The very opening of the novel speaks to the first of these assertions. Rather than introducing the main characters of the novel at the beginning, Peretti begins by introducing two angels as they are surveying the town to which they have been assigned. Likewise, there are several scenes that include angels, demons, or a combination thereof having conversations or fighting with each other.

Rather than just establishing the existence of supernatural forces, the novel consistently demonstrates a relationship between these supernatural forces and people. One of the clearest examples of this is Peretti's portrayal of the importance of prayer and prayer warriors, as several times demons are either banished or put on the defensive when faithful Christians begin to pray. This happens at the end of the novel, when the evil forces are defeated through the strength that the angels have as they work in conjunction with the Christians who are praying. Similarly, Hank is able to free a man from demon possession by praying over him.

There is also a darker side to the spiritual forces working in conjunction with people demonstrated in the novel. Peretti makes clear his belief that consciousness is something that should be guarded and opening that consciousness up allows for demonic influence. The evil in the novel is represented by The Universal Consciousness Society, a New Age group that is attempting to purchase the local community college. They support meditation and the pursuit of spirit guides, yet the novel portrays these spirit guides as demons in disguise slowly taking over the minds of the people participating. There are multiple characters in the novel that allow these demonic forces into their minds and lives.