Live in the Supernatural by Dr. A. L. Gill

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3 Live in the Supernatural by Dr. A. L. Gill Dr. A.L. Gill is a top-selling author with over 20 million books in print. His international apostolic ministry has taken him to over 90 nations, preaching to crowds of over 200 thousand with God confirming His Word with healing signs, wonders and miracles. His practical, powerful, life-changing teachings are available through video, audio and manuals in numerous languages at Index Session One The Holy Spirit 5 Session Two The Gifts of the Holy Spirit 11 Session Three Vocal Gifts of the Spirit 16 Session Four Revelation Gifts 20 Session Five The Power Gifts of the Holy Spirit 26 Session Six The Gifts of Healing 31 Session Seven Healing and the Great Commission 36 Session Eight The Healing Power of God 41 Session Nine Speaking Words of Healing 46 Session Ten Impartation Through Laying on of Hands 51

4 Introduction KNOWING HOLY SPIRIT Session One The Holy Spirit God sent the Holy Spirit as a great gift to those who would believe on Him. The Gifts of the Holy Spirit are a way of life. They are what we need to operate in the Kingdom of God today. We are going to study the gifts of the Holy Spirit as a way of life. They were never intended to be something we allowed for a short time in our church services. They are a way of living. When we were born again, we became spiritually alive. We have a soul and and a spirit and we are a spiritual being. Every day of our lives, we can live in the realm of the Supernatural Spirit of God. New Way of Living Jesus Ministered by Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit is a real person. We need to know Him in a personal and intimate way. Paul wrote of the communion of the Holy Spirit 2 Corinthians 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen. The gifts of the Holy Spirit provide a whole new way of living for the spiritfilled believer. Even as Peter got out of his boat and walked on the water to Jesus, we are to step out of the comfort zones of natural living and walk on supernatural waters. We are to live in the spirit and operate in all nine of His supernatural gifts in our daily lives. I Samuel 10:6 The Spirit of the Lord will come upon you in power, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person. (New International Version) Ephesians 1:19-20 Resurrection power is for those who believe. When Jesus came to this earth, He humbled Himself and came as a man. He temporarily laid aside all of His rights and privileges as God and lived on this earth as a man. There were no miracles recorded the first thirty years of His life. Philippians 2:5-8 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a servant, and coming in the likeness of men, And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. When He was baptized by John, according to Mark 1:10, the Holy Spirit came upon Him and Immediately miracles began to happen in His ministry. 4

5 Same Power for Us THE BAPTISM WITH HOLY SPIRIT Began on Day of Pentecost Mark 1:10 And immediately, coming up from the water, He saw the heavens parting and the Spirit descending upon Him like a dove. Jesus is our example, anointed by the Holy Spirit, He began to operate in the supernatural gifts of the Holy Spirit. Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives and recover, of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed. Ephesians 1:19,20 And what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places. Romans 8:11 But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you. Joel prophesied by Joel Joel 2:28,29 And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions; And also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days. Jesus said that they would be endued with power form on high. Luke 24:49 Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high. Prophisied by John the Baptist Luke 3:16b I indeed baptize you with water but One mightier than l is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire Prophesied by Jesus Acts 1:5 You shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now. It s the power to be His witnesses. Acts 1:8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. Acts 2:1-4 Now when the day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place, And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a 5

6 Samaritans Received Gift Gentiles Received Gift Ephesians Received Gift ASKING FOR GIFT OF HOLY SPIRIT rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. A miracle took place in their mouths. Acts 2:38b Peter declared to others,... you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 8:14-17 Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God they sent Peter and John to them, Who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. It s a gift. We don t have to work for it. Acts 10:44-46a While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. All we have to do is receive the gift. Acts 19:2-6 He said to them, Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed? And they said to him, We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit And he said to them, Into what then were you baptized? So they said, Into John s baptism. Then Paul said, John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands on them the Holy Spirit come upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. Luke 11:11-13 If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he.give him a serpent instead of a fish? Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him! Our heavenly Father is ready to give you a gift. 6

7 Speaking in Tongues Begin to Speak The evidence of speaking in an unknown tongue always accompanied receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said that this is a sign that would follow those who believe. Mark 16:17b...they shall speak with new tongues Paul wrote that he spoke in a heavenly language, the tongues of angels I Corinthians 13:1a Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels The angels never run out words in praising God. Paul explained that this came by the Holy Spirit, through his spirit, and not through his mind. I Corinthians 14:14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. Romans 8:26,27 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groaning which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts know what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. We are to take the Word and pray in the Spirit. Ephesians 6:17,18 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints... When we receive the filling of the Holy Spirit, we too must begin to speak, not in our own language, but in other tongues. Acts 2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. There are two parts: God s part and Man s part. All languages are words that are made up by a combination of different sounds. If the Spirit is to give us the enablement or vocal inspiration, like on the Day of Pentecost, we must begin to speak but not in a language that we know. We, like those earthy believers should begin to speak sounds out loud. As we begin to put our eyes on Jesus, having asked for and received the baptism in the Holy Spirit by faith, we should begin to speak. It will be us speaking, as they did on the Day of Pentecost. The Holy Spirit will then begin to give us the ability. Having done our part to begin to speak, God will always do His part and give us the ability. In that moment of faith, a miracle will take place in our mouths. 7

8 Pray This Prayer Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for the gift of salvation! But Father, I want every gift you have for me! I want your gift of the Holy Spirit! I need this power in my life! Jesus, I ask you to baptize me in the Holy Spirit! I receive this gift by faith! Right now, Father, I raise my hands in praise to you. I open my mouth wide and begin to praise you, but not in any language that I know. Just like on the day of Pentecost, I m going to begin to speak. And as I do, I thank you Father, that the Holy Spirit is going to give me the ability to do so! Now with your hands raised in praise to God, begin to praise Him. Begin to speak out loud in little sounds. Rivers of Living water will begin to pour from you, as the Holy Spirit begins to give you vocal inspiration. CONCLUSION PURPOSE OF THIS HEAVENLY LANGUAGE Praise Prayer I Corinthians 14:15 What is the result then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding. Jude 1:20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit Your life will never be the same. As you praise God and pray in the Spirit, rivers of supernatural living waters will continue to flow out of you. 8

9 Group Discussion 1. Spend time at this time to pray for and assist those who have not been baptized by the Holy Spirit in your group. 2. Those who have been baptized in the Holy Spirit should spend some time to pray and praise in the heavenly language. 3. Take note of those who have just been baptized in the Holy Spirit among you during this session and counsel them how to continue using this gift. (The study leader should do this) Self Study Please study these verses of Scripture and write in your own words at the end of each what sign should follow or followed those who were baptized in the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:1-4 Acts 8:14-40 Acts 10:44-46 Acts 19:2-6 Mark 16:17 I Corinthians 14:14 9

10 Introduction IMPORTANCE OF GIFTS Nine Gifts Revealed For All Believers Instructions for Public Use Session Two The Gifts of the Holy Spirit In lesson one, we received the gift of the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues. When that happened, we walked through the gateway to the supernatural. When you receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit and speak with new tongues, you step into a new realm of supernatural. In this session, we are going to move on to the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The apostle Paul emphasized the importance of the gifts of the Holy Spirit to all believers when he wrote: 1 Corinthians 12:1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant Paul taught about the differences, the activities and the manifestations of each of the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:4-10 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all; for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit:, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit:, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. Notice that Paul taught in verse seven that these gifts were given for the profit of all. Believers will not profit in their lives to the extent that God intends, unless all of the gifts are in operation. Paul also taught in this verse that all nine of these gifts are given to each one. It is clear from this verse that every believer, by the supernatural enabling of the Holy Spirit, can and should operate as directed by the Holy Spirit in all nine gifts. Each believer is to be involved in operating in the gifts when they come together in a meeting. As each part of the human body functions as guided by signals from the brain, even so, ever believer is to operate in the gifts as directed by the Holy Spirit. I Corinthians 12:11,12 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills. For as the body is one and has 10

