Cahn told CBN News that the passenger initially appeared friendly. The two reportedly spoke for nearly two hours about Cahn’s books, family, and other subjects. Cahn then prayed for an opportunity to share the Gospel with him.
When the conversation turned to faith, Cahn explained how he had once been an atheist before coming to believe in God. He said the man’s demeanor suddenly changed.
“His face changes. His voice changes,” Cahn recalled, describing the moment as “totally demonic” and unlike anything he had previously witnessed.
Cahn alleged that the passenger began cursing Jesus and God, making vulgar remarks, and disrupting others aboard the aircraft. The man later appeared calm again but reportedly placed his hands around Cahn’s neck and lightly struck him.
The confrontation escalated when the passenger allegedly reached for Cahn’s laptop, which contained important writings and projects. Cahn said he felt spiritually warned to protect the computer and attempted to move away with it.
“We are literally wrestling,” he said.
Two passengers, including a retired police officer, eventually intervened. Flight attendants supplied duct tape to restrain the man, and the aircraft landed in Baltimore, where authorities reportedly took him into custody.
Cahn believes the encounter carried a spiritual dimension, particularly because The Altar of Pergamon addresses Satan and spiritual warfare.
“The warfare is real, the enemy is real, and God is real,” he said.
Still, Cahn emphasized redemption rather than condemnation, saying he is praying for the passenger and wants him to know that God’s arms remain open.
For Christians, the confrontation offers a sobering reminder that hostility can arise unexpectedly—even in routine public settings. Scripture repeatedly calls believers to remain alert while responding to opposition without surrendering their faith or convictions.
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour,” 1 Peter 5:8 states.
The incident also underscores the need for wisdom and restraint. Spiritual courage does not require unnecessary escalation. Instead, believers are called to stand firm, seek protection when needed, and answer hostility with discernment, prayer, and self-control.
Cahn has spent years warning that societies rejecting their biblical foundations may open the door to deeper spiritual darkness. His latest experience will likely reinforce his call for Christians to recognize the spiritual dimension behind the cultural upheaval occurring across nations.
