Penetrating the Darkness: Discovering the Power of the Cross Against Unseen Evil

I found it difficult to follow the thoughts and writing by the authors. Not an easy book to read or understand.

I've read countless books on prayer and spiritual warfare. "Penetrating the Darkness" is by far at the top of my list. Carefully backed with Scripture, it will change the way you pray, and leave you with a richer, fuller understanding of how you can make a significant impact in this present evil age.Here's a short excerpt:* The epistles laud the cross and the blood of Christ as having completed salvation's provision, but they also teach that a spiritual conflict is being engaged in this present evil age" (Galatians 1:4).* The blood of the cross is not only honored, but its power is testified to as the source of authority that equips believers to prevail in this present age-long battle against "that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world" (Revelation 12:9).* All prayer-petition, intercession, supplication and praiseful thanksgiving-is noted as the weapons of our warfare," as believers gird for the battle in spiritual armor and take up spiritual weaponry (see 2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Ephesians 6:10-18).Hayford reminds us that God wants to enlist us in this battle:Consider the implications of these three key phrases in which Jesus speaks, calling us-now and then-to hear, understand and act what "the Kingdom of God" is about, and how He wants us as His disciples to learn to draw on Kingdom power and apply its gracious works through prayer.* "The kingdom of God has come upon you" (Luke 11:20). Jesus is saying that because He-the King-was/is present, His Kingdom's potential to penetrate whatever need exists with His personal grace, forgiveness, healing or peace is also present-that is, if and wherever hearing hearts welcome Him into their lives or situations. In short, He's saying, "My world (Kingdom) is ready to change your world if you are willing and will ask."* "The kingdom of heaven is at hand" (Matthew 4:17). The presence of the King is the point. Any place He's welcome, He will enter and work "the Father's will"-on earth (where you are) as it is in heaven, which is nearer "at hand" because God is not distant. Its blessing and transforming power, character and qualities are within the circle of the hearer's reach or access.Our privilege of access is explained when Jesus begins to teach about His Church, about how He will build it and how He intends us, the same as His early disciples, to confront the workings of evil. He specifically expressed His will to give "access" to each of us who come to Him, saying, "I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 16:18-19).........Hayford has clearly heard from God!Filled with true, personal, unforgettable stories, Hayford is as interesting as he is thorough. Take these fascinating Biblical principles to heart, apply them to your life, and watch your prayer life rise to a whole new dimension of power, fervency, and effectiveness!

A pleasant surprise. I haven't read many of Hayford's books yet but I've read good reviews of his books and I've heard he is a good writer. I was browsing through books on spiritual warfare and stumbled upon this book. It was on sale for 1.99 at the time so, after reading the reviews I thought why not, I'll read this. And wow, what a blessing this book has been to read. It's one of those "life changing" books. I encourage every true Believer to read it. One of the things I enjoy most about reading books written by Christians is when their true self comes through and you can see that this author knows God intimately and deeply. This is one of those books. A pleasure to read and a gift. I couldn't put it down until it was finished. Thank you Jack---Ill be reading more of your books.

This is the best book on prayer I have ever read. I have learned the freedom and understanding of how prayer works and exactly how it works. See how much I really didn’t understand what prayer was. Now I feel confident in the ability to pray in a way that will really effect this world in ushering in Gods Kingdom purposes.

The subject of spiritual warfare is treated with respect, insight and power that comes when one has a mature relationship with God, and understands experientially and theologically how to prevail with the power of the Cross.It's a page-turner!

This is a wonderfully written book about the power of prayer

So enjoyed this book. If you are looking for a good book on prayer and warfare this is it. Every chapter challenged me.

I am so glad I bought this book. I wasn't sure what I expected, but once I started reading, it was very hard to take a break from it. The principles of prayer, living a Godly life, a life of interceeding... are most valuable for every Christian to know. Some things in this book were new to me & I appreciated learning so I can be sure that I'm prepared to penetrate the darkness with my prayers.

At first impression this book is about the basic Christian doctrine of the victory of Christ on the cross. But it moves on to challenge modern disciples to a boldness and an authority to "do the things that Christ did". This is not a book to be read passively

very helpful and informative

Well written practical guide to using the spiritual authority every Christian has in Christ's name.