#266 Dr. Dan Schneider - Ancient Weapons Used Against Demons: Vigils, Fasting and Prayer
In this episode of the Shawn Ryan Show, Dr. Dan Schneider explores theological perspectives on spiritual beings, explaining the origins of angels and demons according to religious scholars and church fathers. He discusses the concept of generational curses, describing them not as demonic possession but as the effects of sin passed through family lines, and outlines approaches for addressing these through religious practices.
The conversation examines what Schneider identifies as spiritual warfare strategies, including prayer, fasting, and other religious devotional practices. Schneider and Ryan also discuss historical and contemporary manifestations of occult influences, from Freemasonry's role since the 1700s to what they see as occult symbolism in modern entertainment, exploring potential impacts on spiritual and physical well-being.
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Nature and Origins of Spiritual Beings
Dan Schneider explains that while God is the only uncreated being, angels and demons are created beings, with angels being created on the second day of creation. According to church fathers like St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Bonaventure, a third of these angels later fell with Lucifer, becoming demons. Schneider emphasizes that demons are not a separate class but simply fallen angels, a view supported by St. Augustine and St. John Chrysostom, who refuted earlier misconceptions about angels physically reproducing with humans.
Demonic Influence: Curses, Rituals, and False Gods
Schneider clarifies that generational curses stem from sin rather than demonic possession. These curses, he explains, are the effects of sin passed down within families, similar to physical traits. While the actual sin isn't inherited, its effects can lead descendants to repeat similar patterns. To break these curses, Schneider recommends repentance, prayer, and faith-based actions, including regular confession and specific renunciation prayers.
Strategies for Spiritual Warfare
Schneider advocates for a comprehensive approach to spiritual warfare, emphasizing prayer, fasting, and the use of sacramentals. He recommends daily spiritual practices including multiple rosaries, Mass attendance, and devotion to the Virgin Mary. According to Schneider, combining these practices with fasting can be particularly effective in combating demonic influences and maintaining spiritual protection.
Pagan/Occult Influence in Society
In discussing modern manifestations of occult influence, Schneider points to Freemasonry as a significant vehicle for anti-Christian symbols and rituals since the 1700s. He connects Masonic involvement to various generational curses affecting descendants' health and spiritual well-being. Schneider and host Shawn Ryan also explore the entertainment industry's alleged ties to occult practices, citing examples from Disney movies to modern performances that they believe incorporate occult symbolism and themes.
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Counterarguments
- The belief in the nature of angels and demons as described is specific to certain religious doctrines and not universally accepted across all cultures or religions.
- The concept of generational curses is not recognized in many religious or secular worldviews, and some would argue that it is not supported by empirical evidence.
- The effectiveness of prayer, fasting, and sacramentals in combating demonic influences is a matter of faith and not empirically verifiable; skeptics would argue for psychological or sociological explanations for perceived changes following these practices.
- The association of Freemasonry with anti-Christian symbols and rituals is contested and considered a conspiracy theory by many scholars and historians.
- The claim that the entertainment industry incorporates occult symbolism intentionally is often debated, with many arguing that such interpretations are subjective and not indicative of any actual occult influence.
- The idea that specific religious practices, such as devotion to the Virgin Mary, are necessary for spiritual protection is not shared by all Christian denominations, let alone other faiths or secular perspectives.
- The interpretation of religious texts and teachings about angels, demons, and spiritual warfare varies widely, and the views presented are not universally accepted even within Christianity.
Actionables
- You can create a personal reflection journal to document your thoughts and experiences with spiritual practices, noting any changes in your life that may correlate with these efforts. Start by setting aside a few minutes each day to write about your prayer, fasting, and use of sacramentals, as well as any insights or challenges you encounter. This can help you track your spiritual growth and identify patterns that may be related to generational influences or personal spiritual battles.
- Develop a weekly routine that includes specific times for prayer, fasting, and engaging with spiritual texts or teachings that resonate with your beliefs. For example, you might choose to fast every Wednesday and Friday, dedicate 30 minutes each morning and evening to prayer, and spend an hour on Sunday afternoons reading spiritual literature or listening to teachings that reinforce your faith and understanding of spiritual warfare.
