50+ Bible Verses About Spirits Of The Dead

Ever wondered what the Bible says about spirits of the dead? This article brings together 50 verses that shed light on this intriguing topic.

From comforting words to cautionary tales, these verses offer a range of perspectives. Whether you're curious or seeking deeper understanding, you'll find valuable insights here.

What Does the Bible Say About Spirits Of The Dead

The Bible offers a rich tapestry of insights about spirits of the dead, providing guidance and wisdom for those seeking understanding. These verses cover a range of themes, from warnings against seeking mediums to the promise of resurrection and eternal life. By reflecting on these teachings, we can find comfort and direction in our daily lives.

One key theme is the caution against seeking guidance from mediums and spiritists. Verses like Deuteronomy 18:10-12 and Leviticus 19:31 warn us to avoid these practices, urging us to trust in divine wisdom instead. These passages remind us that turning to unreliable sources can lead us astray and cloud our judgment.

Another important theme is the promise of resurrection and eternal life. Verses such as John 11:25-26 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 offer hope and assurance that death is not the end. They encourage us to live with purpose and integrity, knowing that our actions have eternal significance.

The Bible also emphasizes the importance of discernment. 1 John 4:1 and Acts 16:16-18 highlight the need to test the spirits and seek genuine wisdom. These verses remind us to stay vigilant and discerning, especially in a world filled with misleading voices.

Finally, the Bible speaks of God's constant presence and guidance. Verses like Romans 8:16 and 1 John 3:24 assure us that we are never alone. They encourage us to trust in God's love and grace, finding strength and comfort in His unwavering presence.

50 Bible Verses About Spirits Of The Dead

10 Bible Verses on Spirits Of The Dead

1) 1 Samuel 28:7-14

Then Saul said to his servants, “Find me a woman who is a medium, that I may go to her and inquire of her.” And his servants said to him, “In fact, there is a woman who is a medium at En Dor.” So Saul disguised himself and put on other clothes, and he went, and two men with him; and they came to the woman by night. And he said, “Please conduct a séance for me, and bring up for me the one I shall name to you.” Then the woman said to him, “Look, you know what Saul has done, how he has cut off the mediums and the spiritists from the land. Why then do you lay a snare for my life, to cause me to die?” And Saul swore to her by the Lord, saying, “As the Lord lives, no punishment shall come upon you for this thing.” Then the woman said, “Whom shall I bring up for you?” And he said, “Bring up Samuel for me.” When the woman saw Samuel, she cried out with a loud voice. And the woman spoke to Saul, saying, “Why have you deceived me? For you are Saul!” And the king said to her, “Do not be afraid. What did you see?” And the woman said to Saul, “I saw a spirit ascending out of the earth.” So he said to her, “What is his form?” And she said, “An old man is coming up, and he is covered with a mantle.” And Saul perceived that it was Samuel, and he stooped with his face to the ground and bowed down.

Meaning: Even in his desperation, Saul sought guidance from a source he had once condemned. This verse highlights the irony and complexity of human nature, showing how fear and uncertainty can lead us to contradict our own principles.

2) Isaiah 8:19

And when they say to you, “Seek those who are mediums and wizards, who whisper and mutter,” should not a people seek their God? Should they seek the dead on behalf of the living?

Meaning: While the world often encourages us to look for answers in all the wrong places, this verse gently reminds us to turn to God for guidance. It's a heartfelt nudge to trust in divine wisdom rather than seeking solace in uncertain sources.

3) Deuteronomy 18:10-12

There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord, and because of these abominations the Lord your God drives them out from before you.

Meaning: This verse challenges us to reflect on where we seek guidance and wisdom, urging us to turn away from practices that lead us astray and to trust in a higher, divine source.

4) Leviticus 19:31

Give no regard to mediums and familiar spirits; do not seek after them, to be defiled by them: I am the Lord your God.

Meaning: When you feel lost, remember that seeking guidance from unreliable sources can cloud your path. Trust in the divine light to guide you through the darkness.

5) 1 Chronicles 10:13-14

So Saul died for his unfaithfulness which he had committed against the Lord, because he did not keep the word of the Lord, and also because he consulted a medium for guidance. But he did not inquire of the Lord; therefore He killed him, and turned the kingdom over to David the son of Jesse.

