Do demons manifest themselves physically?
Question:
Do demons have physical manifestations, or do they try to bring us down psychologically?
Answer:
Satan appeared as a serpent in the Garden of Eden (Revelation 20:2). He can appear as an angel of light (II Corinthians 11:14). However, unclean spirits (what most people call demons) are only mentioned as possessing people during the time of Christ. Zechariah prophecies that these evil spirits would be removed around the time prophecy ended (Zechariah 13:2). See What About Demon Possession Today?
The Old Testament hints that demons were behind some idolatry (Leviticus 17:7; Deuteronomy 32:17; II Chronicles 11:15; Psalms 106:37). There are hints that some spiritual beings were manipulating countries behind the scenes. Some were good and others bad, giving rise to the speculation that at least some of our physical wars are reflections of spiritual wars going on behind the scenes (Daniel 10:12-13). The New Testament also indicates that demons are luring people into false beliefs. "Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons" (I Timothy 4:1). But possession by demons today or physical manifestations of unclean spirits is not mentioned in the Bible.
