Question
Gramps,
I was wondering where or what happens to someone’s spirit if they have their body possessed by an evil one.
Sarah
Answer
Sarah,
Demonic possession, as understood by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, involves an evil spirit taking control of a person’s body, influencing their actions, thoughts, and emotions. The Church recognizes that while spiritual possession is not as common as other forms of spiritual distress, it is a reality that can occur. Those who hold the holy priesthood possess the authority and power, granted through this priesthood, to confront and expel evil spirits.
Scriptural accounts provide a foundation for understanding demonic possession. The Bible recounts numerous instances where evil spirits inhabited individuals, subjecting them to torment and malicious control. For example, in the New Testament, Jesus encounters people possessed by evil spirits, demonstrating the authority of the holy priesthood by casting them out. These narratives show the belief that evil spirits seek to disrupt the lives of mortals but can be overcome through divine intervention and priesthood authority.
Central to the Church’s approach to demonic possession is the role of the holy priesthood. The priesthood is seen as a sacred authority bestowed upon worthy members, enabling them to perform ordinances and provide spiritual protection. Those holding the priesthood have the power, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, to exercise authority over evil spirits.
When an individual is believed to be possessed, priesthood holders perform prayers and blessings aimed at delivering the person from the evil influence. This process involves commanding the evil spirit to leave, which, according to Church teachings, is effective due to the authority granted by the priesthood and the power of the Holy Spirit. The outcome is often immediate, with the person returning to their normal self, expressing relief and freedom from the oppressive spirit.
The Church’s teachings on demonic possession are deeply rooted in biblical scripture. Passages such as Matthew 8:28-34, Mark 5:1-20, and Luke 8:26-39 vividly describe encounters between Jesus and individuals possessed by evil spirits. In these accounts, the possessed are liberated through divine authority, often accompanied by dramatic displays of power over the evil entities.
Moreover, the Book of Mormon also addresses the influence of evil spirits. Alma 13:13-14 discusses how the “spirit of the devil” can take possession of a person’s household, leading to dire consequences. This scripture emphasizes the importance of righteousness and the role of divine guidance in resisting and overcoming evil influences.
In contemporary times, the Church continues to uphold these teachings, guiding members who may experience spiritual oppression. Emphasis is placed on maintaining personal righteousness, seeking support from priesthood holders, and relying on the Holy Spirit for protection and deliverance. This holistic approach ensures that individuals have access to both spiritual and communal resources when facing such challenges.
When an individual is freed from demonic possession, the Church teaches that their spirit remains intact and untainted by the evil influence. The experience of possession is viewed as a temporary state where the person’s agency was compromised by the malevolent spirit. Upon liberation, the individual retains their agency and the capacity to choose good over evil.
The relief experienced post-possession is often profound, as the individual regains control over their thoughts and actions. This restoration reinforces the Church’s belief in the resilience of the human spirit and the protective power of the priesthood. It also serves as a testament to the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil, highlighting the importance of faith, prayer, and righteous living in safeguarding one’s soul.
Gramps
