The word “exorcism” is not used in the Bible, but the act of casting out demons is clearly seen throughout the ministry of Jesus and the early church. However, biblical deliverance is not the same as modern exorcism practices, which often include rituals, objects, or traditions outside of Scripture.
Jesus cast out demons with a word. In Matthew 8:16:
“When evening had come, they brought to Him many who were demon-possessed. And He cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all who were sick.”
No formulas, no incantations, and no objects were needed. The power was in His authority as the Son of God.
Jesus gave this same authority to His disciples. Mark 3:14–15 says:
“Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach, and to have power to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons.”
In the book of Acts, Paul casts out a demon from a slave girl with a single command:
“I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And he came out that very hour. (Acts 16:18)
Exorcism in biblical terms is deliverance. There is no biblical record of rituals, incense, or extended ceremonies. Deliverance is immediate and effective when done in faith and in the name of Jesus. For those seeking freedom today, the solution is repentance, confession, and turning fully to Christ. Freedom is not found in formulas, but in submission to the Son of God.
