What was the consequence of casting out the spirit from the slave girl?

• A. They were released immediately.
• B. They were praised by the crowd.
• C. They were exiled.
• D. They were apprehended, beaten, and imprisoned.

Answer: (D)

Casting out the spirit shows how spiritual power often disrupts social and economic interests, not just personal healing. The slave girl’s ability to tell fortunes was a livelihood for her owners, so removing the spirit hit them where it mattered most—their profits. That disruption provoked strong pushback from those who benefited and from the crowd, drawing the attention of authorities. The result was that Paul and Silas were seized, beaten with rods, and imprisoned. This outcome reflects how gospel power can meet immediate opposition and persecution, rather than praise or an easy release.