THE PURPOSE OF THE SERVICE OF ANOINTING AND PRAYER

THE PURPOSE OF THE SERVICE OF ANOINTING AND PRAYER

 

James 5:19-20

In these final verses, James sets forth the ultimate purpose in this service of anointing and prayer. It is to reach and deal with sins in the lives of the saints. While sin may not be the cause of the sickness, on the other it may be. But even either event an opportunity is provided whereby the suffering one may be brought nearer to the Lord.

lc. There is a possibility of a saint erring from the path. vs. 19

It is evident that James has in mind saints for he says "among you." Such an one usually errs first from the truth, and then the error in faith shows up in his life.

To convert such an one, that is, turn him around about face is the privilege and responsibility of the other saints.

Sickness of a severe nature may provide the occasion for just such conversion.

2c. There is practical value in converting such a saint. vs. 20

ld. The immediate effect will be a changing of from doctrinal error. The matter must begin right here, for there is where the cause lies.

2d. The next effect will be to cover a multitude of sins both judicially and personally.

le. Sins of the mind and faith will be covered in the sinning saint.

2e. Sins of conduct and life will be covered in the sinning saint.

3e. Sins which would have been an outgrowth of this state will be prevented and thus covered.

3d. The ultimate effect will be to save the believer from physical and eternal death.

le. Personal sins may be the cause of sickness and lead finally to physical death. Conversion leads to healing.

2e. Personal sinning, a continuing in it will lead to eternal death.