How powerful are demons?

How powerful are demons? Can they make stuff in false religions happen so that those false religions seem true?

Demons are only as powerful as God allows them to be. They are allowed to function in the atmosphere of a fallen, sinful world, which is populated by many fallen and sinful people (Ephesians 2:1-3). But, the “relative” power of the devil and his demons is regulated by the “absolute” power and providence of God (Revelation 17:17).

In regard to false religions being able to make things happen that seem true, there is sense that gullible unbelievers will believe what is “false” before they believe what is “true” because:

1. They prefer the darkness of their selfish sins (John 3:18-20).
2. They love the way of the world (1 John 2:15-16).
3. They are being deceived by the devil and his demons (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12).

So, even though what false religions may say and do are clearly “wrong”, unbelievers may think they are “right”, because the devil has come as “an angel of light” and tricked them (2 Corinthians 11:14). False religions and false teachers are more easily discerned by believers who have the Holy Spirit of God to reveal the error for them. But, unbelievers don’t have the Holy Spirit, therefore, what is “false” can seem “true” to them (1 Timothy 4:1-2 and 2 Timothy 3:13).

In the end, God’s truth will prevail and demonic falseness will be defeated, all because Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and will be the King of kings and Lord of lords. Be sure you know Jesus personally and share the message of His love and forgiveness with those trapped in false religions! Remember, Jesus came into the world to save sinners and to “destroy the works of the devil”! (1 John 3:6). God bless you!