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Possessing the Gates of the Enemy: A Training Manual for Militant Intercession
This book is a wealth of information on prayer and intercession. It covers everything from the call to intercede to conducting "spiritual mapping" and praying to break strongholds over your city. This book is a definite for intercessors, pastors and other spiritual leaders to understand the depth involved in spiritual warfare.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1991
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 9, 2010
This book has a very good and relevant and practical teaching for the ones who have intercession as spiritual gift and are part of a group of prayer. It was recommended to me two years ago but I didn't have it then, neither someone to borrow it. It came to me now at the very right time to teach me, enlight me, encourage me, strenghten me regarding prayer and the 'dream' that strated to shape in my heart and mind a year ago. And now, after going through this book, it came to life and, hopefully, it will bring fruits.
Nu cunosc pe nimeni care să treacă prin viaţă fără vreo rană sufletească. Cîteodată, mai degrabă facem un duş rapid la Calvar, decît să-l lăsăm pe Dumnezeu să taie adînc şi să spele rănile cu sîngele Lui răscumpărător. De multe ori nu suntem conştienti de amploarea răului produs în inima noastră, pînă cînd nu intrăm într-o situaţie dificilă şi ni se revarsă amărăciunea prin cuvinte sau acţiuni. Rugăciunile noastre vor fi poluate de rănile din inimile noastre dacă nu lăsăm Duhul Sfînt să strălucească asupra neiertării din viaţa noastră.
Nu cunosc pe nimeni care să treacă prin viaţă fără vreo rană sufletească. Cîteodată, mai degrabă facem un duş rapid la Calvar, decît să-l lăsăm pe Dumnezeu să taie adînc şi să spele rănile cu sîngele Lui răscumpărător. De multe ori nu suntem conştienti de amploarea răului produs în inima noastră, pînă cînd nu intrăm într-o situaţie dificilă şi ni se revarsă amărăciunea prin cuvinte sau acţiuni. Rugăciunile noastre vor fi poluate de rănile din inimile noastre dacă nu lăsăm Duhul Sfînt să strălucească asupra neiertării din viaţa noastră.
December 15, 2019
This book has been sitting on my tbr shelf on Goodreads for a while and I finally managed to get around to reading it. Actually, I listened to it on audible and the narration was good (but I sped it up to 1.1 since she reads a little slow)
The book certainly accomplished its task. I found myself praying as I listened, and more than once, I had to put it aside so I can focus more on a time of prayer. That said, I also had moments where I was simply thinking, "That is extra-biblical theology" or "sometimes these people are just weird". Although I was listening to the 2009 revised and updated version, there were plenty of moments when some of the craziness of the early 90's theology of the original was peeking through. I do have to say that CJ is not as extreme as some of the others in the Word of Faith heyday were. She does give a good amount of moderation against some of the extremes.
In all, the book is good, but if someone is looking for a book on prayer, I would recommend Dutch Sheets Intercessory Prayer or Richard Foster's Prayer rather than this work.
The book certainly accomplished its task. I found myself praying as I listened, and more than once, I had to put it aside so I can focus more on a time of prayer. That said, I also had moments where I was simply thinking, "That is extra-biblical theology" or "sometimes these people are just weird". Although I was listening to the 2009 revised and updated version, there were plenty of moments when some of the craziness of the early 90's theology of the original was peeking through. I do have to say that CJ is not as extreme as some of the others in the Word of Faith heyday were. She does give a good amount of moderation against some of the extremes.
In all, the book is good, but if someone is looking for a book on prayer, I would recommend Dutch Sheets Intercessory Prayer or Richard Foster's Prayer rather than this work.
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August 7, 2011Great book. Every Christian should read this book.
April 5, 2022
I rated this book five stars when I first finished it a year ago. But since I’ve grown with more, Holy Spirit-lead teaching, I’m not so sure many of her “teachings” in this book are biblical. Some may even be dangerous (e.g. praying against territorial spirits). We don’t read anyone doing that, teaching that, or anything close to that in the Bible. Just because they are mentioned (like in Daniel), doesn’t mean we are meant to engage with them - it actually illustrates the opposite since it was not Daniel, or any human, who fights back with the entity. But, this is just one of many unbiblical teachings in this book. Some of her experiences are inspiring, and some points of her teaching are insightful (like her analysis with Joseph in the first part of the book), but I cannot endorse the book any longer given such flagrant and dangerous teaching in later chapters. I actually threw my copy of the book away :(.
