What happened
A recent survey found that 26% of American adults reported experiencing some form of spiritual attack. However, among practicing Christians, this figure increased to 58%. The survey also found that 28% of casual Christians, 24% of nominal Christians, and 10% of non-Christians reported experiencing spiritual attacks.
Dr. John Plake, editor-in-chief of the State of the Bible series, noted that while the data does not provide detailed information about the nature of these experiences, the high incidence of reported spiritual attacks is notable. Billy Hallowell, in a conversation with Dr. Plake, pointed out that following Christ does not mean believers will escape spiritual opposition, citing Ephesians 6.
The survey also examined how people respond to spiritual attacks. According to the data, 74% of those reporting spiritual attacks said they pray, while 36% said they declare the authority of Christ. Additionally, 24% turn to praise and worship music, but only 15% said they meditate on or quote Scripture.
Dr. Plake and Hallowell expressed concern that the relatively low percentage of people turning to Scripture in response to spiritual attacks may indicate a need for pastors and ministry leaders to better equip Christians to respond biblically to spiritual opposition.
