In this next section we will discuss some (not all) of the physical reactions that can occur as a result of spiritual encounters. The purpose of this discussion is to provide a biblical framework for these manifestations, thus making it easier for us to recognise what the cause of the physical reaction is. Sadly there are ministers of the gospel that have encouraged manifestations of the “spirit” in their meetings, and when asked about certain questionable manifestations, have openly admitted that they have no idea what spirit is behind the manifestations, i.e. either the Holy Spirit, a display of the flesh or an unclean spirit. Very often their recourse is to just say, “wait to see what fruit is produced by the encounter and that will declare what spirit was then responsible”. In other words, if the person draws closer to God as a result of their encounter, then more than likely it was an encounter with the Holy Spirit. However, if the person draws away from God as a result of their encounter, then very obviously they had an encounter with a demonic spirit. The Lord would never condone such a viewpoint, for that is an absolute disservice to the body of Christ, and ministers that cannot discern which spirit is being manifested in their meetings, have no place exposing fellow believers to their meetings, especially young and vulnerable believers. Satan will quickly take advantage of the minister’s ignorance, and contaminate the church with demonic spirits.
Michael E.B. Maher
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