Can a Christian be demon-possessed? Mike distinguishes possession from influence/oppression. Christians have the Holy Spirit indwelling them — demon possession (ownership/control) seems incompatible with the Spirit's presence. But Christians can be oppressed, influenced, and harassed by demons. The demoniac in Mark 5 was fully controlled; Christians may experience lesser forms of spiritual attack but not total possession.

The Greek word (daimonizomai) means demon-influenced/affected, but the NT examples show full control (Mark 5 demoniac). Christians have the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19: body is temple of the Holy Spirit). Full demonic ownership/control seems incompatible with the Spirit's indwelling. But spiritual oppression, harassment, and influence are real. The solution either way: pray, resist the devil (James 4:7), pursue holiness.