The need for Deliverance

The spirit world is real, in spite of the world's ideas. The Bible, which is of course our basis, teaches that there are angels and demons and that they are active in the lives of men and women. Heb 1:14, Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation; Eph 6:10-12, Finally, be strong in the Lord and his mighty power.

Put on the full armour of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms; 1 Jn 5:19, We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.

Did you know that ? More to the point, have you been willing to recognise it ? The Christian often has a credibility gap - it is one thing to know the theory of what the Word teaches about spiritual realities, and quite another to face up to the fact that our everyday lives and the lives of others we meet are so affected. We need to move out of theory into daily practice.

One of the ways the enemy will attack you as you begin to deal with the demonic, is that the thought will come to you, "It's too far-fetched". You see, the devil does not like people getting involved in this ministry. He'll do everything in his power to squeeze you out, frighten you, cause you to doubt or fear. The more you determine to go on, the greater awareness and certainty you will have as to the spirit realm.

Our example is Jesus. He constantly moved in this ministry: see Luke 4:18-19, The Spirit of the Lord is on me because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favour; Luke 13:32, He replied, "Go tell that fox (Herod), I will drive out demons and heal people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal" (his calling); and Col 1:13, For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves (what salvation is). Those who have themselves had spirits cast out will readily appreciate the need for this ministry.

To give support to those in spiritual conflict. Stay clear of arguments that say it is not possible for Christians to be demonised, and don't try to categorise - oppressed possessed, compressed, impressed, depressed. In other words, don't waste your time. Avoid phrases that hedge and fudge.