Should Christians cast out demons?

Pastor Mike’s Answer (edited)

Demonic oppression is real, and Pastor Mike has prayed for people suffering from serious demonic influence. He does not, however, imitate ceremonial exorcisms, employ incantations, recite formulas, or address demons as though he possesses personal jurisdiction over them.

Christ and his apostles directly commanded demons as part of their unique authority. The church is built on that apostolic foundation, but ordinary Christians are not instructed to reproduce every sign associated with it. Jude’s account of Michael saying, “The Lord rebuke you,” is a fitting reminder that the power belongs to God.

Christians should pray earnestly for God to free and protect afflicted people. Prayer may appear less dramatic than a ritualized exorcism, but it rightly places confidence in Christ rather than in a person’s words or techniques.