and relationships. (The one case where Jesus inquired about a demon's name seems to be an attempt to determine how many demons were involved; Mark 5:9.) Inquiring after the names and relationship of demons can become a gimmick to avoid emphasizing trust in God and perseverance in prayer (Proverbs 3:5,6; Isaiah 40:31; Luke 11:5-13). And these are the real issues.
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