An Outline of Biblical and Practical Principles of Divine Healing

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Raphe or rophe from the Heb. root word, rafa or rapha
Physicians - 9x in OT
Embalmers of Jacob
Isaiah 1:6 - wounds / ulcers cf Isaiah 30:26; Hosea 6:1
Ezekiel 31 - bone setters
“I am the Lord your healer”
Contrast with the false gods, not against physicians.

Jehovah-shamma The Lord is there/ present/ (Ezekiel 4835) God reveals to us the redemptive privilege of being in his presence. Jesus said that He would be with us always (Mt. 28:20). We have that promise because of the blood of Jesus in Ephesians 2:13.

Jehovah-shalom The Lord our peace (Judges 6:23-23) We are privileged to live in divine peace. Jesus said, “My peace I give to you always” (John 14:27). The redemption that gives us that incredible peace was promised by Isaiah in 53:5 and confirmed in Colossians 1:20.

Jehovah-raah The Lord is my shepherd (Psalms 23:1) Just as a faithful shepherd in ancient times would be willing to die for his sheep, likewise Jesus was our shepherd who died for us (John 10: 11,15).

Jehovah-jireh The Lord will provide (Gen. 22:8, 14) Jesus was the sacrificial offering for our sins.

Jehovah-nissi The Lord is our banner/ victor/ or captain (Ex. 17:15). Jesus is our banner as we rally around Him, because being in His presence is to be in victory (I Cor. 15:57).

Jehovah-Tsidkenu The Lord our righteousness (Jer. 23:6) We have the gift of righteousness (Rom. 5:17) because Jesus took our sins to the cross as he became our sacrifice.

NOTE: In the Name of Our God (Jesus) we find our identity.

Jesus had a three-fold ministry:
Preaching, teaching, and healing

Examine these Scriptures on the Healing Ministry of Jesus:
Matthew 4:23-25; 8:14-17; 9:35
Isaiah 53:45
Psalm 103; 107:17-20 Five benefits of being a child of God (Christian)
Psalm 107:17A reason for illnesses
Be more concerned about pouring the Word of God into them than praying for them.
Psalm 147:3Jesus heals the broken hearted
Prov. 3:8; 4:20-21Preparation for healing
Prov. 4:22Promise of healing
Prov. 14:30Calm and undisturbed mind is the life of the body whereas envy, jealousy, and wrath lead to illnesses.
Luke 5:15, 17; 6:17-19Come hear and be healed
Luke 10:19I have given you authority...over the enemy
Mark 11:23-24Ask for forgiveness
Mark 11:25YOU forgive
Mark 16:17-18Laying on of hands
Acts 10:38; 28:8Sickness is of the devil

Note: The most common reason for not receiving a healing is unforgiveness which is covered in more detail in another lesson.

Know Who You are in Christ Jesus:

For all the negative things we have to say to ourselves, God has a positive answer for each one.

You say: "It's impossible"
God says: All things are possible (Luke 18:27)
You say: "I'm too tired"
God says: I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28-30)

You say: "Nobody really loves me"
God says: I love you (John 3:16 & John 13:34)

You say: "I can't go on"
God says: My grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)

You say: "I can't figure things out"
God says: I will direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5-6)

You say: "I can't do it"
God says: you can do all things (Philippians 4:13)

You say: "I'm not able"
God says: I am able (2 Corinthians 9:8)

You say "It's not worth it"
God says: It will be worth it (Romans 8:28)

You say: "I can't forgive myself"
God says: I forgive you (I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: "I can't manage"
God says: I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19)

You say: "I'm afraid"
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (II Timothy 1:7)

You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated"
God says: Cast all your cares on me (I Peter 5:7)

You say: I'm not smart enough"
God says: I give you wisdom (I Corinthians 1:30)

You say: I feel all alone"
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5)

I am loved by my Father...

Jer. 31:3 Father loves me with an everlasting love. I have never not been loved by my Father.

Jn. 3:16 Father loves me so much that He gave His only Son to die for me so I might know His love.

Jn. 16:27 Father loves me so much He wants to express His love and affection to me.

Rom.8:39 Nothing can separate me (not even my faults) from God’s love for me.

Jn. 17:23 Father loves me just as much as He loves His Son Jesus just because I love Jesus.

Eph.2:4-6 Even when I have sinned, the Father loves me and asks me to sit beside Him with Christ.

Eph.3:19 Father wants me overflowing in His love.

I am pleasing in Father’s eye:

Ps.149:4 Even when I am wounded Father sees me as beautiful and takes pleasure in me.

Jer.29:11 Father’s thoughts toward me are always good and filled with hope for me.

SS 1:15,16 He sees me as beautiful, handsome, and pleasant in His eyes.

SS 4:10 My love for Him fills Him with ecstasy and joy.

Lk.15:31 Father is so pleased with me being His child that He will never leave me and He wants to meet all my needs.

Jn.14:23 Father likes being with me so much that He made His home within me.

I have purpose in my Father:

Mt.5:13 I am the salt and light of the earth.

Acts 1:8 I am a witness of God to the world.

2 Cor.5:18 I am a minister of reconciliation for God.

2 Cor.5:20 I am God’s ambassador to the world.

Phil.4:13 I can do all things in Christ.

God is not ashamed of me

Heb.2:11 Jesus is not ashamed of me.

Heb.11:16 God is not ashamed to be my God.

God has forgiven me

Jer.31:34 He has forgiven my iniquity and remembers my sins no more.

Mic.7:18 He has put all my sins under His feet and cast them into the depths of the sea.

Col.1:14 God has redeemed me and forgiven all my sin.

1 Jn.1:9 God forgives and cleanses me from all my sin.

I am accepted by my Father

Jn. 1:12 I am called a child of God.

Jn.15:15 I am called Christ’s friend.

Rom.5:1 In Christ it is just as if I had never sinned.

1 Cor.6:19 I belong to the Father.

Eph. 1:5 I have been adopted by Father God.

Col.2:10 I am complete in Christ.

I am secure in my Father

Rom.8:1,2 I am free forever from condemnation.

Rom.8:31 The Father is always for me, not against me.

Rom.8:35 Troubles do not separate me from God’s love.

Col. 3:3 I am hidden with Christ in the Father.
2 Tim.1:7 I am filled with power, love, and a sound mind.

Heb.4:16 I can find grace and mercy when I am hurting.

1 Jn.4:18 His perfect love casts out all fear.

1 Jn.5:18 The evil one has no right to touch me.

Is.66:12,13 Father wants to hold me when I’m afraid.

Father does not judge me

Jn.3:16-18 God did not send His Son to die for me so that I might be judged by Him. When I believe in Him, I am not judged.

Jn.5:22 The Father does not judge me.

Jn.12:47 When I hear Jesus’ words and do not keep them, He does not judge me, for He came to save me, not to condemn me.

