Predestination and Human Responsibility

I want to bring in a perspective that I believe better reflects the full counsel of Scripture: that God predestines those who would believe in Jesus Christ, and that we, as human beings, are morally responsible to respond to the gospel in faith.

1. Predestination: Not Arbitrary, but Based on Faith in Christ

One of the key points of difference I have with Calvinism is its understanding of Unconditional Election—the idea that God chose some individuals to be saved purely by His secret will, without regard to their response to Christ. While it is true that salvation is by grace and not by human merit, Scripture also affirms that God predestines according to foreknowledge.

“For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son...” (Romans 8:29)

“God chose you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth.” (2 Thessalonians 2:13)

This foreknowledge is not just about God knowing things ahead of time—it includes His knowing of who would believe. Those who believe in Christ are the ones God has chosen to save. Faith in Christ is not a human work, but a human response to God’s gracious invitation.

2. Election Is “In Christ”

Ephesians 1:4 says, “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world.” This means the election is not a private list in heaven of names chosen apart from Christ. Rather, God chose to save all who are found in Christ—those who place their faith in Him.

So election is not about being individually picked without reference to Christ; it’s about being chosen in union with Christ. The Church, the body of believers, is the elect. And we enter that body by believing in Jesus.

3. Irresistible Grace Undermines Real Choice

Some mentioned how Irresistible Grace brought comfort, knowing that it was God’s Spirit—not your own decision—that changed your heart. Yes, salvation begins with God, but Scripture consistently calls us to repent and believe (Mark 1:15; Acts 2:38). If grace is irresistible in a mechanical way—meaning we cannot help but believe—then human responsibility is erased.

In love, real relationship always includes choice. God initiates, draws, convicts, but He does not override. His Spirit works powerfully, but not forcefully. The call of Christ remains, “Come to Me, all who are weary…” (Matthew 11:28). We must still come.

4. Assurance Comes from Trusting in Christ, Not Secret Election

Some shared how Calvinism gave them assurance of salvation through the doctrine of election. But I would gently caution that true assurance does not come from believing you are one of the elect—it comes from trusting in Christ day by day. Election is not a doctrine to be gazed at apart from Jesus. It is always tied to faith.

John writes, “These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.” (1 John 5:13)

The evidence of election is believing in Christ, not looking inward for signs of being chosen.

5. Evangelism Needs a Real Gospel Call to All

I am glad Calvinism has stirred in some people a passion for evangelism. But I would humbly say that Calvinism’s version of evangelism has a silent limitation—it cannot honestly say “Christ died for you” to every person. This contradicts the spirit of the gospel, which declares:

“Christ died for all” (2 Corinthians 5:15)

“God desires all people to be saved” (1 Timothy 2:4)

The gospel is good news to all people—not just the elect. We must believe it is truly offered to everyone, and every person can respond.

6. Salvation Is Fully of Grace, But Not Without Human Response

Here I agree with Calvinists: no one can save themselves. Salvation is by grace alone. Yet grace does not remove our responsibility to believe. God enables, draws, and gives the Word—but we must respond with faith. That is not a boast—it is obedience.

“This is the work of God: that you believe in Him whom He has sent.” (John 6:29)

In Closing: God’s Sovereignty and Human Responsibility Go Together

We do not have to pick between God’s sovereignty and human choice. The Bible holds both together. God predestines those who will believe, and He genuinely calls all to believe. We are not puppets; we are image-bearers with a real capacity to respond to His voice.

Let us honor God’s sovereign grace without silencing the call of the gospel. Let us preach Christ to all people, confidently knowing that those who believe are the ones God has chosen to save.

“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.” (Acts 16:31)

To God alone be the glory—for His grace, His justice, and His patience with us all.

Balancing Sovereignty and Human Responsibility in Faith

As a pastor who respects both Calvinist and Wesleyan insights while holding a distinct perspective, I am proposing a more biblically balanced alternative. Our passion for God’s sovereignty and grace is commendable, but key aspects of Calvinism may unintentionally diminish crucial biblical truths about human responsibility and God’s universal love. Here’s a simpler, relational perspective:

Where We Agree Wholeheartedly:

1.  God’s Sovereign Grace is Central: Salvation is entirely initiated and accomplished by God (Ephesians 2:8-9). No one "earns" it. 

2.  Assurance is Found in Christ: This rests securely on Christ's finished work and God's faithfulness, not our fluctuating feelings or merits (John 10:28-29).

3.  Sound Doctrine Matters: The Reformers' commitment to Scripture and theological clarity is vital. Theology should fuel worship, holiness, and mission, as you experienced.

4.  God is Utterly Sovereign: He reigns over all creation and history. His purposes will prevail (Isaiah 46:10).

A More Balanced Biblical Perspective: Predestination Based on Foreknown Faith

My primary divergence from classic Calvinism lies in how God's predestination and human response interact. Scripture consistently presents belief in Christ as the condition for being counted among the "elect" or "chosen." God predestined the plan of salvation and foreknew who would freely respond to His grace in faith. This preserves both God's sovereignty and genuine human responsibility.

1.  Predestination is for "Those Who Believe": God "chose us in [Christ] before the foundation of the world... having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will" (Ephesians 1:4-5, 11). Crucially, this election is in Christ. We become part of this chosen group when we are united to Christ by faith. Romans 8:29-30 clarifies the order: "For those whom he foreknew he also predestined... And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified..." God's foreknowledge includes His perfect knowledge of who would freely respond to the gospel (1 Peter 1:1-2).