11 many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ Hebrews 2:4 God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to His own will? It is important we learn to listen to the Holy Spirit FOUR MOTIVATIONS FOR MINISTERING IN GIFTS For Edification of Church Earnestly Desire These Gifts Stir Up Gifts We are to be zealous and earnestly desire that each one of us excel in the operation of all these gifts, not to make us look good, but that whole church will be edified. I Corinthians 14:12 Even so you, since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, let it be for the edification of the church that you seek to excel. Jesus said that He would build His Church. His church is edified, or built up, when these gifts are in operation. Instead of being ignorant of these gifts we should study, practice and train ourselves in their use until we come to a standard of excellence in the operation of each and every gift. We are to earnestly desire these gifts to operate with excellence in our lives. When a need exists in people s lives, or in the body of Christ, we should seek to operate in the best gift, the one that will most effectively meet that need. I Peter 4:10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. I Corinthians 12:31 But earnestly desire the best gifts, And yet I show you a more excellent way. The more excellent way to operate in these gifts is in the faith, hope, and love described in Chapter thirteen. The gifts operate by faith, bringing a fresh new hope to the church and to other people s lives. We should always be motivated by God s love for others and not by our own pride. The three gifts of vocal inspiration are tongues, interpretation of tongues, and prophecy. 2 Timothy 1:6 Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. Romans 1:11 For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established. The operation of these gifts was imparted and activated in Timothy s life by the laying on of Paul s hands. Now, it was up to Timothy to stir up 11

12 THREE CATEGORIES OF GIFTS these gifts and to keep them fanned into flame in his own life and ministry. By so doing, we also will be living and walking in the Spirit. Galatians 5:25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. The nine gifts of the Holy Spirit are important ministry tools for every believer. To better understand their functions and how they are to operate in each of our lives, we have divided them into three categories, with three gifts in each category. These three categories are: Gifts of Vocal Inspiration (Speaking) Tongues Interpretation of Tongues Prophecy Revelation Gifts (Hearing) Distinguishing Between Spirits Word of Knowledge Word of Wisdom Power Gifts (Doing) Gifts of Faith Gifts of Healing Working of Miracles Gifts of Vocal Inspiration (Speaking) Revelation Gifts (Hearing) Power Gifts (Doing) The gifts of vocal inspiration (utterance gifts) are manifestations of the Holy Spirit speaking supernaturally to or through us. When this happens believers are strengthened, encouraged and comforted, but never put under condemnation. The revelation gifts are manifested as God supernaturally reveals the identity, nature or activity of spirits, or when He supernaturally reveals knowledge or wisdom to His people. This revelation comes into our minds through our spirits in the form of a thought, impression, feeling, dream or vision. The three revelation gifts are the discerning of spirits (or distinguishing between spirits), the word of knowledge, and the word of wisdom. The power gifts are manifested by God releasing His supernatural faith or power to work or flow through us. The three power gifts are the gift of faith, the gifts of healing, and the working of miracles. 12

13 TONGUES: MAN SPEAKING TO GOD OR GOD SPEAKING TO MAN Tongues of Angels or a Human Language Tongues: A Praise to God A distinction is made in Scriptures between the manifestation of tongues that all received when they received the baptism in the Holy Spirit, and the gift of tongues whereby a message is given supernaturally to believers. One is a language of praise or prayer to God, the other is a message from God to man. Acts 2:4 On the Day of Pentecost, they were all with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. This supernatural manifestation of tongues could either be a heavenly language, the tongues of angels, or it could be spoken supernaturally in a human language that is not known by the one who is speaking, but may be understood by someone who is listening. 1 Corinthians 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become as sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. Acts 2:6,7,8,11 b And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, look, are not all these who speak Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God. All Spirit-filled believers who have had a manifestation of speaking in tongues as an evidence of having received the baptism in the Holy Spirit, are to continue daily speaking or singing to God in their supernatural language of praise. By so doing, they are uttering mysteries with their spirits. 1 Corinthians 14:2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. I Corinthians 14:4a We are built up by speaking in tongues. Paul said, He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself... Paul Emphasized Importance of Speaking in Tongues Paul wrote, 1 Corinthians 14:18 I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all. He also wrote, 1 Corinthians 14:5a,39 I wish you all spoke with tongues forbid not to speak with tongues. 13

14 Tongues: A Sign to Unbelievers Tongues are one of the signs that Jesus told about, Mark 16:17 And these signs will follow those who believe: in My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues. As believers preach, or share the gospel, tongues are one of the supernatural signs which will confirm the Word to unbelievers. This passage in Mark ends with these words in verse twenty, And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. When the supernatural sign of tongues occurred on the day of Pentecost, three thousand souls were added to the believers. Tongues are the gateway into the supernatural gifts of the Holy Spirit! Group Discussion 1. Share your views with one another on the statement in this lesson that all nine of these gifts are given to each one in view of I Cor. 12: What does it mean to operate in the best gift? 3. What is the more excellent way to operate in the gifts of the Holy Spirit? Self Study: 1. Read Romans 1:11, and 2 Timothy 1:6. How can you stir up the gift of God in you? 2. Write your own definition of each of the nine gifts of the Spirit. Tongues Interpretation of Tongues Prophecy Distinguishing between Spirits Word of Knowledge Word of Wisdom Gifts or Faith Gifts of Healings Working of Miracles 14

15 Introduction Session Three Vocal Gifts of the Spirit In this session, we are going to learn how to operate in the vocal gifts of the Holy Spirit. These are: the gifts of tongues, Interpretation of tongues, and prophecy. Tongues provide the Spirit filled believers with a supernatural prayer language. TONGUES: A SUPERNATURAL LANGUAGE OF PRAYER Paul wrote, God Speaks Through Gift of Tongues 1 Corinthians 14:13-15 Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is the result then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding. When I pray in a tongue which is in the Spirit, I enter an exciting, powerful and unlimited realm of prayer. My prayer is no longer limited by my lack of understanding which is unfruitful. When I pray with the spirit the Holy Spirit prays through my spirit in perfect agreement with the will, knowledge, understanding and wisdom of God. Romans 8:26,27 Like wise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groaning which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts know what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. When we pray in the Spirit, we can be sure that we are not asking for the wrong things. James wrote, James 4:3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss Often, when we are praying in the spirit, the gift of interpretation of tongues begins to operate, and we begin to pray by supernatural revelation with our understanding in our own language. When we pray in tongues, we are no longer praying with our unfruitful understanding, or praying about problems in fear. Ephesians 6:17b,18a We are taking the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word God and are praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit The vocal gifts will always bring strength, encouragement and comfort instead of condemnation. 15

16 Desire to Prophesy Should be Judged We should all desire to prophesy. SEVEN TESTS TO JUDGE PROPHECY Does It Agree with Scripture? What Are Fruits in Deliverer s Life? Does It Glorify God? Is It Fulfilled? Does It Lead Toward or Away from God? 1 Corinthians 14:1,5,39a Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification. Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy It is important that prophetic words be judged. I Corinthians 14:2932 Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge. But if anything is revealed to another who sits by, let the first keep silent. For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged. And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. Galatians 1:8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. Matthew 7:15,16a Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. John 16:13a,14 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth. He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. Revelation 19:10b For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. Deuteronomy 18:21,22 And if you say in your heart, How shall we know the word which the LORD has not spoken? When a prophet speaks in the name of the LORD, if the thing does not happen or come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD has not spoken; the prophet has spoken it presumptuously... Deuteronomy 13:1,2b,3a If there arises among you a prophet or a dreamer of dreams, and he gives you a sign or a wonder... saying, Let us go after other gods which you have not known, and let us serve them, you shall not listen to the words of that prophet 16

17 es It Bring Liberty or Bondage? What is Inner Witness of the Spirit? CONCLUSION Giving a Prophecy: Romans 8:15a For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear... I John 2:20 But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things. If the message is from God, there will be an inner witness of the Spirit. If the message does not confirm what God has already been speaking to your spirit, before taking action wait until that confirmation comes. Do not let someone that is not known by your spiritual leaders, prophesy over you without a leader being with you to judge the prophecy. Wait until you know that you have heard from God. Wait until God s timing to give the prophecy. Wait until a spiritual leader can judge the prophecy. Give it in a natural voice, in contemporary language. Avoid extreme emotions and nervous repetition. I Corinthians 14:32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. A prophesy is for edification, exhortation and comfort. Above all, only receive the prophecy if it witnesses to your spirit. Remember Paul s words, 1 Corinthians 14:3 But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men. How wonderful it is that God is still speaking to His people today through the vocal gifts of the Holy Spirit! 17

18 Group Discussion 1. Form small groups and activate the vocal gift of the Spirit by speaking in tongues and let the tongues be interpreted either by the person who delivers it or by somebody else in your groups. 2. Anyone who has a prophetic message should be encouraged to give it in your small groups. Self Study 1. List three-fold purpose of prophecy in a congregational meeting according to I Corinthians 14:3. 2. Who should judge whether a prophetic utterance given is from God or not? 3. According to the following passages of Scripture, write the instructions given in operating the vocal gifts in church meetings: I Corinthians 14:27 I Cor. 14; 19,28 I Cor. 14:5 4. According to I Corinthians 14:1, 5, 39, who should speak in tongues, interpret, and prophesy? 5. Write in your own words, the guidelines you should follow if you are going to be giving prophecies. 18

