Thinking Prophetically – Not Everything is a Demon

Is There Really a “Jezebel Spirit”? A Biblical Perspective on Spiritual Warfare

A young man I ministered to recently was convinced he was tormented by the “Jezebel spirit.” It’s a term I hear often in Christian circles, but I gently challenged him, “Show me in the Bible where it says there’s such a thing.” Of course, there is no specific reference to a Jezebel spirit. Why is that? Jezebel’s references are usually in connection with witchcraft, and Gal. 5:20 tells us that witchcraft is not a spirit but a work of the flesh. Spirits can get involved in witchcraft practices, but if you are going to believe the scriptures, we can only conclude that witchcraft originates in the flesh and only thereby (by the flesh) is the person involved in such things opened up to the demonic. Is it necessary to divide this subject almost down to the level of trivia? Yes, because Satan is a master deceiver. He would love for you to be mistaken for a fleshly activity that NEEDS TO BE CRUCIFIED by Christian discipline and holiness rather than a demon. Misunderstanding such things can spin a person off into a whole realm of fanciful, contrived “demonology,” which only distracts believers from the real vulnerability of unsanctified flesh. Remember that it wasn’t Satan that brought sin into the world; it was Adam through the flesh. What about witchcraft? Being a work of the flesh, if you are not IN THE FLESH or operating in carnality, the enemy might assault you, but he will be unable to defeat you because you are not, in that instance, vulnerable to his realm. 

While it’s understandable that many well-meaning believers embrace the concept of specific demonic spirits, it’s crucial to ground our faith in Scripture, not popular trends or speculation. The Bible doesn’t explicitly mention a “Jezebel spirit,” but rather the historical figure of Jezebel, a wicked queen known for idolatry, manipulation, and persecution of God’s prophets. Her story serves as a cautionary tale against ungodly influence. However, we must be careful not to transform a historical figure into a catch-all spiritual diagnosis. What is Jezebel, then? Jezebel is a personality type you could almost see as a classification, and its influence and working is very prevalent in Christian culture and in society at large. One avenue of consideration to identify Jezebel is the “cult of celebrity” in our culture that puts men (and women) up on a pedestal as larger-than-life figures with questionable morals, glorifying indecency and fostering promiscuity as normal, healthy behavior. 

Numerous suggestions about “this demon” or “that spirit” circulate among believers, often without a strong scriptural foundation. It’s essential to discern between genuine spiritual warfare and misdirected attempts to cast out demonic influences. Sometimes, what we perceive as demonic may actually be rooted in our own sinful nature, requiring repentance and transformation rather than exorcism. The Bible provides clear guidance on demonic activity, but we must be cautious not to create spiritual constructs that lack scriptural support. If you do just a precursory search in scripture here is a list of things and names from the demonic realm: 

Unraveling Misconceptions

The Bible doesn’t mention a “Jezebel spirit.” What we do find is the historical figure of Jezebel, a wicked queen in the Old Testament known for idolatry, manipulation, and persecution of God’s prophets. Her story serves as a warning against ungodly influence.

But the danger lies in taking a historical example and turning it into a spiritual catch-all. When we do this, we risk:

• Misdiagnosing spiritual issues: Instead of addressing root problems like sin, fear, or trauma, we get sidetracked by battling phantom spirits.
• Giving the enemy power: The devil loves it when we’re distracted and exhausted fighting things that aren’t even real.
• Overlooking the Holy Spirit: Instead of relying on the power of God within us, we chase after sensationalistic solutions.

What the Bible DOES Say About Spiritual Warfare

Again, the Apostle Paul tells us in Galatians 5:19-21 that witchcraft is a work of the flesh. It only has power over those who are living in the flesh. But when we learn to “walk in the Spirit,” we become immune to its influence.

This doesn’t mean that Christians are never tempted or attacked by the devil. But we have the authority, through Christ, to resist the enemy and stand firm in our faith. We can do this by:

• Renewing our minds with Scripture: The Word of God is a powerful weapon against the devil’s lies and deception.
• Putting on the full armor of God: This includes prayer, faith, and the truth of God’s Word.
• Walking in love and forgiveness: Love is the greatest weapon against darkness.
• Submitting to the Holy Spirit: The Spirit of God will guide us and empower us to overcome any challenge.

The Challenge and the Invitation

It’s time to stop blaming demons when the real culprit (as in Adam, whose fleshly choice opened all creation up to sin and the fall), the real culprit is sinful flesh requiring repentance, discipline, and the pursuit of holiness. Did demons get involved where Adam was concerned? Yes, but only after Adam’s fleshly choice opened the door. Close the door to sinful habits, behaviors, and actions, and you will strongly curtail your own vulnerability to the demon. So, let’s crucify our own sinful nature through the power of the cross. Let’s make decisions that go against the grain of our natural thinking, led by the Spirit of God.

Am I suggesting we ignore the demonic? No, rather than we proceed to identify demonic activity from a position of being firmly rooted in scripture. Instead of getting caught up in debates about “this demon” or “that spirit,” let’s focus on what the Bible clearly identifies as demonic. And let’s remember that sometimes, the things we need to cast out are rooted in our own sinful nature, not some external entity.

Where, then, did all the names of demons that aren’t in scripture, where did they come from? Ancient Christian traditions, and usually from interactions with seemingly oppressed people in stylized pseudo-exorcisms. The belief is since Jesus required demons to name themselves (not every time, only occasionally), that therefore we can trust what a demon says in a deliverance session. Early in my ministry, I was acquainted with a nationally known deliverance ministry that sent out a monthly compendium of demonic names gathered in deliverance sessions. Likewise, many deliverance ministers make a record of conversations with demons ostensibly to learn about the demonic in hopes of defeating them. The problem there is that they are LEARNING from interactions with demons how to proceed dealing with them. That constitutes “giving heed to doctrines of demons” 1 Tim. 4:1. We need to get back to the anchor of revealed scripture, particularly when dealing with the demonic. 

In conclusion, let’s ground our faith in the truth of Scripture and walk in the power of the Holy Spirit. That’s where true freedom and victory are found.

• Summary: Instead of focusing on hypothetical spiritual entities, let’s prioritize biblical truth, personal growth, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

• Call to Action:
  • Examine your beliefs: Scrutinize your spiritual beliefs to ensure they align with Scripture.
  • Seek biblical counsel: Consult with mature Christians or pastors for guidance.
  • Prioritize spiritual growth: Study the Bible, prayer, and fellowship.
  • Embrace the power of the Holy Spirit: Allow the Spirit to guide and empower you.
  • Share your testimony: Encourage others by sharing your journey of faith and growth.

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