How can such a wonderful God not give us anything but great joy, peace, and happiness?

Class discussion: If the name of God includes healing, then what can be said of the name “Christian?”


Essential Steps to Receiving a Physical Healing:

This is an introductory 5-step process which will be covered in greater detail in following lessons. It should be noted that this process has been used by various church leaders throughout the centuries, which is covered in the next lesson.

Mark 11:25. Actively forgive those who have hurt you.

Eph. 4:31Ask the Lord to forgive you of all your sins. (cf. 1 Jn. 1:7-9)

Memorize various promise Scriptures of healing.
Mt. 8:16-17; 9:35; John 14:13; Isaiah 53:4-5; Mark 5:25-29, 34; Luke 13:11-13

Understand that it is only by the shed blood of Jesus on the cross that the believer is healed (Mt. 8:17).

Place your hands on the afflicted area and Jesus to drive out all sickness, pain, and spirits of infirmities in the Name of Jesus.

Pray in the name of Jesus.

“In My Name...”

Mark 16:17; Luke 10:17,19 “Do this in My name...”
Psalm 91:14 Because he knows my name
John 14:13“Ask in my name and I will do it...”
WHY?
So the Father may be Glorified in the Son


GOD KNOWS THE NAMES
by Leonard C. Lee

I once heard about an old minister who was dying. A young man who was also a minister came to visit him and offered to read to him from the Scriptures. "Do you have any favorite scripture you would like to have me read?", he asked. Yes," said the old man. "Please read the first chapter of First Chronicles."

The young man read the chapter of genealogies with a labored tongue. It was hard work pronouncing the some two hundred fifty unfamiliar names in the fifty-four verses. The old minister listened with eager attention to every name. When it was finished, he uttered a fervent Amen.

"Thank you, my son; that was so comforting." The young man was frankly puzzled. "Please tell me," he said, "what is so comforting about the chapter?" Ah," said the old minister, "just to think that God knew them all by name!"

And isn't it wonderful that HE knows all of us by name and has called us according to His purpose. Have a blessed week.





Lesson 2: The Atonement

Purpose:
To understand the atonement and its significance.

Objective:
By faith the student will be able to apply the biblical principles of the atonement through the blood of Jesus to his or her life.

NOTE: The application of faith is constant theme in these lessons.

What is the “atonement?
This is an abstract thought for many believers
Synonyms: redemption, restitution, compensation, payment, reconciliation
“Atonement” in Rom. 5:11 is also translated as reconciliation in Rom. 11:15 and 2 Cor. 5:18-19 (KJV).
“Atonement” Heb. kippur means “covering with a price.”
That price was the cross of Jesus (Rom. 5:10; 2 Cor. 5:18-19)

The Nature of God is Healing: (Below is a partial review of previous lesson)
Jehoval-rapha I am the Lord who heals you. (Exodus 15:26) Isaiah gave a prophecy that the Messiah would have a ministry of healing and Jesus was faithful to that calling (Mt. 8:17). The significance of this is that it was the first covenant God have to His people when they crossed the Red Sea and is a healing covenant.

NOTE: “I am the Lord your healer” This is a contrast to the false gods, not against physicians.

Raphe or rophe from the Heb. root word, rafa or rapha
Physicians - 9x in OT
Embalmers of Jacob
Isaiah 1:6 - wounds / ulsers cf Isaiah 30:26; Hosea 6:1
Ezekiel 31 - bone setters
Psalm 103:3 “Who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.”
Grammar: Active participles give literal meaning as:
“The forgiver of all your sins [misdeeds, injustice, causing harm or trouble, falseness], the physician for all your diseases.’

Purpose of the Atonement:
Lev. 16 Day of Atonement
Priest would sprinkle blood 7x (Lev. 16:14,19)
Mercy Seat of Christ
Lev. 16:30 The atonement was cleansing from sin
Day of Atonement (Heb. Atonement = kippur)
Jesus bled 7x for us
Gethsemane
Jesus was beaten by the Sanhedrin & Romans
Crown of thorns
Scourging
Jesus carried the cross-beam on his wounded back
He was nailed with iron spikes
The spear was thrust into His side
To restore man into the image of God
Man cannot atone for his own sins, atonement is a gift of God (Rom. 3:25-26; cf Ps. 65:3; 78:38; 79:9; Rom. 3:21-28)

The Blood of Jesus is the Atonement
The blood makes the atonement for the soul (Lev. 17:11
Without the shedding of blood there can be no remission of sin (Heb. 9:22).
Life is in the blood (Gen. 9:4)
Jesus offered His life for us in accordance to the OT concept “a life for a life” (Deut. 19:21)
Since we are all damned to death for our sins (Rom. 6:23) Jesus sacrificed His life that ours’ could be saved. Jesus was the scapegoat. Lev 16:7-26; Heb. 13:12-13

Healing is in the Atonement of Jesus:
Lev. 16:22 “nasa” to bear the sin of man on a sacrificial scapegoat
“Elaben” in the LXX
Isaiah 53:4-5 (Isaiah is sometimes called the gospel of the OT)
Matthew 8:16-17 (connected with Isaiah)
Mt. 8:17 Jesus bearing “elaben” our sin

Healing: A sign of the Kingdom that Jesus Preached
Jesus fulfilled Isaiah 35, 53, and 61
Philippians 2:5 Christ Hymn
Acts 10:38
Healing is a manifestation of the kingdom of God Mk. 1:14

How did OT people get healed?
Through the promise of a coming Savior and His future work on the cross of Calvary.
Example: The suffering of Job
Sowing and reaping is a biblical principle, but not the only one.
Why did the sons and daughters of Job die?
They were just as important to God as was Job.
Their lives were not as important as the test of Job.

Ex. 21:19 One who causes injury pays for the lost wages and doctor bills of the injured. To be healed = to be doctored by a doctor, not a priest.

Naahum, the Syrian commander went to Elijah because the prophet had established an international reputation. Therefore there is just cause to believe that Elijah did miracles that were never recorded in Scripture.

2 Chron. 16:12 The Bible condemns King Asa because he sought healing only from the physicians. He also went to Syria for help (16:7). Heathen physicians?

Should Believers Go to Doctors?
Jer. 8:22 Physicians had an honorable place in Israel.
The office or practice of a medical doctor did not violate the name Jehoval-rapha
Lk. 10:34 Jesus referred to oil and wine, an ancient medical procedure
Mk. 5:26 Jesus never condemned the woman for going to physicians, nor did He forgive her of visiting a physician. Jesus did what the physicians could not accomplish.