Meaning: When faced with tough decisions, remember to seek guidance from trustworthy sources. Turning to reliable wisdom can lead to better outcomes in your life.

6) 2 Kings 21:6

Also he made his son pass through the fire, practiced soothsaying, used witchcraft, and consulted spiritists and mediums. He did much evil in the sight of the Lord, to provoke Him to anger.

Meaning: What drives someone to seek guidance from dark and forbidden sources? This verse challenges us to consider the consequences of turning away from divine wisdom, highlighting the stark contrast between seeking light and embracing darkness.

7) Isaiah 19:3

The spirit of Egypt will fail in its midst; I will destroy their counsel, and they will consult the idols and the charmers, the mediums and the sorcerers.

Meaning: When life feels like a stormy sea, remember that seeking guidance from unreliable sources can lead to shipwreck. Trust in a steady, divine compass to navigate through life's challenges.

8) Leviticus 20:6

And the person who turns to mediums and familiar spirits, to prostitute himself with them, I will set My face against that person and cut him off from his people.

Meaning: Feeling lost and tempted to seek answers in all the wrong places? This verse reminds us that turning to unreliable sources can lead to isolation. Instead, find comfort in seeking guidance from trustworthy and uplifting sources, like a close friend or a mentor.

9) 2 Chronicles 33:6

He caused his sons to pass through the fire in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom; he practiced soothsaying, used witchcraft and sorcery, and consulted mediums and spiritists. He did much evil in the sight of the Lord, to provoke Him to anger.

Meaning: The choices we make can lead us down dark paths, but there's always a chance to turn back. Seeking guidance from positive and reliable sources can help us navigate life's challenges more effectively.

10) 1 Samuel 28:3

Now Samuel had died, and all Israel had lamented for him and buried him in Ramah, in his own city. And Saul had put the mediums and the spiritists out of the land.

Meaning: We often seek quick fixes in times of distress, but this verse nudges us to consider the deeper, more meaningful paths we might overlook.

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11) Leviticus 20:27

A man or a woman who is a medium, or who has familiar spirits, shall surely be put to death; they shall stone them with stones. Their blood shall be upon them.

Meaning: In times of uncertainty, remember that seeking guidance from unreliable sources can lead to dire consequences. Trust in the wisdom passed down through generations to navigate life's challenges.

12) Deuteronomy 18:14

For these nations which you will dispossess listened to soothsayers and diviners; but as for you, the Lord your God has not appointed such for you.

Meaning: It's a gentle reminder that true guidance comes from a higher source, encouraging us to seek wisdom beyond the superficial and fleeting.

13) 1 John 4:1

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

Meaning: It's a call to stay vigilant and discerning, urging us to seek out genuine wisdom and truth amidst a sea of misleading voices.

14) Acts 16:16-18

Now it happened, as we went to prayer, that a certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling. This girl followed Paul and us, and cried out, saying, “These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation.” And this she did for many days. But Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And he came out that very hour.

Meaning: Embrace the power of discernment and courage in your daily life. When faced with misleading influences, stand firm and seek truth, knowing that genuine wisdom brings clarity and freedom.

15) 2 Corinthians 11:14

And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.

Meaning: In moments of doubt, remember that not everything that appears good is truly beneficial. Trust your inner wisdom to discern the genuine from the deceptive.

16) Galatians 5:19-21

Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Meaning: The verse paints a vivid picture of the human struggle, urging us to rise above our base instincts and embrace a higher calling. It's a powerful reminder that true fulfillment comes from living a life of virtue and integrity.

17) Revelation 21:8

But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.

Meaning: When life feels overwhelming and you're tempted to stray from your values, remember that true strength lies in staying true to your principles. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity and the consequences of turning away from it.

18) 1 Timothy 4:1

Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons

Meaning: In the ebb and flow of life's challenges, remember that staying true to your faith can anchor you amidst the storm. Trust in the enduring strength of divine guidance to lead you through uncertain times.

