Just as physical healing played a significant role in Jesus’ earthly ministry, it is still important to Him today. Dr. Stanley uses personal examples of modern-day miracles and points to biblical passages highlighting God’s willingness to supply physical restoration.
Sermon Outline
We’ve all experienced sickness or injury, whether it happens to us or a loved one. In such times of uncertainty and fear, it’s tempting to ask, Why doesn’t God always heal His children? Today, Dr. Stanley helps us make sense of what the Bible says about this difficult topic.
Key Passage: James 5:13-18
Supporting Passages: Genesis 20:17-18; Exodus 23:25; Psalm 107:20; Isaiah 53:4-5; Matthew 8:14-15; 14:34-36; Acts 3:2, 6-7; 28:7-8; 1 Corinthians 1:14-17; 12:9; 2 Corinthians 12:7-10; 2 Timothy 4:19-20
Of all God’s promises, healing is often the most difficult for us to believe and understand.
► “Our wellness is in the atoning death of Christ. But not everything that’s wrapped up in the atonement comes in this life.”
What the Old Testament says about healing:
God brought infertility to Abimelech’s house due to Sarah’s presence. When Abraham prayed for the women, God healed them, and they bore children (Genesis 20:17-18).
Sin in the Old Testament was often accompanied by sickness. In drawing His people back to Himself, God healed them (Exodus 23:25).
God’s healing was not simply an empty proclamation. As the people believed, He began to restore them (Psalm 107:20).
Though healing comes through Christ’s work on the cross, physical healing is not guaranteed every time we ask (Isaiah 53:4-5).
What the Bible says about healing through the Savior:
Jesus healed individuals and entire crowds with a touch (Matthew 8:14-15; 14:34-36).
Healing was not His primary purpose but a sign to show He was the Messiah.
Jesus never changes. (See Hebrews 13:8.) He’s still in the business of healing spirit, soul, and body.
What the Bible says about the apostles and the gift of healing:
Peter encouraged the man at the temple gate (Acts 3:2, Acts 3:6-7).
The apostle Paul healed one individual, but his primary calling was to preach (Acts 28:7-8; 1 Corinthians 1:14-17).
Healing is one of the spiritual gifts distributed among believers to benefit others (1 Corinthians 12:9).
Physical restoration isn’t guaranteed. When the Lord refrains from healing, it’s important to ask what He’s trying to tell us (2 Timothy 4:19-20; 2 Corinthians 12:7-10).
► “If we don’t receive healing, it does not mean that God doesn’t love us. It means there’s something else He wants to do in our life.”
To handle illness, we should …
Focus on how God wants us to respond.
Be dependent on the Lord (but not opposed to doctors).
After Watching
Has today’s message broadened your understanding of God’s promise for healing? What was the most enlightening moment for you?
Was there a time in your life when you prayed for healing that didn’t come? What did you learn from that experience?