Sovereign God and Submissive Satan:
Deut 32:29 God has the power to would and heal.
1 Jn. 4:8 God is love
Num. 12:10-15 Miriam was made sick as an object lesson to the Israelite people
2 Chron. 21:18-19 King Jehoram suffered and died as a judgment of sin
Book of Job - classic illustration of Satan as an agent of God
Diseases brought upon Job were of Satan, but permitted by God.
Episode served the higher purpose of God and defeated Satan
KEY POINT:
Primary causality
God is the primary cause of everything but permits limited actions by Satan and people.
Hence, the latter two are the promoters of secondary causality.
Job 1:20-22; 19:25
1 Jn. 3:8 Jesus destroyed the works of the devil.

The secondary causality by Satan was to harm Joseph in Genesis 50:20 but God turned it to good.

The worst act of man was to crucify Jesus, but God turned it into the salvation of man.

NOTE: To say that everything is subject to God does not mean that God agrees with all the things one does in life. Man is a free moral agent.

If God is Love, Why did He Cause Diseases in the OT?
In the OT there are numerous references to diseases being caused by God. Extensive study will demonstrate that while the primary cause was God, the active agent was Satan who inflicted the diseases. He was the secondary causality – the administrator of sickness and health. This leads to the secondary question: Why doesn’t the Bible state this fact? The Bible was written in the context that the Israelites would understand. For this reason, the first commandment (Ex. 20:3) reads that there should be no other gods before the God of the Israelites. That would suggest that there are many gods in the universe just as the Greeks and Egyptians believed. Yet there is only one God and all others are demonic beings that present themselves as gods. In another example Jesus was amazed that his disciples did not understand what He was saying (Mt. 16:9-11; Mk 4:13; 8:17,21; 9:32; Jn. 13:12). It is interesting that He chose not to increase their cranial capacity.

God and Nature:
God is sovereign and He permits secondary causes through the laws of nature.
The popular idea that nature is independent of God is a secular concept. It cannot be biblical since God created nature and rules all nature.
An anti-biblical view of sickness: “That’s the way the cookie crumbles”
The believer is not subject to the “forces of destiny or fate.”
The believer is a child of God.

The Believer’s Challenge:
The challenge of believers is to trust God without expecting an immediate benefit.

Isaiah 45:11 QUESTION: To what point can a believer “command God” in reference to fulfilling a biblical promise?

The Atonement and Faith:
Jesus did not heal everyone.
Nazareth and the cities of Capernaum, Bethsaida, and Chorizim
Reason? Lack of faith.
In Genesis 6 God placed a limit on man’s life of 120 years (not 70 as some say). God never placed a limit on man’s health.

Failure to recognize the difference between faith and presumption.

There are those in the church that if you have enough faith, everything will be fine and you will not get sick. Or, if you are sick, with enough faith you will get healed. Actually, these individual do not have faith, as they claim, but hyper-faith. That is faith in faith, or also identified as spiritualized presumption. Frequently any form of “wisdom” is always associated to be “man’s wisdom” even if it is Scripture. True faith in Christ Jesus includes the entire counsel of God and the application of the entire Word on one’s life.

An example of a sick theology on healing: “If you had enough faith you would be healed.”

People use faith like spiritual money. If you have enough spiritual money you can “buy” your healing. It is a sin to think that by faith you can manipulate God.
Faith is not the denial of reality, but an utter dependance upon a sovereign God. Those who are overdosed with the “faith theology” cannot deal with the sovereignty of God because they have no theological answers for it.

Prayer with the phrase, “If it be your will, Lord...”
Not a pray of faith but a prayer of doubt.
Those who pray this admit they do not know the will of God relative to healing.
Rooted in hyper-Calvinism
States that God has willed everything, including the suffering of selected people
This makes prayer a useless exercise

Sick Theologies on Healing:
“If you had faith you would be healed.”
People use faith like spiritual money. If you have enough spiritual money you can buy your healing. It is a sin to think that by faith you can manipulate God.

Faith is not the denial of reality, but an utter dependance upon a sovereign God. Those who are overdosed with the “faith theology” cannot deal with the sovereignty of God because they have no theological answers for it.

Shared weaknesses opens the door for intimacy in a group, but not necessarily shared victories (i.e. testimony in church)

Criticism in an unhealthy spiritual system is seen as persecution rather than to examine to find a kernel of truth in the criticism .

The Kingdom of God:
The Kingdom of God is both now and in the future. It is now in the hearts and lives of individual believers and in the future it will be a kingdom with the Messiah ruling from his Temple in Jerusalem.

So-Called Healing Through Saints:
Healing through prayers to the Virgin Mary or any other saint is not a verification of correct theology, but is clear evidence that God, in His mercy, heals people who are theologically challenged.

Some healings may be of demonic origins.

All healings point toward to Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:13-14 In the end times there will be false teachers and deceptions.

2 Timothy 3:5 Description of people in the last days:
“Having a form of godliness but lacking the power thereof, stay away from them”
Stay away from believers who deny the power of the HS.
“Power” - same Gk word as in Acts 1:8
“From such [people] stay away.”

Satan counterfeits miracles.
Moses, Aaron, Pharaoh and the Egyptian snakes
The anti-Christ
Dr. Ed Decker’s 16 case studies

Healing appears to be most effective when associated with evangelism.
Jesus performed healings to preach the Kingdom of God to the lost.
No one would say that Jesus never performed any miracles because eventually all those whom He healed died.

NOTE: Not all who are saved live sinless lives and likewise not everyone lives a perfectly healthy life.

Discussion between Voltaire and a couple preachers concerning the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Several biblical scholars once met with the famed French atheist Voltaire. He could defend the Bible better than preachers could. Voltaire once met some pastors on a train. They thought they would challenge the famed atheist, so they introduced themselves and asked for a few minutes with the scholar.

Voltaire was well-known for degrading Scripture.
He believed it was full of mistakes.
He believed it was outdated
He believed it was a collection of myths and Christianity would soon a thing of the past.

Voltaire asked them if they believed the entire Bible.
They quickly responded that they believed all of it.
So he asked them some questions -
Can you heal the sick?
No, that was just for the first century apostles.”
Can you cast out demons?”
“No, that was just a way of describing mental illnesses.”
Can you speak with new languages?
“No, that too was just for the first century.”

Voltaire said, “You are worse than me because you are an infidel.”
“You say you preach the whole Bible yet you just confessed that you do not believe all these things.”
“I am honest when I say I do not believe in God, but you are liars.”


Gifts of the Holy Spirit were not just for the first century or they would have been called the “gifts of the apostles.”


Lesson 3: Healing Through the Centuries
Purpose:
To teach not only the sick, but also those well-seasoned Christians that healing has been major function in the church throughout the centuries.

Objective:
Students will have an understanding of healings and miracles throughout the church age with an emphasis on the early church leaders.

NOTE: The application of faith is a constant theme in these lessons.

