Deliverance Ministry - Introduction
“Deliverance Ministry”
Is It Legitimate?
Pastor Tony Butler
The following is an outline study for your consideration concerning deliverance ministry. The material below doesn’t exhaust all that could be written, but I hope it is enough to stimulate thought, discussion and prayer. One can say the subject of deliverance ministry is merely polemical but in reality, many doctrines to which we adhere in various denominations are polemical. Being polemical doesn’t mean we should lesson its importance. For many pastors, healing for today is polemical, the pre-tribulational rapture is polemical, as well as many other doctrines we hold dear. Many people believe in once saved always saved or not, it is a doctrine that differs widely among believers in the US. To God no doctrine is polemical and from His point of view, He would want us to seek out the truth the best we can while respecting other points of view.
From the outset, I want you to know that I don’t think everything bad thing in a person’s life is the work of a demon. I know human flesh is sinful and is quite capable of evil thinking and bad behavior. I also believe truth is the greatest deliverer that sets people free. For most people deliverance merely comes from coming into understanding of God’s word and applying it to their lives. I realize there is much abuse and false teaching connected with this ministry as there are with all other ministries. I have seen people pretend to have demons just for the attention. Some ministers over emphasize and sensationalize the ministry beyond degree while some ministries practice false means of deliverance. I am also very aware there are mental illnesses and diseases that may have the appearance of the demonic, but are not demonic. There are ways to test the manifestations to make sure if they are demonic in nature.
It is perfectly understandable and wise to approach the subject with caution due to such abuses with the possibility of other explanations in certain situations. However, we shouldn’t throw out the baby with the bath water. We should walk in all that God gives us whether others use it correctly or not. Many false gospels are preached today but we still preach the truth so people can be saved. The same is true of deliverance. Regardless of the abuses and misrepresentations, we owe it to people to share all of God’s truth. May God bless you as you seek the Lord in this matter.
Next- Why Study the Subject of Deliverance?
Last modified:
April 5, 2008 07:56 PM
Print this page