First published in 1992 and revised in 1996 and 2003, this book is possibly the most exhaustive treatment of the subject of spiritual warfare in print. It has 539 pages and then follows endnotes and other appendices. The purpose of the book is to equip leaders and mature believers for victory in three dimensions of spiritual warfare, namely the world, the flesh and the devil. It is important to keep this in mind as the book is read for there is much concentration, particularly in the latter chapters, on the issues relating to demonology and also mental health. The book attempts to thoroughly lay biblical and theological foundations of this vital subject. These chapters are reasonably exhaustive and if borne in mind help to set the more controversial parts of the book in context. The author draws somewhat on his own and other ‘deliverance’ minister’s experiences in seeking to counsel needy people and see them brought in to the liberty of Christ.
There are many voices writing and speaking on these issues and some are sensationalist in their approach whereas Dr Murphy seeks to ground things in a balanced view of the subject. Perhaps some would say he does not fully succeed in his purpose but one thing is sure, he is successful in helping us to see something of the importance of it. It seems that in the western churches there are two extremes. On the one hand the tendency to minimize the realms of the demonic in the lives of people and the churches and on the other, all ills are blamed on demons and human responsibility, the pull of the flesh and the world and the activity of satan are downplayed. To some readers the possibility that Christians can be the subjects of demonization is anathema and may yet, after a reading of this book, hold to that opinion but overall, this book is a very helpful contribution to this whole field of study and ministry and all who read it will receive some benefit whilst not necessarily embracing every emphasis.
Dr Murphy writes from both a theologically trained background and one in which he has had personal dealings in this realm of ministry over many years. So, this is not simply a theoretical book but one with practical application. There is a wholehearted admission by its author that it does not fully cover all that he wished to say and that although it represents his mature experience on the whole subject he is still a learner.