Matthew 10:1 was never rescinded. Jesus took our infirmities and carried our diseases Mt. 8:17

All too many believers have the opinion that the current Pentecostal - Charismatic movement was resurrected around the year 1900 after being dead since the apostles. They never seem to ask why Jesus did not heal throughout the centuries if He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb. 13:8). The historical evidence clearly demonstrates that God has healed throughout the centuries. Knowledge of this information is a faith builder for those who desire a divine intervention but have doubts if God is still in the healing ministry. Since an entire historical spectrum of divine healing is far to time consuming for this study, only a few significant church leaders in the early centuries of the church will be examined. There are, however, a few points that first need to be outlined:

1.The early church deliberately and consciously assumed healing was associated with salvation.

2.History has demonstrated that nearly every divine healer senses that God is working in a particular way through him (or her), and therefore each healer believes that this is the only manner in which God functions. Every person called to this ministry needs to be open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and therefore a methodology may be developed that is different from another minister or from this author.

3.God wants to deal with the whole person, not just a specific illness or life condition.

4.Healings are never proof of doctrinal correctness, but rather, point beyond themselves to what was to be accomplished by Jesus on and through the cross. Coupled with the message, the healings not only demonstrated the divinity of Jesus but begin to unfold the kingdom of God to all who chose to believe (Mt. 9:35-36). Miracles are proof that a new dispensation of God’s plan has arrived. These would be a visible form to the message of salvation that he preached.

5The kingdom of God is not a place but a reign and rulership of Jesus in the hearts and lives of men and women. Jesus, the incarnate Son of God, brought the kingdom into this world at His birth. During His years in ministry He challenged the devil repeatedly and then defeated him with a profound resurrection three days after a horrible execution. Miracles and healings are a sign of the kingdom.

6.Miracles are not proof of faith, but it is faith that makes them possible.
1.Jesus still has the capability of dealing with sin and its consequences and He desires to do so in His church today.

Healing Testimonies by Early Church Fathers

Quadratus (early 2nd Century)
“But the works of our Savior were always present, for they were true, those who were cured, those who rose from the dead, who not merely appeared as cured and risen, but were constantly present not only while the Savior was living, but even for some time after he had gone, so that some of them survived even to our own time.”
- Quadratus (early 2nd Century) quoted by Eusebius Ecclesiastical History 3, LCL 1.309 (Kydd 19).

Justin Martyr (100-165), Born and lived in Samaria, close to the Jews.
“We believers in Jesus our Lord, who was crucified under Pontius Pilate, cast out all devils and other evil spirits and therefore have them in our power.”
Justin Martyr, Dialogue with Trypho. 76, FC 6.269 (Kydd 23)

Tertullian (Early 2nd Century)
Tertullian, in reference to the joys of being a Christian rather than a pagan, said because as a believer you could “find yourself trampling underfoot the gods of the Gentiles, expelling demons, effecting cures, the spectacles of Christians, holy, eternal, and free.”
Tertullian, De. spectaculis. [The Shows]: 29, LCL 295, 297 (Kydd 21)

Cyprian (A generation after Tertullian in N. Africa)
“Yet these [spirits] when adjured by us through the true God, immediately withdraw and confess and are forced to go out of the bodies which they had possessed.”
Cyprian, That Idols are Not Gods. 7, FC, 36.355 (Kydd 24)

Irenaeus, (Late 2nd Century) As bishop in Lyons in South-central France, then known as Gaul. His primary concern was that the church would not become deceived by the growing popularity of a philosophy now known as Gnosticism. In response to healings and miracles he said...
“Wherefore, also, those who are in truth His disciples, receiving grace from Him, do in His name perform [miracles], so as to promote the welfare of other men, according to the gift which each one has received from Him.... [Some] heal the sick by laying their hands upon them and they are made whole.”
Irenaeus, Against Heresies. 2.31.4, ANF. 5.409 (Kydd 27)

“Moreover as I have said, the dead even have been raised up, and remained among us for many years.”
Irenaeus, Against Heresies. 2.31.2, ANF. 5.407 (Kydd 29)

Origen (185-255)
Origen first lived in Alexandria, Egypt but later moved to Syria. He is regarded as one of the most brilliant minds of the Ante-Nicene Period (AD 100-325). He said, “By these [the names of God and Jesus] we also have seen many delivered from serious ailments, and from mental distractions and madness, and countless other diseases, which neither men nor demons had cured.”
Origen, Contra Celsum, 3.24 (trans. Henry Chadwick; Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1953), 142. (Kydd 21)

Augustine (354-430)
Many scholars have concluded that Augustine was the greatest theologian since St. Paul. Concerning miracles he stated their importance when he said, “Great works of miracles are necessary...[in order to bring into the church] ignorant men and infidels.”
Augustine, Confessions 12.27, NPNF 1.204 (Kydd 71)

“He does through His servants, it is all one whether He does these things through the spirits of martyrs, as though they were still living in their bodies, or whether He uses angels and effects His purposes by His orders, which are given invisibly, inaudibly, [and] immutably. In that case, miracles which we think are done by martyrs are the result, rather, of their prayers and intercession, and not of their actions.”
Augustine, City of God 22.9, FC 24.451 (Kydd 79-80).

Augustine did not see miracles as any sign of spiritual maturity because in his culture both pagans and Christians could perform miracles. He also recognized that miracles were performed in different ways by different healers, therefore, he refused to take a firm position on the subject other than that these were an acts of God by much intercession and prayer. (Kydd 79-80)

Could these accounts have been exaggerations?
Many of the early writings were made as a defense of the Christian faith. The strength of these recorded statements lies in the fact that anyone would examine the reports and make a determination if there were sufficient healings and exorcisms to establish evidence, such as recorded by Tertullian. Whereas there is no doubt that some testimonies are exaggerations, a great many are obviously true or these would not have been referred to as supporting events of the continuing work of Jesus Christ in the lives of many believers.
Compensating for some exaggerations, the statements should nonetheless be accepted in the same manner as other statements about the teachings and customs of the church are accepted. Many of them were so sincere of their faith that eventually they suffered martyrdom. Such men would not lie or exaggerate knowing they would face an angry God, but rather, the miracles they recorded fortified their faith in a hostile culture that was determined to eradicate Christianity. Were such signs and wonders nothing by created stories they would have been the chieftains of fools.

Why do some Christian critics disregard the incredible evidence?
There are two primary reasons. First: to justify why there are no healings in their churches. These critics have established a theological construct to support their position which is beyond the scope of this paper.
Second, for historical evidence they frequently look to the erroneous Apocryphal Acts of the Apostles (written AD 150-230) and classify all other ancient writings as of the same deceitful quality. These Acts bear little resemblance to the New Testament and are not even in the same literary classification as the writings of the early church fathers. Throughout history the Acts were never seriously considered to be inspired or authoritative because they refer to grossly exaggerated stories of miracles of various kinds. In fact, in the fifth century, Pope Leo the Great said they should all be burned. The significance of these false writings is, however, not in what is recorded, but what the authors unconsciously acknowledged about themselves – they believed in miracles. This is the irony of those who use these documents to attempt to prove there were no miracles after the apostles.