May 21, 2018
First published in 1991, Possessing The Gates Of The Enemy has come to be known by some as a classic. The new 4th edition has been revised and contains a study guide. This edition also has new forewords by Lou Engle and the late C. Peter Wagner.
In Possessing The Gates Of The Enemy Cindy Jacobs, a prophet and intercessor, chronicles her journey as an intercessor. She also explains what intercession is, how to intercede, and how NOT to intercede. Jacobs also writes specifically to pastors, prayer leaders and other ministry leaders in certain sections of the book. This book is written for anyone, whether someone with an interest in intercession or an experienced intercessory prayer group leader looking for ways to improve their group. I highly recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
In Possessing The Gates Of The Enemy Cindy Jacobs, a prophet and intercessor, chronicles her journey as an intercessor. She also explains what intercession is, how to intercede, and how NOT to intercede. Jacobs also writes specifically to pastors, prayer leaders and other ministry leaders in certain sections of the book. This book is written for anyone, whether someone with an interest in intercession or an experienced intercessory prayer group leader looking for ways to improve their group. I highly recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 21, 2021
Just did a quick reread. Have read this book probably 4 times previously. Use it for reference regularly. Christians sometimes don't understand the powerful tool of prayer. This is a basic book on how to intercede in prayer in various contexts and situations at both individual and church prayer group level. Easy to understand and Biblically backed.
May 16, 2018
In Possessing the Gates of the Enemy, Cindy Jacobs explored the topic of prayer and how we can be intercessors for the Kingdom of God. She has rereleased this book as a fourth edition with updated content geared towards helping the new generation. Cindy Jacobs believes in the power of prayer and she is committed to praying regularly. She strongly believes Genesis 22:17-18 which discuss how God has said He would bless you and multiply our seed and we would possess the land of the enemy. And God said He would bless us and all the nations of the earth if we obey His voice. Throughout the book, she shared stories about how prayers saved people’s lives and has changed their circumstances. She also went into great detail about how the power of agreement and a very helpful sample prayer that you can pray with your friend. She explored the topic of binding and loosing satan and how we can seek freedom from his schemes. It was also beneficial that she discussed the different types of strongholds and how we can recognize when satan is trying to gain power and influence over our lives.
I would recommend this amazing book to anyone who is ready to learn how to pray for others and how the power of intercession can change things. God will listen to us when we pray and when we come into agreement with others. This book is a guide to believers in learning how to actively pray and it will help readers to see if they have the gift of intercession. I really enjoyed the topics of the language of intercession, prophetic intercession, intercessory praise, corporate intercession, and reforming nations. I really connected with the discussion of joy and laughter and how we can use these tactics towards satan and his schemes. As we all know, the nation and the world needs our prayers and we can learn how to pray prayers that will make a difference. If you’re seeking an excellent book on the power of intercession, then read this book!
“I received this book free from the publisher through the Bethany House Publishers/ Chosen book review bloggers program.”
I would recommend this amazing book to anyone who is ready to learn how to pray for others and how the power of intercession can change things. God will listen to us when we pray and when we come into agreement with others. This book is a guide to believers in learning how to actively pray and it will help readers to see if they have the gift of intercession. I really enjoyed the topics of the language of intercession, prophetic intercession, intercessory praise, corporate intercession, and reforming nations. I really connected with the discussion of joy and laughter and how we can use these tactics towards satan and his schemes. As we all know, the nation and the world needs our prayers and we can learn how to pray prayers that will make a difference. If you’re seeking an excellent book on the power of intercession, then read this book!
“I received this book free from the publisher through the Bethany House Publishers/ Chosen book review bloggers program.”
October 28, 2025
This book stretched my thinking in many ways. Some things I’ve experienced and can give a hearty recommendation and assertion to and really blessed me, and other things not so much. She gives good language to aspects of intercession I’ve not read elsewhere. It’s a book I hold as brain food and things to consider and not wholehearted recommendation, and thus the 3-star rating.
It’s worth noting that Mike Bickel is spoken highly of (caveat - this book was published before his removal from ministry) and also Oral Roberts, who many accredit with the founding of the prosperity gospel movement in the US. While this is not the focus of the book, aspects of it bleed through and at best I can recommend this read to mature Christians with a discerning spirit.
It’s worth noting that Mike Bickel is spoken highly of (caveat - this book was published before his removal from ministry) and also Oral Roberts, who many accredit with the founding of the prosperity gospel movement in the US. While this is not the focus of the book, aspects of it bleed through and at best I can recommend this read to mature Christians with a discerning spirit.
