5 Surprising Facts About the Rise in Exorcism Requests

In a recent episode of “The Playing With Fire Podcast,” Mike Signorelli, senior pastor of V1 Church in New York City, discussed the concept of exorcism from a biblical perspective and shed light on the increasing demand for deliverance ministry in today’s society.

Despite skepticism surrounding possession in the modern era, both faith leaders and practitioners have witnessed a surge in individuals seeking deliverance and spiritual healing.

Signorelli pointed out the overwhelming number of requests for exorcism within the Catholic Church, leading to a reported “system failure” within Catholicism due to the inability to meet the demand. He attributed this rise to the proliferation of occult practices and the mainstream acceptance of New Age spirituality, which he believes exposes people to spiritual dangers and potential evil.

Here are four surprising facts about deliverance from evil spirits in today’s society according to Pastor Signorelli:

1. Deliverance, often used interchangeably with exorcism, is the act of Jesus expelling unclean spirits from individuals, extending the ministry of Jesus through His followers. “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved. But he who does not believe will be condemned. These signs will accompany those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues,'” (Mark 16:15-17).
2. Not all individuals who claim to be Christians have truly internalized the transformative power of the gospel, leaving them susceptible to struggles with the demonic realm. Deliverance is necessary for those who have not fully embraced and repented of their sins.
3. The process of deliverance involves cultivating a life permeated by the Holy Spirit, hosting His presence in a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. This agitates evil and exposes its presence, leading to freedom and healing. “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do men light a candle and put it under a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven,” (Matt. 5:14-16).
4. Genuine repentance and closing doors to sin are essential to avoid the need for deliverance, as demonstrated by the contrasting examples of David and Saul in the Bible. “Therefore submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you,” (James 4:7).

Signorelli shared powerful testimonies from his ministry, recounting instances where individuals experienced profound transformation after receiving deliverance. One woman, who had suffered from years of incessant ringing in her ears, found relief and joy after her deliverance session when the ringing completely ceased.

As the demand for deliverance continues to rise, Signorelli encourages Christians to recognize the spiritual warfare at play and engage in practices that invite the Holy Spirit’s presence, ultimately bringing freedom and healing to those in need. {eoa}

James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.