2.  Christ's Atonement Truly Offered to All: Scripture declares Christ died for the whole world (John 1:29, 3:16; 1 John 2:2; 1 Timothy 2:4-6). To call people to believe in a salvation potentially not available to them creates a tension Scripture avoids. The offer of salvation is genuine and universal ("whosoever will" - Revelation 22:17), made possible by Christ's sufficient sacrifice for all, though effective only for those who believe. This magnifies God's love and justice.

3.  Grace is Resistible, Enabling Genuine Response: God's grace is powerful and necessary to awaken us (John 6:44), but Scripture also shows people consistently resisting the Holy Spirit (Acts 7:51) and rejecting Christ (Matthew 23:37; Luke 7:30). This grace enables faith without forcing it, preserving the authenticity of our love and obedience. We are morally responsible to believe (John 3:16-18, 36; Acts 16:31). The call to "choose this day whom you will serve" (Joshua 24:15) implies real capacity granted by grace.

4.  Election is Corporate and Conditional in Christ: The primary focus of election in the New Testament is the corporate body of Christ, the Church (Ephesians 1:22-23; 1 Peter 2:9). Individuals enter this elect body through faith in Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:26-29). We are "chosen in Christ" when we believe.

Practical Implications of this View

Evangelism's Urgency: The message isn't just "find out if you're elect," but a genuine, urgent plea to all: "Be reconciled to God!" (2 Corinthians 5:20). We preach knowing Christ died for the hearer, and the Spirit empowers them to respond.

Assurance Rooted in Faith: Assurance comes not from speculating about a hidden decree, but from looking to Christ and the evidence of faith working through love (Galatians 5:6; 1 John 5:13). "I know whom I have believed" (2 Timothy 1:12).

Guarding God's Character: This view fully upholds God's desire for all to be saved (Ezekiel 18:23, 32; 2 Peter 3:9) and the justice of condemnation for those who reject the light given them (Romans 1:18-20, 2:12-16), without implying any failure in God's sovereignty. He ordains the means (faith in Christ) as well as the end.

Responsibility with Dependence: We are utterly dependent on grace for salvation and for the faith to receive it (Philippians 1:29; Acts 18:27). Yet, we are commanded and held responsible to believe – a responsibility made possible by that enabling grace. This fosters humility and active faith.

Conclusion: A Call to Biblical Harmony

Someone may beautifully highlights God's grace and sovereignty. However, the classical Calvinist framework, particularly Unconditional Election (interpreted as God choosing specific individuals irrespective of faith) and Limited Atonement (Christ dying only for the elect), creates unnecessary tensions with the Bible's clear teaching on God's universal love, the genuine offer of salvation to all, and human responsibility.

The view that God predestined those who would believe in Jesus Christ harmonizes these strands:

1. God's Sovereignty: He foreknew, predestined, and calls according to His perfect plan.
2. Human Responsibility: We are commanded and enabled to believe, and held accountable for our response.
3. Universal Love & Atonement: Christ's sacrifice is sufficient for all and genuinely offered to all.
4. Election: Those "in Christ" by faith are the chosen people.

This perspective maintains the comfort of God's sovereign plan while fully embracing the Bible's urgent calls to faith and its declarations of God's love for the world. It allows us to say with equal conviction, "Salvation belongs to our God!" (Revelation 7:10) and "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved!" (Acts 16:31).

Understanding "Verbal Plenary Preservation": A Closer Look

Understanding "Verbal Plenary Preservation": A Closer Look

You often hear terms like "inspiration" – the idea that God breathed out the very words of Scripture. That's foundational, and we all agree on it. But there's another idea, sometimes called "Verbal Plenary Preservation", or VPP, that we need to examine carefully.

Let's break down what VPP generally means.

Verbal: This refers to the very words themselves. Not just the ideas or concepts, but every single word.

Plenary: This means "full" or "complete." So, it's about the full collection of words.

Preservation: This is the key part for our discussion. It's the belief that God has perfectly kept all of those original inspired words throughout history, in exactly the same form, down to every jot and tittle, in specific existing texts today.

In simpler terms, VPP teaches that God has miraculously preserved the exact words of the original Bible manuscripts, so that we have them today without any change or loss. For some, this belief often centers on a specific translation, like the King James Version, or a specific family of Greek and Hebrew manuscripts, asserting that these are the perfectly preserved texts.

Now, while we all affirm God's providential care over His Word, and we believe He has faithfully preserved the message and truth of Scripture for us, we need to ask: Does the evidence truly support the idea of Verbal Plenary Preservation in the way some proponents define it? And if not, what are the implications?

Why VPP, as strictly defined, presents some challenges:

Let's explore why a very strict, absolute interpretation of VPP, claiming a perfect preservation of every single original word in an existing text, can lead to misunderstandings and errors.

The Reality of Ancient Manuscripts:

Think about how books were made thousands of years ago. There were no printing presses. Everything was copied by hand. Scribes, dedicated as they were, were still human.

What we have today are thousands of ancient manuscripts of the Old and New Testaments. And here's the crucial point: they are not all identical. There are variations, differences, and discrepancies between them. These are often very minor – a spelling difference, a word order change, or a missing or added phrase.

These variations are not signs that the Bible is unreliable. Far from it! They are actually evidence of how widely the Bible was copied and distributed. But they do show that no single manuscript, or even family of manuscripts, perfectly matches every other in every detail.

