The Alisa Childers Podcast #339 The Dark Side of Deliverance: Pagan Roots and Spiritual Abuse, with Anna Kitko
Oct 30, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Anna Kitko, a researcher specializing in spiritual abuse and deliverance practices, dives into the troubled history of modern deliverance ministries. She highlights how many of these practices have roots in ancient pagan traditions rather than Scripture. Anna also addresses the concept of iatrogenic harm, where healing attempts can lead to deeper emotional wounds. Their conversation emphasizes the importance of biblically grounded approaches and the need for accountability in spiritual care, encouraging listeners to seek true healing through Christ.
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Modern Roots Of Deliverance Ministry
- Modern deliverance ministry largely grew from charismatic and New Apostolic Reformation streams as a response to mid-20th-century mental-health gaps.
- Anna Kitko argues many leaders are itinerant, unaccountable figures selling unvetted spiritual remedies.
Four Ancient Categories Of 'Demons'
- Ancient Mesopotamian medical texts classified four categories of 'demons' linking spiritual and physical ailments.
- Category four described rare transcorporeal possession requiring the highest exorcist training, distinct from physical illness treatments.
Christ's Unique Authority In Exorcism
- Jesus' authority over possession was unique because only Yahweh could command fourth-category entities to leave.
- Kitko warns modern deliverance leaders often usurp Christ's role by commanding entities themselves.
