Divine Healing in James 5:14–15 in Light of the Eschatology in the Epistle
- Johannesburg South African Theological Seminary 2023
- 161 PDF A4 Abstract, TOC, Works Cited List
James 5:14–15 has influenced divine healing praxes throughout church history. There have, however, been varied interpretations of the verses’ theological meaning and contemporary application. Given the considerable use of eschatological language that frames James 5:14–15 and the complex conception of eschatology that runs through the whole epistle, this study sought to examine the theological and hermeneutical implications for examining James’s instructions for divine healing praxis through a hermeneutical lens constructed from James’s eschatological worldview story. James’s eschatological worldview is evident in the epistle’s introduction, body, and conclusion, including our pericope, and is proposed to have shaped James’s call for divine healing praxis.
After establishing the social-cultural-historical setting of the epistle of James, this study constructed a theological account of James’s eschatology which was employed as a hermeneutical lens through which to examine the exegetical findings of James 5:14–15. By employing an “already-and-not-yet” reality and using the polyvalent verbs σῴζω (save) and ἐγείρω (raise), James’s eschatological ambiguities presented divine healing to his hearers in both the immediate and future eschatological sense, a truth that is still valid for believers today. Furthermore, healing in James’s epistle was found to be multi-dimensional, involving physical healing for the individual, emotional healing for the church, and spiritual healing for all believers.
By considering divine healing through an eschatological lens of hope this study asserted that James’s eschatological lens is critical for the contemporary interpretation and practical application of James’s call for divine healing praxis. Whilst offering believers hope for healing in the present, James’s model for healing confirms that Christians must live life embracing both the “now” and the “not yet,” a dual seemingly contradictory eschatology, that amidst the perils of life anticipates eschatological salvation, resurrection, and healing for those who remain faithful to Christ. By considering the praxis for divine healing in light of Christianity’s future eschatological hope of resurrection, the church will be pastorally empowered to minister in a balanced and holistic manner to the sick and their communities.