September 20, 2022
We Need Militant Intercession!!!
We need militant intercession. Cindy Jacobs shows us this reality as we stand in the gap for the United States of America. We need to possess the gates of the enemy by doing acts of intercession that pull down the strongholds that are existent in the United States of America. We can truly do militant intercession to see those strongholds taken down in order for America to experience true freedom that only God can bring. Allow God to mold you into a militant intercessor as you pray for the United States of America.
We need militant intercession. Cindy Jacobs shows us this reality as we stand in the gap for the United States of America. We need to possess the gates of the enemy by doing acts of intercession that pull down the strongholds that are existent in the United States of America. We can truly do militant intercession to see those strongholds taken down in order for America to experience true freedom that only God can bring. Allow God to mold you into a militant intercessor as you pray for the United States of America.
October 8, 2019
I couldn't finish this book. It gave me a bad feeling and felt extreme. I fully believe in prayer, but I don't know if we should be take it to this extreme level. This book could easily be misconstrued and make people think they have as much power as God does. I just don't think we should overthink prayer. I think of it as a natural conversation with God.
January 27, 2018
The subtitle of this book is “A Training Manual for Militant Intercession”. The first several chapters discuss various aspects of intercession and the last few chapters are teaching on setting up prayer teams and praying for your region.
March 1, 2022
Good Book
This is a good book, full of encouraging stories, exhortation, and scripture. I would definitely recommend ❤️ It’s very good
This is a good book, full of encouraging stories, exhortation, and scripture. I would definitely recommend ❤️ It’s very good
June 12, 2022
Review on Amazon
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2022
DNF @ 11%: I really tried to keep an open mind but I was constantly groaning and rolling my eyes. I really can't buy this philosophy aka Christianity
December 26, 2022
Powerful
Comprehensive Biblical guide to engaging in necessary intercessory prayer. Taking back the ground stolen by the enemy is every Christian’s mandate.
Comprehensive Biblical guide to engaging in necessary intercessory prayer. Taking back the ground stolen by the enemy is every Christian’s mandate.
December 27, 2024
Great book. Highly recommended for those called into the intercessor ministry.
February 28, 2025
Timely
June 3, 2018
Possessing the Gates of the Enemy-Cindy Jacobs
This is basically a manual for intercession. It was originally published during the 1980's and is being republished as the author believes the spiritual principles for intercession and spiritual warfare, we learned during the 80's and 90's, are just as valid for the resent generation; who she believes have not had instruction passed down and desperately need to learn to interceed.
The author, Cindy Jacobs, has had many year experience of intercession in every sphere of infouence, from local church level to international warfare. The book tells how she learned her skills from the Holy Spirit and biblical study. At each stage she points out useful warnings and advice.
The author spends time discussing how to know if you are an intercessor, what the role of intercessor is and the different forms of intercessor which exist. She provides a whole chapter on spiritual intercession. She explains how to set up prayer groups within the local church and what the role of prayer leader involves.
She deals with problems which can arise within prayer grous, including discussing the Absalom spirit. She talks about prayer walks, personal prayer support and praying against strongholds is given a lot of space.
This is a book everyone who prays should read. We are not all called as intercessors, but we are all called to interceed. This book will provide wisdom and instruction to every christian.
All the teaching is carefully supported by scripture. Important points are set out with bullet points for clarity. As a result the book is easy to read and clear in its teaching. All points are illustrated by examples from the author's personal life or from the lives' of other godly christians.
The book is not a heavy instruction manual. The style is light, despite containing such a depth of wisdom.
I highly recommend this book.
This is basically a manual for intercession. It was originally published during the 1980's and is being republished as the author believes the spiritual principles for intercession and spiritual warfare, we learned during the 80's and 90's, are just as valid for the resent generation; who she believes have not had instruction passed down and desperately need to learn to interceed.
The author, Cindy Jacobs, has had many year experience of intercession in every sphere of infouence, from local church level to international warfare. The book tells how she learned her skills from the Holy Spirit and biblical study. At each stage she points out useful warnings and advice.
The author spends time discussing how to know if you are an intercessor, what the role of intercessor is and the different forms of intercessor which exist. She provides a whole chapter on spiritual intercession. She explains how to set up prayer groups within the local church and what the role of prayer leader involves.
