Lecture on Lust and Demonic Possession

Introduction

• Abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul.
• Striving for greatness but often stumbling due to recurring demons.
• Need to be strong in faith to overcome these demons.
• Today’s focus: Lust and Demonic Possession.

Key Scriptures

Romans 7 and 1 Corinthians 10

• Romans 7:8:
  • Paul discusses sin and the concept of concupiscence (strong sexual desire or lust).
  • He acknowledges his faults openly.
• 2 Corinthians 12:6-7:
  • Paul did not want to be exalted above others despite his revelations.
  • Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” symbolizes his struggle with lust.

Hebrews 2:13-18

• Reflects on Christ's humanity and his ability to sympathize with human weaknesses.
• Christ came in flesh to experience our trials and temptations, making him a merciful high priest.

Proverbs 24:16 and Ecclesiastes 8:11

• Righteous individuals have the ability to rise again after falling.
• Delaying punishment for sin can lead people to continue in their evil ways.

The Dangers of Lust

• Lust can manifest in various forms such as adultery, fornication, homosexuality, and bestiality.
• 1 Corinthians 6:15-20:
  • Our bodies are members of Christ; joining them with immoral acts is sinful.
  • Use your body for righteousness, not for sin.
• 1 Corinthians 7:1-2:
  • Advises against engaging with prostitutes.

Strategies for Overcoming Lust

Prayer and Resistance

• James 4:7:
  • Submit to God and resist the devil, who will then flee.
• 1 Peter 5:8:
  • Be vigilant as the devil seeks whom he may devour.

The Power of Faith and Belief

• John 14:12:
  • Those who believe in Christ can perform works greater than His.
• Matthew 17:20-21:
  • Faith as a mustard seed and the need for prayer and fasting to overcome certain demons.

Demonic Possession

• Matthew 12:22-30:
  • Demonic possession can be identified and cast out through the power of God.
  • Luke 4:33-36: Christ encounters a man with an unclean devil and commands it to come out.
• James 2:19: Even the demons believe and tremble at the name of Jesus.

The Importance of Spiritual Vigilance

• Continuous conscious effort is needed to resist and expel evil influences.
• Matthew 12:43-45: A spirit cast out will seek to return if the person does not fill their life with Godly practices.
• Proverbs 29:3 warns that those who keep company with harlots waste their substance.

Practical Measures

Occupy Your Mind with Scripture

• Sarak 39:1: Occupy the mind with the law of the most high and meditation thereof.
• 1 Peter 4:2: Live for the will of God, not for human lusts.

Avoid Temptations

• Sarak 9:5: Avoid gazing at women to avoid being ensnared by lust.
• Remove yourself from situations that could lead to temptation.

Conclusion

• Believers have power over demons and lusts if they follow Christ earnestly.
• Regular self-examination and repentance are essential.
• Faith, fasting, and prayer are key tools to overcoming lust and demonic influences.