19 Introduction DISCERNING OF SPIRITS Session Four Revelation Gifts In this lesson, we will be learning about the revelation gifts. God is still speaking and revealing things to His people today. God always brings revelation to His people through one of the three revelation gifts of the Holy Spirit. The gifts of discerning of spirits, the word of knowledge and the word of wisdom are important ministry tools needed in the daily lives of all believers. This gift is probably the most needed but neglected of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Jesus warned, Matthew 24:24 For false Christs and false prophets will arise and show great signs and wonders, so as to deceive, if possible, even the elect. We will not be deceived if we learn to operate in this important gift of the Holy Spirit The word discerning here has often been confused with the word discernment and this gift has been erroneously called by some the gift of discernment. Human discernment is an activity of the mind, or part of the soul. In contrast, this gift is a supernatural gift that comes through our spirits by the revelation of the Holy Spirit. Gift Defined The Greek word translated discernment means a clear discrimination. Perhaps a more accurate description of this gift is the term used in the New International Version, distinguishing between spirits. The gift of distinguishing between spirits is a supernatural insight into the realm of the spirit world. It reveals the type of spirit, or spirits behind a person, a situation, an action or a message. It is a knowing in your spirit which comes by supernatural revelation concerning the source, nature and activity of any spirit. It will make a clear discrimination and identify the presence of a spirit. By the operation of this gift, we will identify: The presence of God. The presence and function of the Holy Spirit. The presence and function of Holy Angels. The nature of a human spirit. The presence of Satan. The presence and function of evil spirits (demons) 19

20 Purpose of Gift Spirits of Deception Bound saints can be delivered. The plans of Satan can be discerned. Sin can be kept out of the midst of the saints. False revelation can be detected. I Timothy 4:1,2 Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, Speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron. 2 Timothy 3:13 But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. SATAN AN ANGEL OF LIGHT AND HIS FALSE APOSTLES Paul Warned Fortune Telling Slave Girl WORD OF WISDOM 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of fight. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. When the fortune telling slave girl followed Paul saying good things about Paul, he operated in the gift of the distinguishing between spirits and recognized the spirit of divination in her. Acts 16:16-18 Now it happened, as we went to prayer, that a certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling. This girl followed Paul and us, and cried out, saying, "These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation." And this she did for many days. But Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, "I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her." And he came out that very hour. The gift of the word of wisdom is a supernatural revelation by the Holy Spirit giving the believer God s wisdom to proceed on a course of action based on natural or supernatural knowledge. It reveals God s plan and purpose for our life and ministry. It reveals what God purposes to be done immediately, in a short while, or in the near or distant future. It reveals what an individual or corporate gathering should do and how to proceed in God s will. The Word of wisdom often operates and flows with the word of knowledge. 20

21 Definition Woman at Well Lazarus Casting Them Out The word of wisdom isn t a natural gift of wisdom. It is a word or phrase. It is a part not the whole. Paul wrote, 1 Corinthians 13:9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part. Like the word of knowledge, the word of wisdom will often interrupt our natural thoughts as it comes through our spirits. It will come as an impression or a vision in which we will see ourselves in the spirit doing something in a certain way before we do it. The gifts of the word of knowledge and the word of wisdom operate so closely with one another, that it is sometimes difficult to separate them from one another. One supernaturally reveals the facts and the other gives the wisdom on what to do with these facts. When Jesus was ministering to the woman at the well, He knew by the word of knowledge that she had five husbands and that the man she was now living with was not her husband. The natural mind would have called for her to be stoned. However, Jesus also received a word of wisdom on how to effectively minister to her in such a way that she and many others were saved. Read John 4: When Jesus was told that His friend Lazarus was sick, He knew through the word of knowledge that Lazarus was already dead. But He also knew, through the word of wisdom to say, John 11:4 This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it. Then in verse fourteen Jesus said to them plainly, Lazarus is dead. Jesus knew by the word of wisdom what to do and say. He knew to delay His journey to Bethany to raise Lazarus from the dead, for four days, and then said to Martha, in verse 23, Your brother will rise again. Jesus said, we as believers would cast out demons Matthew 10:1 And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease. According to Luke 10:19,20 Jesus gave us the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. 21

22 WORD OF KNOWLEDGE Purpose of Word of Knowledge Example of Paul WORD OF WISDOM The word of knowledge is a supernatural revelation by the Holy Spirit of certain facts, present or past about a person or situation which were not leaned through the natural mind. This knowledge comes into our minds from our spirits. It will often interrupt the natural thoughts of our minds. It will come as a thought, a word, a name, a feeling, an impression, vision or as an inner knowing. Even as a word is a small part of a sentence, the word of knowledge is a small part of God s total knowledge of the situation. This supernatural knowing when supernaturally revealed to believers will aid and assist in perfecting the purposes of God in the midst of His people. It is to bring glory to God and not to man. It helps us to minister with accuracy and effectiveness. It will warn of danger, bring encouragement, disclose sin and keep us on track in our daily life and ministry. Jesus Operated in Word of Knowledge John 5:19 Most assuredly I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner. How can we do greater works than Jesus? The key is just learn to operate in revelation gifts. Paul operated in the word of knowledge when he saw in the spirit that the crippled man at Lystra had faith to be healed. Acts 14:9b,10 Paul, observing him intently and seeing that he had faith to be healed, said with a loud voice, Stand up straight on your feet! And he leaped and walked. Often the word of knowledge regarding an individual will come to us when we look into their eyes or touch that person. The key is to learn to listen to the Holy Spirit and by faith, expect this gift to operate. The gift of the word of wisdom is a supernatural revelation by the Holy Spirit giving the believer God s wisdom to proceed on a course of action based on natural or supernatural knowledge. It reveals God s plan and purpose for our life and ministry. It reveals what God purposes to be done immediately, in a short while, or in the near or distant future. It reveals what an individual or corporate gathering should do and how to proceed in God s will. The Word of wisdom often operates and flows with the word of knowledge. 22

23 Definition Comparison Example of Jesus Example of Peter and Others The word of wisdom isn t a natural gift of wisdom. It is a word or phrase. It is a part not the whole. Paul wrote, 1 Corinthians 13:9 For we know in part and we prophesy in pan. Like the word of knowledge, the word of wisdom will often interrupt our natural thoughts as it comes through our spirits. It will come as an impression or a vision in which we will see ourselves in the spirit doing something in a certain way before we do it. The gifts of the word of knowledge and the word of wisdom operate so closely with one another, that it is sometimes difficult to separate them from one another. One supernaturally reveals the facts and the other gives the wisdom on what to do with these facts. When Jesus was ministering to the woman at the well, He knew by the word of knowledge that she had five husbands and that the man she was now living with was not her husband. The natural mind would have called for her to be stoned. However, Jesus also received a word of wisdom on how to effectively minister to her in such a way that she and many others were saved. John 4:17-18 You have well said, I have no husband, for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband; in that you spoke truly. When Jesus was told that His friend Lazarus was sick, He knew through the word of knowledge that Lazarus was already dead. But He also knew, through the word of wisdom to say, John 11:4 This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it. Then in verse fourteen Jesus said to them plainly, Lazarus is dead. Jesus knew by the word of wisdom what to do and say. He knew to delay His journey to Bethany to raise Lazarus from the dead, for four days, and then said to Martha in verse 23, Your brother will rise again. Peter was prepared to go to Cornelius house even though he was a gentile because of a word of knowledge that came as a vision when he was on Simon the tanner s rooftop in Joppa. He received another word of knowledge when, the Spirit said to him, Behold, three men are seeking you... This revelation continued as a word of wisdom with the words, Acts 10:19,20 Arise therefore, go down and go with them, doubting nothing; for I have sent them. 23