- Organize a small study group with friends or family members who share your interest in spiritual matters to discuss and support each other in breaking generational curses and enhancing spiritual well-being. This group could meet regularly to share experiences, discuss spiritual texts, and pray together, creating a community of support that encourages individual and collective spiritual growth.
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Nature and Origins of Spiritual Beings
Dan Schneider, Shawn Ryan, and key historical religious figures discuss the nature, creation, and hierarchy of spiritual beings, including angels and demons.
Angels and Demons Are Created, Not Uncreated Like God
Dan Schneider emphasizes that the only uncreated being is the Triune God, the unmoved mover. Thus, angels, whether fallen or glorified, are created beings. They are each unique and incomprehensible to humans. Schneider touches on the procession of love between the Father and the Son that brings forth the Holy Spirit, which serves to hint at the divine but created nature of angels.
Angels Made On Second Day; Some Fell, Became Demons
According to many of the fathers of the church, such as St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Bonaventure, angels were created on the second day when God separated light from darkness. Later, a third of the angels fell with Lucifer due to his rebellion against the incarnation of God, as speculated by doctors of the church and saints. Furthermore, the Bible’s Revelation chapter 12 suggests that these angels fell during a cosmic battle led by St. Michael.
Demons Are Fallen Angels, Not a Separate Class
Demons are not a separate class but are simply fallen angels. The early church fathers—Tertullian and Irenaeus—had hinted at fallen angels as a different class due to the concept of them mating with humans. However, by the time of Augustine in the West and St. John Chrysostom in the East, it was clear that fallen angels are the same as other angels; there isn't a separate class for demons. St. Augustine, St. Chrysostom, and St. Thomas Aquinas refuted the notion that angels physically reproduced with women, reinforcing that angels and demons lack bodies and cannot procreate. The misconception ties back to beliefs about the Nephilim mentioned in Genesis.
Hierarchy and Roles of Angels and Demons Led by Satan and "Generals."
Schneider describes a spiritual combat with good angels battling for humanity, hinting at a hierarchy where angels align against demonic forces. The fallen angels, led by Satan, continue to work against their original heavenly purposes, maintaining the hierarchies they had before falling. Schneider didn't explicitly mention the hierarchy or the roles of angels and demons led by Satan or "generals."
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Actionables
- Create a daily reflection journal to contemplate the role of unseen forces in your life, inspired by the concept of angels and demons having missions. Each evening, write down any instances where you felt guided, challenged, or tempted, and reflect on how these moments might align with the idea of spiritual beings influencing the world. This practice can foster a deeper awareness of your actions and choices.
- Develop a "spiritual combat" routine by setting aside time each week to focus on personal growth and overcoming challenges, drawing on the notion of angels and demons in battle. This could involve meditation, prayer, or reading inspirational literature to strengthen your resolve and intentions, much like preparing for a battle of the spirit.
- Engage in community service or envi ...
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Demonic Influence: Curses, Rituals, and False Gods
Dan Schneider delves deeply into the realm of curses, rituals, and the worship of false gods, addressing how these factors symbolize demonic influences and disrupt divine order.
Generational Curses Stem From Sin, Not Demonic Possession
Schneider clarifies the concept of generational curses, drawing a distinction between curses stemming from sin and demonic possession. He describes generational curses as the effects of sin inherited similarly to physical traits or wealth, passed down within a family due to the sins of forebears, such as incest. This inheritance results in the absence of blessing, which includes protection and provision.
Schneider explains that while the sinful act is not passed on, the effects can lead descendants to mimic and compound those sins, creating what may seem like a cursed legacy. This is supported by scripture stating God will visit the iniquity of the fathers on children to the third and fourth generation. St. Thomas Aquinas also supports this notion, suggesting the natural goods of the father, if tainted by sin, may bring about punishment upon his offspring.
He delves into inherited guilt as described by St. Augustine's doctrine of original sin, where depravity is passed on—a generational curse in spiritual and temporal forms. Schneider argues that these curses, while they may seem to have a demonic influence, are essentially due to sin and its effects. Even when sins are accounted for, their temporal effects can persist, as seen in the biblical account of King David.
