The Exercise of Mind-Control Techniques in the Pentecostal & Charismatic Movements .
In other papers on this website (on Healing and Visualisation), we have examined the magical use of the spoken word as an outworking of occult word-power in order to effect change in one's environment. We now turn to the use of verbal suggestion as a powerful method of effecting change in others " a form of Shamanism which has become astonishingly widespread throughout the Christian Church. .
As Charismatic teachings have become increasingly popular, there has also been a major growth of interest in demons and demonology. An alarming number of people have developed for themselves what is commonly called a 'deliverance ministry', through which they claim to practise exorcism and other forms of combat with the demonic realm. Coupled with this, there has been a huge upsurge in a variety of animistic and superstitious practices which are used to ward off demons from an particular geographical area or life-situation. There now follows a list of some of the techniques for the attempted neutralisation of demonic activity which we have personally witnessed or which have been brought to our attention during recent years: .
Ritual exorcism of people, pets and personal environments through spoken commands addressed to the demonic realm. .
'Pleading the blood of Christ' verbally to demons or drawing an imaginary so-called 'bloodline' round an area to ward off demons. .
Audibly praying over every orifice of one's body to prevent the entry of demons through them. .
The use of ecstatic 'tongues-speaking' as a means of spiritual warfare, based on a misinterpretation of Eph.6:17b-18a. .
Continuous playing of contemporary 'Christian' music on cassette or CD players to deter the presence of demons. .
The visualised adorning of oneself in a suit of armour each morning on rising, and the visualised removal of it last thing at night.
