INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
A growing number of pastors lead a movement on spiritual warfare, promising to free individuals from demonic influences through their
ministries.Their approach reflects a broader trend in evangelical Christianity called deliverance, with over 1,400 practitioners offering
healing nationwide.The concept of spiritual warfare emerged in the 1980s, brought to America by theologian C Peter Wagner.It draws
inspiration from Latin American and African spiritual practices, where good and evil actively shape daily life.This worldview resonates with
many in the Western world who feel overwhelmed by a secular society where the One God is getting replaced by new ideas.Demonic oppression, a
subtler form of spiritual influence, manifests in various ways in modern life
(Photo Internet reproduction)Her life unraveled gradually, marked by irritability, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts of failure
She felt a spiritual barrier in prayer and sensed an inexplicable dark presence.A growing number of deliverance centers attract people
seeking freedom from such afflictions.Participants undergo a process involving questionnaires and intense prayer sessions, often
approach differs from traditional Catholic exorcisms, emphasizing personal motivation and willingness to change.Online platforms have
significantly spread the practice of deliverance
Weekly Zoom sessions allow people worldwide to participate in spiritual warfare.These digital gatherings gained popularity during the
COVID-19 pandemic as traditional church attendance declined.The Catholic Church also reports increased demand for exorcisms, training more
exorcists to meet this need.Critics argue that deliverance ministries can be dangerous when they discourage seeking medical treatment.Some
participants have abandoned conventional therapies for serious illnesses in favor of spiritual healing.This trend raises concerns about
potential health risks associated with rejecting evidence-based medicine.Despite these concerns, many find comfort and hope in deliverance
transformation resonates with those disillusioned by traditional institutions.Christian scholars debate whether true believers can
experience possession or merely oppression
discernment with medical and psychological expertise.Reframing Social Issues in Spiritual Warfare
(Photo Internet reproduction)The rise of deliverance ministries reflects broader shifts in the American religious landscape.As mainstream
churches struggle to retain members, more experiential forms of faith gain traction.Reframing Social Issues in Spiritual WarfareThis trend
intersects with political movements, conspiracy theories, and growing distrust of established authorities
Spiritual warfare practitioners often view societal problems through a different lens.They may attribute issues like homelessness and
addiction to demonic influences rather than socioeconomic factors.This worldview can provide a sense of agency to those feeling overwhelmed
responsibility.Misdiagnosing mental illness as demonic oppression poses risks
Critics highlight potential manipulation in some deliverance ministries.As deliverance ministries grow, they raise important questions about
lives.It underscores the complex relationship between religion, mental health, and social issues in contemporary America.The future of
deliverance ministries remains uncertain
While they offer hope and community to many, they also face scrutiny from medical professionals and skeptics.As the movement evolves, it