24 Through the word of wisdom, Ananias was sent to the house of Judas on Straight Street to lay his hands on Paul. Agabus was warned of the coming famine and of Paul s imprisonment Paul was warned of the coming storm and shipwreck. The revelation gifts prepare us for effective ministry, prepare us for things to come, and save our lives. In the lessons on the power gifts, we will see how the revelation gifts release the gift of faith and the working of miracles, and how they work together in gifts of healing. Group Discussion 1. Discuss the characteristics of various spirits that may be operating in any situation or meeting and how we can distinguish between them and the Spirit of God Give some examples. 2. When we discern wrong spirits operating in a situation, how do we deal with them? 3. How is it possible for believers in Christ to do greater works than Christ according to John 14:12? 4. How does the word of wisdom operate with the word of knowledge? Self Study Study the following Scriptural passages and summarize the gifts that were operated in each passage and how they were related to each other. 1. John 4: Acts 10: Acts 14:

25 Introduction GIFT OF FAITH Session Five The Power Gifts of the Holy Spirit The power gifts are the manifestations of God s power working through us through the gift of faith, the working of miracles and the gifts of healing. Both the vocal gifts and the power gifts work closely with the revelation gifts of the Holy Spirit as these gifts flow and operate with one another. For this reason it is important that every believer is trained and activated to operate in all nine gifts of the Holy Spirit. Receiving Gift of Faith Gift of Faith Manifested Gift of Faith Releases Boldness The gift of faith is a supernatural faith for a specific time and purpose. It is a gift of power to accomplish a certain task in whatever situation you are in at that particular time. This gift is given when needed for a specific task immediately or in the very near future. When the word of wisdom is given telling us how a task should be done, it will spark the gift of faith into operation to boldly carry out the task according to what God has already planned. This gift is received by the operation of the revelation gifts. Supernatural faith comes upon the believer when the gift of the word of wisdom reveals a demonstration of God s power which is about to be manifested. It releases us to boldly act on the revelation which we have just received. Often the gift of faith is involved in the operation of the gift of the working of miracles and the gifts of healing. It may be manifested by making a powerful command. Jesus said to the storm, Peace, be still! He spoke with a loud voice at the tomb of his friend, Lazarus come forth! Upon receiving a revelation of what God wants done through the word of wisdom, the gift of faith will come upon the believer to finish the task. This special faith is manifested when the plan of how to proceed is revealed by a word of wisdom. This releases the believer to boldly act on what has been given to him by God. When the gift of faith comes, there is no struggle to believe. We know what God s Word says, and we know His will regarding this situation. We know that the power of God within us is about to be demonstrated in a release of that power. We boldly speak and release this supernatural gift of faith through the working of miracles or the gifts of healing. Often the gift of faith will release us to make bold statements by supernatural revelation. 25

26 Example of David and Goliath WORKING OF MIRACLES Working of Miracles in Operation Jesus said to the fig tree, Matthew 21:19 Let no fruit grow on you ever again. Peter said to Sapphira, Acts 5: the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out. Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. Paul said to Elymas the sorcerer, Acts 13:10,11 0 full of all deceit and all fraud, you son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, will you not perverting the straight ways of the Lord? And now, indeed, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you shall be blind, not seeing the sun for a time. And immediately a dark mist fell on him, and he went around seeking someone to lead him by the hand. (). Young David received a word of wisdom that released a gift of faith when faced with the giant, Goliath. David boldly said to King Saul, 1 Samuel 17:32 Let no man s heart fall because of him; your servant will go and fight with this Philistine. Then David said to the Philistine, I Samuel 17:45,46 You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you... ( Example of the Fiery Furnace Dan. 3:16-18 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O King. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up. The working of miracles is a supernatural intervention in the ordinary course of nature. It is a supernatural demonstration of the power of God by which the laws of nature are altered, suspended or controlled. The working of miracles begins with knowledge that often comes supernaturally through the word of knowledge. Next we receive a word of wisdom whereby we supernaturally see 26

27 It s Easy to Work Miracles Miracles of Jesus ourselves working a miracle before it happens. A gift of faith is thereby released and we boldly begin to do what we saw ourselves doing when we received the word of wisdom. It is called the working of miracles because we are an active participant in the miracle. What we sawn ourselves doing by the word of wisdom, which released the gift of faith, we boldly begin to work our as we minister in that situation. As this easy and quick progression of the gifts of the Holy Spirit operates, we find that it s just as easy to operate in the supernatural gift of the working of miracles as it is to give a message in tongues or to operate in any of the other gifts of the Holy Spirit Example of Moses Exodus 7:9 When Pharaoh speaks to you, saying, Show a miracle for yourselves, then you shall say to Aaron, Take your rod and cast it before Pharaoh and let it become a serpent. Elijah and Elisha Parting Jordan 2 Kings 2:8 Now Elijah took his mantle, rolled it up, and struck the water; and it was divided this way and that, so that the two of them crossed over on dry ground. 2 Kings He also took up the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him, and went back and stood by the bank of the Jordan. Then he took the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him, and struck the water, and said, Where is the Lord God of Elijah? And when he also had struck the water, it was divided this way and that; and Elisha crossed over. The first miracle of Jesus was at Cana where Jesus turned the water into wine. Before Jesus gave instructions to the servants to fill the water pots with water, they had received instructions from Mary, the mother of Jesus: John 2:5 Whatever He says to you, do it. If we are to operate in the supernatural gift of the working of miracles, we sholuld first hear Him speak, and then simply obey what He has spoken. The working of miracles is an act of obedience to what we have heard from God. By the working of miracles, Jesus raised the widow s son from the dead, walked on the water, fed the four thousand with the seven and a few fish. When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, He first received a word of knowledge that Lazarus had already died. Next He received a word of wisdom on when and how to raise him from the dead. This word of 27

28 wisdom released the gift of faith into bold action. Jesus stood before the tomb and began to work out what He had seen Himself doing through the word of wisdom. He told them to roll the stone away and then spoke boldly in a loud voice, Lazarus come forth! BELIEVERS OPERATE IN WORKING OF MIRACLES Walking on Water Great Catch of Fish Working of Miracles Today When Jesus came walking on the water, the disciples were afraid. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, Matthew 14:27-29 Be of good cheer! It is I do not be afraid. And Peter answered Him and said, Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water So He said, Come. And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. If we are going to operate in the working of miracles, we must overcome our fear of failure and our fear of looking foolish. We must step out of the comfort zone of our traditional boat. Note that Peter first eagerly desired to walk in the supernatural gifts when he said, command me to come to you on the water. He received the word of wisdom and the gift of faith when he heard Jesus say, Come! Peter instantly obeyed, stepped out of his boat and began to operate in the working of miracles as he walked on the water Luke 5:4-7 Now when He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch. But Simon answered and said to Him, Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net. And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. So, they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. Peter had fished all night without any results. Many have, like Peter, been trying to operate according to their own knowledge. We should say, as Peter said, Nevertheless, at Your Word. We need to take time to hear Him speak and to receive His Word through the revelation gifts of the discerning of spirits, the word of knowledge, or the word of wisdom. Faith will come and then we must be quick to obey, to step into the supernatural gift of the working of miracles. John 14:12 Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that! do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. 28

29 Group Discussion 1. Discuss how the gift of faith operates in believers today. 2. Discuss the relationship between the gift of faith and the working of miracles. 3. Give testimonies of miracles you witnessed recently either in your own life or others. 4. Do you believe God still performs miracles today through believers? Do you have need of miracles in your life and situation? Agree together in your small groups and believe God in prayer to perform the miracles you need. Self Study Take your Bible and make a list of four examples in the Old Testament and four examples in the New Testament not referred to in this lesson of the operations of the gift of faith and working of miracles. OLD TESTAMENT EXAMPLES: NEW TESTAMENTS EXAMPLES: Do you need a miracle in your life? Write it below and start believing God for it. 29

30 Introduction Session Six The Gifts of Healing HEALING THROUGH DISCERNING OF SPIRITS Spirit of Infirmity Mute Spirit The gifts of healing are the supernatural Impartations of Gods healing power into people who need healing. They are described as gifts (plural) because many of the other nine gifts of the Holy Spirit are actively involved as we minister healing to the sick. The gifts are also spoken of in the plural since there are many ways to impart, or minister healing to the sick. The person receiving the healing is the one who is the recipient of the gifts of healing. It is as if we are the postman who simply delivers these gifts to others. Often, demon spirits of infirmity are the root cause of a person s sickness or disease. These spirits of infirmity are also identified by their specific function such as a spirit of arthritis, or a spirit of cancer. Many times, when a person has a disease that medical science calls incurable, it is caused by a demon spirit of infirmity. By the operation of the gifts of the discerning of spirits, the Holy Spirit will put his finger on the root cause of the problem. Luke 11:20 But if I cast out demons with the finger of God, surely the Kingdom of God has come upon you. The finger of God here could be the revelation gift of the Holy Spirit. Through deliverance, the spirit is cast out and the person will be set free from that infirmity and the symptoms of the disease. Luke 13:11-13,16 And behold, there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bent over and could in no way raise herself up. But when Jesus saw her, He called her to Him and said to her, "Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity." And He laid His hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God. "So ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound - think of it - for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath?" Matthew 9:32,33a As they went out, behold, they brought to Him a man, mute and demon-possessed. And when the demon was cast out, the mute spoke. 30

