Is the “Jezebel Spirit” Wreaking Havoc on the 21st Century Church?

The term “Jezebel spirit” has become a recognizable (and often controversial) phrase in certain Christian circles, particularly within charismatic and Pentecostal denominations. It’s used to describe a manipulative, narcissistic, dominating, and often sensual influence believed to be at work in the church today. Of course, the description draws its name from the biblical Queen Jezebel—a figure infamous for promoting pagan worship and persecuting God’s prophets in ancient Israel (I Kings 18-21).

The Allegation

In the contemporary church context, those who warn about the “Jezebel spirit” often allege that its influence manifests in several ways. I want to highlight four key areas:

1. Manipulation & Control: The “Jezebel spirit” is a mindset driving people (both men and women) to seek unwarranted control over church leaders, ministries, or congregations. This can appear as lobbying, backbiting, or using spiritual authority to coerce obedience. Romans 16:18 describes manipulators who use "smooth talk and flattery" to deceive. Specifically, women can exploit their beauty, social influence and maternal instincts to control men in the church. In some circles women pastor churches and seek to undermine of influential men. Proverbs 26:24-26 warns against believing those with deceitful hearts despite charming words. Pay attention.

2. Erosion of Authority: The “Jezebel spirit” is often linked to undermining established spiritual authority, particularly male leadership, which critics view as a direct attack on a biblically prescribed church structure. Modern day feminists and advocates are hard pressed to find biblical examples of women in church leadership. Elders, deacons and the apostles were all men (I Timothy 3:1-8). If God didn’t ordain it, command it, condone it, or reveal it by example, why is it an issue? Romans 13:1-7 states that all authority comes from God and resisting it is resisting God's ordinance. Paul told Timothy (I Timothy 2:12) that a woman should not usurp authority over a man in the church (or in the home). It doesn’t get much clearer.

3. Moral Compromise: Echoing the biblical Jezebel’s promotion of pagan fertility rites, the modern interpretation of the “Jezebel spirit” frequently connects the spirit to sexual immorality, promiscuity, or a general watering down of moral standards within the church body. This is especially the case in churches where image is everything. James 4:4 says that “friendship with the world is enmity toward God.” We are not to "be conformed to this world" (Romans 12:2). Unfortunately we live in an Instagram following, Starbucks drinking, Facebook liking, podcast watching, Gucci wearing, tech savvy culture that rewards pagan living. Churches should be more focused on biblical principles not on what’s seen as sexy or visually stimulating to outsiders.

4. Suppression of Truth: The ultimate goal, according to those who use the term “Jezebel spirit” is to silence truth tellers and replace them with false, self-serving teachers. There simply is not a biblical precedent for women pastors. Churches that permit this spirit are weak and compromising. The truth sets us free (John 8:32) because Jesus IS the Truth (John 14:6). Culture should not determine church doctrine or policy. This is why people are leaving “woke” churches in droves.

The Focus

Whether one accepts the idea of a specific "Jezebel spirit" or not, the underlying issues it attempts to address are relevant to the 21st-century church, primarily abuse of power and manipulation. When people feel that their God-given spiritual gifts, authority, or voice are being suppressed, they may label the suppressive environment or person as exhibiting a "Jezebel spirit." Conversely, the accusation itself can be a powerful, and sometimes unfair, weapon used to silence critics, especially women seeking leadership roles or offering strong correction to male-dominated hierarchies. The label can unfairly dismiss legitimate calls for accountability as merely the work of a demonic influence. Proceed with caution. “Hell hath no fury like….” Well, you probably know the rest.

The real havoc being wrought in many modern churches isn't just by a single "spirit," but by a failure to practice transparent leadership, mutual submission, and genuine accountability. Women are workers. They are doers. It is within their very nature to show compassion, build relationships and speak their mind. They are more spiritual, thoughtful and (usually) more goal driven than men. This can also be a weakness when exploited or elevated.

A church dedicated to humility, authentic biblical community, and Christ-like servant leadership (where all members are valued and respected) is the strongest defense against any form of manipulation, regardless of what label it’s given. The focus should always be on discerning fruit (Matthew 7:16-20) and fostering a culture where all power is wielded to serve, not to control.

There is room for everyone in the church: man, woman, child, Jew, Greek, African, American, Asian, young or old ALL have a seat at the Lord’s table. Instead of compromising for culture we should be seeking the biblical model. His way is always the best way.

You are loved.

Ray Reynolds, PhD

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