Did healing disappear throughout the centuries?
Healing did not disappear throughout the centuries, but it was absent from the church for most of the time. The reasons are very basic to the faith: There was sin in the church (i.e., promotion of anti-Semitism) unbelief, and failure to teach good sound biblical doctrine.
Source:
Kydd, Ron, A. N. Healing Through the Centuries: Models for Understanding. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 1998

NOTES:














Additional comments to consider

1.Comments by Jesus on healing only in John 9:1-2 and John 11:1-44
2. John 9:1-2
Jesus said little about the diseases, He simply healed the sick.
Two passages that provide some insight into the thinking of Jesus on sicknesses
- Jesus denied the traditional assumption that sickness was always caused by sin
- sickness was caused so that the work of God might be displayed in his life (v. 3)
- came from natural causes (v. 3 “this [just] happened), not sin.

3. John 11:1-44
Lazarus, Jesus volunteered the interpretation of the sickness in that He has the power to restore life.
The basic idea is that the power of God can overcome both illness and death and therefore people can see the power of God.


4.Luke 13:10-13 Woman healed who was crippled for 18 years by a spirit

5.Demons tend to show themselves in personality disorders. i.e., Mark 1:23-26

19th Century, Elim Institution. The Elim Institution, a Bible and retreat center in Mannedorf, Switzerland, has a 140-year history of healing through patience and prayer. The biblical foundation is from several texts such as Matthew 10:8, Mark 16:18, and especially James 5:14-15.

20th Century, Morija. Also in the southern end of Switzerland is another retreat known as Morija, meaning, “Chosen by the eternal One.” (Kydd 142).





Lesson 4: Renew Your Mind in Jesus
Purpose:
How to successfully recreate a Christ-focused mind.

Objective:
The Student will learn to effectively wage spiritual warfare by believing, speaking, and acting on the Word of God as the power source of victory.

NOTE: The application of faith is a constant theme in these lessons.

To live as Christ is to live with the Fruit of the Holy Spirit operative in one’s life. To attain this victory one must have a basic understanding of the evil one and over come his influences by speaking the Word against him. This is not to eliminate the need for prayer and fasting, but is in addition thereto. It is important to renew the mind in Jesus prior to renewing the mind in the principles of God relative to divine healing. The kingdom of God is to be searched first, then the blessings will follow (Mt. 6:33).

Fruit of the Evil Spirit vs. Fruit of the Holy Spirit:
Gal. 5:16-24Before sin comes into being it is preceded by an evil thought and
likewise godly deeds are preceded by holy thoughts.

The Battle of Thoughts in Your Mind Influences...
Relationships with othersEmploymentSelf-esteem
Relationship to GodChristian maturityMinistry or church

Understanding Your Enemy and Your Defender:

Example: Questions by David while he is depressed (Psalm 77:4-9)
He then prays and meditates (Psalm 77:10-12)

John 10:10 The evil one comes to kill, steal, and destroy
1 Peter 5:7Cast your worries upon Him
1 Peter 5:8He comes to devour
1 Peter 5:9You are to resist him
2 Cor. 10:3-5Every thought captive to obedience in Jesus
Eph. 6:10-18The armor of God is your defense
(Those who need victory in their thought life need to mentally put on this armor one piece at a time as part of morning and evening devotions)
1 Cor 15:57; 2 Cor. 2:14Your victory is through Christ Jesus
Romans 8:37; Col. 2:15We are more than conquerors by the blood of Jesus
NOTE: Becoming successful in personal relationships is a major step in becoming successful in winning the battle of our minds and thought life.
Prov. 10:12; 14:30Results of hatred vs. love
(v. 30. a relaxed mind, free of tension)
John 14:21Results of true love
Prov 17:14Effects of small strife
1 Peter 4:8; 1 Cor. 13Significance of love
Prov. 17:9Forgiveness vs. repeated memories
Mt. 7:1-2Wisdom in judgment
Mark 12:28-311st & 2nd Commandments
Rev. 12:11 My victory is secured by the blood of Jesus

Speak the Word into Your Being:
Memorize and recite these Scriptures daily:

Romans 8:6Carnal mind=death / Spiritual mind = life
Prov. 14:30Envy = destruction
2 Cor. 10:3-5Know your weapons of warfare
Eph. 4:26-27Resolve anger issues
2 Tim. 1:7Place thoughts under self- (or God’s-) control
Phil. 4:8-9Focus on pure thoughts (not evil ones)
1 Jn. 4:1Test the spirits
Note: A “spirit” in this context can often be considered the same as a thought.
Heb. 13:5bThe Lord will never abandon us

The Life of Christ in You

The Word of God in the Child of God; Reflections from the 119th Psalm

Jesus Bled Seven Times for Us

Gethsemane means “olive press.”
The blood of Jesus was shed for such times as when we have severe pressure.

Jesus was beaten by the Sanhedrin & Romans
Isaiah said he was marred. The gospels record that Jesus did not retaliate.
He shed His blood so I would not have to retaliate.

Crown of thorns
In mockery and shame and they cursed Him
Jesus became the curse so we could receive the Holy Spirit that we can are free of curses and sin.

Scourging
He was scourged for our healing (Isa. 53; I Peter 2:24)

Jesus carried the cross-beam on his wounded back
He shed blood for our heavy loads and burdens

He was nailed with iron spikes
He then said “Father forgive them”
We are free of sin; our sins are nailed to the cross

The spear was thrust into His side
He spilled water and blood
We are washed in the water of His Word
The Word works in our lives only because of the shed blood of Jesus

Prayer of Victory:
“Father God, forgive me for permitting my mind to wonder into sinful thoughts and I place every evil thought in obedience to Jesus (2 Cor. 10:5). I call upon you to renew my mind in accordance to your Word (Rom. 12:1-2) and I ask you to bless those whom I desired to harm. I thank you Father, that you will guard me and keep me in perfect and constant peace (Isa. 26:3-4) and that my mind is well-balanced, godly, and under self-(or your-) control (2 Tim 1:7). I place my faith, hope, and confidence in You and in your Word that my life will be abundantly blessed and full of joy (Jn. 10:10). In the name of my precious Savior I pray, Amen.”


Lesson 5: Prayer and Fasting
Purpose:
The student will understand the significance of the prayer and fasting in order to obtain victories over major challenges and difficulties. “That is why I would remind you to stir up - rekindle the embers, fan the flame and keep burning - the gracious gift of God, the inner flame that is in you.”
2 Timothy 1:6-7

Objective:
The student will exercise the practice of prayer and fasting for either personal victory or on behalf of someone else.