19) 2 Kings 23:24

Moreover Josiah put away those who consulted mediums and spiritists, the household gods and idols, all the abominations that were seen in the land of Judah and in Jerusalem, that he might perform the words of the law which were written in the book that Hilkiah the priest found in the house of the Lord.

Meaning: Take a moment to reflect on the power of renewal. This verse shows how embracing true faith and letting go of harmful practices can lead to profound transformation and alignment with divine wisdom.

20) Jeremiah 27:9

Therefore do not listen to your prophets, your diviners, your dreamers, your soothsayers, or your sorcerers, who speak to you, saying, “You shall not serve the king of Babylon.”

Meaning: When faced with conflicting advice, trust in the wisdom that aligns with your core values. It's a gentle reminder to stay true to what you know is right, even when others try to lead you astray.

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21) Luke 16:19-31

There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and fared sumptuously every day. But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at his gate, desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried. And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. Then he cried and said, “Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.” But Abraham said, “Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.” Then he said, “I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father’s house, for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.” Abraham said to him, “They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.” And he said, “No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.” But he said to him, “If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.”

Meaning: When life feels unfair, remember that true justice and comfort await beyond this world. Hold onto hope and faith, knowing that your struggles are seen and valued.

22) Matthew 22:31-32

But concerning the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was spoken to you by God, saying, ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.

Meaning: It's a gentle reminder that God's love and presence are always with us, guiding us through every moment of our lives. Hold onto this truth, especially when you feel lost or alone.

23) John 5:28-29

Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come forth—those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.

Meaning: Ever thought about how every action we take echoes into eternity? This verse nudges us to consider the lasting impact of our choices, urging us to live with purpose and integrity.

24) 1 Corinthians 15:42-44

So also is the resurrection of the dead. The body is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption. It is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness, it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.

Meaning: God's promise of transformation is unwavering. No matter how broken or weak we feel, there's a divine assurance that we will be renewed and uplifted.

25) Philippians 1:21-23

For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.

Meaning: Ever felt torn between two good choices? Reflect on how your daily actions align with your deeper purpose and consider what truly brings you closer to fulfillment.

26) 2 Corinthians 5:6-8

So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. For we walk by faith, not by sight. We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.

Meaning: When life feels uncertain, remember that God's promises are unwavering. Trust in the assurance that being with Him is our ultimate destination and source of peace.

27) Revelation 6:9-11

When He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony which they held. And they cried with a loud voice, saying, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” Then a white robe was given to each of them; and it was said to them that they should rest a little while longer, until both the number of their fellow servants and their brethren, who would be killed as they were, was completed.

Meaning: In a time when early Christians faced intense persecution, this verse offers a profound shift in perspective. It reminds us that even in suffering, there is a divine plan and ultimate justice, encouraging us to see our struggles through the lens of faith and hope.

28) Ecclesiastes 12:7

Then the dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it.

Meaning: When life feels chaotic and overwhelming, remember that our true essence is eternal and destined to reunite with the divine. It's a comforting reminder that amidst the turmoil, there is a profound peace awaiting us.

29) Matthew 10:28

And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

Meaning: What if you focused on the eternal rather than the temporary? Let this truth guide you to live with a deeper sense of purpose and courage.

30) 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14

But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.

Meaning: When you feel overwhelmed by loss, remember that hope is always within reach. God's promise of reunion and eternal life is a comforting assurance that you are never truly alone.

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31) Genesis 1:2

And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.

Meaning: The word "hovering" evokes a sense of gentle, protective presence. It's like a parent watching over their child, ensuring safety and comfort even in the midst of chaos.

32) John 4:24

God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.

Meaning: In the midst of life's storms, remember that God's presence is a constant source of peace and assurance. His love and grace are unwavering, guiding you through every challenge with a gentle, protective embrace.

33) Hebrews 1:14

Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?

Meaning: There's a comforting hope in knowing that divine help is always near, especially when the world tells us to rely solely on ourselves. This verse gently reminds us that we are never alone, and that humility and trust in God's provision can lead us to a deeper sense of peace and purpose.

34) Romans 8:16

The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.

Meaning: Ever felt alone or uncertain? Let this truth remind you that you are deeply loved and never truly alone, no matter what life throws your way.

