An aging person in the New Testament focuses on the responsibility of children and other family members, including the family of faith to care for them. The young are urged to honor the aging. One of Jesus’ major ministries was the healing of the ill. They flocked to Him in large numbers often after having tried all the remedies available in their day. Nearly one-fifth of the Gospels mention Jesus’ miracles and record 14 distinct instances of physical and mental healings.

Christianity and health are intertwined just as we are united in body and soul. “Above all things, that Thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth,” 3 John 2. Most Christians believe in healing through faith, yet we allow ourselves to become weak and sometimes confused by not having true understanding. In several occasions Jesus used the faith of the individual as a factor in their healing: “Thy faith hath made Thee whole,” Mark 5:34. “Lord, I believe; help Thou mine unbelief,” Mark 9:23-24.

We should not be confused about the ministry of healing. The Bible clearly states that Jesus believed in healing the body. Jesus’ methods included repentance, prayer, laying on of hands, anointing with oil, and the assurance of forgiveness of sins. The church continues to use these methods (James 5:14-16). God’s divine healing works through doctors, instruments and the knowledge He gives to help people physically, emotionally, and spiritually. “Bless the Lord…who healeth all thy diseases,” Psalm 103:2-3.

My weekly prayer is for the reader of this commentary to be spiritually inspired of God. Become a Prayer Partner with EOF Ministry by sending for a copy of a Intercessory Prayer and a devotional on how to  walk in the Spirit everyday of your life. Contact Expressions of Faith at P.O. Box 330127, Nashville, Tenn. 37203; or e-mail <w310watson @aol.com>. God bless!