NOTE: The application of faith is a constant theme in these lessons.

Biblical Examples:

Book of Esther
3:6b Haman considered the destruction of Israel
3:13Destruction planned
4:1-3Mordecai and others cried and fasted
4:15-16 Fasted and prayed for three days and nights on behalf of Esther
5:2The king responded in Ether’s favor
7:7Haman was justly rewarded
8:17The Jews rejoiced

Book of 2 Chronicles
20:2-3Jehoshaphat declared a fast
20:17The battle is the Lord’s
20:20God is with you
20:21-23Victory in praise
Note: prayer and fasting lay the foundation that praise and song is built upon.

Book of Luke
4:1Satan tempted Jesus after a 40 day fast. WHY?
After 40 a 40-day fast one is physically weak
After 40 a day fast one is spiritually strong.
Jesus used God’s Word to defeat the evil one

Book of Daniel
10:2-3Three week fast
10:11God heard the prayers of Daniel during the fast

Book of Joel
1:14Joel fasted and cried out to the Lord
2:12Return with your whole heart and with fasting and weeping
2:15Announce a fast

Book of Isaiah
58:4Wrong way to fast
58:6Reasons to fast: Break every enslaving yoke and bondage
58:7-8Benefits of fasting
58:9The Lord will answer
58:10Extra blessings

Why should we fast?
1. The Word says we should
2. Prayer and fasting give a new ability to concentrate on the things of God
3. To let God know, and to prove to ourselves just how serious we are.
4. To give the stomach a rest
5. This is a way to give faith the opportunity to rise for the impossibilities.
6. A sure way to defeat Satan if exercised properly
7. Whenever we are in need of a spiritual revival, victory, or break-through.

Suggestions on how to fast:

1. If you have a medical condition see a doctor prior to beginning a fast.
2. Write a list of prayer needs.
3Pray for strength and guidance for the coming fast. This includes requesting the desire to fast.
4. Set a date for fasting.
5. Avoid coffee and similar beverages which tend to produce headaches during a fast.
6. Be alone with God where there is no interruption (i.e., telephone, children, etc.)
7During the fast, spend time in prayer to improve your relationship with God, ask for a holy and pure attitude.
8. Drink plenty of water. This is a purifying agent for the body.
9. Do not end the fast if you feel any weakness.
10. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any sin in your life that may hinder your request and spiritual growth.
11. Read Scriptures related to your need.
12. End the fast with some light food (salad, yogurt) for a day or two before serving full course meal. Warning: A full meal at the end of a long fast can cause serious stomach problems.

Scriptures on Fasting:

1.Phil 3:10Get closer to God
2.Acts 2:43, 46-47
3.John 17:20-23 Unify the churches
4.Daniel 2:21 Turn toward Christ
5.Joel 3:13-14 To see a harvest of souls
6.2 Chronicles 7:14
7.Luke 2: Anna
8.Acts 9:8-16 Paul
9.Acts 10:1-3, 30-31
10.Phil. 3:17-20
11.Isaiah 58:6-8

Prayer without expectancy is unbelief in disguise.

The Prayer of Healing

Father, I come to you in the Name of Jesus, and I worship and thank You for my salvation. I thank You for your precious blood that was shed on the cross, redeeming me, saving me, healing me, and giving me eternal life.

Lord, I lift up ______ to You in prayer. I thank You that You have redeemed him/her and quickened his/her mortal body and have raised him/her by the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead. I thank You, that, by the stripes of Jesus he/she is healed.

Father, in Jesus’ Name, You said that if we ask anything according to your will, You will answer us. I thank You that healing belongs to ______ . Healing is Your will because you have come to give us life and to give it more abundantly. Lord, You said in your Word, that one of the signs of those who follow You is that they are to lay hands on the sick and the sick shall recover. Lord, I am a believer, and I believe your healing power has been released into his/her body when I laid hand on him/her.

Lord, You instructed us in your Word to speak to the mountain, believe it to be removed, and it shall be moved. So I speak to this disease in _______ body, and I command it in the name of Jesus to be gone. Thank you Lord, for the healing and a cure in his/her body.

I worship You, Father, and thank You for your blessing of health upon ______ life. I declare that ______ shall live and not die and shall declare the works of the Lord. In the Savior’s Name I pray, Amen.

References:Romans 8:11; 1 Peter 2:24; 1 John 5:14; John 10:10; Mark 16:17-18; Mark 11:23-24; Exodus 23:25; Psalm 118:17.

Note:Be bold yet humble and give God no rest.

See “Give God No Rest” by Bridges for Peace.

Lesson 6: The Significance of Forgiveness in Healing
Purpose:
To study the significance of a biblical forgiveness and the two hindrances that prevent the move of God.

Objective:
The student will understand basic biblical principles concerning forgiveness and its effect on receiving answers to prayers, including healings.

NOTE: The application of faith is a constant theme in these lessons.

Biblical Forgiveness:
A life of forgiveness is only one element in living in covenant with God. It is however, not only critical to the effective Christian life, but it is also one that is a persistent problem in that unforgiveness is rampant in the church. Therefore, it is the subject of a lesson. It has been said that the greatest impediment that prevents anyone from receiving a healing is unforgiveness. Therefore,
1. Forgiveness is a decision. Chose to forgive, even when one was extremely violated.
2. Confess the sin of unforgiveness James 5:16
3. Unforgiveness gives Satan an advantage over us 2 Cor. 2:10-11
4. Personally ask for forgiveness from those to whom you did wrong Mt. 5:23
- this affects finances, health, etc.
5. Forgive others who do not ask for forgiveness from you Rom. 12:18
6. Do something nicely to those who hurt you. Rom. 12:21
7. Accept the wrongful person even if still in the wrong Rom. 15:7
- Parents should not disconnect from their teens.
8. Ask God to bless those who hurt you and have not admitted their sin Mt. 5:43-45
9. Look at a person with the eyes of faith and believe the best. 1 Cor. 13:4-7
- This is how God sees you.

Practical Steps to Forgiveness
1. Do not tell anyone what the guilty person did to you.
2. Do not permit anyone intimidate you.
3. Do not permit the guilty person feel guilty
- Do not limit your forgiveness only if he/she is sorry
- You will need grace of the other is not sorry.
4. Save face of the other person
5. Protect them for gossip.
6. Forgiveness is a life sentence.
- You forgive once only to the person involved.
- For severe violations, you may have to silently forgive multiple times
7. Pray blessings for the guilty one
8. Forgiveness does not mean forgetfulness
9. Forgiveness does not mean reinstatement of trust.

