Exorcism vs Deliverance
Although there is a belief among most people that exorcism and deliverance refer to the same thing, these words are not synonymous as there is a clear difference between their meanings. Both exorcism and deliverance were used widely in the past, even though now these practices have become rare and conducted in secrecy. First, let us comprehend the definitions of the two words. Exorcism is the act of driving out an evil spirit from a person or place. On the other hand, deliverance is the process of being saved or set free. Even when an exorcism takes place, deliverance also occurs because the individual is saved from demons or evil spirits. This article attempts to highlight the difference between exorcism and deliverance.
What is Exorcism?
Exorcism is the act of driving out an evil spirit from a person or place. Exorcisms are performed by Catholics with the intention of driving away the demons. When an exorcism is conducted, the power to conduct is not derived from God but from the other sources. Exorcism can be for any individual. It does not matter whether the individual is a believer of Jesus or a non-believer.
Exorcisms are rather theatric, and the exorcist would use a raised voice when conducting the exorcism. Also, the person who is being exorcized has to be held down. The exorcist can use various objects such as a large cross. He will also lay the Bible on the body of the person who is being exorcized and sprinkle holy water as well. In exorcisms, there are various enchantments that are used by the exorcist. These are kept in secrecy.
What is Deliverance?
Deliverance is the process of being saved or set free. In deliverance, the demons are cast out of an individual. Unlike in the case of exorcism, where the power is derived from various earthly sources, in deliverance, the power comes from God. Hence, the individual has to be a believer in Jesus. In the New Testament, deliverance can be considered as a major theme, even though it is not the case for Exorcism.
Another key feature in deliverance is that there are clear signs of restoration. Unlike an exorcism that is theatrical, deliverance is not. It is usually very calm when commanding the evil spirits out. There is no necessity to hold the person who is being exorcized as well. Also, anointed oil is used when conducting deliverance. As you can see, deliverance and exorcism are two different words.
What is the difference between Exorcism and Deliverance?
Definitions of Exorcism and Deliverance:
Exorcism: Exorcism is the act of driving out an evil spirit from a person or place.
Deliverance: Deliverance is the process of being saved or set free.
Characteristics of Exorcism and Deliverance:
Power:
Exorcism: In exorcism, the power is derived from various earthly sources.
Deliverance: In deliverance, the power comes from God.
Believer of Jesus:
Exorcism: Exorcism applies for both believers and nonbelievers.
Deliverance: For deliverance, the individual has to be a believer in Jesus.
New Testament Theme:
Exorcism: Exorcism is not a major theme in the New Testament.
Deliverance: In the New Testament, deliverance can be considered as a major theme.
Nature:
Exorcism : Exorcism is theatrical.
Deliverance: Deliverance is not theatrical. It is very calm when commanding the evil spirits out.
Images Courtesy: Painting of Saint Francis Borgia performing an exorcism via Wikicommons (Public Domain)
