Commentary on James 5:15

The verse James 5:15 states: "And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him."

Introduction

This profound verse encapsulates the essential relationship between faith, prayer, healing, and forgiveness, emphasizing the holistic nature of divine intervention in the life of the believer. In this commentary, insights drawn from public domain commentaries—namely those of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke—will be synthesized to extract crucial theological and practical implications for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars.

The Prayer of Faith

Matthew Henry remarks that the "prayer of faith" is a vital expression of trust in God’s power and willingness to heal. It suggests an assertion whereby the believer, in humility and reliance on God, approaches Him for help. Henry notes that this prayer should be rooted in an understanding of God's will, implying that it is not merely asking for anything frivolous but engaging with God’s sovereignty over one's life.

Albert Barnes expands on this by emphasizing that faith must precede the prayer in order for it to be effective. He states that genuine faith in God—that He is both capable and desirous of delivering the believer—activates the prayer's potency. Barnes further indicates that this prayer is not prescriptive to physical ailments alone but can extend to spiritual malaise as well.

Adam Clarke reinforces this understanding by underscoring the critical notion that such prayer must be sincere and untainted by ulterior motives. Clarke indicates that the "prayer of faith" is not about mere repetitious petitions, but it involves earnestness and a profound connection with the divine, reflecting an unwavering belief in God's character and promises.

Shall Save the Sick

The phrase "shall save the sick" references not only physical healing but also conveys a deeper spiritual Restoration. Henry highlights that the term "save" indicates a complete recovery—spiritually, emotionally, and physically. This illustrates the holistic approach of the Gospel, where every aspect of a person’s being is subject to divine care.

Barnes notes that while this verse explicitly refers to the sick, it can be interpreted broadly to include any form of distress that believers face, asserting that prayer brings restoration not just in sickness but in all areas of life where God’s mercy is sought. Furthermore, Barnes emphasizes that the assurance God gives in response to such prayers is undergirded by His promise of active involvement in His people’s lives.

And the Lord Shall Raise Him Up

This phrase reflects the sovereignty of God in both healing and revival. Clarke asserts that God’s power is not limited to physical restoration; instead, it pertains to revitalization of the spirit. He argues that God raising someone up is emblematic of His overarching authority over life and death, signifying that even in the most dire situations, God has the ultimate control to restore vitality and purpose.