What is the meaning of James 5:15? And the prayer offered in faith • James has just urged the sick to call the elders and be anointed (James 5:14). The next step is prayer that springs from confident trust in God’s character and promises (Mark 11:24; 1 John 5:14–15). • Faith here is not wishful thinking; it is assurance that God hears and answers in the way that most honors Him (Hebrews 11:6). • Such faith always looks to Christ as the basis for approaching the Father (John 14:13–14). will restore the one who is sick • “Restore” speaks of making whole—physically, emotionally, spiritually (Psalm 103:3; Matthew 8:2–3). • Scripture shows God heals through: – Immediate divine intervention (Acts 3:6–8). – Natural processes He designed (Psalm 139:13–16). – Medical means used under His providence (Luke 10:34; Colossians 4:14). • God’s answer may be instant healing, gradual recovery, sustaining grace, or ultimate healing in heaven (2 Corinthians 12:7–9; Philippians 1:23). Whatever form it takes, the promise of restoration stands. The Lord will raise him up • The focus shifts from the elders’ prayer to the Lord’s action. He alone lifts a person from the sickbed (Psalm 41:3; 2 Kings 20:5). • “Raise” echoes Jesus’ own ministry—He “took her by the hand and helped her up” (Mark 1:31) and ultimately rose Himself (Matthew 28:6), proving His authority over life and death (John 11:25). • Even when physical healing waits, the believer is promised final resurrection and glorified life (1 Corinthians 15:52–54). If he has sinned, he will be forgiven • James links sickness and sin without equating them. Some illnesses are tied to personal sin (John 5:14; 1 Corinthians 11:30), but many are not (John 9:3). • Confession and repentance bring certain forgiveness (1 John 1:9; Psalm 32:5). • The church’s intercession highlights the gospel’s power: the same God who heals the body also cleanses the soul (Isaiah 53:4–5; Matthew 9:2). • Forgiveness is immediate and complete—no penance or merit required, only faith in Christ’s finished work (Ephesians 1:7). summary James 5:15 assures believers that faith-filled prayer, grounded in Christ, brings real results: God restores the sick, lifts the downcast, and forgives sins. Whether healing is instant, progressive, or reserved for eternity, the Lord remains the gracious Healer and Savior who responds to believing prayer with mercy, power, and wholeness. |
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