31 WORD OF KNOWLEDGE AND HEALING Sometimes Reveals Specific Person WORD OF WISDOM AND HEALING This man was demon-possessed, but his only symptom was that he could not speak until the mute spirit was cast out. In both of these examples, Jesus ministered effectively, and went straight to the root problem by operating in the gift of the discerning of spirits. Often, when ministering in the gifts of healing, God will reveal a word of knowledge about a specific sickness that He wants to heal. Through this gift we supernaturally know the name of the disease, the name of the organ or part of the body, or the location of the pain that needs healing. It often comes as a feeling of discomfort, a pressure, tingling, pain or sensation in that part of our body. It may come as an impression or vision of the part of the person s body to whom God want us to minister healing. When this happens when we are ministering to an individual, we are usually led by the Spirit to tell that person what God has revealed to us and ask if we may minister healing to that part of their body. When ministering to a group of people, we may be led to say, God is showing me that there is someone here who has the specific condition, and God wants you to receive your healing right now. What God reveals, He always heals! There were a great multitude of sick people, blind, lane, and paralyzed at the pool of Bethesda. However, Jesus was led by the Spirit to a certain man. John 5:5,6,8,9a Now a certain man was there who had an infirmity thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, Do you want to be made well? Immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked. Sometimes, God will direct our attention to a certain person as we minister in the word of knowledge. He may give us the person s name, or we may feel a pull in our spirits to that certain person. The gift of the word of wisdom is a supernatural impartation of God s wisdom that reveals how we are to proceed on a course of action that will effectively minister to a certain need. It gives us the wisdom to know what to do with the knowledge that we have already received either naturally or supernaturally. It reveals how we are to minister to a need according to God s plan and purpose. It is important to take time to hear and see the father s will so that we will know if 1 who, when, where, and how He wants us to minister to a need. 31

32 Paul Ministered Healing through Word of Wisdom Receiving Word of Knowledge for Healing HEALING AND GIFT OF FAITH John 8:28 Then Jesus said to them, When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He, and that I do nothing of Myself but as My Father taught Me, I speak these things. John 14:10 Do you not believe that lam in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the father who dwells in Me does the works. Through the word of wisdom, Jesus was not only led to a certain man as at the pool of Bethesda, but He ministered healing to people in many different ways. He laid hands on them, He put his finger in their ears. He spit and touched their tongue, He cast out the spirits, he even healed through speaking only. Paul too, ministered healing in many different ways as he was led to do by the operation of the word of knowledge. Paul ministered healing through the laying on of hands and through handkerchiefs and aprons being taken from his hands and laid on the sick. Paul raised the young man Eutychus from the dead by falling on top of him and embracing him. Before Paul ministered to the father of Publius, he prayed first, (apparently to receive a word of wisdom on how to minister healing to this man) and then he laid hands on him and healed him. Acts 28:8 And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him. The knowledge that an individual needs to be healed of a certain disease could either come to us naturally or supernaturally through the word of Knowledge. At that time, we should stop and listen to the Spirit to see if He wants to give us through a word of wisdom, instructions on how we are to minister healing to this person. The word of wisdom usually comes as an impression or vision through which we see ourselves ministering in a certain way to the person who needs healing. Sometimes God will give us a word that will direct us to minister in a specific way to the root problem instead of the obvious symptom. The gift of faith is a supernatural faith for a specific time and purpose. It is a gift of power to accomplish a certain task in whatever situation that you are in at that particular time. Sometimes, when faced with the need for a creative miracle or when ministering to a person whose need for healing requires a higher level of faith than where our faith has grown. God will supernaturally give us a 32

33 Gift of Faith in Action HEALING AND WORKING OF MIRACLES special faith, so that no matter how impossible it may seem to man, we know without a doubt that there will be a total manifestation of that healing. Sometimes, people come to us who have parts of their bodies missing through birth defects, surgeries, or accidents. Perhaps our faith has not grown to the point where we can believe God for the needed miracle. However, through a word of wisdom, we may have a vision and see ourselves ministering boldly in a certain way with the creative miracle taking place before it happens. When we receive this word of wisdom through a vision, the gift of faith is released and we know without a doubt that miracle will happen as we minister even as we have already seen it happening in the spirit Peter and John received a gift of faith the day that they saw the lame man beside the temple gate. Acts 3:6 Then Peter said, Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them-walking, leaping, and praising God. Having received a word of knowledge, we have seen in the spirit by a vision or impression a miracle happening before we have begun to minister healing to a certain person who needs a creative miracle of healing. At that instant we received a gift of faith. It is no longer a struggle to believe. We know without a doubt that as we boldly minister healing to that person in the way that we have already seen it happening in the spirit, that the miracle will occur. We boldly begin to work out what we have already seen ourselves doing in the spirit. By so doing we are operating in the gift of the working of miracles. Mark 3:3,5b Then He said to the man who had the withered hand, Step forward. He said to the man, stretch out your hand. And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored as whole as the other. The gifts of healing involve every believer being trained and activated into operating in all the revelation and power gifts of the Holy Spirit. 33

34 Group Discussion 1. Gather together in groups and learn how to activate the gifts of the Holy Spirit by releasing the gifts of the word of knowledge, the word of wisdom, the gift of faith in healing and working of miracles. 2 Minister to one another in your group and from now on in your ministry situations, be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and let Him release His gifts through you. Self Study 1. What is your view on whether any minister has the gifts of healing or he is just a vehicle in releasing the gifts? 2. What attitude on your part do you consider imperative in order to operate in the gifts of the Holy Spirit? 3. Write down your personal impression or feelings as you tried to activate the gifts of the Word of Knowledge, the word of wisdom the gifts of faith, healing, and working of miracles in your study group or ministry situations. 34

35 Introduction Session Seven Healing and the Great Commission GREAT COMMISSION INCLUDES HEALING For Every Believer To Every creature Signs Follow Those Who Believe In this session, we are going to study the Great Commission and healing. Mark 16:15-20 And He said to them, Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover. As Jesus was preparing to leave this earth to return to His father, he gathered His believers together on the Mount of Olives and gave them their final instructions. We call this The Great Commission. This commission was not just for the early apostles. It was not given just to those who would function in the five-fold ministry as apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers or evangelists. Jesus was very specific. It was given to those who believe. This great commission is for every believer today. Every believer is to boldly preach the gospel to every creature. Jesus said, Matthew 24:14 And this gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. To preach is to proclaim, or share the gospel to everyone, whether to a large group or as Philip did as he sat beside the Ethiopian eunuch in the chariot. Everywhere Jesus went he cast out demons and ministered healing to the sick. Now, He commissions all of those who are His believers to do the same. Those who believe are to cast out demons and speak with new tongues. Jesus did not say these signs would follow those who doubted whether or not they would really happen through their hands. He did not say that these signs would follow those who hoped they might. He said that they would only follow those who believe that they will. Believing faith will arise in our spirits as God makes these words become a personal word of revelation to us. If we, Spirit-filled believers, truly have faith in these words of Jesus, the signs will follow. Then Jesus last eleven 35

36 Confirming the Word with Signs HEALING MINISTRY OF JESUS Jesus Our Example Laid Aside Rights as God words according to the Book of Mark were spoken. These were His final instructions before He ascended to His Father. These were His all important instructions, the words that He desired to leave ringing in the ears of those who believe. Mark 16:18 they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover. Mark 16:20 (KJV) And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Signs are to follow every believer as we preach or share the gospel. One of the most important sings that would follow us as we are going about our daily lives and ministries as believers is that we will be laying our hands on the sick. As we do, Jesus will be working right there with us and confirming His word to the lost by the signs, wonders and healing miracles that are to follow each and every believer in Jesus Christ. Everywhere Jesus went during His earthly ministry, these signs followed Him. Matthew 9:35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the Kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. Luke 4:18,19 The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor He has sent Me to heat the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord. Jesus said, John 14:12 Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. Many have read these words and thought, How could we possibly do the same works Jesus did? How could Jesus be our example, and expect us to do the same things He did? After all, He was the eternal, all powerful Son of God. It is important to understand that when Jesus came to this earth, He came as the Last Adam. He was still truly God, but He temporarily laid aside His right as God and came as a man. 36

