Hostage to the Devil
The author, Malachi Martin, in the interpretive report, non-fiction account Hostage to the Devil believes that possession is not a mere result of sinful lifestyle but an inevitable attempt of made by demons. He first gives five accounts of “demon possession and subsequent exorcism” (256). Thoroughly researching each case, he interviews those involved and studies “the recordings and transcripts of the exorcism”, to give the reader an accurate account of demonic possession (523). Biblically speaking, exorcisms are instructing the demons to depart and they do. Never does Jesus use “holy objects”, take many days, or use special prayers. Not always instantaneous, many accounts last less than a few hours. None use special objects or chant unique prayers. They simply follow Jesus’s examples. Martin’s experiences fit right within his Catholic views. Sprinkling holy water and using a crucifix are displayed as “powerful weapons against demons” (46). He teaches which prayers will “provoke” the demon and explains why exorcisms “rarely last less than one and often times…show more content… He presents five cases, deeply and thoroughly explained, which is the core of the book. From a possessed seeking help of his own accord to a sex doctor and offender with “multiple personality disorder leading to gender fluidity”, each case brings its own insightfulness (366). He then goes into the accounts and the respective analysis, exploring where spirits and God comes in. Lucifer and Jesus are contrasted, along salvageability of humans and possession of the chosen. While wrapping up, he brings back Priest Michael and reveals his devastating finale. However the reader now understands this unfortunate fate, after understanding the nature of possession
