The divine physician : exploring Jesus as healer of the physical and spiritual dimensions

Abstract

The Christological theme portraying Jesus as the Divine Healer, addressing physical and spiritual afflictions, offers theological exploration beyond conventional frameworks. Scholars engage across disciplines like biblical anthropology, soteriology, and eschatology within the context of Jesus’ healing miracles. However, reducing Jesus’ miracles to mere corporeal healings risks overlooking their broader theological significance in divine salvation. A nuanced analysis uncovers miracles as manifestations of divine authority and a redemptive intent, signalling the inauguration of God’s kingdom and holistic well-being restoration. Understanding Jesus’ miracles necessitates contextualising them within salvation theology, acknowledging their pivotal role in God’s redemptive plan. The name יְהוֹשׁוּ עַ “Jesus”, signifies salvation, and associates with his saving miracles. Salvation involves spiritual deliverance and comprehensive freedom, culminating in the restoration of wholeness. The interconnectedness of physical and spiritual healing embodies comprehensive salvation, aiming at restoring humanity to its primordial state of perfection and aligning it with divine attributes.