I've not seen the movie, but in the last year, I've encountered four individuals within the context of our church that were clearly afflicted by "demonization." Three experienced significant deliverance after fervent prayer and anointing by our elders. One remains troubled by spiritual oppression.

This is not a ministry I've sought out, but it has been inescapable. I long for the church to provide training and equipping for the ministry of deliverance from unwanted spirits.

And as we become more aware of church contexts around the globe, the need for this very biblical ministry will only become more evident.

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Demons are one thing.

I'd like to see him get rid of my Aunt Tillie and Uncle Leo who've been visiting us for three weeks now.

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There is, without a doubt, a high degree of ignorance in the church on this subject. We have psychologists, we have labels for various psychological ailments...but little recognition of when this leaves the psychological and enters the supernatural.

Hollywood has for too long had its say on this matter and this is sadly the dogma of the general population on the subject of demon possession or being demonized.

While the American church is lost on the subject, missionaries have long had to deal with the realities of this phenomenon taking place in the various mission fields they labor in. I personally do not recommend the average believer to get too familiar with the subject matter except to know it is real and they need to remain distant from a realm they are dangerously ignorant of. This is not a place for foolish denominational views of demons behind every rock, this is spiritual warfare on a level most are not prepared for.

For the most part Satan would prefer to be anonymous and control the world than to be blatantly in the public eye. It is easier to manipulate believers with covetousness and lust than to make a public appearance and frighten you back into God's presence.

Url,
I want you to know I did watch the video, and my only response is...well...you know.

/facepalm

This topic is complex and nuanced, and often times what is considered possession isn't possession at all, rather a medical or mental issue.
Don't get me wrong, demon possession is quite real, but the way we portray it is more like a circus or freak show act.

btw, fwiw...I will not be seeing the movie.

Frankly, I'm just really grateful for men like Father Thomas who seem to be voices of sanity in this discussion.