Strategic-level spiritual warfare. Spiritual mapping. Identificational repentance. Many Christians do not even know what these phrases mean, so it goes without saying that most churches are not actively involved in any of them. But what if they are necessary for societal change and for reaching the lost?
That radical premise forms the foundation of this book, which is based on the experiences of pastor Bob Beckett, and the other pastors in the city of Hemet, California. It offers a fascinating look at the transformation of a small, Southern California town, and along the way explains why strategic-level spiritual warfare, spiritual mapping and identificational repentance are all necessary. It also shows churches how to implement all three in their own efforts to transform their communities.
When Beckett first came to Hemet, he was shown a small canyon called 'The Navel of the Earth.' Little did he know where that chance visit would lead. Through the inspiration of God, he began to make a map of the spiritual activity in Hemet, which pinpointed just where Satan was working. Beckett began to study the history and culture of Hemet in greater detail, and saw the extensive impact of the occult in various forms including transcendental meditation, native American shamanism, and even Scientology.
Eventually, Beckett was led to the spirit which had been holding Hemet in bondage for centuries, and through intercession, and identificational repentance, was able to break its power over the city. After that, churches began to grow and there was unity among the different churches in a once divided city. It sounds too fantastic to be true, and that is what Beckett thought at first. But the results and the impact cannot be ignored.
Beckett is confident that the methods used in Hemet can be successful in any community. He offers valuable insight into the nature of the spiritual battle we are fighting and encourages each church to begin taking back their communities. After all, Jesus told us to start with our local communities, and then spread out. Don't ignore the local community, and don't ignore the weapons that God has blessed the church with.
