Jezebel is referenced over 22 times in the Bible, primarily in 1 Kings 18 and again in Revelation 2. While other scriptures mention fear and heaviness as spirits, the Bible does not explicitly label Jezebel as a spirit.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
(2 Timothy 1:7)
“To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”
(Isaiah 61:3)
Christians often refer to Jezebel as a spirit due to her mention in the book of Revelation, where she is seen as a false prophet leading others astray.
“Nevertheless, I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols.”
(Revelation 2:20)
This passage suggests that Jezebel represents a demonic influence that drives individuals toward control, false teachings, and sexual immorality. Jezebel’s life, as described in 1 Kings 18, was marked by immorality, idolatry, false teachings, and a lack of repentance. She was neither guided by principles nor restrained by fear of God or man, passionately pursuing heathen worship.
In Revelation 2:21-23, Jezebel’s refusal to repent leads to severe consequences for her and her followers. The passage highlights that Jezebel operated at high levels within the church, illustrating how this spirit can infiltrate and influence religious communities.
Characteristics of the Spirit of Jezebel
- Operates in Men and Women: This spirit can manifest in anyone, leading to control and manipulation. I recall delivering a man from this spirit, which had caused lust and addiction to pornography.
- Control, Manipulation, & Domination (A Form of Witchcraft): Jezebel’s spirit is characterized by manipulation and control, contrasting with the Holy Spirit’s fruit of self-control and other virtues (Galatians 5:22).
- Causes Fear, Flight, and Discouragement: Jezebel instills fear and discouragement, as seen when Elijah fled in fear after receiving her message (1 Kings 19:3-4). This spirit often attacks individuals after significant victories, leading to despair and burnout.
- Seduces and Provokes Sexual Immorality: Revelation 2:20 warns of Jezebel seducing God’s servants into sexual immorality. This spirit often targets leaders to cause widespread damage.
- Teaches False Doctrine: Jezebel controlled religious practices and spread false teachings. In Revelation, she continues to influence the church with her deceptive doctrines.
- Loves Leadership Positions: Jezebel seeks leadership roles, craving attention and power. This desire for prominence can lead individuals to fall under her influence, using their position for personal gain rather than God’s purposes.
- Thrives Where Leadership is Weak: Jezebel thrives in environments with passive leadership, like Ahab’s, which avoids confrontation. Strong, principled leadership is needed to combat this spirit effectively.
- Not Repentant: Jezebel rarely repents, as seen in both 1 Kings and Revelation. God gave her a chance to repent, but she remained defiant (Revelation 2:21).
To overcome Jezebel’s influence, seek repentance, embrace the fruit of the Holy Spirit, and resist the urge to control and manipulate. By doing so, you can prevent this spirit from taking hold in your life and community.
