One of Yeshua’s principle ministries, besides healing, was deliverance. A father brought his young son to Yeshua, saying, “A spirit seizes him and he suddenly screams; it throws him into convulsions so that he foams at the mouth. It scarcely ever leaves him and is destroying him…Even while the boy was coming, the demon threw him to the ground in a convulsion. But Jesus rebuked the impure spirit, healed the boy and gave him back to his father.” (Luke 9:39,42) This sounds like Epilepsy, other episodes where demons were cast out sound like violent mental illness. Has modern medical science given new names to spiritual possession/oppression as it only recognizes physical impairment and considers spiritual issues mental illness. 

Yeshua’s closest disciples were given these instructions: “As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.” (Matthew 10:5-8) Clearly, Yeshua knew demons were causing problems and He had authority over them. (Mark 3:14-15) One of His close followers was delivered from demon possession/oppression. “When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons.”(Mark 16:9) 

Where is Yeshua’s deliverance ministry today? There appears to be plenty of symptoms of demon possession/oppression today. I add both terms, because distinguishing these might be difficult and of little practical importance. Has the Church abandoned its authority for deliverance to medical science? Has leadership in churches today deemed that deliverance minister ended in the first Century along with Spiritual gifts? Is there a lack of faith to enable authority for deliverance from demons? Certain medications have been developed to control or moderate Epilepsy and other “mental” disorders. Is the epidemic of mentally deranged mass murders and school shootings a modern manifestation of demonic destruction? Many suggest various coping mechanisms instead of addressing the root cause, because they do not acknowledge the realm of the Spirit and for political reasons. In the past leaders of our nation turned to God when faced with national emergencies. Hitler’s attempts to annihilate the Jews was certainly demonic in purpose and effect. Certain nations embody the same aims today. Clearly, Yeshua demonstrated authority over demonic forces of evil. Along with revival, the Congregation of Believers needs an outpouring of faith and authority to drive out evil spirits in our day. If we are his faithful disciples He would send us out as He did when He was on earth. (Luke 9:1-6; 10:1-20)