What does James 5:14 mean?

Is any sick among you? 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: James 5:14

Explanation

James 5:14 addresses the practice of seeking spiritual intervention through the church for individuals who are sick. In this verse, “sick” can refer to both physical and spiritual illness. The directive is for the sick person to call upon the “elders of the church,” signifying the involvement of those who are seen as spiritually mature and leaders within the Christian community. The act of praying over the sick person and anointing them with oil “in the name of the Lord” indicates a reliance upon God’s power and presence for healing and deliverance. The oil is symbolic of the Holy Spirit’s anointing, and it is used as a point of contact for faith and the invocation of divine intervention.

Historical Context

James 5:14 is part of a letter traditionally attributed to James, who is thought to be the brother of Jesus. It was likely written in Jerusalem around A.D. 45-50 and addressed to Jewish Christians dispersed throughout the Mediterranean world. This verse reflects the early Christian practice of communal support and the belief in the power of prayer and faith in God, which were central to the life of the early Church. Anointing with oil had been a common Jewish practice and was adopted by Christians as a sacramental act of healing.

Theological Insights

Different denominations have varying interpretations of this passage:

• Catholic and Orthodox: They view this verse as a basis for the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, which provides spiritual and sometimes physical healing and is a means of grace.
• Protestant: Many Protestant denominations interpret this verse as a call for prayerful support among believers, with some accepting anointing with oil as a symbolic act while others may not practice it.
• Pentecostal and Charismatic: These groups often emphasize the healing power available through faith and prayer, with the anointing of oil being a common practice in healing services.

Practical Applications

James 5:14 suggests several practical applications in the lives of believers:

1. When sick, seek the support and prayers of church leaders and the community.
2. Foster an environment within the church where people feel comfortable seeking help and spiritual support.
3. Emphasize the importance of faith and prayer in God’s intervention in the lives of believers.
4. Maintain the practice of anointing with oil as a point of faith for those who hold to this tradition.

Cross-References

• Mark 6:13: “And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.”
• James 5:15: “And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.”
• 1 Timothy 5:23: “Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities.”

Language Study

• “Sick” in Greek is “ἀσθενεῖ” (asthenei), meaning weak or without strength. This can imply both physical illness and spiritual weakness.
• “Elders” translates from the Greek word “πρεσβυτέρους” (presbyterous), which refers to older men or leaders in the Christian community who have authority and responsibility within the church.
• “Anointing” comes from the Greek word “ἀλείψαντες” (aleipsantes), to rub or smear with oil, commonly used in healing and ceremonial practices.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Ancient cultures often used oils in religious and healing rituals. For example, the Egyptians used oil for embalming and in various religious ceremonies. The Greeks and Romans also used oil for anointing athletes and warriors, signifying strength and honor. Within the Jewish tradition, oil was used for consecration and to anoint priests and kings.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science acknowledges the placebo effect, where belief can influence physical outcomes. While there is no specific scientific basis for the healing power of anointing oil, the practice may contribute to a person’s emotional and psychological well-being, which can have a positive effect on health.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and theologians offer different insights into this verse:

• John Calvin: Calvin emphasizes the power of prayer and faith in healing but does not fully endorse the physical application of oil in his commentaries, viewing it more as a symbolic practice of the early Church.
• Matthew Henry: Henry’s commentary highlights the role of the elders in providing comfort and spiritual assistance, and he sees the anointing with oil as an acceptable practice in obedience to the apostolic custom.
• William Barclay: Barclay discusses the importance of the community in supporting the sick and suggests the use of oil as a means of conveying God’s healing power, rather than any medicinal effect of the oil itself.