Yes, we still believe in the devil

[fish0251]

Pope John Paul II has performed at least two exorcisms since becoming pope. The second was as recently as 2000.

Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we are not contending against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world rulers of this

Comments

[tonapah]

So you personally believe that people get possessed by the Devil/evil spirits?

[fish0251]

Yes. For the Christian it's not something to fear, because Christ has forever overcome the power of evil. (CCC 2852-53) But it does seem to remain a possibilty for those who reject the power of God and open themselves to such influences.

"When the Church asks publicly and authoritatively in the name of Jesus Christ that a person or object be protected against the power of the Evil One and withdrawn from his dominion, it is called exorcism. Jesus performed exorcisms and from him the Church has received the power and office of exorcizing. (cf. Mk 1:25-26; 3:15; 6:7, 13; 16:17)" (CCC 1673)

[tonapah]

But you're also a scientist. Do you have problems believing things that have no evidence, given your background in science? (e.g. you can't prove someone is possessed; they can be faking, have a mental illness, etc.---how do you say "OK, there's no proof, but I'll believe it anyway"?)

[fish0251]

Well, first of all you're assuming that there is no evidence. I'm not well versed in this area, but I think it's certainly possible that demonic possession can be accompanied by phenomena that are not explainable by natural causes.

I believe it on the testimony of the Church and the Scriptures. I have given ample evidence elsewhere as to why I trust these to be true.

What evidnece do you have to doubt that the reports of possession are false?