The phenomenon of being “slain in the spirit” has been a topic of intense debate within the Christian community for many years. Some embrace it as a powerful and genuine move of God, while others argue that it is unbiblical or even demonic.
To better understand this issue, let’s break down this intriguing conversation by Vlad Savchuk into five key points that will help discern whether being slain in the spirit is biblical or a dangerous deception.
1. Bible Precedents for Falling Under God’s Power
While the exact term “slain in the spirit” does not appear in the Bible, there are numerous instances where people in Scripture experienced altered physical states in the presence of God. For instance, in Acts 10:9-10, the apostle Peter falls into a trance while praying, receiving divine revelation. Similarly, Paul recounts his experience of falling into a trance in Acts 22:17-18, when he encounters the Lord. These passages demonstrate that God’s presence can overwhelm a person physically, leading to falls or altered states. Additionally, when Jesus declares, “I am,” the soldiers who came to arrest Him fall to the ground (John 18:5-6). While these examples don’t explicitly describe being “slain,” they clearly show that God’s presence can cause individuals to lose physical control in some way.
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2. Extra-Biblical vs. Anti-Biblical
A critical distinction in the discussion of being slain in the spirit is between extra-biblical and anti-biblical practices. Extra-biblical refers to practices not explicitly mentioned in the Bible but are not in conflict with biblical teaching. For example, practices like altar calls or church buildings, though not directly outlined in Scripture, are not contrary to biblical doctrine. Being slain in the spirit falls into this category, as it’s not explicitly described in the Bible, but it doesn’t contradict biblical principles either. On the other hand, anti-biblical practices would be those that directly oppose Scripture, like engaging in witchcraft or other sinful behaviors. Since no Scripture outright forbids the practice of being slain in the spirit, it’s important to view it as extra-biblical—something that can be experienced in the church without violating biblical teaching.
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3. Cessationists vs. Continuationists
The debate between cessationists and continuationists plays a significant role in how the phenomenon of being slain in the spirit is viewed. Cessationists believe that supernatural gifts, such as speaking in tongues, healing and manifestations like being slain in the spirit, ceased after the apostolic age. They argue that these gifts were only for the early church to establish the Gospel. On the other hand, continuationists believe that these gifts and manifestations continue to operate today. Many who support the practice of being slain in the spirit are in the continuationist camp, interpreting Scripture and church history as evidence that the power of the Holy Spirit is still active in the same ways. They point to the book of Acts and the Gospels, where such manifestations occur frequently, and argue that there is no Scriptural basis for claiming that the Holy Spirit’s work has ceased.
4. Emotionalism and Manipulation
One of the common criticisms of the practice of being slain in the spirit is that it can sometimes be fueled by emotionalism, peer pressure or even manipulation. Some argue that people may fall under the power of God not because of a true spiritual encounter, but due to psychological influence or the expectation created by the environment. There have been instances where individuals fall simply because they are caught up in the emotional atmosphere of a service, or even out of “courtesy” to the preacher, rather than experiencing a genuine move of the Holy Spirit. It’s essential to acknowledge that emotional responses in a spiritual setting can be natural, but they do not always signify a deep spiritual encounter. While emotional excesses or manipulations can certainly discredit the authentic move of God, it’s critical not to let the actions of a few individuals overshadow the true power of the Holy Spirit.
5. The Fruit Test
When considering whether a spiritual manifestation like being slain in the spirit is from God, the ultimate test is the fruit it produces. Jesus Himself said, “You shall know them by their fruit” (Matt. 7:16). The primary concern should not be the manifestation itself but the lasting impact it has on the individual. Does it lead to a deeper relationship with God? Does it bring lasting transformation in the person’s life, drawing them closer to holiness, love and obedience? If an experience produces lasting spiritual fruit—such as healing, deliverance, a hunger for the Word and a deeper devotion to Christ—then it is worth considering as a genuine encounter with the Holy Spirit. We must be cautious not to dismiss or condemn a work of God just because it doesn’t align with our own experiences or expectations. Additionally, the focus should remain on the fruit of the experience, not the physical manifestation itself.
While being slain in the spirit may not be explicitly commanded in Scripture, it is not unbiblical or contrary to biblical teachings. There are biblical precedents that show God’s presence can cause physical responses, and the phenomenon can be understood as an extra-biblical practice rather than anti-biblical.
As Christians, it is essential to exercise discernment, remembering that not every manifestation is genuine, but the fruit of the encounter will reveal its authenticity. Let us seek the genuine power of the Holy Spirit, test the spirits and pursue a deeper relationship with God rather than focusing on external manifestations.
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Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.