She deals with problems which can arise within prayer grous, including discussing the Absalom spirit. She talks about prayer walks, personal prayer support and praying against strongholds is given a lot of space.
This is a book everyone who prays should read. We are not all called as intercessors, but we are all called to interceed. This book will provide wisdom and instruction to every christian.
All the teaching is carefully supported by scripture. Important points are set out with bullet points for clarity. As a result the book is easy to read and clear in its teaching. All points are illustrated by examples from the author's personal life or from the lives' of other godly christians.
The book is not a heavy instruction manual. The style is light, despite containing such a depth of wisdom.
I highly recommend this book.
May 22, 2018
Possessing The Gates Of The Enemy: Is a good book of Spiritual Wisdom for Warfare in the Spiritual Realm and how to use the tools GOD gave us to fight against evil. The book says it is about "equipping you in prophetic intercession, in wisdom, and how to work with the Angelic Realm and dismantle Principalities and Powers." we have been given this through the Scripture and the author brings it all to life. I love love love it. I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley; all the opinions expressed in this review are all my very own.
If you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com
If you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com
April 1, 2019
Not really a training manual
This book is, for the most part, filled with inspiring information. The chapter about soaking in God, although very short is like a jewel jammed between the pages.
Reading this book will cause you to take a serious look at your prayer life.
About two thirds in the author shells out a few paragraphs of Gay bashing. Had I know that I would not have bought the book. But for this out of place excursion into lasciviousness I got great value from reading this book.
This book is, for the most part, filled with inspiring information. The chapter about soaking in God, although very short is like a jewel jammed between the pages.
Reading this book will cause you to take a serious look at your prayer life.
About two thirds in the author shells out a few paragraphs of Gay bashing. Had I know that I would not have bought the book. But for this out of place excursion into lasciviousness I got great value from reading this book.
May 22, 2018
Possessing The Gates Of The Enemy: Is a good book of Spiritual Wisdom for Warfare in the Spiritual Realm and how to use the tools GOD gave us to fight against evil. The book says it is about "equipping you in prophetic intercession, in wisdom, and how to work with the Angelic Realm and dismantle Principalities and Powers." we have been given this through the Scripture and the author brings it all to life. I love love love it.
August 25, 2018
INCREDIBLE!!!
This was seriously one of *the* best books I’ve read on intercession! It was - thank God - not dry and boring or hard to read through. There was a perfect balance of teaching and experiential examples. It did not read like a novel nor a textbook; it read like an informative conversation with personal memories shared as if between intimate friends. Thank you for this book and the wisdom within it!
This was seriously one of *the* best books I’ve read on intercession! It was - thank God - not dry and boring or hard to read through. There was a perfect balance of teaching and experiential examples. It did not read like a novel nor a textbook; it read like an informative conversation with personal memories shared as if between intimate friends. Thank you for this book and the wisdom within it!
May 10, 2021
A true blessing
My prayer to God was to teach me how to pray. I was divinely led to this book and it has set me on fire to pray and learn the Word of God. If you do not find yourself repenting throughout the pages of this book, a heart transplant is in order. Thank you Cindy Jacobs for your wealth of knowledge. Blessings to you!!
My prayer to God was to teach me how to pray. I was divinely led to this book and it has set me on fire to pray and learn the Word of God. If you do not find yourself repenting throughout the pages of this book, a heart transplant is in order. Thank you Cindy Jacobs for your wealth of knowledge. Blessings to you!!
October 11, 2021
Should Prayer Return to the Church?
The answer is Yes. Cindy Jacobs lays out the need for prayer in the church. She discusses Prayer Leadership and the importance for each church. Cindy describes various forms of prayer and teaches the how to.
The answer is Yes. Cindy Jacobs lays out the need for prayer in the church. She discusses Prayer Leadership and the importance for each church. Cindy describes various forms of prayer and teaches the how to.
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March 30, 2011A Good Read
August 29, 2014
Well written. A great book on intercessory prayer.
December 12, 2015
This book really changed my life, there are some prayers in there, well that make you really think and meditate on Who the Lord Almighty is and What he requires of us.
May 31, 2017
A great resource that covers all grounds on intercessory prayer.
June 15, 2017
Well done work!
I got all the details for spiritual warfare, and got a glance in the prayer world. So, now I know how to and how not!
I got all the details for spiritual warfare, and got a glance in the prayer world. So, now I know how to and how not!
February 2, 2019
I read this book for the first time in 1994. It has blessed my life ever since and changed my view of prayer.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews