The Eikon Podcast

S6E186: The Other Realm: Possession and Exorcism

Season 6 Episode 186

Today’s conversation explores the correlation between trauma and belief in the spiritual realm, as well as the relevance of Christianity in traditional African contexts. The approach discussed is to listen, ask questions, and help individuals understand the power and authority of Jesus. It is emphasized that spiritual warfare is about living a life of obedience to the gospel rather than directly confronting spiritual entities. The danger lies in turning away from faith, not in being possessed against one's will. The conversation also touches on the topic of deliverance ministries and their potential benefits and dangers.

Takeaways
- Christianity in Africa has a range of beliefs and practices regarding demon possession and exorcism.
- Some denominations dismiss or deny the existence of possession, while others actively engage in exorcisms.
- It is important to differentiate between mental health issues and genuine cases of possession. There is often a correlation between trauma and belief in the spiritual realm.
- The approach to engaging with individuals who have experienced spiritual phenomena should involve listening, asking questions, and helping them understand the power and authority of Jesus.
- Spiritual warfare is primarily about living a life of obedience to the gospel rather than directly confronting spiritual entities.
- The danger lies in turning away from faith, not in being possessed against one's will.

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
04:03 - Overview of Demon Possession and Exorcisms
09:13 - African Traditional Belief: Ancestral Spirits and Possession
27:54 - Differentiating Between Mental Health and Genuine Possession
31:17 - The Correlation Between Trauma and Belief in the Spiritual Realm
34:10 - Engaging with Spiritual Phenomena: Listening, Asking Questions, and Pointing to Jesus
36:13 - Understanding Spiritual Warfare: Obedience to the Gospel
37:11 - The Danger of Turning Away from Faith
38:09 – How we fight the spiritual battle?
40:32 – Can Christians become possessed?