What are territorial spirits?

Answer

“Territorial spirits” is a term that some Christians use to recognize demonic presence in a specific geographic location. Interestingly, it is also a term used by pagans to describe a supernatural presence believed to inhabit a particular geographical area.

The Christian idea of territorial spirits is based on passages such as Daniel 10; John 12:31; John 14:30; John 16:11; Mark 5:10; and Ephesians 6:12. These passages suggest that fallen angels have been assigned some form of authority over a specific region, indicating a territorial nature. However, it is important to note that this concept is inferred; the Bible does not explicitly outline a hierarchy of demonic authority in the world. What the Bible does make clear is that demons are active in the world and that believers are engaged in a spiritual battle against them.

For instance, in Daniel 10, an angel contended with a demonic opponent while Daniel was in prayer and fasting. It was only after the conclusion of Daniel’s focused spiritual time that the angel was able to break free and come to Daniel. Ephesians 6 urges believers to stand firm against spiritual adversaries and to be vigilant and prepared for battle. It is evident that our earthly struggle is reflected in some manner in the spiritual realm.

The issue with the term “territorial spirits” is that some Christians believe it is their responsibility to confront territorial demons in spiritual warfare. However, this belief cannot be supported by Scripture. Nowhere in the Bible is there an instance where someone actively sought out a demon to engage in battle. Individuals possessed by demons were encountered, and some were brought to Jesus and His disciples for healing, but the disciples did not actively seek out demons to exorcise. There is no record in the Bible of anyone praying for the “demon princes” of a town to be “bound” from influencing the residents of that town.

Territorial spirits, although not explicitly a scriptural concept, may indeed exist, as evidenced in the preceding passages. Whether a spirit is “territorial” is not particularly crucial. What truly matters is our reaction. A follower of Christ lacks biblical justification to partake in prayer-led spiritual warfare against demons. Instead, one must recognize the presence of a spiritual conflict and treat it seriously «Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: », (1 Peter 5:8). Our focus should be on prayer and spiritual growth. If we ever confront a demon, we certainly possess the authority given by Christ to address it, but we should not actively seek them out, whether territorial or otherwise.