Jesus has authority over demons
The starting point is Jesus himself. In the Gospels, he confronted unclean spirits directly and set afflicted people free. His authority was unmistakable, not borrowed from a ritual or dependent on a dramatic setting. When the seventy returned from their mission, they were amazed that evil spirits submitted when they used Jesus' name. Jesus redirected their joy towards belonging to God, not towards spiritual power or success (Luke 10:17-20).
That matters today. A Christian does not stand against evil by being brave enough, loud enough, or specially gifted enough. Any authority belongs to the risen Christ. The New Testament's focus is not fascination with demons, but confidence in the Lord who is greater than them.
And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.
The apostles acted in Jesus' name
The book of Acts records Paul freeing a slave girl who was troubled by a spirit of divination in Philippi. Paul did not perform a ceremony or make himself the centre of attention. He commanded the spirit to leave in the name of Jesus Christ, and it did (Acts 16:16-18). This shows that Christ can work through his people.
Still, Acts does not present this as a routine task every Christian must perform. These events happened in particular moments as the gospel spread. Sincere Christians differ on whether every believer today should directly command demons, or whether this ministry should normally be handled by tested and mature church leaders. Either way, Scripture leaves no room for pride.
And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.
Jesus' name is not a formula
Acts also gives a sober warning. Some Jewish exorcists in Ephesus tried to use the name of Jesus as though it were a phrase with power on its own. They did not know Christ or share Paul's faith, and the encounter ended badly for them (Acts 19:13-16). The evil spirit recognised Jesus and Paul, but exposed the emptiness of their imitation.
So casting out demons is never magic. Saying Jesus' name is not a technique for controlling spiritual forces. It means relying on the real Lord Jesus, living under his authority, and seeking his help. James calls believers to submit themselves to God, resist the devil, and draw near to God (James 4:7).
And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?
Respond with prayer and discernment
The Bible calls the whole church to be alert, prayerful, and equipped with God's truth, faith, salvation, and the word of God (Ephesians 6:10-13; Ephesians 6:17-18). It also says not to accept every spiritual claim without testing it (1 John 4:1). That is a wise path when someone fears demonic influence or asks for help.
Don't carry a frightening situation alone. Speak with mature, trustworthy Christian leaders who will pray carefully, keep Christ at the centre, and avoid pressure or spectacle. Read the passages for yourself. Whatever form spiritual care takes, the Bible points again and again to Jesus, his authority, and the steady hope of those who belong to him.