Freedom From the Religious Spirit

" . . . This 'religious spirit' is not just an attitude or religiosity . . . It is actually an evil spirit that must be resisted, bound, and cast out!"

From the Foreword:
Life should be filled with joy. Nehemiah 8:10 reads, "The joy of the Lord is your strength." One of the great joys of my life has been to work alongside C. Peter Wagner. Peter is a man filled with joy. He enjoys life, people, ministry, his family, food, and even his own jokes. He is full of joy, for one, because he never lets life get stale. I believe that a key to his life is his love for embracing change. When God decides it is time to bring change into the earthly realm through new thought processes, Peter seems to be one of the first on this earth to raise his hand and say, "Use me!" That is why he could write this book, Freedom from the Religious Spirit.

What is a religious spirit and how does it work? This book boldly explores and explains how this deceptive force has labored to stop the progress of the Church throughout the ages. Religion is linked with worship. Religion, when pure, is very powerful. However, religion is also defined as an organized system of doctrine with an approved pattern of behavior. Behavior has to demonstrate a proper form of worship. This is where we move from pure and undefiled religion to ritual. Demons of doctrine rob individuals of their freedom to worship a holy God in purity by instituting rules and regulations for their worship.

In compiling Freedom from the Religious Spirit, Peter Wagner has gathered a wonderful team of contributors around him. The truths contained in this book unlock revelation for today and release keys. I want to encourage you, as you read this book, "Fear not." Fear not change! Fear not embracing the paradigms that need to be expressed today to bring change. Fear not confrontation. Fear not the next great move of the Spirit of God. Fear not letting go of worship methods in the Church that have caused us to become comfortable. Defy the spirits of religion around you and move with boldness into your future!

Chuck D. Pierce
Vice President, Global Harvest Ministries
President, Glory of Zion International Ministries, Inc