Break Generational Curses With Repentance, Prayer, and Faith
To break these generational curses, Schneider emphasizes the necessity of repentance, prayers, and faith-based actions. Direct correspondence with the divine through confession and renouncement of sins can rid a person of demonic presences associated with those sins. Using renunciation prayers from specific texts, like "Deliverance of the Spirit, the Laity," can presumably break active curses, such as those from Freemasonry.
Schneider details a specific procedure for breaking curses, which includes praying in a sacred place, weekly confession, and striving toward a state of grace. He asserts that through spiritual means, such as a father's assertive prayer as head of the household, one can command demonic afflictions to leave, often resulting in tangible supernatural incidents.
Demons Influence Humanity via Rituals, Symbols, and False God Worship
Schneider discusses how demons influence humanity through rituals, symbols, and worship of false gods, such as Baal, Asherah, Moloch, and others mentioned in the Old Testament. He notes how these entities lead to sinful behaviors that deviate from God's natural laws.
Demons, Schneider indicates, can also attach themselves to objects, turning them into conduits of negative power, much like the positive influence of blessed items in Christianity. He provides examples o ...
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Clarifications
- Generational curses refer to the lasting consequences of sins committed by ancestors, affecting descendants through inherited patterns or circumstances rather than direct spiritual control. Demonic possession involves an actual evil spirit inhabiting and controlling a person, causing behaviors or symptoms beyond natural inheritance. Unlike possession, generational curses are more about inherited spiritual or moral consequences, not an external entity controlling someone. Breaking generational curses focuses on repentance and faith, while possession often requires deliverance prayers or exorcism.
- St. Augustine's doctrine of original sin teaches that all humans inherit a fallen nature and guilt from Adam's first disobedience in Eden. This sin is not a personal fault but a condition affecting human nature, causing a tendency toward sin and separation from God. It explains why humans are born with a spiritual deficiency needing divine grace for salvation. Baptism is seen as the sacrament that cleanses original sin and restores spiritual life.
- The scriptural basis comes from passages like Exodus 20:5 and Numbers 14:18, where God warns that the consequences of sin can affect descendants. This reflects the idea that the impact of a person's wrongdoing can extend beyond their own life, influencing family lines. It emphasizes God's justice in addressing sin's ripple effects while also allowing for mercy. The concept highlights the importance of repentance to break these cycles.
- St. Thomas Aquinas taught that natural goods like health, wealth, and talents are blessings from God but can be impaired by sin. When a father sins, these goods may be diminished or corrupted, indirectly affecting his children. This is not a direct punishment on the children but a consequence of the father's moral failings impacting the family's well-being. Aquinas sees this as part of the natural order where sin disrupts harmony and causes temporal harm.
- Renunciation prayers are specific prayers used to reject and break ties with evil influences, sins, or occult practices. "Deliverance of the Spirit, the Laity" is a text containing such prayers designed for laypeople to use in spiritual deliverance. These prayers often involve verbally renouncing past involvement in occult or sinful activities and asking for God's protection and cleansing. They serve as a spiritual tool to sever demonic attachments and restore grace.
- In many Christian traditions, the father as "head of the household" holds spiritual responsibility to lead family prayer, moral guidance, and faith formation. This role is rooted in biblical teachings, such as Ephesians 5:23, which describes the husband as the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church. The father's authority includes interceding in prayer for protection and blessing over the family. This leadership is exercised with humility and service, reflecting Christ’s example.
- Baal was a Canaanite storm and fertility god often opposed in the Bible for leading Israelites into idolatry. Asherah was a mother goddess worshiped in ancient Near Eastern religions, sometimes represented as a sacred tree or pole. Moloch was associated with child sacrifice and condemned in biblical texts as a false god demanding horrific offerings. Baphomet is a symbolic figure linked to occult traditions and modern esoteric groups, often misunderstood as a demon but originally representing balance and duality.
- Demonic attachment to objects is believed to occur when an object is used in occult practices or rituals that invite negative spiritual forces. These objects then serve as focal points for harmful energies, influencing people who come into contact with them. Cursed objects are thought to carry these malevolent influences, causing misfortune or spiritual harm to their owners. The concept contrasts with blessed objects, which are consecrated to channel positive divine power.
- In many ancient sacrificial practices, blood and sexual purity were required to appease gods, symbolizing life and holiness through physical acts. Jesus Christ’s sacrifice, however, is viewed as a perfect, sinless offering that transcends physical rituals by providing spiritual redempt ...
