In an age when society seems increasingly plagued by chaos, addiction and brokenness, deliverance minister and revivalist Isaiah Saldivar argues that the church has overlooked one of its most critical callings: the ministry of deliverance. In a recent interview with Charisma Media, Saldivar shared his perspective on why deliverance is essential and how it directly addresses the rise of demonic influence in our world.
A Biblical Mandate for Deliverance
“The ministry of deliverance is not optional for Christians,” Saldivar said. “It was a core part of Jesus’ ministry and should be a core part of ours.” He pointed to passages such as Mark 16:17, where Jesus said, “These signs will accompany those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues.” This Scripture shows the authority that we as believers have over unclean spirits and the responsibility to remove them.
Saldivar also highlighted the spiritual war described in Ephesians 6:12: “For our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, and against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” According to Saldivar, ignoring this reality leaves Christians vulnerable. “If we’re not engaged in spiritual warfare, then the enemy is free to operate unchecked in our lives and communities,” he warned.
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The Rising Tide of Demonic Influence
Saldivar argued that modern culture has seen a surge in demonic activity, often disguised as entertainment or self-help. “We’re seeing demonic influence normalized through music, movies, and even social media,” he said. “People don’t even realize they’re opening doors to the enemy.” He pointed to instances of mass shootings, rampant addiction, and increasing depression as evidence of a deeper spiritual crisis. “The devil is not hiding anymore,” Saldivar emphasized. “He’s working overtime to destroy lives, and the church needs to wake up.”
This perspective aligns with biblical warnings about the devil’s schemes. In 1 Peter 5:8, believers are urged to “Be sober and watchful, because your adversary the devil walks around as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” Saldivar believes that many Christians around the world have underestimated this adversary and, in doing so, have left themselves spiritually defenseless.
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Deliverance as a Tool for Restoration
“Deliverance is not about making people feel bad or focusing on demons,” Saldivar said. “It’s about setting people free so they can live the abundant life Jesus promised.” He referenced John 10:10: “The thief does not come, except to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
Saldivar shared testimonies of individuals who experienced life-changing freedom through deliverance. “I’ve seen people instantly set free from years of addiction, depression, and torment,” he said. “That’s the power of Jesus working through deliverance ministry.”
Equipping the Church for Battle
One of Saldivar’s key concerns is that many churches are ill-equipped to address spiritual warfare. “We’ve turned church into a self-help seminar,” he lamented. “People are walking in with spiritual baggage and leaving with the same chains because no one is teaching them how to fight.”
Saldivar urged pastors and leaders to prioritize equipping their congregations for spiritual battle. “Teach them to pray, teach them to fast and teach them to stand on the Word of God,” he said. “We can’t afford to ignore this any longer.”
The rise of demonic influence in society demands a response from the church, and Saldivar points to deliverance ministry as the answer. Rooted in Scripture and demonstrated in Jesus’ own ministry, deliverance offers hope and freedom to those oppressed by spiritual forces. As the world grows darker, Saldivar’s call to action reminds believers of their God-given authority and responsibility to stand against the enemy’s schemes. The question now is whether the church will rise to the challenge.
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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
