Deliverance isn’t the preserve of specialist ministries. It’s the privilege of every believer. “And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons” (Mark 16:17).

Demons make people sick. When we minister healing, we’ll sometimes encounter demons.

Don’t be afraid

He says, “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you” (Luke 10:19). Love the person, hate the demon!

There are two main kinds – easy ones and difficult ones (see Mark 9:29).

What are demons?

Demons are real! They are unclean spirits that oppress (not possess) people through idolatry, witchcraft, the occult, freemasonry, addictions, trauma and soul ties. They make people afraid, hate worship and scripture, and often manifest through shaking, rolling, wild or defiant eyes.

We sense their presence by spiritual discernment (1 Corinthians 2:14; 12:10).

Use your keys!

If you suspect a demon, command it to come out in the name of Jesus. No need to shout, but be stern (Mark 1:25). If you need to know its name, the Holy Spirit will tell you. If it leaves within a few minutes, pray for them to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

If it doesn’t come out, it has a reason to stay. Tell the demon to be quiet (Mark 1:25). Command the person to take control. Ask the person if they’ve been involved in the above list, or need to forgive anyone. Lead the person in a prayer of repentance and forgiveness. Then command the demon to come out. Finally ask the Lord to fill them with his Spirit. Make sure the person is surrounded by believers. Every church should have a trained deliverance team, and every believer willing to fight the enemy.