Poltergeists: Understanding Spiritual Disturbances and Biblical Warnings
A poltergeist is a spirit or demonic presence associated with physical disturbances, such as objects moving, items being thrown, unexplained noises, and other disruptions in a home or around a specific individual. Poltergeists are often mistakenly seen as harmless supernatural phenomena, but the Bible teaches that any spiritual activity outside God’s authority is dangerous and must be resisted (Ephesians 6:12).
Cultural Origins and Beliefs
The concept of poltergeists has roots in European folklore, especially in German-speaking regions during the 16th to 19th centuries. The term “poltergeist” comes from German: poltern (“to make noise”) and Geist (“ghost” or “spirit”).
In these cultures, poltergeists were believed to be mischievous or malevolent spirits that targeted homes, families, or individuals. Folklore attributed disturbances to spirits of the dead, elemental forces, or even demons. People often believed these spirits were linked to a particular person—typically an emotionally troubled teenager or someone in the household experiencing tension.
Unlike Christianity, which teaches that God alone governs life and spiritual authority, these European traditions assumed unseen spirits could independently act in the physical world, either to punish, entertain, or frighten humans.
Creators and Historical Promoters
The poltergeist concept was not created by a single author but developed over centuries through oral tradition, folklore, and early occult writings. Early cases were chronicled by local historians, clergy, and paranormal enthusiasts who documented strange occurrences, often attributing them to spirits or witches.
The belief persisted because unexplained events created fear and reinforced local superstitions. Some spiritualists and occultists later embraced poltergeists as evidence of the supernatural, tying them to séance practices or spirit communication.
Gods and Spiritual Framework
Poltergeists are not associated with any formal deity. In Christian understanding, they are demonic spirits—fallen angels working under Satan’s authority to deceive, frighten, and torment humans (1 Peter 5:8). Folkloric interpretations sometimes treated poltergeists as neutral or mischievous spirits, but the Bible shows that any spiritual activity outside God’s protection is dangerous.
Because poltergeists often manifest through unexplained phenomena, they can appear to operate independently. In reality, they are part of the spiritual forces that oppose God, aiming to instill fear, confusion, and distraction.
Purpose and Why People Get Involved
Poltergeists are not intentionally “used” by most people, but individuals often become involved unknowingly. Certain behaviors, such as dabbling in Ouija boards, occult games, spirit summoning, or curses, can invite these spirits. Once a spirit is attached to a person, family, or location, disturbances can begin, creating chaos, fear, and sometimes even physical harm.
Some people are drawn to the supernatural out of curiosity, entertainment, or desire for hidden knowledge. Poltergeists, however, are not benign. The Bible warns that spirits outside God’s control are deceptive, often aiming to manipulate and torment (James 4:7).
Is Poltergeist Activity Divination?
Yes. Engaging with poltergeists—whether directly or indirectly—is considered a form of divination and occult involvement. Any attempt to communicate with spirits, interpret disturbances, or seek guidance from supernatural phenomena falls under the Bible’s warnings against divination (Leviticus 19:31, Deuteronomy 18:10-12).
Even seemingly passive interaction, such as observing or investigating a poltergeist, can open doors to spiritual deception. Christians are instructed to seek protection, deliverance, and guidance from God alone, not from spirits or unexplained phenomena.
Biblical Warnings
Scripture repeatedly emphasizes that the spiritual realm is real and that humans can encounter forces opposing God:
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Ephesians 6:12: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
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1 Peter 5:8: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
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Leviticus 19:31: “Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God.”
Poltergeists represent these spiritual forces attempting to intimidate, deceive, or control. Christians are called to resist them through prayer, Scripture, and the authority of Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
Poltergeists are more than folklore—they are manifestations of demonic forces that cause fear, confusion, and physical disturbances. While European traditions often presented them as mischievous spirits, the Bible shows that any spiritual activity outside God’s authority is dangerous. Christians must reject all occult involvement, trust in God’s protection, and resist the influence of spirits attempting to operate in their lives or homes.
Teresa Morin
President of Touch of God Int’l Ministries
🌐 https://www.touchofgod.org
Of Healing and Deliverance, Ordained Minister, Public Speaker
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Poltergeists: Understanding Spiritual Disturbances and Biblical Warnings
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“Poltergeists are troublesome spirits that cause objects to move, strange noises, and fear. While folklore often depicts them as mischievous, the Bible shows that any spiritual activity outside God’s authority is dangerous. Poltergeists are demonic forces trying to deceive, frighten, and torment. Christians must resist them through prayer, Scripture, and the authority of Jesus Christ. Don’t investigate or engage with spirits—trust God alone for protection and spiritual safety.”
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