37 So We Can do It Too Jesus Compassion for the Lost Commission Began with Twelve As God, He was omnipresent (present everywhere at the same time). However, as a man, He could only be in one place at a time. As God, He was omniscient (knew everything). However, as a man, when the woman with the issue of blood touched Him, Jesus asked, Who touched me? and looked around to see who it was. As God, He was omnipotent (all powerful). However, as a man, there were no miracles recorded for the first thirty years of His life. When Jesus was baptized in the Jordan river, and the Holy Spirit came upon Him in power, miracles began to happen everywhere He went. Jesus operated even as we are to do, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus knew things supernaturally, just as we are too, by the revelation gifts of the Holy Spirit. Jesus was uniquely qualified to be our example. His ministry was not done in His power as the Son of God. He ministered as a man on this earth through the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we can boldly say, If Jesus could do it, we can do it too! We can and will do His supernatural works on this earth. Remember, Jesus said, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also... Matthew. 9:36 38 But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd. Then He said to His disciples, "The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest." Jesus is not willing that any should perish. Everyone should hear the good news of His salvation. He chose not to do this by Himself, but rather to multiply Himself into our lives. Jesus began to send the laborers out into His harvest fields by sending His twelve disciples. He gave them instructions to go and do the exact same works that He had been doing. Matthew 10:1,7,8 And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease. And as you go, preach, saying The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. 37

38 Then Seventy Now Every Believer Luke 10:1,9 After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go. And heal the sick who are there, and say to them, The kingdom of God has come near to you. When we minister healing to the sick, we bring the Kingdom of God down to earth. Jesus multiplied himself into the twelve and then into the seventy. They were sent out to preach the gospel of the Kingdom. They were sent out to do the exact works that He had been doing. Now Jesus work on earth had ended. He was leaving, but His works were not to end. They were only beginning! He multiplied Himself and His ministry into the lives of all believers. All believers are to go into all the world and preach the gospel. All believers are to cast out demons, speak with new tongues and lay their hands on the sick and they shall recover. Peter and John, as believers, took the lame man by the hand saying, Acts 3:6 In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk. The man went walking, leaping, and praising God and the church grew to five thousand people that day. Philip, a believer who was a deacon in the Jerusalem church went to Samaria and preached Christ to them. Acts 8:6-8 And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. And there was great joy in that city. Paul went to Ephesus and taught the gospel Acts 19:11,12 and God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, so that even handkerchiefs or aprons Were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them. Acts 19:10 And this continued for two years, so that all who dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks. Today God is restoring apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers to equip the saints for the work of the ministry. The work of the ministry is for all the saints. Today all believers are arising as a mighty army, trained and equipped for miracle evangelism. 38

39 As every believer continues to go preaching the gospel to every creature, we can and will reach our cities, nations, and our world with the gospel of Jesus Christ before His soon return! Group Discussion 1. What relationship does healing the sick have with the Great Commission? 2. How could believers possibly do the same works Jesus did? 3. What must believers do today before the signs of Mark 16:15-20 follow them? 4. Pray for one another. Self Study 1. Study Mark 16:15-20 and make a list of the commands and promises. 2. Who are to obey these commands and claim the promises? 3. Are you obeying these commands and claiming these promises in your ministry situations? 4. Pray about your response. 39

40 Introduction HEALING POWER IN JESUS Dunamis Power in Jesus Session Eight The Healing Power of God Paul wrote, 1 Corinthians 2:4 My speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power. Paul s success was because of the demonstrations of the healing power of God in and through his ministry. The word Paul preached was confirmed by signs and wonders. Miracle evangelism as reported in the Book of Acts, is the key to reaching the lost. Mark 5:25-34 Now a certain woman had a flow of blood for twelve years, and had suffered many things from many physicians. She had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse. When she heard about Jesus, she came behind Him in the crowd and touched His garment; for she said, "If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well." Immediately the fountain of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of the affliction. And Jesus, immediately knowing in Himself that power had gone out of Him, turned around in the crowd and said, "Who touched My clothes?" But His disciples said to Him, "You see the multitude thronging You, and You say, 'Who touched Me?' " And He looked around to see her who had done this thing. But the woman, fearing and trembling, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell down before Him and told Him the whole truth. And He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction." The word power used in verse 30 is the Greek word dunamis. It is the same root word from which we get our words, dynamic, dynamo, or dynamite. It was the most descriptive word for explosive power in the Greek language. Luke used the same Greek word when describing what happened. Luke 4:14 after the Holy Spirit had come upon Him in the Jordan River Then Jesus returned in the power (dunamis of the Spirit to Galilee... When the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus, He was filled with the dunamis power of God. He became a walking stick of dynamite power. 40

41 Power to Heal the Sick DYNAMITE POWER IN PAUL John 1:32 And John bore witness, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. The power of the Holy Spirit that was in Jesus was the power to heal the sick. One day as Jesus was teaching, many including the religious leaders had come out of every town of Galilee, Judea, and Jerusalem. Luke records, Healing Power Is Real and Tangible Is Dunamis Power for Me? Luke 5:17 the power of the Lord was present to heal them In the next chapter we read, Luke 6:19... the whole multitude sought to touch Him, for power (dunamis) went out from Him and healed them all. Acts 19:11,12... God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, so that even handkerchiefs or aprons worn brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them. The same dynamite healing power that was in Jesus also flowed through the hands of Paul. The healing power of God is so real and powerful that it was transferred into a piece of cloth and taken to a distant city and when placed upon a diseased person s body, they were instantly healed and delivered. The power of God which was in Jesus was so real and tangible that He felt it flow out of himself and into the woman with the issue of blood. He immediately stopped and asked, Who touched me? He had felt this dynamite power flow out of His body. The healing power that was in the apostle Paul was so real and powerful, it could be transferred through a piece of cloth to bring healing and deliverance to the sick. Many have thought, Yes, I know this power was in Jesus! I know this power was in the great apostle Paul. But what does that have to do with me? I m just an ordinary believer. Jesus said, Acts 1:8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. The word used for power in this verse is again, dunamis, (dynamite) power. Jesus said that when we received the baptism in the Holy Spirit, 41

42 SWITCH OF FAITH we received exactly the same power that flowed out of Jesus into the woman with the issue of blood. We have exactly the same power in us as Spirit-filled believers as Paul had in his body when those handkerchiefs or aprons were taken from his body and laid upon the sick. We, as Spirit-filled believers, are walking sticks of dynamite! Woman with Flow of Blood But Faith Came Many have asked, If I have all of this power inside me, why don t I see more people healed? Why don t I experience more miracles in my life? Just as it is possible to sit in total darkness in a room that is wired with high powered electricity and electric lights, many are sitting in darkness today, not knowing the power that is within them. Someone, must turn on the switch and let the power flow. Faith is that switch! Jesus said to the woman who had just been healed of her flow of blood, Daughter, your faith has made you well! The key to receiving or releasing the healing power of God to flow is to turn on the switch of faith. Let s go back to the story of the woman with the flow of blood and see how the faith to be healed came into her spirit. This lady had hemorrhaged in her body for years. According to the Old Testament law, she was an unclean woman. She had to be separated from her family and friends. If she had been seen in public by one of the religious leaders, she could have been stoned to death. This had gone on for twelve years, she was lonely and in despair. This lady had spent all of her money on treatments from many doctors. Each time, her hopes had been shattered by disappointment. She had suffered many things from many physicians. She had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse. Now, her money was gone and even if a specialist could have been found to help her, she could afford no more treatments. As she grew weaker each day, she knew she was dying, it seemed as if all hope was gone. One day, as she lay in her helpless despair, she heard about Jesus and something powerful happened faith came. Mark 5:27 When she heard about Jesus, she came behind Him in the crowd and touched His garment The apostle Paul tells us, Romans 10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. 42

