Some leaders in the Charismatic movement are convinced that unusual manifestations of supernatural power, such as the alleged deliverance from demons, miracle healings and so on, must be incorporated into successful evangelistic efforts.
Several times during his ministry Jesus Christ cast demons out of people (Matthew 4:24, 8:16, Mark 3:22, Luke 4:41) and even gave his disciples the power to do so as well. The first time this authority was given occurred when the twelve apostles, in pairs, were sent out on a ministerial training mission.
And He called the twelve to Him and began to send them out, two by two; and He gave them authority over unclean spirits . . . And they cast out many demons; and they anointed with oil many sick people, and healed them. (Mark 6:7, 12, HBFV, see also Matthew 10:1, Mark 16:17).
Roman Catholics, considered the world's largest Christian body, have developed special rituals and methods they use to perform deliverance and free an individual of demonic influences. Known as exorcisms, they are usually performed by a priest or other official in the clergy.
It has not been common, historically, for exorcisms to be part of Protestant practice. But the rise of the Charismatic movement has been accompanied by a surge in interest in topics related to demons within some Protestant groups. Such "demonic-centered" deliverance ministries have become common in many Charismatic circles.
Some involved in deliverance ministries commonly use the term "demon possession" to indicate specifically that they are convinced a particular person is being controlled or manipulated by an evil spirit.