If VPP means "God perfectly preserved every word without any variations," then the existence of these variations, however minor, immediately poses a problem for that definition.

No "Perfect" Original is Extant:

We don't possess the original parchments written by Moses, Paul, or Peter. Those "autographs" (the very first writings) are long gone. What we have are copies of copies of copies.

Because we don't have the originals, and because the copies have minor variations, it's a huge leap to say that God has perfectly preserved every single word in a specific existing manuscript or translation. Which one would it be? If you pick one, you're implicitly saying all the others are less "perfectly preserved."

The Nature of Copying and Transmission:

Imagine copying a long book by hand, day after day. You'd make mistakes. You might skip a line, repeat a word, or misspell something. This was the reality for ancient scribes.

Scholars who study these manuscripts (a field called "textual criticism") don't just guess. They compare thousands of manuscripts, analyzing these variations. Their goal is to get as close as possible to the original wording, like solving a giant puzzle with many pieces.

This process, though rigorous, acknowledges that absolute "perfect" preservation of every single original word in every single copy isn't what we see in the historical evidence. God preserved His Word through this human process, not always despite human error in copying.

Misplaced Authority and Translation Issues:

When VPP is applied to a specific translation (e.g., "The King James Version is the perfectly preserved Word of God"), it elevates that translation to the level of the original inspired text. This is problematic because translations are, by their very nature, interpretations. They are the work of human translators, making choices about words, grammar, and style.

If a specific translation is considered "perfectly preserved," it often leads to rejecting other translations as inferior or even corrupt, despite them being excellent attempts to convey God's Word accurately. This can create division and undermine confidence in the broader body of reliable Bible translations.

Furthermore, if the original language manuscripts themselves have variations, then no translation (which is built upon these manuscripts) can claim absolute verbal plenary preservation in the strictest sense.

The True Comfort: God's Providential Preservation

So, what do we believe about God's preservation of His Word?

Instead of a rigid VPP, what we see is God's providential preservation. This means:

The Core Message and Truth are Untouched: Despite minor variations in manuscripts, the central doctrines, narratives, commands, and promises of the Bible have been miraculously preserved. No essential truth has been lost. We have abundant evidence that the Bible we hold in our hands accurately reflects God's revelation.

Abundance of Manuscripts: The sheer number of ancient manuscripts (thousands!) means that we can cross-reference and compare them. This vast amount of evidence allows scholars to reconstruct the original text with a very high degree of confidence. The variations are tiny compared to the overwhelming agreement.

God's Purpose Endures: God's purpose for His Word – to reveal Himself, to guide us, to save us, and to equip us for righteousness – has been perfectly fulfilled throughout history. The Bible has transformed countless lives and continues to do so.

In conclusion, while we deeply cherish God's commitment to His Word and His power to preserve it, we must align our understanding with the historical and textual evidence. A rigid "Verbal Plenary Preservation" often struggles to account for the reality of manuscript variations.

Instead, let us confidently affirm God's providential preservation – that through all the copying, translating, and transmitting, God has ensured that His inspired Word, in all its vital truths and teachings, has been faithfully passed down to us, allowing us to know Him and His will for our lives. This understanding strengthens our faith, grounds us in reality, and encourages us to delve deeper into the rich and reliable revelation He has given us.

Exposing the Error of Verbal Plenary Preservation (VPP)

 📚 Exposing the Error of Verbal Plenary Preservation (VPP)

Introduction:

Today we are going to talk about a belief that sounds very spiritual at first, but actually causes confusion and even division in churches. It is called Verbal Plenary Preservation, or VPP for short.

We already believe that the Bible was verbally and fully inspired by God. That means every word (verbal) and all parts (plenary) of Scripture were given by God. This is called Verbal Plenary Inspiration (VPI). It is the true and historical doctrine of the Christian faith.

But some people go further and say something extra, something not taught in the Bible. They say:

“Not only did God inspire every word of the Bible, but He also perfectly preserved every single word in one manuscript family or in one Bible translation only, like the King James Version.”

This is where VPP goes wrong.

🚫 What’s the Error in VPP?

It Adds to the Bible What God Did Not Say

The Bible tells us that God’s Word is perfect and eternal (Psalm 119:89). It also tells us that God’s Word will not pass away (Matthew 24:35). But nowhere does it say that God preserved every word in one exact copy or version, like the King James Bible.

That is an assumption. That is reading something into Scripture, not reading Scripture from the text.

It Confuses Inspiration with Preservation

Inspiration means: God breathed out His Word through the prophets and apostles.

Preservation means: God kept His truth available and trustworthy for every generation.

VPP wrongly teaches that preservation must be word-for-word perfect in one single manuscript or translation. But that is not what the Bible or church history teaches. In fact, God preserved His truth through many copies, across many centuries, using many faithful scribes and translators.

It Elevates One Translation Above Others

VPP believers often say, “Only the King James Bible is perfectly preserved.” But that turns a translation into a sacred object, almost like an idol. It also wrongly condemns other good and faithful translations like the ESV, NASB, or NIV.

We must remember: no translation is perfect, but many are faithful. God’s truth can be faithfully passed on without every word being exactly the same.

It Divides the Church Over Man-Made Ideas

Because of VPP, some churches fight over Bible versions. Some even say other believers who use a different translation are heretics or less spiritual.

