Bible Study: Why Does First Assembly Memphis Believe in Divine Healing?

If you are facing a physical challenge, a lingering illness, or an emotional wound tonight, you might be asking: Does God still heal people today? At First Assembly Memphis, we believe the answer is a resounding "yes."

First Assembly Memphis believes in divine healing because it is a fundamental promise found throughout the Bible and was central to the ministry of Jesus. We teach that healing is an integral part of the Gospel and a privilege for all believers, provided through Christ's sacrifice on the cross. We believe God restores the whole person, spirit, soul, and body, in response to faith and prayer.

Understanding the Roots of Divine Healing

In the quiet of the evening, when the noise of the Memphis day fades into the background, it’s natural to reflect on our needs and the needs of those we love. For many in the 901, from Cordova to Germantown and beyond, the question of healing isn't just a theological debate; it’s a deeply personal reality.

As part of the Assemblies of God, FA Memphis holds Divine Healing as one of our four "Cardinal Doctrines," alongside Salvation, the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, and the Second Coming of Christ. We don't see healing as a rare, historical artifact from the early church, but as a living, breathing reality for today.

Theological Term	Biblical Definition
Divine Healing	A supernatural work of God that restores health to the body or mind through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Atonement	The work Jesus Christ did in His life and death to earn our salvation and restore our relationship with God.
Intercession	The act of praying to God on behalf of others, often for their needs, protection, or healing.

The Biblical Foundation: Why We Believe

Our belief isn't based on wishful thinking; it is anchored in the authority of Scripture. When we navigate a culture that often relies solely on human effort, returning to the Word of God provides a perspective of peace and hope.

1. Healing in the Atonement (Isaiah 53:4–5)

Centuries before Jesus was born, the prophet Isaiah wrote about the suffering Messiah. He noted that "with his stripes we are healed." This means that when Jesus went to the cross, He didn't just pay for our sins (as vital as that is); He also bore our sicknesses. We believe that physical restoration was purchased for us at the same time as our spiritual redemption.

2. The Ministry of Jesus (Matthew 8:16–17)

The Gospel of Matthew makes this even clearer. It records how Jesus healed the sick and cast out spirits, specifically stating that this was done to fulfill what was spoken by Isaiah. Jesus’ life was a constant demonstration of God’s desire to see His children whole. If Jesus is "the same yesterday, today, and forever" (Hebrews 13:8), then His heart to heal remains unchanged today.

3. The Pattern for the Church (James 5:14–16)

James provides a practical blueprint for how the church should handle sickness. It instructs those who are sick to call for the elders, be anointed with oil, and be prayed for in faith. At FA Memphis, we follow this biblical pattern regularly. Whether you are in a hospital bed in Memphis or connecting with us through Boundless Online Church, we believe the "prayer of faith" still carries weight in the kingdom of God.

Navigating Culture: Faith and Medicine

A common question we hear is: "If you believe in divine healing, does that mean you don't believe in doctors?"

Not at all. We believe that all healing comes from God. Sometimes He heals through a miraculous, instantaneous touch. Other times, He heals through the wisdom of medical professionals, the technology of modern medicine, and the natural restorative processes He built into the human body. We thank God for doctors and medicine while keeping our ultimate trust in the Great Physician. Navigating our modern culture means having the wisdom to use the tools available to us while having the faith to ask for what only God can do.

Seeking Healing: Practical Steps for You

If you are reflecting on your health or the health of a family member tonight, here is how you can take a step toward the healing power of Jesus:

• Ask in Faith: Simply talk to God. Share your pain, your diagnosis, and your fears. Use Scripture, like Psalm 103, to remind yourself of His benefits.

• Request Prayer: You don't have to carry this alone. If you are local to the 901, visit us at First Assembly Memphis for a Sunday service where we frequently pray for the sick.

• Join the Digital Community: If you are homebound or outside the Memphis area, connect with our Boundless Online Church prayer partners. Our digital community is active 24/7, standing in the gap for people across the globe.

• Anoint and Pray: Following the James 5 model, ask a trusted believer or church leader to pray with you. There is power in the agreement of two or more.

A Table of Healing Promises

Use these verses during your evening reflection or prayer time to strengthen your heart.

Scripture Reference	Key Promise	Message for You
Exodus 15:26	"I am the Lord who heals you."	God's very nature is to bring restoration.
Psalm 103:2–3	"[He] heals all your diseases."	No illness is too small or too large for His reach.
1 Peter 2:24	"By his wounds you have been healed."	Your healing was bought at a high price; it is a gift.
Matthew 9:22	"Your faith has made you well."	Our trust in Him activates His power in our lives.

Reflection: When Healing Takes Time

We recognize that we live in a "now but not yet" reality. While we pray with full expectation for healing, we also acknowledge that God's timing and ways are higher than ours. Sometimes healing is progressive, taking place over days or months. Sometimes, the ultimate healing is found when a believer enters the presence of the Lord, where there is no more pain or sorrow.

Regardless of the immediate outcome, we believe that God is with us in the suffering. He is the "God of all comfort" (2 Corinthians 1:3). Choosing to believe in divine healing isn't about ignoring reality; it’s about inviting the Creator of reality into your situation.

Life Takeaway: Your Next Step Toward Wholeness

Tonight, as you prepare for rest, remember that you are a priceless child of God. Your physical body matters to Him. Your mental health matters to Him. Your spiritual peace matters to Him.

Divine healing is an invitation to experience the compassion of Jesus firsthand. Whether you are walking through the doors at First Assembly Memphis or logging on from a different time zone, our mission is the same: to point you toward the One who can make you whole.

Want to go deeper?

If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, we would love to welcome you in person for worship and prayer: 🌐 www.famemphis.org

If you're outside our area or unable to attend locally, join our online church community for discipleship and connection: 🌐 www.boundlessonlinechurch.org

Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341. (Note: This line is for prayer and pastoral support, not emergency services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911.)