Comments:
1. God will not have mercy on those who do not forgive Mt. 6:14-15; 18:35; Mk. 11:25
- Hence, if you do not forgive, Christ cannot forgive you Mt. 18:35
2. Forgive 70 x 7 Mt. 18:21-22
- Not related to 490, but to the 70 member high court Sanhedrin

3. Forgiveness does not equal trust restored. Trust is earned, not deserved.
4. Comments on forgiveness by Stephen (Acts 7), Jesus on the cross
5. “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Col. 3:13

“Nothing pleases God more than someone who desires to please God.”


A Lesson on Forgiveness from Ben Sirach (A Jewish non-biblical book 2nd century BC)

The passage comes from an intertestamental book known as Ben Sirach which was written about 170 BC, during the reign of the wicked Antiochus Epiphanes IV. His cruelty is described in the work of Flavius Josephus titled Antiquities of the Jews, as well as First and Second Maccabees. In essence he was the Hitler of his day as he brought severe persecution upon the Jewish people in an attempt to eradicate them. During these days of great pain and starvation Jews were turning against each other and in this setting this work on forgiveness was written.

He that takes vengeance will suffer vengeance from the Lord,
and he will firmly establish his sins.

Forgive your neighbor the wrong he has done,
and then your sins will be pardoned when you pray.

Does a man harbor anger against another,
and yet seek for healing from the Lord?

Does he have no mercy toward a man like himself,
and yet pray for his own sins?

If he himself, being flesh, maintains wrath,
who will make expiation for his sins?

Remember the end of your life and cease from enmity,
remember destruction and death and be true to the commandments.

Remember the commandments,
and do not be angry with your neighbor;

Ben Sirach 28:1-6

One never knows what tomorrow will bring but it is good to know the One who holds tomorrow. Jeremiah 29:11-14a says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you. declares the Lord.” This will never occur in a climate of unforgiveness.

Unforgiveness
Unforgiveness is essentially self-justification which is a process of condemning God (Job 40:8)

Two hindrances to receiving the blessings of God: Murmuring ; Complaining


NOTES:

1.Faith pleases God (Heb. 11:6
2.Murmuring and complaining displeases God (Num. 11:1)
Complaining
Reveals a negative attitude (Deut. 1:27)
Reveals a lack of faith (Ps. 106:24-25)
Rooted in immaturity
Gives opportunity for Satan to attack (1 Cor. 10:9-13)
Complaining releases negative and demonic forces.
Complaints demonstrate that you do not act on the Word of God (Jude 16-24; Phil 2:14; Num. 13 & 14)
Complaining will not toss mountains into the sea, but faith will (Mark 11:23) .

3.Negative confessions (Eph. 4:29-31)
Our thoughts and words must correspond with the Bible. Complains reveal the condition of the heart (Mt. 12:35-37; 15:11, 18-19)
Joshua saw the effects of murmuring and complaining (Josh 1:8)

4.We are to rejoice in our suffering (Col. 1:24; 1 Pet. 4:13)
Praise and worship and a positive confession (God’s Word) is God’s way.

5. REMEMBER: It is possible to die before your appointed time Ecclesiastes 7:17
Smoking, drugs, alcohol, foolish actions, war, suicide, illnesses, etc.

NOTES:

Though it is known as a "Christian nation," America now holds the record for the most divorces...abortions...run-away children. Our cities are wracked with violent crime. Metal detectors are standard equipment in schools.
The name of the horrible malady is "unforgiveness." It is Satan's greatest tool to blind Christians and the world to the glory of what Jesus accomplished on the cross.
The good news is this: Just as unforgiveness has incredible power to steal and kill, the power of forgiveness is remarkable!
"See to it that...no root of bitterness springing up, causes trouble, and by it many be defiled." (Hebrews 12:15, NASV)
Are you a victim of spiritual root rot? Let me give you some sure ways to recognize bitterness, and some practical steps to deal with it. There are ten sure signals of unforgiveness. The bitter person will be:
Barren - Lack of concern for others; consumed with self-pity; preoccupied with self.
Biased - Super-sensitive; touchy; paranoid and fearful.
Brief - Have few friends; too busy for close relationships.
Brittle - Afraid to meet new people; inflexible; fear rejection.
Blind - Show little or no gratitude; negative; no joy.
Bigoted - Harshly critical; dogmatic and extreme.
Brutal - Holds grudges for long periods of time.
Base - Stubborn; sulky.
Bleak - Gloomy and cold; distant.
Bizarre - Severe mood swings; no sense of stability.
How can we overcome unforgiveness?
If you are holding a grudge against anyone, for any reason, please pray with me:
Dear Father,
Thank You for forgiving me of my sins. Thank You for the cross. Thank You for the empty tomb. Thank You for Jesus.
Please help me to remember that my battle is not with other people; it is with spiritual forces that are in rebellion against You.
I know that I will be disappointed, even hurt, from time to time. Help me to see those situations through Your eyes, and to learn from them. Please help me to forgive others as Jesus forgave me.
Right now, I ask You to bring to my mind the names of individuals against whom I am harboring a grudge. Help me to respond to those hurts in a way that honors You and leads to true restoration. Father, in the name of Jesus, and by His power, I choose to forgive those people, and I ask you to bless them. Remove the root of bitterness I have allowed to grow in my heart. Bring healing and liberty. In Jesus' name, Amen

Lesson 7: Steps to Inner Healing with an Emphasis on Fears
Purpose:
The Student will understand the biblical steps to inner healing with an emphasis on victory over fears.

Objective:
The student will either apply the steps personally or will aid someone else.

NOTE: The application of faith is a constant theme in these lessons.

Read Isaiah 61; 65:17-19

Some Conditions for Inner Healing:
GuiltCondemnation
AddictionDiscouragement
DepressionSuicidal
InferiorityWorry
AngerResentment
UnforgivenessSelf-pity
EnvySelf-hatred (common in high school)
Jealousy Sexual problems

Common Fears:
Being a failure, Rejection, Sickness and pain,
Death, Loneliness, Financial problems,
Marriage/divorce, Children, Unemployment or underemployment,
Emotions, Hell, Failure to please God
Past experiencesTroublesPersonal violations (i.e., rape)

What is Fear?
False Evidence Appearing Real
Fear is a lack of faith in God, and therefore is a sin.
Often fears appear to have a legitimate reason
There is not legitimate fear listed in the Bible
Exception: Fear of hell
“Fear the Lord” means to respect Him
Fear is a sin – lack of faith in God to provide

The Effects of Fear:
1. Paralyzes one’s ability to make right decisions
2. Temporarily paralyzed emotionally, physically, mentally
2. Encumbers one’s ability to focus rightly on God.
(The attention is on self)
3. One is unable to face the future
4. Spiritual life and growth is either terminated or hindered.
5. One becomes a slave to the evil one, human passions, and the world (Rom. 8:15)
6. Possible inability to have a healthy personal relationship with a spouse and family
7. Ineffectiveness in the kingdom of God.

