Evidence for God from Science

I've been a fan of these boards and this website for a good half-year now, so I decided it was time I join!

lately, I've been wondering about an issue I rarely (if ever) see brought up in Christian communities, especially the churches I've been a part of. Who has been given the authority to cast out demons? All Christians, or just select people? Also, what form do demons take today... are they in resting (I'm asking this, because exorcism is something I never really hear about people doing, beyond the typical televangelist, which I sincerely doubt is sincere)? Or, is possession more prevalent today then ever before? Should any 'mental illnesses' be attributed to possession? I myself suffer from a mild form of bipolar disorder, and I definitely see spirituality being a big part of that... but I don't really consider it 'possession' (I have the Holy Spirit, so it can't be that) Although, there's a chance that it could be in part oppression by demons? Casting demons was a big part of Jesus' ministry, so why does it seem to have fallen by the wayside?

Thanks for your time!

All authentic spirit-filled Christians have the authority to cast out a demon in the name of Jesus. It's best not to try it alone though. Don't attempt it if you are caught in a sin addiction(s) yourself. Don't touch the person until after the demon has left and afterwards lead them to the Lord and educate them. They need to be discipled, become involved in a local congregation, and completely repudiate the items and practices that led to their possession forever. In some cases, prayer and fasting may be necessary.