Counterarguments
- The concept of generational curses is not universally accepted in Christianity or other religions; many theologians and believers argue that each individual is responsible for their own actions and not bound by the sins of their ancestors.
- The interpretation of scripture regarding the iniquity of the fathers being visited upon the children is debated, with some arguing it is meant to illustrate the natural consequences of sin in society rather than a divine imposition of punishment across generations.
- The doctrine of original sin and inherited guilt as described by St. Augustine is not accepted by all Christian denominations, and other religious traditions may have different views on the nature of sin and human responsibility.
- The effectiveness of specific prayers or rituals to break curses is not empirically proven and is subject to personal belief; some may argue that such practices are superstitious rather than theologically sound.
- The belief in objects being cursed or possessed by demons is not held by all individuals, and some may view this as a form of superstition that can lead to fear-based behaviors rather than rational or faith-based responses.
- The association of specific historical deities with demonic forces is a perspective that may not be shared by all, especially those who study religions from a historical or anthropological standpoint, and may be seen as disrespectful to those cultures.
- The idea that demons actively work to disrupt divine order and cause chaos is a theological interpretation that not all people share, and some may argue that evil in the world is the result of human free will and natural processes rather than supernatural entities.
- The notion that rituals in r ...
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Strategies for Spiritual Warfare: Prayer, Fasting, Sacramentals
Throughout history, spiritual warfare has been a subject that’s both fascinated and concerned believers. Current discussions led by Dan Schneider elucidate how traditional methods like prayer, fasting, and the use of sacramentals are still considered potent defenses against demonic influence.
Prayer, Fasting, and Sacramentals: Tools Against Demonic Influence
Schneider encourages the faithful to live a gospel-centered life, engage in regular fasting, and make small sacrifices as ways to fight the devil. Praying for protection from demonic forces and invoking angels to establish a protective perimeter are essential strategies he discusses. Schneider also mentions leveraging the church's power through items like blessed holy water and crucifixes, and rituals such as exorcism, indicating the belief in the potency of sacramentals and invoking church authority.
Building a Robust Spiritual Life: Mass, Devotion to Virgin Mary, and Defense Against the Enemy
Invoking Jesus and Saints' Intercession Provides Spiritual Protection
Emphasizing the importance of a disciplined prayer life, Schneider advises praying multiple rosaries a day and attending daily Mass. He suggests devotion to the Virgin Mary and the recitation of deliverance prayers to strengthen spiritual defenses. Schneider’s recommendations also include engaging in specific prayer times, like the Angelus, and suggests fasting from media to break low-level spiritual obsessions. He explains the transformation a dedicated spiritual life can bring, observing how a seminarian overcame impurity and addiction through a rigorous spiritual regimen.
Prayer and fasting are highlighted as methods to maintain spiritual focus and purity. Schneider advocates hard fasting and meditation on scripture to 'reprogram' thinking with Christ's and scriptural truths. He connects the ancient practice of fasting with the control over bodily desires and considers it essential in overcoming temptation from the enemy.
In his dialogue, Schneider recounts a session where naming a specific vice aided in addressing the demon responsible for it. He cites the instance where a demon sensed lust, indicating the need for more fasting. He then references the New Testament insight that some demons are expelled only through prayer and fasting.
Schneider b ...
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Counterarguments
- The efficacy of prayer, fasting, and sacramentals in combating demonic influence is not universally accepted and lacks empirical evidence; some may argue that these practices are based on faith rather than demonstrable results.
- The idea that specific rituals or objects have power over supernatural entities is not acknowledged by all denominations or religions, and some may view this as superstitious rather than spiritually significant.
- The emphasis on traditional methods may overlook the potential benefits of modern psychological and medical approaches to issues that are interpreted as demonic influence.
- The focus on male authority in the context of exorcism could be seen as reinforcing gender stereotypes and may not align with contemporary understandings of gender equality.
- The narrative that certain behaviors or addictions are the result of demonic activity may oversimplify complex psychological or social issues that contribute to these problems.
- The concept of spiritual warfare and the existence of demons are interpreted metaphorically or symbolically by many modern theologians and believers, rather than as literal truths.
