Why Some Demons Will Not Come Out: Overcoming the Barriers to Deliverance
Have you ever wondered why some demons refuse to come out, even after prayer and command? In Matthew 17:14–21 and Mark 9:17–29, the disciples asked Jesus a powerful question after they failed to cast out a demon: “Why could not we cast him out?”
Jesus responded, “Because of your unbelief…Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.”
This response reveals spiritual keys to deliverance. Let’s explore why some demons resist expulsion and how to overcome these barriers.
1. Unbelief and Lack of Faith
Faith is essential for healing and deliverance. Jesus rebuked the disciples not because they didn’t try, but because they lacked faith. Even the father of the demonized boy struggled: “Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.” (Mark 9:24)
Faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains—and cast out demons. Doubt opens a door for demons to remain. Both the minister and the one receiving ministry must stand in unwavering faith.
2. Bitterness and Unforgiveness
Unforgiveness is a major block to deliverance. Jesus said plainly in Matthew 6:14-15:
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
Bitterness keeps people chained to torment. When we choose not to forgive, we separate ourselves from Christ, giving demons legal ground.
Jesus tells the story of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:32-35. The result? He was delivered to the tormentors. God allows torment when unforgiveness reigns in our hearts.
Forgiveness doesn't mean restoring toxic relationships, but it does mean releasing people from your judgment. True forgiveness brings freedom, peace, and healing.
3. Habitual Sin and the Works of the Flesh
Demons cling to habitual sin. When people continue living in sin, they give demons the right to remain. Galatians 5 lists works of the flesh that open the door to demonic influence: idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, wrath, strife, envy, and more.
Deliverance is not magic. It is a spiritual process that requires repentance and alignment with God's Word.
4. Fasting: A Weapon of Deliverance
Jesus said, “This kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” (Matthew 17:21)
Fasting humbles the flesh and sharpens spiritual awareness. It reminds us that we depend fully on God. Both the minister and the person receiving deliverance may need to fast.
Fasting also increases discernment. It helps reveal hidden roots, like unforgiveness, pride, or occult involvement. It empowers prayer with spiritual authority.
5. Prayer: Alignment with God’s Will
Prayer is more than asking; it’s communion. Effective deliverance prayer includes:
Repentance of sin
Asking God to reveal the stronghold
Petitioning for strength and clarity
Speaking the Word of God over the situation
Praise and thanksgiving for His deliverance
Deliverance starts with humility and surrender. Jesus said unless we become like children, we cannot enter the Kingdom (Matthew 18:3-4). That childlike faith and trust is what drives demons out.
6. Self-Unforgiveness
Many people forgive others but fail to forgive themselves. This, too, opens a door to torment.
Mark 11:25-26 tells us to forgive when we pray, so our prayers are not hindered. Self-forgiveness is vital for full deliverance. Jesus paid the price for ALL our sins. When we withhold forgiveness from ourselves, we reject the finished work of the Cross.
7. God Allows Torment When We Refuse to Forgive
Matthew 18 ends with a stern warning: “So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.”
Some people continue to suffer mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually long after the original abuse because they refuse to forgive. Demons remain, tormenting, because unforgiveness gives them legal access.
Before casting out demons, we must ask:
Deliverance is not a quick fix. It is a process of sanctification and healing that begins with a yielded heart. The solution is not more shouting at demons but deeper surrender to Christ.
If you are struggling with recurring bondage, take time to:
Examine your heart.
Forgive others and yourself.
Fast and seek the Lord.
Confess and renounce sin.
Pray and trust God for complete freedom.
You can be free. Jesus came to set the captives free. He is still healing the brokenhearted and delivering those oppressed by the devil (Luke 4:18).
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In Christ,
Teresa Morin
President, Touch of God Int'l Ministries
Ordained Minister, Public Speaker
Healing and Deliverance Ministry
🌐 https://www.touchofgod.org/
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