Further proof that people in New Testament times believed demons to be idols or 'gods' is found in Acts 17:16-18; this describes how Paul preached in Athens, which was a "city wholly given to idolatry", therefore worshipping many different idols. After hearing Paul preach the Gospel, the people said, "He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange (i.e. new) gods (demons): because he preached unto them Jesus and the resurrection".
Ushahidi zaidi ambao watu wa nyakati za Agano Jipya waliamini mashetani kuwa ni sanamu au ' miungu’ unapatikana katika matendo 17: 16 -18: huu unaeleza jinsi Paulo alivyohubiri katika mji wa Anthene, ambo ulikuwa umezungukwa na sanamu, kwa hiyo wakizitumikia sanamu za aina mbalimbali Baada ya kumsikia Paulo akihubiri Injili, watu wakasema,"Aonekana kuwa mtangaza habari za miungu migeni (mashetani): Kwa maana alikuwa akihubiri habari za Yesu na ufufuo.