The term “Jezebel Spirit” is a loaded one, often used in certain Christian circles to describe women who are seen as rebellious, controlling, or seductive. This term has been particularly weaponized in environments like The Potter’s House, where it is used to marginalize and silence women. Understanding the origins of this term, its biblical roots, and why it should be rejected in modern Christian discourse requires a deep dive into both scripture and church history.
Who Was Jezebel in the Bible?
Jezebel was a queen of Israel, married to King Ahab, as described in the Old Testament books of 1 and 2 Kings. She was a Phoenician princess and the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians. Jezebel is portrayed as a powerful and manipulative figure who encouraged the worship of Baal, a pagan god, leading Israel into idolatry. Her actions included orchestrating the murder of Naboth to seize his vineyard for her husband and attempting to kill the prophet Elijah.
In the Bible, Jezebel is condemned not because she was a woman, but because she led Israel away from the worship of Yahweh and towards idolatry. Her story ends with her being thrown out of a window, trampled by horses, and eaten by dogs, as prophesied by Elijah. Importantly, the Bible does not describe Jezebel as being demon-possessed, nor does it specifically refer to her having a particular “spirit.” Instead, her name became synonymous with wickedness, manipulation, and idolatry.
Origins of the "Jezebel Spirit" Concept
The concept of a “Jezebel Spirit” does not originate from the Bible itself but from interpretations and teachings within certain Christian denominations, particularly in Pentecostal and Charismatic circles. The term began to gain popularity in the 20th century, though pinpointing the exact origin is challenging. One influential figure in popularizing this term was the late 20th-century preacher and author John Paul Jackson, who taught extensively on spiritual warfare and demonic influences. Jackson and others like him used “Jezebel Spirit” to describe a demonic force that they claimed influenced individuals—particularly women—to be rebellious, seductive, or manipulative.
This interpretation, however, is not grounded in a careful exegesis of the biblical text. Instead, it reflects a broader pattern in certain Christian traditions where women are often accused of being “Jezebels” if they challenge male authority or exhibit behaviors that the church deems inappropriate. This labeling has been used to discredit women in leadership and silence dissent.
Misogyny in The Potter's House and Use of the "Jezebel Spirit"
The Potter’s House, like many authoritarian religious movements, has a history of using the “Jezebel Spirit” label as a tool of control, particularly against women who do not conform to its rigid gender roles. In such settings, women are often expected to be submissive, modest, and supportive of male leadership. Women themselves are not merely discouraged from leadership; they are never recognized as leaders. For women in The Potter’s House, getting married is the only valid option, and preferably to a potential pastor. Any deviation from these expectations—such as assertiveness, independence, or challenging male authority—can result in accusations of having a “Jezebel Spirit.”
This label is deeply misogynistic because it pathologizes normal and healthy behaviors, such as assertiveness and independence, as spiritual failings. It also reinforces harmful gender stereotypes, where women are viewed as inherently more susceptible to moral or spiritual corruption. In The Potter’s House, this can manifest in various ways:
Silencing Women: Women who speak out against church practices or who assert their opinions may be labeled as having a “Jezebel Spirit” to discredit them and undermine their influence within the church community.
Enforcing Submissiveness: The accusation of a “Jezebel Spirit” is often used to force women into submissive roles, ensuring they do not challenge the authority of male leaders.
Shaming and Blaming: Women who are perceived as too independent or who fail to conform to expected gender roles may be publicly shamed, ostracized, or disciplined under the guise of spiritual correction.
Why We Should Stop Using the Term "Jezebel Spirit"
The term “Jezebel Spirit” is not only theologically unsound but also deeply harmful. It perpetuates a culture of misogyny, where women are unfairly targeted and marginalized. Here are several reasons why this terminology should be abandoned:
Biblical Inaccuracy: The Bible does not support the idea of a “Jezebel Spirit.” Jezebel was a historical figure, not a demon or a spirit. Her actions, while reprehensible, do not justify the creation of a generalized and gendered label to demonize women.
Misogyny: The term silences women and discourages them from taking on leadership roles or speaking out against injustices within the church.
Spiritual Abuse: Using the “Jezebel Spirit” accusation is a form of spiritual abuse, as it manipulates individuals into conformity through fear and shame rather than encouraging genuine spiritual growth and understanding.
Psychological Harm: Labeling women with a “Jezebel Spirit” can lead to significant psychological and emotional harm, including feelings of guilt, shame, and worthlessness. It can also contribute to a toxic church culture where people are afraid to express themselves or question authority.
Examples of Misogyny in The Potter's House
In The Potter’s House, misogyny manifests in several ways, often under the guise of spiritual guidance or discipline:
Gender Roles: Women are typically expected to adhere to strict gender roles, focusing on homemaking, supporting their husbands, and refraining from leadership roles. They are not merely discouraged from leadership; they are never recognized as leaders. For women in The Potter’s House, getting married is the only valid option, and preferably to a potential pastor. This limits their opportunities for personal and spiritual growth.
Control Over Appearance: There is often strict control over how women dress and present themselves, with an emphasis on modesty that can be used to blame women for the actions of men.
Public Shaming: Women who do not conform to the expected roles may be publicly shamed or disciplined. This can include being called out in sermons or subjected to private meetings where they are chastised.
Suppression of Voices: Women’s voices are often suppressed, with little to no opportunity for them to express their thoughts or concerns without fear of retribution.
In conclusion, the term “Jezebel Spirit” is a harmful and theologically unsound concept that has been used to marginalize and control women within certain Christian communities, including The Potter’s House. Moving away from this terminology is crucial for fostering a healthier, more inclusive church environment where both men and women can grow spiritually without fear of being unfairly labeled or silenced.
Joel E. Crosby is the author of Escaping the Potter’s House: An Anthology of Memoirs by Former Members. As a survivor of spiritual abuse, Joel draws from his experiences in The Potter’s House to expose the issues within authoritarian religious groups. His book offers compelling stories that provide insight and hope to others on similar journeys.