Biblical Solutions to Fear:
Psalm 18:2The Lord is my shield
Psalm 27:1-4Focus on the Lord who is your strength and stronghold
Psalm 34:4,6,17,19The Lord delivers from fear, troubles
Psalm 46God is a refuge and He will be exalted
Psalm 84:12The Lord is Joy
Psalm 91:5-6(With ref. to v.1) You will not fear
Psalm 124(Esp v. 7-8) Our help is in the name of the Lord.
Proverbs 29:25Overcome the fear of man.
Isaiah 35:3-6The Lord will come.
Isaiah 41:10,13Do not fear because God is with you.
Luke 1:74-75Jesus enables us to serve Him without fear
Luke 10:19I have given you authority...over the enemy
Luke 12:31-32Seek first the Kingdom of God and do not be afraid
John 14:27Jesus gives peace, do not be afraid
Philippians 1:13-14Paul, a prisoner speaks fearlessly
Philippians 2:9Every knee (including fear) will bow.
1 John 4:4b“Greater is He who is in you than he that is in the world.”
1 John 4:18There is no fear in love, but fear brings the thought of punishment.

Students to daily recite the following:
Isaiah 53:5Jesus took our sins, sicknesses, sorrow, and pain to the cross
Eph. 4:26-27Deal swiftly but prudently with anger.
Eph. 4:31The common reaction is not to act (Col. 3:8)
Col. 3:13Live as Jesus did
Phil. 3:13-15Be determined to forget the past and know that you have established a mark of maturity.

Personalize Scripture:
Examples: Pilgrims in the early 1600's posted Isaiah 41:9-10 on their door lintels declaring the promises of God.

David acknowledged or confessed his actions as sin (Ps. 32:3-4) and he
Accepted God’s desire to forgive and accepted divine forgiveness. See
Psalm 38 as an example of a life of sin.

Personalize Luke 1:74-75 (place your name in the verse)

How is Fear Overcome?
Psalm 86:6-7Call upon the name of the Lord and He will answer you.
Isaiah 53:5By the His stripes we are healed.
John 16:33Jesus has overcome the world
Psalm 84:12Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord.
Rev. 12:11My victory is secured by the blood of Jesus




A Structure Prayer should include these steps:
1. Be willing to forgive every person you ever met, and those who hurt you and you never met them. Special attention to parents, family members, divorced spouse, in-laws, teachers, pastor, etc.
2. Ask God to forgive you.
3. Pray for the healing of memories AND self-condemnation beginning from the time of your conception. This is to include traumatic experiences (house fire, rape, etc), rejection, fears, and horrors of any kind. Pray for sections of life at a time such as childhood, teen years, twenties, thirties, etc. Include special events such as a summer at camp, a time of marriage, etc.
a. Pray for the healing of fear of rejection and failure (as in # 3) Isaiah 4:12
b. Cut the roots of rejection with each time segment (Heb. 4:12)
4. Pray by faith that the Holy Spirit will fill every area and void in your life.
5. Close the prayer as follows:

“Father God, I thank you for the plan of salvation and the work that Jesus did on the cross for me. I confess my sin of fear and ask that you forgive me. Father God, Your Word says, that if we confess my sins You are faithful to forgive me of my sins and will purify me (1 Jn. 1:9). I thank you for that forgiveness and cleansing. Lord, your Word also promises that I can have peace in my mind, my nerves, and throughout my body. Father God, I receive Your peace given to me by the blood of Jesus. I thank you for your peace and a sound mind, emotions, and body.

“Father God, I promise to keep my thoughts on you, especially when I am tempted to think on fearful things. I also promise to forgive all those who have offended me and further promise to pray for them that they too may receive your bounty full blessings as I have. Furthermore, I ask you to fill me with your Holy Spirit that I may be full of joy and love in the Name of Jesus. In His Holy Name I pray, Amen.

Welcome the Holy Spirit:

When a spirit of fear is cast out, a void is left within the person. It must be filled with the Holy Spirit or the evil spirits will return. Remember that perfect love will cast our all fears. There is no fear in the love of Christ. The prayer must close with a request for an infilling of the Holy Spirit.


Lesson 8: Maintain Your Healing, True Test of a Miracle
Purpose:
How to maintain a healing, identify a true miracle.

Objective:
The student will understand basic biblical principles and will be instructed to incorporate them into his or her daily life. This is a lifestyle change.

NOTE: The application of faith is a constant theme in these lessons.

Attention to God:

Daily praise God for your healing
Psalm 40:2

Memorize salvation and healing Scriptures
i.e., Psalm 34:4 (Included in this is the fear of losing a healing)
Isaiah 53:4-5; 61:1; Philippians 3:13

Spend regular time with God
John 15:7

Attention to Others:

Pray for the healing of others.
James 1:22, 25

Share your healing experience with many others.
Psalm 40:9a, 107:2, and especially Psalm 118:17

Forgive everyone. Be certain not to hold any grudges.
Mt. 6:14-15; Mk. 11:25-26

Let anger rest in peace
Ephesians 4:26-27; Prov. 16:32; 25:28

Respect your spouse
1 Peter 3:7

Attention to Self Preservation:

Resist the Devil and put on the armor of God
James 4:7; Rev. 12:11; Eph. 6:10-18

Die to sin, live to righteousness
1 Peter 2:24

Be a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God,
Romans 12:1; 6:13

My victory is secured by the blood of Jesus
Rev. 12:11

A True Test of a Miracle:

It is important that ministers of the gospel maintain the highest level of integrity. We are told to worship Him is spirit and in truth, and the latter includes the testimonies of what is observed in the lives of people who are touched by the healing grace of God. At times people become excited thinking they have received a miracle, when in fact they wished for it so badly their emotions led them to a false conclusion. Others enjoy the popularity ministry can give them. Therefore, the following four points established by the late Kathryn Kulhman are considered to be a true test of a genuine miracle.

The disease or injury should be organic or structural in nature – and should have been medically diagnosed.

The healing should have occurred rapidly, or instantaneously. The changes would have to be abnormal and not the kind that could result from suggestion.

All healings would have to be medically verified – preferably by more than one doctor. At least one of the doctors must be the patient’s private physician.

The healing should be permanent, or at least o sufficient duration so as not to be diagnosed as a “remission.”

The irony of the above test is that it is ideal for a Western culture, but doctors are generally impossible to find in Third-world countries. Yet this does demonstrate the discernment of delineating the difference between a genuine miracle and one that is false.



El Shaddai The God who is more than enough for me Ps. 91:14-15
God will

God will answer me Jer. 33:3; Is. 43:25-26; Mt. 7:7-8; Mk. 11:24; Jn. 16:23 Heb. 3:8
God will deliver me Ps 34:19
God will set me on high and honor him, because I have known God’s name. Ps. 24:3-4; 91:15