Online Resource Library
Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comFausset Bible Dictionary: Exorcism
Subjects in this Topic:
(See DEVIL; DIVINATION.) Practiced with spells, as the name of Solomon, magic charms, and incantations among the Jews. -16; the profane use of Jesus' name as a mere spell was punished by the demon turning on the would be exorcists; these "vagabond Jews" were pretenders. But our Lord implies that some Jews actually cast out demons (), probably by demoniacal help; others in the name of Jesus, without saving faith in Him (; ). He gave the power to the twelve, the seventy, and to other disciples after His ascension (; -19; ; ). The term "exorcise" is never up. plied in Scripture to the Christian casting out of demons. In the end of the 3rd century "exorcists" were made an order in the Christian church, much to the fostering of superstition, especially in connection with baptism.