Warren Throckmorton has uncovered more troubling practices at right-wing pastor Mark Driscoll’s megachurch, Mars Hill, this time thanks to an account from a former member about “demon trials” and “emotional and spiritual abuse” during her time at Mars Hill.
Driscoll is a proponent of such demon trials, which according to the website can be used to tackle matters such as “bestiality, habitual lying, physically unhealthy, masturbation, lying, pornography, ongoing depression, suicidal thoughts, alcohol abuse, drug use, anger, blasphemy, violence, self-inflicted injury, rape, incest, eating disorders, mental illness, pedophilia, and anything else that comes to mind.”
After asking members if they hear strange voices or know if their ancestors were involved in witchcraft, the conductor of the trial asks questions of the demon:
• establish our authority over Satan and demons delegated to us by the Lord Jesus Christ
• bind the strong man
• command that you convey your answers to _____________ and they will convey your answers to me. You will not speak to me because you are on trial and under the authority delegated to me by the Lord Jesus Christ.
• command that you not change your authority structure, hide, duplicate your identity, or change your name
• there will be no profanity
• you will answer every question directed at you clearly, concisely, immediately, completely, and truthfully
• command that you will not have any outside help or reinforcement during this trial
…
• You have responded to the name ______, we bind you by that name and upon command you will go to the pit bound by that name with all of your works and effects and all of your associates and their works and effects as well.
• When did you come?
• Will that stand as truth before the White Throne of the Lord God Almighty?• What work were you commissioned to do?
• Will that stand as truth before the White Throne of the Lord God Almighty?• By what means do you hope to destroy them?
• Will that stand as truth before the White Throne of the Lord God Almighty?• What habitual lies have you told them?
• Will that stand as truth before the White Throne of the Lord God Almighty?• Who sent you?
• Will that stand as truth before the White Throne of the Lord God Almighty?• How many associates are working under you?
• Will that stand as truth before the White Throne of the Lord God Almighty?• What effects have you had on them?
• Will that stand as truth before the White Throne of the Lord God Almighty?• Do you still hold any ground against (name) that would keep you from leaving him/her upon command?
• Will that stand as truth before the White Throne of the Lord God Almighty?
