Living Out Jesus’ Healing Ministry (Isaiah 61:1-3)

The mission statement of Jesus was already prophesied by Isaiah long before His arrival here on earth; it entailed bringing hope into situations where people had lost all hope due to various reasons, including oppression or any other form of brokenness (Isaiah 61). Jesus not only died to forgive sins but also for our total healing.

In Greek, "sozo" (σωζω) means to save, rescue, heal, or preserve. It's a broad term used in the New Testament to encompass a wide range of concepts, including spiritual salvation, physical healing, and deliverance from danger or suffering. The term is used in various contexts, often implying a move from a state of peril or distress to one of safety, wholeness, or right relationship with God.

According to Strong’s Concordance, Sozo also carries the idea of being physically healed of diseases and being delivered from your enemy. In the spiritual sense, that enemy is the devil and his demons.

Inner healing and deliverance are two distinct yet related concepts, focusing on restoring a person's well-being through different approaches.

Inner Healing

• Definition: Inner healing focuses on addressing and healing emotional and spiritual wounds, traumas, and negative experiences from the past that affect a person's present life and relationship with God.

• Goal: To bring restoration and wholeness to the "inner person," including the mind, will, and emotions, through prayer, counseling, and the power of the Holy Spirit.

• Process: This may involve acknowledging and processing painful memories, forgiving others and oneself, renouncing negative thought patterns, and inviting God's healing presence.

Deliverance

• Definition: Deliverance is the act of casting out demonic spirits that are believed to be oppressing or influencing a person.

• Goal: To free individuals from demonic influence and bondage, allowing them to experience greater freedom and peace in their lives.

• Process: This typically involves prayer, casting out demonic spirits in the name of Jesus, and may also include renouncing any agreements or ties to the demonic realm.

Relationship between Inner Healing and Deliverance

Interconnectedness: Inner healing and deliverance are often seen as interconnected. Unhealed wounds or traumas can create openings for demonic influence, and deliverance might be necessary for complete healing. Complementary Ministries: Some believe that inner healing can prepare the way for deliverance, and deliverance can facilitate more profound inner healing.

“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy…” (Psalm 103:2-4)

“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 53:5 ESV)

Not all Christian traditions share the same views on inner healing and deliverance. While some may embrace these concepts and practices, others do not, reflecting a broad spectrum of beliefs within the Christian faith. It's essential to recognize that perspectives on these topics can vary significantly among different denominations and communities.