Practical Exercises and Course Wrap-Up: Living What We Have Learned - Lesson 6
- Pr Enos Mwakalindile
- Aug 21
- 3 min read
Key Verse: “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” (James 5:16)
You have learned much about healing; how will you apply it in your life and ministry?
Introduction
After learning about the foundations of healing ministry, spiritual preparation, methods of ministering to the sick, and God’s will in suffering and healing, it is now time to put them into real action. This lesson invites us to take steps: engage in corporate prayer, share testimonies of God’s goodness, collaborate with the community, and continually self-evaluate to remain faithful to Christ’s call to heal the brokenhearted and body (Luke 4:18).
Key Learning Points
1. Corporate Prayer Opens the Door of Grace.
“Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” (James 5:16)
James emphasizes the power of confession and mutual prayer. Corporate prayer builds spiritual and social unity, bringing healing, forgiveness, and reconciliation (Acts 4:31). When healing ministry is rooted in shared prayer, the church becomes a bridge of grace between God and the community.
2. Testimony Builds the Faith of Others.
“He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble.” (2 Corinthians 1:4)
Sharing stories of how God has comforted or healed us strengthens the faith of others and gives them courage to trust God in their own struggles (Psalm 40:1–3). Testimonies are seeds of faith that spark new hope and create networks of people supporting each other spiritually and emotionally.
3. Healing Ministry Is the Calling of Every Believer.
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church… and the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well.” (James 5:14–15)
Healing ministry is not only for pastors but the calling of every member of God’s family. Believers can participate by praying for the sick, comforting them, and serving them with acts of love (Mark 16:17–18). This reduces the burden on one leader and makes the whole church a center of healing and hope.
4. Leadership in Ministry Requires Humility.
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care… not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve.” (1 Peter 5:2–3)
True leadership is characterized by a servant’s heart and honoring others, as Jesus washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:14–15). Healing ministry must avoid the pursuit of fame or personal gain and instead glorify Christ alone.
5. Community Collaboration Expands the Reach of Healing.
“The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
Healing ministry is more effective when partnering with hospitals, mental health professionals, and social services. This collaboration brings spiritual, physical, and emotional support that meets the broader needs of people.
6. Continuous Learning and Self-Examination.
“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.” (2 Corinthians 13:5)
Healing ministry requires constant learning and evaluation. This helps maintain humility and ensures the ministry grows while staying rooted in gospel foundations and Christian ethics.
7. Sharing Gifts and Resources.
“Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” (1 Corinthians 12:7)
Healing ministry thrives when believers share their gifts and resources—whether in prayer, financial support, social services, or counseling skills. Working together creates lasting impact and builds a healthy, united community.
Discussion Questions
Do you feel the call to healing ministry within you? Explain why. (Luke 4:18)
How do you see collaboration between the church and hospitals in caring for the sick? (James 5:14–15)
How will you ensure your ministry does not exploit patients for personal fame? (1 Peter 5:2–3)
Are there new ways you can use your gifts and resources for healing ministry? (1 Corinthians 12:7)
Home Assignment
Plan to participate in or lead a small group prayer service for the sick.
Invite someone who has experienced comfort through prayer to share their testimony with others.
Self-evaluate by writing answers to these questions: What have I learned? How will I use this lesson in my ministry?
Create a plan to collaborate with a health service or institution in your community.
Lesson Summary
This lesson challenges us to turn what we have learned into practical everyday actions. Healing ministry continues as we pray for the sick, partner with them in compassion, use our gifts together, and collaborate with the community. The result is a united church, a hopeful community, and people touched by Christ’s love.
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