Seven Deadly Spirits

Escaping the Powers That Hold Congregations CaptiveThis engaging study provides a lens through which to understand the nature and function of the seven "angels" of the churches addressed in the Book of Revelation. These angels, or deadly spirits, represent key areas of struggle that were destructive in the early church and continue to damage congregations. Seven Deadly Spirits renarrates into a contemporary context the seven angels that hinder the church, providing a rich category for analysis through which to discern the influences that can affect congregations. The book encourages a systems approach to church leadership--one that takes seriously the "powers" at work within local congregations--and offers suggestions for transformation."Scott Daniels has given us a fascinating look at Revelation's seven churches. In the process, he provides us with a unique look at our own church today. A challenging and helpful book."--William H. Willimon, bishop, North Alabama Conference, The United Methodist Church"Drawing on pastoral wisdom, Daniels helps us see the life of the church through John's letters to the seven churches in the book of Revelation. This is not a task easily done, but with great insight he helps us see ourselves as we are, not as we would like to be. We need all the help we can get and this book certainly helps."--Stanley Hauerwas, Gilbert T. Rowe Professor of Theological Ethics, Duke University"With compelling clarity and incisive scholarship, Daniels unfurls the meaning of these letters for the missional church today. Under Daniels's scholarly guidance, the letters to the churches in Revelation become a prime scriptural resource for conforming the church more faithfully to the mission of God."--David Fitch, B. R. Lindner Chair of Evangelical Theology, Northern Seminary