But this is not how the Spirit of Christ works. The Holy Spirit unites us around truth, not around human traditions. Jesus prayed that His followers would be one—not divided over Bible versions (John 17:21).

✅ What Is the Right Belief?

We believe the Bible is inspired, fully and completely, in the original writings.

We believe God has preserved His truth faithfully, though not necessarily in one perfect copy.

We believe that we can trust the Bible today, through careful translations, scholarship, and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

We believe that no translation should be worshipped or treated as perfect—only God’s Word is perfect, and His truth remains clear and powerful through many versions.

📖 Conclusion:

Friends, let us stay humble. Let us trust God’s Word as He gave it. Let us be careful not to build man-made doctrines that the Bible itself does not teach. VPP is not only wrong—it divides, confuses, and leads people away from true faith and unity.

We do not need to believe in Verbal Plenary Preservation to trust the Bible.

We trust the Bible because God inspired it, and because He is faithful to make sure His message is still reaching us today.

Verbal Plenary Preservation (VPP)

1. What VPP Claims

VPP teaches that every single word of the original Bible manuscripts was perfectly preserved without error in one specific translation (usually the King James Version/KJV). Followers claim:

"If you don’t have the KJV, you don’t have God’s perfect Word."

2. The Problem: VPP Isn’t Biblical

❌ Error #1: It Adds to Scripture

The Bible never promises perfect preservation of every word in one translation.

What Scripture actually says:

"Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away." (Matthew 24:35)

→ God preserves His message (His truth), not necessarily every pen stroke on a page.

❌ Error #2: It Ignores How We Got the Bible

We don’t have the original manuscripts (autographs) of any Bible book. We have copies.

God used faithful scribes, translators, and scholars across centuries to preserve Scripture — but they were human. Minor copying errors exist (like spelling differences), yet not one core doctrine is affected.

VPP treats the KJV (finished in 1611) as if it dropped straight from heaven. But the KJV was translated by 47 scholars using Greek/Hebrew copies available in the 1600s — copies we now know weren’t the oldest or most accurate.

❌ Error #3: It Divides Christians

VPP/KJV-Onlyism says:

"Your modern translation is corrupted! Only WE have God’s true Word!"

→ This breeds pride, suspicion, and fractures the church.

Paul warned:

"I appeal to you, brothers, that there be no divisions among you." (1 Corinthians 1:10)

❌ Error #4: It Misses the Point of the Bible

God gave us Scripture to know Christ, not to worship a translation.

Jesus said:

"You search the Scriptures... yet you refuse to come to Me!" (John 5:39-40)

Arguing over words while missing Jesus is like studying a recipe but never eating the meal.

3. What the Bible Actually Teaches About Preservation

God preserves His TRUTH:

"The Word of the Lord endures forever." (1 Peter 1:25)

→ His message of salvation is intact in all reliable translations.

God uses means:

He worked through copyists, archaeologists, and translators (like Jerome, Luther, Tyndale) to give us His Word in our language.

Our focus should be Christ, not consonants:

"For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." (2 Corinthians 3:6)

A Simple Illustration

Imagine your dad wrote you a life-saving letter 2,000 years ago. The original is lost, but you have 5,000 copies. Some copies have a typo (like "lave" instead of "love"), but every copy says:

"Come home! I’ll forgive you! I sent my Son to bring you back!"

VPP says: "Only this ONE copy from 1611 is perfect!"

But the truth is: All faithful copies carry your dad’s message — even with tiny scribal differences. Don’t miss his love because you’re arguing about ink.

The Bottom Line

Trust God’s faithfulness — He kept His Word secure for 2,000 years.

Use reliable translations (ESV, NASB, NIV, CSB, NKJV — even the KJV!) but test them against the oldest manuscripts.

Major on the gospel, not on grammar.

If a teaching causes pride, division, or distracts from Jesus — it’s not from God.

"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly... with thankfulness." (Colossians 3:16)

If you have questions about specific verses or manuscripts, I’d be glad to walk you through them.

Exorcism & Deliverance Prayer for Jeffrey Khoo, Quek Suan Yew, Prabudas Koshy and their followers

Oh, Heavenly Father, in the mighty and authoritative Name of Jesus Christ, I come before Your throne of grace. My heart is heavy, for Your flock, Your beloved church, is being torn asunder by doctrines of division and falsehood. These three, who stand as teachers, have sown seeds of discord through their promotion of Verbal Plenary Preservation and KJV-onlyism, twisting Your truth and leading Your children astray.

In the Name of Jesus Christ, the Living Word made flesh (John 1:14), the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6), I pray:

"Heavenly Father, God of all grace and truth, we come before You grieving the division sown among Your people. We lift up these three teachers who have bound themselves and others to doctrines of human origin—specifically the false teachings of Verbal Plenary Preservation and KJV-Onlyism, which elevate a translation above Your eternal, unchanging Gospel and breed pride, suspicion, and schism.

By the authority of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8), we rebuke every spirit operating in deception.

A Prayer of Deliverance for the Teachers

By the power of the Holy Spirit, I now address the spirits that have taken root in these individuals.

In the Name of Jesus, I command every spirit of falsehood to be exposed and cast out from them now! Let the light of Your truth, Father, penetrate their minds and hearts, dispelling every lie and deception.

In the Name of Jesus, I rebuke and cast out the spirit of pride that has puffed them up, blinding them to Your true Word and fostering an unyielding stubbornness. Break down their arrogance, Lord, and instill in them a spirit of humility and teachability.