43 ///FAITH IN ACTION Faith Speaks Faith-Filled Words Faith Is Now The Greek term translated Word in this verse is rhema. In contrast to the general Word or Logos of God, this verse makes it clear that faith comes by hearing the rhema of God. The rhema word is when God speaks a personal word by revelation directly to our spirits, when the Holy Spirit makes the Word come alive to us personally. There is suddenly realization of truth and it is as if the light has just come on. We might exclaim, WOW! God just put a new verse in my Bible! I ve never seen it that way before. This in my answer! When this woman with the flow of blood heard about Jesus, she received her personal rhema word from God. Faith leaped into her spirit and she sprang into action. James said, James 2:20b... faith without works (corresponding actions) is dead. As this woman started out the door of her home, perhaps her family tried to stop her, saying, Mother, go back to bed and save your strength. Don t you know you are dying? You could be stoned if one of the religious leaders see you! When faith comes we know we are going to be healed. When faith comes, we like this woman are unstoppable. Even in her weakened condition, she pushed her way as she came behind Him in the crowd. Suddenly she must have realized the man who was with Jesus was Jairus, one of the rulers of the synagogue. However, even knowing she could be stoned, she did not stop. She reached out and touched His garment. If it is faith, it is speaking. Paul wrote, Romans 10:6... the righteousness of faith speaks The woman, was not speaking the problem. She was speaking faith. She boldly declared, If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well. If it is faith, it is now, Hebrews 11:1 begins with the words, Now faith... Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. The woman knew that the moment she touched Him, she would be made well. The instant this woman touched Jesus clothes in an unstoppable faith which was moving in bold action, and speaking faith-filled words, the dynamite power that was in Jesus surged into her body. She was instantly healed. Jesus, exclaimed, Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction! When faith comes, the things we have been hoping for become reality. 43

44 Faith Releases Healing Power Jesus said, John 7:38, 39a He who believes in Me, as the scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water. But this He spoke concerning the Spirit... We as believers, full of the dynamite power of God, must obey Jesus. We must lay our hands on the sick. We must turn on the switch of faith and let the healing power flow. As we do, God will be working with us confirming His word with signs following. Ephesians 3:20 For He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us. Group Discussion 1. Why is it that many who confess to believe today are not experiencing the type of explosive power of healing which we learned in this lesson? 2. How do we turn on the switch of faith in our lives in order to experience the flow of healing power of God? 3. Is it true that we, the Spirit-filled believers today, have the same power that Paul had during his time? If this is true, how can we release this power today into people s lives and situations? Self Study: 1. Study the following scriptural passages on healing and write the method used in each: Numbers 21:4-9 2 Kings 5:1-14 Isaiah 35:1-4, 21 Mark 5:25, 34 John 9:1, 7 Acts 19: Can you think of any where else in the Bible where any of these methods is repeated? 3. What important lesson or lessons can you learn as to the methods of God in ministering healing to the sick? 44

45 Introduction Session Nine Speaking Words of Healing HEALING BY SPEAKING NAME OF JESUS The Right to Use Jesus Name Lame Man Healed by Name of Jesus There is great power in the words that we speak. Our negative words can bring destruction. Proverbs 18:4,7 The words of a man s mouth are deep waters; the wellspring of wisdom is a flowing brook. A fool s mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul. By the words that we speak, we can either release the power of death or the power of life. Proverbs 18:20,21 A man s stomach shall be satisfied from the fruit of his mouth, and from the produce of his lips he shall be filled. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. In the last lesson, we learned that faith, like the faith of the woman with the flow of blood, is always speaking. When faith speaks, powerful things happen. When we lay our hands on the sick, we turn on the switch of faith and release the power of God to flow. Phil. 2:9-11 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Every sickness and disease has a name. Cancer is a name. Arthritis is name. The name of Jesus is a name above every other name. When we, in faith speak the name of Jesus, every sickness and disease has to bow. Cancer has to bow! Arthritis has to bow! Jesus gave us the right to use His name. Mark 16:17a,These signs will follow those who believe in My name... they shall lay their hands on the sick and they will recover. Acts 3:,6,8 Then Peter said, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk." And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 45

46 HEALING BY COMMANDING SPIRITS TO GO Jesus Ministered Healing by Casting Out Spirits Mute Spirit Deaf and Mute Seizures So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them - walking, leaping, and praising God. The key to this man s healing was Peter and John s faith in the name of Jesus. Peter said, Acts 3:16 And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong, whom you see and know. Yes, the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all. Satan, who came to steal, kill and destroy, often assigns spirits of infirmity to bring the bondage of sickness, disease and death to mankind. Luke 13:11,13 And behold, there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was ben over and could in no way raise herself up. But when Jesus saw her, He called her to Him and said to her, Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity. And He laid His hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God. When challenged by the religious leader for healing on the Sabbath, Jesus replied, Luke 13:16 So ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound-think of it-for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath? Acts 10:38... God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil... Matthew 9:32,33a As they went out, behold, they brought to Him a man, mute and demon-possessed. And when the demon was cast out, the mute spoke. Much of Jesus ministry was by casting out demonic spirits. Mark 9:25b,26 He rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to him, You deaf and dumb spirit, I command you, come out of him, and enter him no more! Then the spirit cried out convulsed him greatly, and came out of him. The epileptic boy suffered severely by often being thrown by a demon into the fire or water. Matthew 17:18 And Jesus rebuked the demon, and he came out of him; and 46

47 the child was cured from that very hour. Blind and Mute Minister Healing by Casting out Demons SPEAKING CREATIVE MIRACLES Matthew 12:22 Then one was brought to Him who was demon-possessed, blind and mute; and He healed him, so that the blind and mute man both spoke and saw. Diseases that the medical profession call Incurable Diseases are often caused by spirits of infirmity. By operating in the gift of discerning of spirits, we will be able to identify them and cast them out. Mark 16:1,7a And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons... Jesus has given us the keys of authority to bind and loose on this earth. Jesus said, Matthew 16:19 And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. With this authority, we can say, Satan, I bind you in the name of Jesus! You spirit of cancer, I command you in the name of Jesus to come out of this person! We too can say, Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity. You Heal the Sick Many people have parts of their bodies missing through birth defects, accidents or surgery. God, who made us in His image, created by the words that He spoke out of His mouth. We too, can bring creative miracles in the name of Jesus by the words that we speak in faith. Isaiah wrote: Isaiah 57:19 "I create the fruit of the lips: peace, peace to him who is far off and to him who is near," says the LORD, "And I will heal him." Many have said, I couldn t heal a flea. Saying that is contrary to the Word of God. Jesus said, John 14:12...he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also... Jesus said to the man with the withered hand, Mark 3:5 Stretch out your hand. And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored as whole as the other. Jesus gave the same power and authority to heal to His disciples. 47

48 Say to Mountain HEALING BY SPEAKING WORD Speaking the Word in Faith Matthew 10:1 And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease. Jesus continued with this command, Matthew 10:8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. Mark 11:22,23 So Jesus answered and said to them, Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, Be removed and be cast into the sea, and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will come to pass, he will have whatever he says. Often, incurable illnesses and the need for creative miracles seem like mountains those who need healing or to those who are asked to minister healing to the person. This verse does not say that we are to pray for this mountain to be moved. We are to say to this mountain, Be removed and cast into the sea To say is to command with authority. Many have appeared to believe when faced with these circumstances that we are to pray and ask God to heal. However, this verse does not say to pray. It says to say. There are no examples in the ministry of Jesus or in the Book of Acts of anyone being healed by praying for them. Jesus is saying to every Spirit-filled believer today, I have given you the authority of my name, the power of my Spirit and the authority and power of speaking my Word. You heal the sick! You lay your hands on the sick, and they will recover : Psalm 107:20 He sent His word and healed them, And delivered them from their destructions. We send the Word, by speaking the Word boldly out of our mouths. When we speak the Word in faith, it will produce results; Isaiah 55:11 So shall My word be that goes forth from my mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. Romans 10:8-11 But what does it say? The word is near you, even in your mouth andin your heart: (that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your hart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes to righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made to salvation. For the Scripture says, Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame. 48

49 Speak Word Only and my Servant Shall be Healed Matthew 8:5-8 (KJV) And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. The greatest example of faith is faith that is based on knowing our authority. The centurion said he understood the authority of speaking the word for he himself was under authority. vs. 10 When Jesus heard it, he marveled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. When ministering healing we are to speak faith-filled words. We are to speak the name of Jesus! We are to command spirits of infirmity to come out! We are to speak creative miracles and we are to speak the Word of God. A faith that boldly speaks and acts is the switch that lets the power flow! Group Discussion 1. Who are those given the right to use the authority in Jesus name? 2. Since Christ commanded us and given us the authority in His name to heal the sick, should we still pray to Him today to come and heal the sick? 3. Expatiate on the statement: There are no examples in the ministry of Jesus or in the Book of Acts of anyone being healed by praying for them. 4. If there are those who have mountains of problems or sickness in your small groups, please use the authority of the word of faith in your mouths and speak to the mountains to move. Self Study 1. One of the ways to grow spiritually is to form the habit of the Bereans in Acts 17: Take your Bible Concordance and search for the references of all the healings in the ministry of Christ in the Gospels and all the healings in the Book of Acts. 2. Can you find a reference to anyone being prayed for before healing? If any, list the references below. 49

