Can Christian believers experience sickness, illness, or disease? This is a question often asked, and it’s important to address it.
When God created the world, there was no sickness, illness, or disease. These afflictions entered the world as a result of the fall of man when Adam and Eve disobeyed God. Their disobedience introduced a sinful nature that was inherited by all their descendants, making all humans sinners and subject to the curse of the law.
The curse of the law, as described in Genesis and expounded in Deuteronomy, includes various afflictions such as sickness, disease, poverty, and more. These curses were a consequence of human sinfulness.
However, for Christian believers, the story is different. A Christian or believer, in this context, refers to someone who is born-again and has a genuine relationship with God. Through Jesus Christ, believers have been redeemed from the curse of the law. The curses that applied to Adam and his descendants no longer apply to Christians because they have been set free from them.
While Christians are no longer under the curse of the law, it doesn’t mean they are immune to sickness or disease. They may still experience these afflictions, but the reason for their illnesses is different from that of unbelievers. Unbelievers suffer from illness as a result of being under the curse of the law due to disobedience. On the other hand, God may allow Christians to go through illness for constructive or beneficial purposes, not as a punishment or curse.
There are numerous reasons why God allows Christians to experience diseases, although we may not fully comprehend them. However, some reasons can include testing and proving the genuineness of their faith, displaying God’s works through healing, or maintaining a frequency of communication with Him through prayer.
It’s important to note that Christians should seek medical help and take appropriate medication when they are sick. Praying for healing is also encouraged. By praying, Christians can receive revelation and guidance regarding their illness, such as identifying habits they need to give up or persevering through a trial. The use of medicine and prayer together is not contradictory but rather complementary.
During times of illness, it’s crucial to avoid jumping to conclusions that the sickness is a punishment for sin or a test of faith. Instead, Christians should seek God’s guidance and ask Him to reveal the truth behind their situation. God is willing to speak to those who are open to hearing from Him, as He has something to say in every situation.
In summary, while Christians can experience sickness, illness, or disease, they are no longer under the curse of the law. God may allow them to go through these afflictions for various reasons, and seeking both medical help and prayer is encouraged. It’s important to seek God’s guidance and not jump to conclusions about the cause of the illness, as God has something to say in every situation.
ADDITIONAL READING
Salvation: Are We Saved By Faith Or By Works – James 2:14-26
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