It might be added that there seem to be degrees of wickedness represented by these spirits:  for it is stated in Matt. 12:43-45 that the demon, returning to his house, “taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself.”

The question is often raised whether demon possession obtains at the present time.  Although the authentic records of such control are almost wholly limited to the three years of the public ministry of Jesus, it is incredible that demon possession did not exist before that time, or has not existed since.  In this connection it should be remembered that these beings are not only intelligent themselves, but that they are directly governed and ordered by Satan, whose wisdom and cunning are so clearly set forth in the Scriptures.  It is reasonable to conclude that they, like their monarch, are adapting the manner of their activity to the enlightenment of the age and locality.  It is evident that they are not now less inclined than before to enter and dominate a body.  Demon possession in the present time is probably often unsuspected because of the unrecognized fact that demons are capable of inspiring a moral and exemplary life, as well as of appearing as the dominating spirit of a spiritist medium, or through the grosser manifestations that are recorded by missionaries from heathen lands.  These demons, too, like their king, will appear as “angels of light” as well as “roaring lions,” when by the former impersonation they can more perfectly further the stupendous undertakings of Satan in his warfare against the work of God.

Demon influence, like the activity of Satan, is prompted by two motives:  both to hinder the purpose of God for humanity, and to extend the authority of Satan.  They, therefore, at the command of their king, willingly co-operate in all his God-dishonoring undertakings.  Their influence is exercised both to mislead the unsaved and to wage an unceasing warfare against the believer (Eph. 6:12).

Their motive is suggested in what is revealed by their knowledge of the authority and deity of Christ, as well as by what they know of their eternal doom.  The following passages are important in this connection:  “And behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time?” (Matt. 8:29).  “And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth?  Art thou come to destroy us?  I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God.  And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him” (Mark 1:23-25).  “And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?” (Acts 19:15).  “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well:  the devils also believe, and tremble” (Jas. 2:19).