How can Acts 28:9 inspire us to pray for others' healing? Setting the scene on Malta “After this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured as well.” (Acts 28:9) Paul had just healed Publius’s fever-stricken father (Acts 28:8). Word spread, and soon every sick person on Malta sought help—each one left cured. Luke reports this as a plain historical fact, inviting us to see God’s power at work through a faithful servant. What Paul’s example teaches about praying for the sick • Healing is part of the normal outworking of the gospel, not an isolated miracle. • God uses willing believers, even in unexpected places; Paul was a shipwrecked prisoner, yet God still flowed through him. • Compassion moved Paul to act; prayer for healing springs from love, not duty. • The result was public testimony to God’s goodness, preparing hearts for the message of salvation (28:10). Scriptural foundations that bolster our confidence • James 5:14-16—“Is any one of you sick? … the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick.” • Mark 16:17-18—“They will lay their hands on the sick, and they will be made well.” • John 14:12—believers will do “even greater things.” • Hebrews 13:8—“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” • Luke 4:40—Jesus personally healed “each one,” revealing God’s heart for all who suffer. Why Acts 28:9 inspires bold intercession today 1. God’s willingness: everyone who came was healed—no hint of rejection. 2. God’s power: the same Spirit who worked through Paul now indwells every believer (Romans 8:11). 3. God’s purpose: physical restoration often opens doors for spiritual restoration. 4. God’s promise: Scripture never portrays healing as merely symbolic; it records literal events to build literal faith. Practical steps for praying for others’ healing • Approach with expectancy—base confidence on God’s revealed character, not personal feelings. • Lay hands when appropriate, following the pattern of Jesus and the apostles. • Pray in Jesus’ name, affirming His authority over sickness. • Speak Scripture aloud—let God’s Word shape the atmosphere (e.g., Psalm 103:2-3; Isaiah 53:5). • Listen for the Spirit’s guidance—He may prompt specific words or actions. • Thank God immediately, trusting His work whether results appear instant or progressive. • Continue supporting the person—encourage faith, share testimony, and stand against discouragement. The expected outcome—glory to God Just as Malta honored Paul and ultimately honored God (Acts 28:10), answered prayer today points people to the living Savior. Each healing magnifies His compassion, confirms His Word, and invites others to trust Him for their own salvation and wholeness. |
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