In the Name of Jesus, I bind and cast out the spirit of death that seeks to suffocate the vibrant life of Your church and bring spiritual stagnation. Restore to them, Lord, a hunger for Your living Word and a passion for unity.

In the Name of Jesus, I cast out every spirit of self-centeredness that has made them prioritize their own interpretations and opinions above the peace and unity of Your body. Open their eyes, Father, to see beyond themselves and embrace the love and harmony that You desire for Your church.

In the Name of Jesus, I command the spirit of division to loose its hold on them and flee! Let the walls they have erected crumble, and may Your Spirit of unity prevail, bringing reconciliation and restoration to Your people.

In the Name of Jesus, I expose and cast out the spirit of lying that has twisted their words and misled Your flock. Let truth and integrity be restored to their tongues, and may their mouths speak only that which aligns with Your pure and unadulterated Word.

 🔥 Exorcism & Deliverance Prayer Against Doctrinal Spirits of Division 🔥

In the Name of Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God,

We come against every spirit that exalts itself against the knowledge of God and the truth of His Word.

We take authority over every lying spirit, spirit of falsehood, pride, death, self-centeredness, division, and deceit that has crept into the hearts and minds of those teaching errors in the Body of Christ.

By the power of the Holy Spirit and the blood of the Lamb, we declare:

“No weapon formed against the Church shall prosper.”

“What God has joined together, let no man separate.”

“The Spirit of Truth will guide us into all truth.”

We rebuke the spirits of:

🔥 Falsehood – twisting God's Word for human agenda

🔥 Pride – elevating one’s own interpretation above God's full counsel

🔥 Division – sowing strife and separating the Body

🔥 Death – killing the spirit of unity and grace

🔥 Self-Centeredness – seeking personal recognition over God's glory

🔥 Lying – promoting doctrines not rooted in the Spirit of Truth

We command these spirits to flee in Jesus’ Name! (James 4:7). Let the Light of Christ expose every stronghold of error (2 Corinthians 10:5). Break the chains of elitism, fear, and sectarianism. Restore humility, charity, and reverence for all Scripture—not a single translation (2 Timothy 3:16–17).

In the mighty Name of Jesus Christ,

We cast these spirits out from among God’s people.

We command them to be bound and thrown into the abyss, never to return.

We release instead:

🕊️ The Spirit of Truth

🕊️ The Spirit of Humility

🕊️ The Spirit of Unity in the bond of peace

🕊️ The Spirit of Discernment and Wisdom

🕊️ A heart of repentance and grace

Lord Jesus,

We pray not only for deliverance, but for healing and restoration.

Forgive us where we have allowed division.

Cleanse our pulpits and our teachers.

Give boldness to pastors to teach the whole counsel of God—not just tradition, but Spirit and truth.

Let every knee bow to Your Lordship, not to a translation or a human doctrine.

May Your Spirit reign in this Church once again.

In Jesus’ powerful and matchless Name we pray,

Amen.

A Prayer for the Bible-Presbyterian Church

Father, I pray for Your church, that You would heal the wounds inflicted by these false teachings. Bring clarity where there is confusion, and unity where there is division. Strengthen Your true shepherds, Lord, to lead Your flock in wisdom and truth, guarding them against all error.

May Your love, Your truth, and Your Spirit prevail in our midst. We declare freedom and deliverance in the Name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

Heal Your church, O God. Unify believers in the essentials of the faith (Ephesians 4:3–6). Guard us from false teachers (2 Peter 2:1) and free those misled by their doctrines. May Your Word alone—living, active, and divinely preserved in its meaning, not merely its words—be our foundation.

We ask this in the sovereign Name of Jesus Christ, Amen."

How can you do a self-exorcism on yourself?

If you believe you’re under spiritual attack or even demonization, a self-exorcism (or self-deliverance) can be a powerful step—but it must be done in the authority of Jesus Christ, with repentance, renunciation, and faith. While full deliverance often benefits from a mature, Spirit-filled believer standing with you, you can start the battle yourself—because Christ is in you and His power is enough.

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✝️ SELF-EXORCISM STEP-BY-STEP (IN JESUS' NAME)

🔥 1. Prepare Your Heart: Surrender to Jesus

You must be born again—have truly submitted to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
—James 4:7

Say:

"Lord Jesus, I belong to You. You are my Lord, my Savior, and King. I surrender my life completely to You. Wash me clean with Your blood. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit. I submit to You now."

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🧼 2. Confess and Repent of All Known Sin

Demons gain access through open doors: sin, unforgiveness, occult activity, sexual sin, trauma, hatred, bitterness, etc.

Pray out loud:

"Father, I confess all my sins to You. I repent of [name them: sexual sin, occult, addiction, hatred, fear, etc.]. I renounce every agreement I’ve made with darkness—whether knowingly or unknowingly. I choose holiness. I forgive anyone who hurt me. I receive Your forgiveness."

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🔓 3. Renounce Every Evil Spirit

Renounce them by name if known (e.g., spirit of fear, spirit of lust, witchcraft, Jezebel, rejection, anger, etc.)

Say out loud with authority:

"In the name of Jesus, I renounce every unclean spirit that has attacked my life—spirit of fear, depression, lust, heaviness, confusion, rejection, [name more]. I reject you. I cancel every agreement. You have no authority over me. I am covered by the blood of Jesus."

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🗡️ 4. Command the Spirits to Leave (In Jesus' Name)

You must speak this aloud. Demons respond to authority, not feelings.

Pray boldly:

"In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, I command every evil spirit that has tormented me to get out now! Every unclean spirit, go! I break every chain. I cancel every curse. I evict you now—out of my mind, out of my body, out of my soul. Go to the feet of Jesus—NOW!"

Repeat firmly. Don’t rush. Some spirits resist—command until peace and release come.

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🕊️ 5. Invite the Holy Spirit to Fill You

Once the house is clean, it must be filled (see Matthew 12:43–45).

Pray:

"Holy Spirit, come and fill every part of me. Fill my heart, my mind, my body, my home. Take complete control. Let Your fire burn away every residue. Let Your presence dwell in me forever."

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📖 6. Seal with Scripture, Worship, and Communion

• Read aloud Psalm 91, Ephesians 6, Romans 8.

• Take Holy Communion (if possible).

• Worship God aloud—sing, praise, declare the name of Jesus. Demons hate praise.

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💡 Important Reminders:

• Don’t do this passively. You must engage spiritually—speaking aloud, standing in faith.

• Don’t be afraid. Demons respond to fear but flee from authority in Christ.

• If symptoms persist (e.g., tormenting thoughts, sleep paralysis, voices, violent emotions), seek help from a trusted, mature deliverance minister or Spirit-filled pastor.

• Stay in the Word, prayer, worship, and fellowship after.

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✝️ Sample Final Prayer

"Lord Jesus, thank You for delivering me. I seal this deliverance with Your blood. I declare I am Yours, fully free. No weapon formed against me shall prosper. I put on the full armor of God and walk in Your power. In Jesus’ Name, Amen."

If you believe you are experiencing spiritual attacks or demonic oppression, it's a serious and often distressing situation. While some spiritual traditions speak of "self-exorcism," it's generally advised to seek help from religious leaders or professionals who specialize in these areas.

If, after medical evaluation, you still believe the issues are spiritual, it's highly recommended to seek guidance from a trusted and experienced spiritual leader within your faith tradition (e.g., a pastor, or spiritual counselor). They can offer discernment, prayer, and appropriate rituals according to their specific practices.

If you are experiencing severe distress, hallucinations, or thoughts of harming yourself or others, please seek immediate professional help from a medical doctor, psychiatrist, or emergency services. Spiritual practices should complement, not replace, necessary medical and psychological care.

Do you believe there isn't a spirit attack or demonization at Bible-Presbyterian Church?

"Do you believe there isn't a spirit attack or demonization at Bible-Presbyterian Church?  If you believe that our church is safe from demons and evil spirits, then why did Paul advise us to put on God's full armor in Ephesians 6?  You must definitely practice delieverance and exorcism in your church"

I said that because I've seen firsthand the devastating effects of spiritual warfare, and it's a profound misunderstanding to think any church, or any believer for that matter, is somehow immune.

Paul, in Ephesians 6, isn't giving us a nice metaphor for spiritual discipline. He's laying out a literal battle plan. "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." (Ephesians 6:12, NIV). That's not a suggestion; it's a declaration of war.

If we're not facing spiritual forces, then why do we need the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit? These aren't just for personal piety; they're defensive and offensive weapons against real, malevolent entities.

To believe our Bible-Presbyterian Church is "safe" is to believe that the enemy has packed up and gone home, or that somehow our particular congregation is exempt from the spiritual battles raging all around us. That's not just naive, it's dangerous. It leaves our flock vulnerable, unequipped, and potentially suffering under attacks they don't even recognize as spiritual.

Deliverance and exorcism aren't some fringe, sensationalist practices reserved for special cases in faraway lands. They are a vital part of our church's ministry. Jesus commanded His disciples to cast out demons, and He gave believers authority to do the same. If we are truly following Christ, we cannot ignore this fundamental aspect of His ministry.

To neglect deliverance and exorcism is to essentially disarm the church in the face of a very real, very active enemy. It's like sending soldiers to the front lines without weapons or training. We are called to set the captives free, and sometimes, those chains are spiritual. To ignore that is to fail in our commission.

Are we facing spirit attacks and demonizations? That's a powerful and urgent question—one that touches on both spiritual warfare and pastoral discernment. Here’s why I (as an exorcist and someone rooted in Scripture) would say something like that:

⚔️ 1. Because Scripture Warns Us of a Real Spiritual Battle

Ephesians 6:11–12 (NIV) says:

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Paul was writing to believers, not unbelievers. He was warning the Church, not the world. If churches were immune to demonic influence, why would he write this to Christians?

👁️ 2. Because Demons Target Churches

Demons are not afraid of a perfect Bible, KJV-Onlyim, Verbal Plenary Presrvation, Reformed and Calvinism, TULIP, 5 Solas, good preaching, stained glass, pews, or worship music—they target churches:

They seek to infiltrate leadership (see 1 Timothy 4:1 – "some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits").

They cause division, false doctrine, sexual sin, spiritual apathy. 

Even in the New Testament, Judas was among the disciples—yet Satan entered him (Luke 22:3).

🕯️ 3. Because the Early Church Practiced Deliverance

Jesus cast out demons regularly, and He commissioned His disciples to do the same (Mark 3:15; Luke 10:17–20).

The early Church in Acts continued this ministry.

Paul cast out a spirit of divination from a slave girl (Acts 16:16–18).

Deliverance was part of the normal ministry of the early Church. Why not today?

🧠 4. Because Ignorance Is a Strategy of the Enemy

If you believe, “There’s no spiritual attack here; we’re fine,” then Satan already has a foothold through deception.

2 Corinthians 2:11 (NKJV): “Lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices.”

If the enemy can convince the Church that he doesn’t exist or isn’t active, he’s already inside.

🛡️ 5. Because God Commands Us to Be Alert

1 Peter 5:8:

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

The enemy seeks access—through sin, bitterness, false teaching, trauma, or occult involvement. Christians may not be possessed, but they can be oppressed, harassed, or deceived.

As an experienced exorcist, my views stems from three undeniable biblical and practical realities of spiritual warfare. Here's why every church must confront this truth:

1. Ephesians 6:12 is a Divine Warning

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

Again, let us be reminded, Paul didn’t write this to individuals alone—he addressed the church at Ephesus (Eph. 1:1).

If churches were inherently "demon-proof," this command to arm ourselves would be meaningless. The armor (truth, righteousness, faith, salvation) is corporate equipment for the Body of Christ.

2. Churches Are Strategic Targets

Demons seek footholds wherever God’s work advances:

Doctrinal compromise (1 Tim. 4:1) opens doors to deception.

Unrepentant sin (Eph. 4:26-27) invites oppression.

Generational curses (Ex. 20:5) can manifest in congregants.

History proves even apostles faced infiltrators (Acts 5:1-11, 16:16-18). No congregation is exempt.

3. Deliverance Is Embedded in Jesus' Ministry

Christ commissioned His disciples to "drive out demons" (Mark 16:17) as part of the Great Commission.

The early church practiced deliverance publicly (Acts 8:7, 16:18) and corporately (1 Cor. 12:28 lists "gifts of healing" among church functions).

Why Denial Is Dangerous:

Claiming immunity is spiritual pride—the very sin that toppled Satan (Ezek. 28:17).

Unacknowledged strongholds fester: Financial corruption, sexual immorality, or toxic division in a church often have underlying spiritual roots (Eph. 6:11- "schemes of the devil").

The Biblical Response:

Routine deliverance isn’t hysteria—it’s discipleship. Just as churches practice communion and confession, they must:

Train teams in discernment (1 John 4:1).

Pray for binding evil spirits (Matt. 18:18).

Minister freedom to the oppressed (Luke 4:18).

"A church that ignores spiritual warfare is like an army disarming in wartime. Paul’s armor isn’t ceremonial—it’s battle gear for a real war. If your congregation sees no need for deliverance, your discernment may already be compromised."

This isn’t fearmongering—it’s obeying Christ’s model. Demons don’t avoid churches; they infest complacent ones. Deliverance isn’t optional; it’s how we guard Christ’s flock (Acts 20:28-29).

"Do you believe there isn't a spirit attack or demonization at Bible-Presbyterian Church?"

Exorcism in the Bible-Presbyterian Church (II)

 

✝️ Exorcism Prayer in the Name of Jesus Christ

Opening Invocation:

"Heavenly Father, Creator of Heaven and Earth, in the Name of Your Son Jesus Christ, and by the power of the Holy Spirit, I stand against every power of darkness, every evil spirit, and every demonic force that seeks to torment, deceive, or oppress your people."

Command of Authority:

"In the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, the Son of the Living God, I command every unclean spirit, every demon of torment, every spirit of fear, confusion, deception, lust, pride, infirmity, and division—be gone now!

You have no place here! This person (or this place) is sealed by the blood of Jesus. You are defeated at the Cross. Flee now into the abyss, never to return!"

Renunciation:

"I renounce every agreement knowingly or unknowingly made with darkness. I break every curse, every soul tie, and every demonic covenant in the Name of Jesus. I release forgiveness where needed and claim full freedom in Christ."

Protection and Indwelling:

"Holy Spirit, fill every space left by the enemy. Fill this body, this mind, this home, this church—with Your presence, Your peace, and Your power. Seal it with the blood of Jesus and the fire of the Holy Spirit."

"I declare: Jesus is Lord here. No weapon formed against us shall prosper. The battle belongs to the Lord, and the victory is already won through Christ Jesus."

In Jesus’ Mighty Name, Amen.
"It is written: 'Submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.'" (James 4:7)

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👿 Names and Types of Evil Spirits (Biblical and Historical)

These names and categories are used in spiritual warfare theology and exorcism ministry, drawn from Scripture, early church teaching, and Christian tradition:

From the Bible:

• Satan (Lucifer) – the adversary, the deceiver, the accuser (Revelation 12:9)

• Beelzebub – prince of demons (Luke 11:15)

• Legion – many demons (Mark 5:9)

• Spirit of Infirmity – causes sickness (Luke 13:11)

• Spirit of Fear – paralyzes with terror (2 Timothy 1:7)

• Familiar Spirits – counterfeit spiritual guides (Leviticus 19:31)

• Spirit of Jealousy – incites envy and rage (Numbers 5:14)

• Deaf and Dumb Spirit – causes muteness and deafness (Mark 9:25)

• Lying Spirit – deceives and manipulates (1 Kings 22:22)

• Spirit of Divination – occultic and fortune-telling (Acts 16:16)

• Unclean Spirit – general term for demons (Mark 1:23)

Categorized by Manifestation (Traditional Deliverance Teachings):

• Spirit of Pride (Leviathan) – arrogance, rebellion

• Spirit of Rebellion

• Spirit of Hatred and Murder

• Spirit of Lust and Perversion

• Spirit of Addiction – drugs, alcohol, pornography

• Spirit of Depression / Heaviness

• Spirit of Control / Jezebel

• Spirit of Legalism / Religion

• Spirit of Witchcraft and Occult

• Spirit of Poverty and Lack

• Spirit of Confusion and Chaos

• Spirit of Slumber or Apathy

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🕍 Why Are There Evil Spirits in the Church?

