Jesus' Mission: Healing, Saving, and More

Introduction

The question of whether Jesus Christ came primarily to save or to heal people has been a topic of much discussion and debate among scholars and believers alike. In Luke 19:10, Jesus declares, "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." This statement has been interpreted in various ways, but it is safe to say that both healing and salvation were intrinsic parts of His mission.

Jesus as the Extension of God

Jesus is described as an extension of God, performing the works assigned to Him (e.g., John 3:16, John 10:10). From God's perspective, we can liken humans to cells within God's body, which is the Temple of the Holy Spirit (e.g., 1 Corinthians 6:19). This analogy emphasizes that God's purpose is to care for and nurture His creations, giving them eternal life and a place of exaltation in heaven (e.g., Luke 6:19, Hebrews 12:22-24).

God's Parental Role and Our Salvation

Just as a parent's primary responsibility is to care for and protect their children, God's mission is to save us from eternal damnation and provide us with the eternal life that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. This eternal life is not just about eternal existence but also about experiencing God's presence and love in the afterlife (e.g., Revelation 21:4).

Both Healing and Salvation

While salvation is the overarching goal, Jesus also demonstrated His power through healings. In doing so, He revealed the power of God and the availability of divine intervention in the daily lives of His followers (e.g., Mark 3:1-6). Although some people may have died, this does not overshadow the main purpose of Jesus' healings, which was to prove the divine nature of His mission and the mercy of God.

The Benefits of Redemption Through Christ

According to the psalmist, God's benefits are vast and encompass not only salvation but also healing, restoration, and provision:

Who forgives all your iniquities Who heals all your diseases Who redeems your life from destruction Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies Who satisfies your mouth with good things Your youth is renewed like the eagle’s

Psalm 103:3-5 highlights that God's blessings are abundant and deeply personal. Despite our feelings of lack or want, God offers an abundance of provision and mercy (e.g., 2 Corinthians 9:8).

Debunking Theological Misconceptions

The notion that "healing is not God's plan for everyone" originates from certain theologians who have brought misinterpretations into the church. This idea, rooted in ignorance rather than divine truth, should be abandoned in favor of a sounder biblical understanding. The Bible is filled with numerous healing instances and promises, such as those found in Hebrews 11:36-39 and James 5:14-16.

A Call to Faith and Hope

It is imperative that believers embrace the fullness of God's plan, which involves both salvation and healing. As we study the Bible, we should return to these healing scriptures and let them guide our faith and hope. By clinging to these promises, we can face life's challenges with confidence, knowing that God's love and provision are always available to us (e.g., John 14:1, Isaiah 41:10).

Conclusion

The mission of Jesus Christ is multifaceted, involving both the healing of physical ailments and the salvation of souls. Both aspects are indispensable and complementary. As we delve deeper into the scriptures, we find that God's love and provision are abundant. Let us embrace this truth and live in the fullness of God's blessings.