Welcome back to another episode of the Health for the Spirit, Soul, and Body Blog from Doxa Missions. Today, we're looking at healing for the sick. This post explores the biblical perspective on healing, covering three distinct groups: the world, the carnal-minded Christian, and the mature Christian. Let's dive into how God's healing power can transform lives at every stage of faith.
Healing for the World
In Mark 16:16-20, we read, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover" (NKJV). This passage highlights the early church's focus on healing as a means to demonstrate God's power to the unsaved. Healing served as a tangible way to reveal God to the natural mind, showing that Jesus’ ministry and, by extension, the church’s mission, is a battle against demonic forces.
The Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 6:16, "And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: 'I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people'" (NKJV), emphasizing our role as Christ's representatives on Earth. We are empowered to act on His behalf, carrying His name into the world to continue the works He started, including healing.
Jesus promised in John 14:12, "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father" (NKJV). This assurance includes healing, as seen through various acts by the apostles in Acts 3:1-8, Acts 5:12, and Acts 8:5-12. The believer, endowed with the nature and power of God, is a conduit of healing through the name of Jesus.
Healing for the Carnal-Minded Christian
The carnal-minded Christian, described as one not yet fully governed by the Word, operates from a sense-ruled perspective. Paul’s address to the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 3:1-3 says, "And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ. I fed you with milk and not with solid food; for until now you were not able to receive it, and even now you are still not able; for you are still carnal. For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal and behaving like mere men?" (NKJV). This highlights the need for growth and maturity.
For these individuals, healing often comes through the tangible actions of others, as prescribed in James 5:14-16, "Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much" (NKJV). The act of calling the elders, being prayed over, and anointed with oil provides a visible, sensory experience of faith in action. This method meets the carnal-minded Christian in their state, offering a bridge to understanding Jesus’ sacrifice for our health.
Healing for the Mature Christian — Divine Health
The mature Christian lives in a state of divine health, a testament to a life fully surrendered to and governed by the Word of God. This believer's spirit man is in authority, leading a life marked by a renewed mind. Romans 12:1-2 says, "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God" (NKJV).
Such a believer lives in the reality of divine health, as their renewed mind aligns with the Spirit, understanding that "Himself took our infirmities and bore our sicknesses" (Matthew 8:17, NKJV). To be spiritually minded is life and peace (Romans 8:5-6, NKJV). The mature Christian’s declaration of health is not just a hope but a lived experience, a testimony of faith's power.
Testimonies of Miraculous Healing
Throughout the scriptures, we see numerous examples of miraculous healing:
The healing of the lame man at the temple gate: "Then Peter said, 'Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.' And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength" (Acts 3:6-7, NKJV).
The apostles performing many signs and wonders: "And through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done among the people. And they were all with one accord in Solomon’s Porch" (Acts 5:12, NKJV).
Philip’s ministry in Samaria: "Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them. And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did" (Acts 8:5-6, NKJV).
These stories remind us that God's healing power is as active today as it was in the early church.
The Vital Role of Faith in the Healing Journey
Faith is the cornerstone of the healing journey. Jesus frequently highlighted faith as essential for healing. For instance, in the healing of the woman with the issue of blood, He said, "Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace and be healed of your affliction" (Mark 5:34, NKJV). To the centurion who believed Jesus could heal his servant, Jesus marveled, "Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!" (Matthew 8:10, NKJV). These examples inspire us to nurture a heart full of faith and reliance on God's promises.
Practical Steps Towards Healing
For those seeking healing, blending spiritual practices with practical actions is crucial. Here are some actionable steps:
Pray with faith: Believe in God's healing promises.
Confess the Word: Speak scriptures of healing over your life.
Seek medical advice: Trust that God can work through healthcare professionals.
Healing FAQs: Addressing Common Questions about God's Healing Power
Healing often raises many questions. Here are answers to some common ones:
Is healing for everyone? Yes, God desires health and wholeness for all His children.
Why is healing sometimes delayed? God’s timing and purposes are perfect, even if we don’t understand them.
Can I pray for my own healing? Absolutely! God hears and responds to our personal prayers.
Supporting Others on Their Healing Journey
Being an effective support to those in need of healing involves empathy, practical help, and spiritual support. Encourage others, offer to pray with them, and provide practical assistance where possible. Building a community of believers actively involved in each other's healing processes strengthens the faith and hope of all involved.
Healing is a multifaceted journey that involves the spirit, soul, and body. Whether reaching out to a world in need, guiding the carnal-minded towards a deeper understanding, or walking in the fullness of divine health as mature believers, we are called to be vessels of God's healing power.
We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences on this journey of healing. Have you witnessed or experienced God's healing power in your life or the lives of others? Share your stories in the comments below and let's continue to encourage and uplift one another in faith.
Join the conversation in the comments section! Share your insights, testimonies, or questions about healing and let's build a community of faith that supports and encourages each other in our journey toward health for the spirit, soul, and body.
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