In the movie The Pope’s Exorcist, renowned Hollywood actor Russell Crowe portrays the role of Fr. Gabriele Amorth, a real-life Catholic priest and exorcist. As a long-time admirer of Crowe’s work, I couldn’t help but be drawn into his performance. His ability to immerse himself fully into character, whether in Gladiator or Les Misérables, is unmatched. In Gladiator, I still recall the haunting yet powerful line: “Death smiles at us all; all a man can do is smile back.” It reminds us to live with courage and intention because tomorrow is never guaranteed. In Les Misérables, Crowe’s portrayal of Javert added emotional depth to the musical’s intense moral landscape.
However, this reflection isn’t a movie review. Rather, it’s about one profound lesson from The Pope’s Exorcist that resonates deeply with our spiritual and emotional lives.
In the movie, Fr. Amorth (Crowe) teaches that to cast out a demon effectively, you must first call it by its name. This is not merely cinematic drama; it is rooted in biblical truth. When Jesus encountered the demon-possessed man in the land of the Gerasenes (Mark 5:9), He asked, “What is your name?” and the response was, “My name is Legion, for we are many.” Jesus didn’t proceed until the identity of the demon was revealed. Why? Because calling something by its name strips it of its anonymity and power. It exposes the darkness and prepares it for expulsion.
Likewise, in our personal battles, whether they are spiritual, emotional, or psychological, we must first identify the enemy clearly.
Let’s bring it closer to home, if you are struggling with masturbation and pornography, call it what it is. Don’t sugarcoat it with phrases like “private habits” or “just a weakness.” Naming the problem gives clarity and opens the door to genuine repentance and healing.
If your struggle is alcohol or drug addiction, don’t wrap it in harmless euphemisms like “social drinking” or “blowing off steam”. Say it: “I am struggling with addiction.” That’s the first courageous step toward freedom.
Even emotional wounds, jealousy, bitterness, fear, unforgiveness must be named. You can’t heal what you refuse to acknowledge.
There’s power in names.
In Genesis 2:19-20, after God created all living creatures, He gave Adam the authority to name them. This wasn’t just an exercise in creativity, it was a spiritual act of dominion. Naming is tied to identity, to understanding, and ultimately to mastery.
Just like a person feels acknowledged when called by name, a problem loses its stronghold when we confront it by name. Naming your struggles in prayer and confession is the beginning of your deliverance. It says to the enemy, “I see you. I know what you are. And I’m not afraid to face you with God by my side.”
The Courage to Name and Overcome
Jesus didn’t cast out vague spirits. He confronted them. And so should we. To walk in freedom, we must stop hiding behind vague language and face the truth head-on. As the saying goes, you cannot conquer what you will not confront.
So today, ask yourself: What is that one thing holding you back? Name it. Write it down. Bring it before God. Let heaven and hell both hear you say, “This is my struggle, and by God’s grace, it will not define me anymore.” The moment you call a problem by its name, you start walking toward its solution.
