Is Deliverance Safe and Ethical?

Properly practiced, deliverance should be safe, ethical, and pastorally accountable. Scripture charges leaders to shepherd God’s people willingly and gently (1 Peter 5:2–3). Authentic ministry honors dignity, consent, and confidentiality.

Ethical Principles

• Informed Consent: Explain the process and obtain permission before praying.
• Team Accountability: Pray in pairs or teams with appropriate gender boundaries.
• Confidentiality: Protect the person’s story.
• Non-coercion: No manipulation, threats, or shame tactics.
• Aftercare: Provide follow-up steps, church connection, and referrals.

Risks to Avoid

• Over-spiritualizing everything; neglecting medical or psychological needs
• Public spectacle or humiliation
• Untrained, unsupervised ministers acting without local church covering

Healthy Safeguards

• Screening and training for ministry teams
• Clear pastoral oversight and doctrinal alignment
• Written guidelines and reporting processes

Key Scriptures: Matthew 12:43–45; Galatians 5:22–23; 1 Corinthians 14:40.