Demonization and man's will

[rlvaughn]

We are talking about Demons and demon possession in another thread. I decided the following is off-topic enough that it needs to be in a different thread, so I am starting this one. How does man's will play into the possibility of demonization or demon-possession? In discussing the subject I had someone tell me that Satan and demons cannot force themselves into the spiritual life of human beings, and that God would not allow Satan to force himself (spiritually) into someone's life. I realize that there are views at variance here on the Baptist Board concerning man's will -- but does man have to open himself up, do something through an act of the will, to allow (even invite) demons into his life?

I don't know why it isn't easy to understand that man's will can be bound. Alcohol and drugs are two examples (but man does take a step of the will to bring these into his mind body). How about with demons?

 

[Reynolds]

We are talking about Demons and demon possession in another thread. I decided the following is off-topic enough that it needs to be in a different thread, so I am starting this one. How does man's will play into the possibility of demonization or demon-possession? In discussing the subject I had someone tell me that Satan and demons cannot force themselves into the spiritual life of human beings, and that God would not allow Satan to force himself (spiritually) into someone's life. I realize that there are views at variance here on the Baptist Board concerning man's will -- but does man have to open himself up, do something through an act of the will, to allow (even invite) demons into his life?

I don't know why it isn't easy to understand that man's will can be bound. Alcohol and drugs are two examples (but man does take a step of the will to bring these into his mind body). How about with demons?

I do know certain sins invite him to come in. Occult being most obvious example that comes to my mind.

 

[Baptist Believer]

...but does man have to open himself up, do something through an act of the will, to allow (even invite) demons into his life?

I don't know why it isn't easy to understand that man's will can be bound. Alcohol and drugs are two examples (but man does take a step of the will to bring these into his mind body). How about with demons?

Those who commit themselves to a lifestyle of the flesh open themselves up to demonic forces:

Galatians 5:19-21
Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.​

Note, this is not just occasional sin in the lives of believers who are growing in grace, but willful commitment to indulging the flesh (body).

Of special note here is the word that is translated "sorcery" in the NASB and "witchcraft" in the KJV. The Greek word being translated is actually φαρμακεία (pharmakeia) which is a word that also refers to drug use (we get the English word "pharmacy" from the same Greek root) since the use of mind altering substances often correlates with idolatry and the occult.

There is a sense that we can easily drift into any of these sins, but when we commit ourselves to them as a matter of the will, we harden ourselves to the things of God and move out from under His protective care. I am convinced that God gives us a shocking amount of freedom to reject Him and His blessings. Those who knowingly reject God are exceptionally vulnerable to demonic oppression/manipulation/demonization. God hands them over to their own destruction unless they are willing to be free.