50 Introduction Session Ten Impartation Through Laying on of Hands BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF LAYING ON OF HANDS An Elementary Principle Transferring Sin to Scape Goat Spirit of Wisdom Transferred to Joshua: Baptism with, and Gifts of Holy Spirit Imparted Laying on of Hands Not to be Taken Lightly Powerful things happen when we, in obedience to the Spirit, lay our hands in faith upon another A real and tangible impartation occurs. The laying on of hands makes a contact for the transmission of the power of God to flow. This is called the law of contact and transmission.. Mark 16:1 Jesus said, they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover. The writer of the books of Hebrews mentions the laying on of hands as one of the elementary principles of Christ (Hebrews 6:1, 2). Leviticus 16:21 On the Day of Atonement, Aaron, the High Priest, laid both of his hands on the head of the live goat and confessed the iniquities and transgressions of the children of Israel. The scapegoat was a picture of Christ as it bore away the iniquities and transgressions of the people. Deuteronomy 34:9Now Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands on him... Paul imparted the Holy Spirit to the Ephesian believers by the laying on of hands. Acts 19:6 And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. Paul imparted a gift of the Holy Spirit to Timothy by the laying on of hands. 2 Timothy 1:6 Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. Paul wrote to Timothy, 1 Timothy 5:22a Do not lay hands on anyone hastily... Before laying hands on others for recognition in the ministry, we should be careful to first know and recognize their character and the fruit of their ministry. Paul wrote, 1 Thessalonians 5:12...we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you... 50

51 Jesus Ministered Healing by Laying on of Hands The Leper Jairus Daughter Deaf Man Mark 1:40,41 Then a leper came to Him, imploring Him, kneeling down to Him and saying to Him, If You are willing, You can make me clean. And Jesus, moved with compassion, put out His hand and touched him, and said to him, I am willing; be cleansed. When Jesus accompanied Jairus to his home to raise his daughter from the dead, He first put out all of the scoffers and unbelievers. Then He took the child by the hand (the laying on of hands), and said to her, Mark 5:41,42 Talitha, cumi, which is translated. Little gin, I say to you, arise. Immediately the gill arose and walked, for she was twelve years of age. And they were overcome with great amazement. Jesus ministered to the deaf man with the speech impediment by laying his fingers on the parts of the body that were affected. Mark 7:33-35 He put His fingers in his ears, and He spat and touched his tongue. Then, looking up to heaven, He sighed, and said to him, Ephphatha, that is, Be opened. Immediately his ears were opened, and the impediment of his tongue was loosed, and he spoke plainly. PRACTICAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR HEALING THROUGH LAYING ON OF HANDS Find the Need First discover the need, either by the operation of the gift of the word of knowledge, or by being told why the person has come for ministry. Sometimes the person has not come for healing of the obvious. A person in a wheelchair may have come for healing from diabetes. When time permits, ask and discover exactly what the person is believing for at that moment. Ask the question in such a way as to induce a faith response instead of a negative response. Attempt to get them to speak their faith instead of their doubts as they tell you negative details regarding their condition. Attempt to get the person to speak in faith the thing that they have been hoping for Have them express their faith in the realm of the now.. Instead of asking, What is wrong with you? ask, What are you believing God to do right now? A faith response would be: I m believing God for a total manifestation of healing from diabetes right now! 51

52 Touch Part of Body to be Healed Visualize / Release Power to Flow Keep Eyes Open Expect Manifestation to Occur Ministering Healing to Crowds The healing power is transferred using the law of contact and transmission. It s like putting two wires together to make contact so the electricity can flow. Matthew 9:29 Then He touched their eyes, saying, According to your faith let it be to you. We want the power to flow directly into the part of the body that needs healing. If the part that needs healing is a personal part of the person s body, and that person is of the opposite sex, we should use wisdom either lay hands on the person s head, or have them lay their hand on that part and lay our hand on top of their hand. It s best to have women lay hands on women, and men lay hands on men. As you lay your hands on the sick and speak faith-filled words, visualize the part of their body being healed or restored. By faith, release the healing power within you to flow into that person s body. Release your faith for them to be healed, not just for them to be stain under the power of God. Many are healed who are not slain under the power of God. Others are slain under the power without receiving a manifestation of their healing. Focus your faith by being specific in speaking to the affected part of the body. Sometimes, we are led by the Spirit to touch quickly and act quickly. Other times we are led to keep our hands on the person and continue to let the power flow for a period of time. Closing our eyes can be a religious expression of doubt and unbelief. Jesus said, Watch and pray... (Matthew 26:41). If Matthew, Mark and John had closed their eyes when Jesus ministered healing to the sick, they would not have been able to describe the miracles. There are times when we are in a situation where we need to minister to many people in a short time. During these times an awesome anointing comes to heal the sick. At those times we should be careful not to let someone stop us to tell us lengthy details. This often grieves the Holy Spirit. We must move with the wave of the anointing and lay hands on as many people as possible during that time. There are times when ministering to large crowds that God will lead us to call out healing by word of knowledge, and, then to boldly declare what God is doing. At other times, God may lead us to boldly begin to command spirits of infirmity to go in the name of Jesus. At times many will 52

53 Healing by Bold Actions of Faith Man at Pool of Bethesda The Blind Man Man with Withered Hand A MIRACLE OR A HEALING begin to fall in waves under the power of God. The key is to listen to the Holy Spirit and move with His anointing. We should remember however, that mass miracle evangelism by itself will not get the job done. The New Testament pattern for evangelism is personal miracle-evangelism with signs and wonders following every believer as they witness everywhere they go. We have learned that when faith is present, there is always action taking place. James 2:17 Faith without works (corresponding actions) is dead (inactive). Jesus said to the lame man at the pool of Bethesda, John 5:8 Rise, take up your bed and walk Jesus said to the blind man after he had anointed his eyes with clay made with His saliva, John 9:7 Go, wash in the pool of Siloam. Jesus said to the man with the withered hand, Stretch out your hand. And he stretched it out, and it was restored as whole as the other (Matthew 12:13). Jesus was saying. Act your faith! Do the impossible! Move into bold action! Often, the instant that we have ministered healing to a person, we boldly say, Check out your body! Do what you couldn t do before! Move that arm! Bend over! Next we boldly ask, What happened to the pain? If the symptoms are not completely gone, we boldly say, Check it out again! Bend over again! Many times when we are ministering healing to the sick, we are coming against doubt and unbelief as Jesus did at Nazareth where He could do no mighty miracles. We should deal with doubt and unbelief first, so that we can minister in an atmosphere of faith. On one occasion, Jesus put the scoffers out of the room. Often, we take time to build faith first by teaching what the Word says about healing and then telling accounts of others who have been healed. We can avoid failures if we take time to listen for words of knowledge and wisdom before we minister 53

54 Stand in Faith My Declaration There are times when we may see no immediate change in a person s symptoms. It is important at these times to keep that person from being discouraged and losing their faith for healing. The writer of the Book of Hebrews wrote, Hebrews 3:14 hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end. Explain to them the difference between an instantaneous miracle and a healing in which the symptoms leave over a period of time. The power of God that went into the person s body when we laid our hands on them will continue to work so long as faith continues. We have seen many remarkable healings take place over a period of time as the person continues in faith: believing, speaking and acting upon the truth of God s Word. Jesus words are for those who have faith to believe. They shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. I am a believer and not a doubter. Jesus said it I believe that Jesus told the truth. I am a bold witness for Jesus! As I obey the command of Jesus to preach and share the gospel God will be working with me confirming His Word by the signs of healing and miracles that will follow me wherever I go! I am a miracle working witness for Jesus Christ! Group Discussion 1. At this point, break into small groups and lay hand on one another for the impartation of Christ s ministry full of dynamic power of the Holy Spirit. 2. Praise Him for refilling you and giving you best gifts for the ministry He has called you to! Self Study 1. Study Hebrews 6:1, 2. Does this passage condemn the elementary doctrine of laying on of hands? What does it teach us? 2. Give some examples in the Bible other than the ones referred to in this session where laying on of hands preceded healing, Baptism of the Holy Spirit, or anointing for service. 54

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