35) 1 Corinthians 2:10-12

But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.

Meaning: The certainty of divine revelation is beautifully captured here. The poetic language underscores the profound connection between our spirit and God's, inviting us to embrace the depth and richness of this divine relationship.

36) Galatians 5:22-23

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

Meaning: In every season of life, these qualities offer a guiding light. Embrace them, and you'll find a steady source of strength and grace.

37) Ephesians 6:12

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

Meaning: Remember that our true battles are often unseen, urging us to stay spiritually vigilant and grounded. Embrace faith and inner strength to navigate life's challenges with courage and resilience.

38) 1 John 3:24

Now he who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him. And by this we know that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us.

Meaning: There's a profound comfort in knowing that God's presence is always with us, guiding and nurturing our spirits through every moment of life.

39) 1 Peter 3:18-19

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit, by whom also He went and preached to the spirits in prison.

Meaning: God's love is so profound that He bridges the gap between the divine and the human, offering redemption and hope even in the darkest places. This verse invites us to trust in His boundless grace and transformative power.

40) Acts 2:4

And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Meaning: When life feels uncertain, remember that divine guidance can bring clarity and strength. It's a gentle reminder that there is a greater power at work, lifting you beyond your current circumstances.

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41) 1 Corinthians 15:51-52

Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed— in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

Meaning: The promise of transformation and renewal is a powerful reminder that no matter what we face, there is always hope for a brighter, more glorious future.

42) John 11:25-26

I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.

Meaning: In the face of life's uncertainties, remember that faith offers a promise of eternal life. It's a timeless reminder that belief in something greater can bring profound peace and hope.

43) Romans 8:11

But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.

Meaning: Feel the strength and assurance that comes from knowing God's promises are unwavering. Trust in His word, and let it be a source of hope and renewal in your life.

44) 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.

Meaning: When you feel overwhelmed by life's challenges, remember that a greater promise of reunion and eternal peace awaits. Let this assurance fill you with hope and strength, knowing you are never alone.

45) Philippians 3:20-21

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.

Meaning: The truth of this verse invites you to embrace the hope and transformation that faith offers. Let it inspire you to live with a sense of purpose and anticipation for the divine promise.

46) Acts 24:15

I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust.

Meaning: Faith brings a profound sense of security, knowing that God's promises are unwavering. His love and protection are constants, guiding us through every moment of life.

47) Daniel 12:2

And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt.

Meaning: God's presence is a constant source of comfort and guidance. This verse nudges us to reflect on our actions and choices, encouraging us to live with integrity and purpose, knowing that our lives have eternal significance.

48) Revelation 20:12-13

And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works.

Meaning: When you feel overwhelmed by life's challenges, remember that every action and choice holds significance. Embrace the joy and beauty of living with purpose, knowing that your efforts are seen and valued.

49) Matthew 27:52-53

and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; and coming out of the graves after His resurrection, they went into the holy city and appeared to many.

Meaning: Embrace the truth that faith and hope are not passive—they call us to action. Let this verse inspire you to live with a sense of purpose and to share your light with others.

50) John 6:39-40

This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.

Meaning: When you feel lost or uncertain, remember that you are deeply cherished and secure in God's promise of eternal life.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About Spirits Of The Dead

Applying Bible teachings about spirits of the dead to daily life can bring clarity and peace. These verses offer practical wisdom that can guide our actions and decisions.

• Seek Divine Guidance: Start your day with a simple prayer asking for wisdom and guidance. This helps you stay focused on seeking answers from God rather than unreliable sources.
• Stay Discerned: When faced with decisions, take a moment to reflect and test the spirits. Ask yourself if the guidance aligns with biblical principles.
• Engage in Community: Join a faith-based group or Bible study. Sharing and discussing these verses with others can strengthen your understanding and resolve.
• Practice Integrity: Live with purpose and integrity, knowing that your actions have eternal significance. Make choices that reflect your faith and values.
• Embrace Hope: Remind yourself of the promise of resurrection and eternal life. This can provide comfort and motivation during challenging times.

Remember, God’s presence is always with you, offering strength and guidance. Trust in His love and let your faith drive positive transformation in your life.

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