Expert: Scott Talbot - 4/21/2007

Question
Can people use the "evil eye" to hurt Christians or nonchristians? I'm an American living in Cyprus. I have known for a long time that Cypriots believe in this, but I never thought much about it. I was disturbed to find out that my Bulgarian and Russian friends also believe that people can use the evil eye, although one of them said that Christians couldn't be effected. Then I began to think that maybe it's possible for people to do this with satanic power.  

Answer
Hi, Becky,

Sorry it has taken me this long to get back to you. I spent the weekend backpacking on the Appalachian Trail with some friends. I got back just a short time ago.

Can people use the "evil eye" to hurt Christians or non-Christians? This is an interesting question.

First, it's important to understand that the spirit world is real, and that there is a battle going on that involves God and His forces, Satan and his forces, and us (Ephesians 6:10-18).

Even though Satans and demons do not appear to be as active as they were at certain times in history, as recorded in the Bible, they are still very active. It's just that Satan, in my opinion, has become more subtle and deceptive. He works in more discreet ways--namely, through the thoughts in our minds. At least this is the case in the United States. In some cultures, he is more overt.

So can Satan hurt us? I John 4:4 says, "Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world." Satan can do only what God will allow. (See also Job 1:6-12.) Therefore, his power is not unlimited. But it is real.

Can he harm non-Christians more than Christians. Perhaps, but my guess is that he would be less inclined to do so. Satan attacks God's children because 1) It's his way of trying to hurt God; 2) He tries to negatively impact our relationship with God; and 3) He does it to affect our testimony of Christ in the world.

If Satan should want to attack a non-Christian for any reason, they could be more vulnerable, only because they do not have the resources that we as Christians have to fight the battle. Ephesians 6 tells us that we Christians have access to the Armor of God that can defend us against Satan's attacks. One of the greatest of these defenses is our faith (trust) in Jesus Christ, and His ability to take care of us.

I hope that helps. Feel free to write back.

Scott