What is Deliverance?
Deliverance in the Christian community means to release a person from the influence, control, and torment of evil spirits (demons). This was a significant part of Jesus’ ministry and is a continuous theme running throughout the Gospels and the New Testament writings. Jesus commanded us to do as He did, giving us the same authority and power. (Luke 4:18, John 10:10)
In early church history, the believers performed deliverances because many of the new converts came out of pagan cultures immersed in idolatry, witchcraft, and all kinds of wickedness. Sometimes it is difficult for us to recognize evil spirits today because we don’t always see overt demonic manifestations. But these same practices exist in our post-Christian era and cultures around the world. Demons relentlessly entice people to give in to the corruption in this world through their lust and the weakness of their flesh. (Galatians 6:8, 2 Peter 1:4, James 1:14-15, 1 John 2:15-16)
Therefore, as Christians, we must understand that deliverance is real and relevant today. We are to declare the Good News of the Gospel to forgive sins and set the captive free. We use the Sword of the Spirit—the Word of God—to cast out evil spirits and in faith exercise our authority in the Name of Jesus and power of His Blood. The Holy Spirit gives us discernment and wisdom to know how to wage war against satanic control over people. He provides the gifts of the Spirit to equip us. This commission and authority are for every believer in Christ Jesus. (Read the Book of Acts)
The Bible says: “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the powers of this dark world and the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12)
“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:4-5)