Gift of Healing (Spirit of Truth Part 6)
The Source of Spiritual Gifts
In 1 Corinthians 12:4–11 (ESV), Paul reveals that the gifts of the Spirit are given by the same Spirit, the same Lord, and the same God. Though these gifts vary, they are unified in their divine origin and are distributed for the common good:
“To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” (v. 7)
This passage introduces a spiritual “tool belt,” and among the tools is a “med kit” — the gift of healing. It's one of the many ways God partners with His people, empowering them through His Spirit to participate in building His Kingdom.
Five Biblical Truths About Spiritual Gifts
The Source – All spiritual gifts come from God and are empowered by Him.
The Variety – There are many different gifts, reflecting God’s generosity and creativity.
The Purpose – Every gift is for the benefit of others, not personal elevation.
The Distribution – The Holy Spirit assigns gifts according to His will.
The Responsibility – It’s our role to discover, steward, and grow in the gifts God has given.
The Healer in Scripture
Acts 3:1–16 recounts Peter and John healing a man who had been lame since birth. When Peter speaks healing over him in the name of Jesus Christ, the man’s ankles are strengthened, and he begins to walk, leap, and praise God.
Peter's reaction is striking. He doesn’t take credit. Instead, he points directly to Jesus:
“By faith in His name, this man whom you see and know was made strong… it is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through Him that has given this complete healing to him.” (Acts 3:16)
Peter’s confidence came from knowing the character of God — a God who had revealed Himself throughout history as Jehovah Rapha, “the Lord who heals” (Exodus 15:26).
God has always been a healer:
Exodus 15:26 – “I am the Lord, your healer.”
Isaiah 53:5 – “By His wounds we are healed.”
Psalm 103:3 – “Who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases.”
Matthew 8:14–17 – Jesus heals Peter’s mother-in-law and fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy.
God heals in many ways: naturally, physically, mentally, emotionally, relationally, medically, spiritually, and miraculously. And He uses people, filled with His Spirit, to deliver that healing.
Healing Comes Through Authority
Jesus refers to Himself as a physician (Matthew 9:12), one with authority over sickness. His disciples were given that same Spirit and authority (Luke 9:1–2). The word "author" in Acts 3:15 — “You killed the Author of life” — connects deeply with “authority.” The Creator has authority over creation, including sickness and disease.
This is not only about miraculous moments — it’s about embracing the invitation to partner with God. We are called to be His hands extended, reaching others with compassion and joy.
Desire the Gifts, Walk in Compassion
Peter didn’t just heal with authority; he healed with compassion. Healing flows not from duty but from love. As Jesus was moved with compassion, so are His people called to move toward others with the same heart.
Healing also requires boldness. In Acts, we read of the early church praying for boldness and being filled with the Spirit to speak the word of God boldly. God often leads us to a moment of invitation — a moment to reach out with healing through simple but courageous faith.
The Power of Obedience and Partnership
What happened after Peter healed the man at the temple gate? Thousands believed (Acts 4:4). One act of Spirit-led obedience opened the door for many to be saved. Healing is not the end goal — salvation is. Healing becomes a powerful signpost pointing others to the Healer.
We are called to be God’s medics on mission. Not because of who we are, but because of who He is — the same yesterday, today, and forever.
“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By His wounds you have been healed.” (1 Peter 2:24)
Healing is not just something God does — it’s part of who He is. And He desires to work through His people to heal a hurting world.
Reflection Questions
What spiritual gifts do you sense the Holy Spirit has placed in you? How can you begin to steward them for the good of others?
Where in your life — physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually — do you need healing from God?
Who in your life might need to experience God’s healing touch through your boldness, compassion, and prayer?