The Gifts of the Holy Spirit in Scripture - Lesson IX

Power Gifts Part II - Deliverance, Healing

Deliverance

1. Can a Christian be possessed by a demon?
No a Christian can not be possessed –we belong to Jesus. Unless we reject him, demons cannot claim us.

Have a demon from which he or she needs deliverance?
Yes, in the sense that demons can influence, harass, afflict, and tempt us.

In what other ways might a Christian need to fight demons?
To fight their influence over others and over particular situations. It can be done through fasting and prayer and by direct command in Jesus’ name.

2. What is the source of our deliverance from evil spirits?
Jesus’ victory over the devil through His cross and resurrection.

3. What is the difference between a major exorcism and other forms of deliverance?

4. What does it mean to cast out demons "in Jesus's name"?
It means that the person who believes in Jesus has the authority to cast out demons because of his/her faith in Christ. We are His authorized representatives because we belong to Him. This can be done by voice command and laying on of hands with prayer. Very effective with fasting and prayer by the person who is doing the praying.

5. How can sacramentals help in our battle against demons?
Sacramentals such as blessed oil, holy water, blessed salt are effective because of their reminder of Jesus’ presence and power.

Healing Part 1

6. In scripture, what are different means used to bring about healing?
Anointing with oil, laying on of hands, touching Jesus, spittle & mud, handkerchiefs & shadow
What do many of them have in common?
Physical touch, faith

 7. What is the purpose (or purposes) of supernatural healing?
To meet needs; to show God’s love, compassion, and power; to witness to the truth of the gospel and the power of God; to increase our faith

8. Describe a supernatural healing you experienced or know of. What elements from scripture were present in it?
We hope everyone has their own answer to this question.

 9. Can only priests pray for someone's healing?
No – anyone who has a relationship with God can pray for healing

What is the difference between the sacrament of Anointing the Sick and other prayers for the sick?
The Anointing of the Sick is a Sacrament, which means it can only administered by a priest or Bishop. It conveys grace and forgiveness. Other prayer for healing is asking for the healing.

10. How could we tell if we have a gift of healing?
A large portion of the people we pray for are healed. People often ask us to pray for their healing

What prevents Christians from exercising the gift of healing?
Ignorance, lack of teaching, low expectations, fear (afraid of looking foolish, etc.)

Healing Part 2

11. How can we touch Jesus?
In the sacraments, especially the Eucharist; in each other; by reaching out to Him in prayer.

 12. Have you ever participated in a healing Mass?
Many may not have, but it would be good if the opportunity were widely available.

What is the difference between a healing Mass and other Masses?
More emphasis is directed to healing through specific prayers and expectancy. Ideally, every mass should be a healing mass since there is the true presence of Christ.

13. What about the others paralyzed at the pool?
The others present is a question that one can ponder without a sure answer. Perhaps the others weren’t open to Him; perhaps some were healed without it being recorded.

Does Jesus always heal those who pray for healing (or for whom we pray)? Why or why not?
Why or why not is known only in the mind of Jesus, He does as He knows best for the person and the measure of faith is His to determine not ours. There may be something that the person needs more than a physical healing. There may be a benefit of being joined to Jesus in suffering.

14. Why are not more people healed supernaturally today?
Lack of faith, lack of expectancy, lack of prayer, lack of knowledge, lack of opportunity. Some may be taking the Sacrament of the Eucharist unworthily and thus eating and drinking condemnation upon themselves.
1 Cor11:29 For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body, eats and drinks judgment on himself. 30 That is why many among you are ill and infirm, and a considerable number are dying.

15. What other types of healing may we be in need of besides physical healing?
Spiritual, emotional

16. Why is the sacrament of Penance referred to as a healing sacrament?
Forgiveness heals, especially spiritually. Forgiveness relieves guilt, which can cause ailments. Any sacrament is a means of grace, making Jesus present so that He can heal.

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