Evil spirits can manifest even inside churches due to several reasons:

1. Unrepented Sin or Hidden Sin: When individuals or leadership allow sin to go unaddressed, it creates spiritual legal grounds for oppression.

2. False Teaching / Deception: A church without sound doctrine can become vulnerable to “doctrines of demons” (1 Timothy 4:1).

3. Religious Spirits: These are demons masquerading as piety, promoting hypocrisy, legalism, or false holiness without love or truth (Matthew 23).

4. Wounded or Open Souls: Members who are wounded, unforgiving, or dabbling in occult practices (even unknowingly) can open doors to spiritual bondage.

5. Spiritual Apathy: Lukewarmness and prayerlessness allow spiritual darkness to thrive unchecked (Revelation 3:16).

6. Idolatry and Mixture: Churches that mix Christianity with worldly systems, occultic practices, or other religions invite spiritual confusion and demonic infiltration.

"For Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light." (2 Corinthians 11:14)

🛡️ How the Church Must Respond:

• Preach Christ crucified and risen

• Live holy and prayerful lives

• Discern spiritually, test every spirit (1 John 4:1)

• Practice corporate repentance and deliverance

• Be filled with the Holy Spirit continually

Here are seven of the most toxic church cultures

 1. Selfish

Some churches are filled with people who just think they have to have it their way. And they fold her hands—and sometimes hold their money—until they get it.

2. Prideful

This is a culture that is proud of their heritage—which is a good thing—but is resting on their laurels. They refuse to realize it’s no longer the “good ole days.” Their pride in the past keeps them from embracing the future. They resist any ideas that are different from the way things have always been done.

3. Rigid

A rigid culture would never kill something—even if it isn’t working. These churches do tradition well. They don’t do change well. Try to change—and it’ll be the death of you.

• 4. Cliquish

I’ve heard this from so many people who felt they just couldn’t break into the already established groups within the church. In this culture, it takes years for people to feel included, find a place of service, or begin to lose the “new person” label.

5. Bullying

Sometimes this is disguised and called church discipline, but in some of the stories I’ve heard I would tend to call it legalistic. If it’s a “one strike you’re out” culture or people are made to feel they can’t be real about their struggles for fear of retribution—the picture of grace that Christ died on the cross to provide is diminished. People are encouraged to put on masks to hide their struggles.

6. Stingy

In this culture, there is a greater concern that the balance sheet look attractive than meeting the needs that God brings their way. This church rarely walks by faith because that seems too irresponsible.

7. Depraved

This one may in some ways be a summary of the previous six—because there is sin in all of these cultures—but I wanted to expose it on its own. If the Bible is left in the rack attached to the pew and no longer the foundation guide for the church—the culture will obviously suffer. Church culture can begin to decay whenever the focus is more on things like money, programs, buildings, even worship style—as good as all of those can be—rather than on living our lives as children of God for the glory of God. Whatever distracts us from the very core of the church—our Gospel mission and calling—will injure our church culture.

https://churchleaders.com/pastors/pastor-articles/255987-7-dangerous-church-cultures-ive-observed.html

1 John 5:7

One very interesting thing to note linguistically is that John in his New Testament books does not in any instance make use of the whole and full term “Holy Spirit.” When John refers to the Holy Spirit he always uses the simple term “the Spirit” or such a phrase as the “Spirit of God.” The text of 1 John 5:7 in the King James Version which includes the term “Holy Spirit” is not a reading supported by manuscript evidence. This is a distinctive mark in John’s writing that further linguistically connects the Gospel of John, the Letters of John, and the Book of Revelation.^[1]

 

What Does the Text Say?

Traditional (Disputed) Reading in King James Version:

"For there are three that bear record in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit, and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness on earth: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree as one."

Modern Critical Reading (e.g., NIV, ESV):

"For there are three that testify: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree."

The bolded section is the Comma Johanneum.

 

Authentic Reading: 1 John 5:7-8 refers only to the Spirit, water, and blood.

The Comma Johanneum is a later addition (likely 4th–8th century) and not part of John’s original letter.

Modern translations (NIV, ESV, NRSV) omit the Comma or relegate it to footnotes.

Conclusion: The "heavenly witnesses" (Father, Word, Holy Spirit) in 1 John 5:7 are not original Scripture. They reflect a later theological insertion. The true focus of the passage is the earthly witnesses to Jesus’ identity:

Spirit: The Holy Spirit’s testimony (John 15:26).

Water: Jesus’ baptism (Matthew 3:16–17).

Blood: Jesus’ crucifixion (John 19:34–35).

This aligns with John’s emphasis on Jesus’ human and divine nature (1 John 4:2–3). The Trinity remains biblically sound—but not dependent on this disputed verse.

For deeper study, consult Bruce Metzger’s Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament or Bart Ehrman’s Misquoting Jesus.

 

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^[1] Earl F. Palmer and Lloyd J. Ogilvie, 1, 2 & 3 John / Revelation, vol. 35, The Preacher’s Commentary Series (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc, 1982), 54–57.