It would seem that Satan is in authority over two distinct orders of beings—­the Satanic order of the earth, and the Satanic host of the air.  It is clear that he secured the scepter of government in the earth from Adam, by right of conquest:  while his authority over the Satanic host is, undoubtedly, that which he has been permitted to retain from his creation.  If Satan has thus kept his authority over these spirits from the beginning, it follows that they are in full sympathy with him and render him willing service.  The following Scriptures emphasize the authority of Satan over these beings:  “And if Satan cast out Satan, how then shall his kingdom stand?” (Matt. 12:26).  “Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels” (Matt. 25:41).

The reality and personality of this host of evil spirits is taught in Scripture; and a careful study of the numerous passages in which they are mentioned will reveal how God has provided complete instruction in His Word concerning this theme on which so much of the believer’s welfare depends.

These spirits are usually referred to in both the Authorized and Revised Versions of the New Testament as “devils,” but the word might better have been translated “demons.”

In considering the service these beings render to Satan, it is important to distinguish between demon possession or control, and demon influence.  In the one case the body is entered and a dominating control is gained:  while in the other case a warfare from without is carried on by suggestion, temptation, and influence.

Investigation of the Scriptures in regard to demon possession reveals: 

First:  That this host is made up of bodiless spirits only.  The following Scripture verifies this statement:  “When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.  Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.  Then goeth he, and tak’eth with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there:  and the last state of that man is worse than the first” (Matt. 12:43-45).  “And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them” (Mark 5:12).

Second:  They are, however, not only seeking to enter the bodies of either mortals or beasts (for their power seems to be in some measure dependent upon such embodiment); but they are constantly seen to be thus embodied, according to the New Testament.  A few of these passages are given here:  “When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils:  and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick” (Matt. 8:16).  “As they went out, behold, they brought to him a dumb man possessed with a devil.  And when the devil was cast out, the dumb spake”