Why Does the Assemblies of God Believe in Divine Healing Today?
- Boundless Team
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
The Assemblies of God believes in divine healing because the Bible reveals God as our Healer. Through Jesus' sacrifice, provision is made for the healing of the whole person, physically, emotionally, and spiritually, as a testimony of His power and compassion for us today.
At First Assembly Memphis, our mission is to see the 901 community transformed by the love of Christ. Whether you are in Cordova, Bartlett, or downtown Memphis, we believe that God cares about your physical well-being just as much as your spiritual state. We see divine healing not as a relic of the past, but as a living promise for every person who walks through our doors or connects with our Boundless online family.
Understanding the Terms
Before we dive into the "why," let’s make sure we’re on the same page regarding the language we use. Theology can sometimes feel like a different language, but at its heart, it’s just about understanding God's heart for us.
Definition: Divine Healing God's supernatural intervention to bring health and wholeness to the human body, mind, and spirit. It is an act of God’s grace and power, not a result of human effort.
Definition: Atonement The work of Jesus Christ on the cross, His suffering, death, and resurrection, that reconciles us to God and provides for all our needs, including salvation and healing.
The 901 Reality: Finding Strength in the Struggle
Life in Memphis is vibrant, but it also comes with its share of hardships. Maybe you’re navigating a difficult diagnosis at a local clinic, or perhaps you’re carrying the weight of emotional pain that feels heavier than a humid July afternoon in the Mid-South. Sickness and pain are universal human experiences, but they don't have to be the end of your story.
In the Assemblies of God, we don’t ignore the reality of pain. We acknowledge it, but we also point to a higher reality. We believe that when your strength fails, God’s strength is just beginning. Whether you are a regular at our Wednesday night dinners or you’re just searching for answers online, we want you to know that there is hope for wholeness.
The Biblical Solution: Healing is Provided
The foundation of our belief isn't based on wishful thinking; it’s anchored in the Word of God. We believe divine healing is a "privilege of all believers" because of two primary biblical pillars: The Atonement and the Practice of Prayer.
1. Provided in the Atonement
In the book of Isaiah, hundreds of years before Jesus was born, the prophet spoke about the Messiah’s mission. He wrote, "Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed" (Isaiah 53:4-5).
When Jesus died on the cross, He didn't just pay the price for our sins (though that is the greatest gift of all). He also took on our brokenness. We believe that healing is "in the Atonement," meaning that because of what Jesus did, we have a right to ask for and expect God’s restorative touch.
2. Practiced Through Prayer
The New Testament gives us very practical directions on how to handle sickness within the church community. In James 5:14-15, the Bible asks, "Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up."
This is why you will often see us offering prayer at the end of our messages or during our prayer and praise times. It’s not a ritual; it’s an invitation for God to move.
Divine Healing at a Glance
Aspect | Biblical Reference | Key Takeaway |
The Promise | Isaiah 53:4-5 | Healing is part of Jesus' work on the cross. |
The Example | Matthew 8:16-17 | Jesus healed all who were sick to fulfill prophecy. |
The Command | James 5:14-16 | The church is called to pray and anoint the sick. |
The Result | Mark 16:17-18 | Healing serves as a sign to those who don't yet believe. |
Practical Directions: What Do I Do Now?
If you are hurting today, we want to give you clear, actionable steps to lean into God’s provision. You don't have to navigate this alone.
Ask for Prayer: If you are local to the 901, join us for a service and come forward during the ministry time. Our pastors and elders would be honored to pray for you. If you’re connecting through our mission and vision online, reach out to our digital community.
Trust God’s Character: Healing isn't about how "good" you are; it’s about how good God is. Trust that His heart is for your wholeness.
Lean into Your Church Family: Whether you find community in our men's ministry, our ladies' ministry, or our Prime Time Cruzers for seniors, don't keep your struggle a secret. There is healing power in community support.
Use Medical Wisdom: We believe God is the source of all healing, and He often works through the hands of skilled doctors and medicine. We encourage everyone to follow medical advice while simultaneously seeking God's supernatural touch.
A Testimony of Compassion
Divine healing is more than just fixing a physical ailment; it’s a testimony of God’s compassion. When Jesus healed the leper or the blind man, He wasn't just showing off His power. He was showing His love. At First Assembly Memphis, we want our neighbors in Cordova and Bartlett to experience that same love.
We believe that every time someone is healed, it is a "sneak peek" of heaven, a place where there will be no more pain or crying. Until that day comes, we continue to pray, continue to believe, and continue to stand with those who are suffering.
Building Your Faith Cluster
If you want to dive deeper into how we live out our faith in the 901, check out these related topics:
Daily Quest: Alignment and Learning
To help you stay focused on God’s healing power this week, try this simple daily rundown:
Morning: Read Isaiah 53:4-5 aloud and thank God for the Atonement.
Mid-day: Pray for one person you know who is currently facing a health challenge.
Evening: Reflect on one way God has provided for your strength throughout the day.
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.)
Connect With Us:
Local: Visit us at First Assembly Memphis in the heart of the 901 area. Check our events page for upcoming service times. www.famemphis.org
Global: Join our digital campus at Boundless Online Church. www.boundlessonlinechurch.org
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