Why Physical Suffering Matters
[Continued from "A Theology of the Body - Part VI"]
Human embodiment is a relatively short-lived existence, as the curse of death due to sin is meted out on all human beings (Rom. 5:12; 3:23). Even before this end point is reached, as the human body ages, it wears down, provoking physical suffering. Oftentimes, service for the Lord entails great physical suffering as well (2 Cor. 4:7-18). Scripture presents suffering both as necessary, because of living in a fallen world, and tragic, because suffering is not the way it is supposed to be.
Light Momentary Affliction
At the same time, the lessons and character-building that Christians can gain from suffering are very beneficial (Rom. 5:1-5; James 1:2-4). Indeed, Paul emphasizes the proper perspective on trials and afflictions of all types, including physical suffering (2 Cor. 4:16-18). Christians are to view trouble and heartache as “light momentary affliction.” This attitude is not a denial of the reality of suffering; afflictions are real, not illusory. But compared to what is to come—the glory of a future existence with Christ—the present, earthly troubles are relatively light and of brief duration. Indeed, a right estimation of the true worth of what is to come, and a resolute focus on that unseen reality, will help Christians to persevere in the midst of suffering.
God Can Heal Your Body
Relief from suffering, including physical affliction, is also possible, if the Lord so wills. Indeed, James gives explicit instructions to the church (James 5:13-15). Sick members of the church are to turn to God for endurance and help during suffering, and God has given the responsibility to pray for them to the elders. They anoint the sick person with oil, consecrating him to the Lord and marking him out for God’s particular attention and blessing. While anointing the sick person, the elders pray over him (quite commonly, they lay their hands on the sick person), believing that the Lord can heal him and beseeching the Lord that he will grant such healing.
God Is Sovereign Over Healing
Several misconceptions concerning this practice need to be addressed: first, the promise of healing is not absolute; if it were, no one for whom the elders pray would ever die. At the same time, the elders and the sick person should expect healing to take place.
Second, failure to obtain healing cannot simply be attributed to a lack of faith. Certainly, the elders are to pray for the sick person with the expectation of God’s intervention to heal; they pray believing that the Lord can heal and pleading that the Lord will indeed heal the sick person. Such prayer, however, is always cognizant of divine sovereignty (James 4:13-16); “If the Lord wills” this person will be healed, and it is for healing that the elders pray.
But such healing may not be the Lord’s will; in that case, the prayer for healing reflects the proper desire—both that of God and the church—for life rather than death, but ultimately yields to God’s sovereign good purpose. If he wills, relief from suffering may be obtained through praying for the healing of the sick. Continued…