- The recommendation for hard fasting and rigorous spiritual practices could potentially lead to negative physical or psychological effects if not approached with caution and under appropriate guidance.
- The idea that small sacrifices can increase situational awareness and discernment may not resonate with those ...
Actionables
- Create a spiritual journal to track your daily practices and reflections, noting how each activity makes you feel and any changes in your spiritual well-being. This can help you identify which practices are most effective for you and encourage consistency in your spiritual routine.
- Develop a "spiritual toolkit" with items that resonate with you personally, such as stones, oils, or symbols from your own faith tradition, to carry with you or place in your living space. Use these items as physical reminders to stay spiritually grounded and to create a sense of sacred space wherever you are.
- Partner with a f ...
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Pagan/Occult Influence in Society via Freemasonry and Entertainment
Freemasonry and Related Groups Use Occult and Anti-Christian Symbols and Rituals
Dan Schneider presents Freemasonry as a fraternal organization that started post-Reformation and is associated with the use of occult symbols and carrying out rituals that are contrary to Christian teachings. Freemasonry's influence dates back to the 1700s and has been involved in various historical and societal events. Schneider cites Masonic symbols prevalent on gravestones and describes various Freemasonic items like aprons, rings, and swords as associated with occult practices that should be disposed of. He shares the practice of burning a "Masonic Bible" and mentions the Freemason-created Schofield Bible, which they also consider non-Christian and thus burn.
Freemasonry's Influence on Generational Curses and Gender/Family Distortions
Schneider discusses alleged patterns of generational curses linked to Freemasonry, affecting descendants with various health issues and struggling with religious, mental, or gender-related problems. These curses are symbolized by the compass, square, and letter 'G' emblem, indicating Masonic beliefs that he alleges can stand for the "generative principle." He notes a correlation between Freemasonry in the family and generational curses, including gender and family distortions.
Hollywood Linked To Occult Practices and False Gods Promotion
Dan Schneider implies there is a prevalent influence of the occult and pagan rituals in modern entertainment, which has permeated through the promotion of false gods. He discusses alleged pacts with the devil in the entertainment industry, referring to old cases involving famous individuals from the 1960s as evidence. Schneider suggests that these rituals and the worship of false gods are still present, manifesting through practices in modern entertainment and events.
Occult Symbolism and Themes in Media Influence Masses
Schneider and host Shawn Ryan discuss Hollywood events that they consider mocking Christian sacraments and highlight the alleged occurrences of occult symbolism in ...
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Counterarguments
- Freemasonry is a secular fraternal organization, and many argue that its symbols and rituals are not occult but rather allegorical tools for moral and philosophical teachings.
- The influence of Freemasonry on historical and societal events is often overstated, with many historians noting that its members' impact is due to their individual actions rather than the organization's directives.
- The Schofield Bible was not created by Freemasons, and the claim that it is non-Christian is a matter of personal interpretation rather than a widely accepted fact.
- The idea of generational curses is not supported by mainstream Christianity, psychology, or medicine, and attributing health or personal issues to such curses lacks empirical evidence.
- The compass and square are traditional symbols of Freemasonry representing virtue and morality, and the 'G' typically stands for God or Geometry, not necessarily any "generative principle."
- The entertainment industry is diverse, and while some artists may explore occult themes, it is a creative choice rather than evidence of widespread occult practice.
- Allegations of pacts with the devil in the entertainment industry are often based on anecdotal evidence and sensationalism rather than verifiable facts.
- Claims of hidden messages in Disney movies have been debunked, and such allegations often stem from misinte ...
Actionables
- You can research the history and symbolism of Freemasonry to better understand its cultural impact and make informed decisions about its presence in your life. Start by visiting a local library or using online academic databases to find books and peer-reviewed articles on the subject. This will give you a deeper insight into the origins and meanings behind Masonic symbols and rituals, allowing you to discern their relevance to your personal beliefs and values.
- Create a personal media literacy plan to critically analyze entertainment content for occult references. Begin by learning the basics of media literacy, which includes understanding how media messages are constructed and for what purposes. Apply this knowledge by watching movies or shows with a critical eye, taking notes on any symbols or themes that seem to align with occult imagery, and then researching those elements to understand their origins and implications.
- Develop a habit of reflective journaling to explore the potential influenc ...
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