Lesson 254: James 5:16
The Blueprint — The Verse
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail.
Memorization Practice
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The Context — The History
James closes addressing injustice, patience in suffering, and prayer. Community confession and intercession channel God's healing power through righteous prayer.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
After urging patience until the Lord's coming and warning the rich, James prescribes mutual confession and prayer for healing, noting Elijah-like power of righteous prayer.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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and the prayer of faithTrust in God’s character, promises, and guidance — choosing confidence in Him even when circumstances are uncertain. More will heal him who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
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Read the verse immediately before this lesson () to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain, and it didn’t rain on the earth for three years and six months.
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Read the verse immediately after this lesson () to continue the passage.
Discussion
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Who is a safe person for mutual confession and prayer?
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How does community prayer differ from private prayer?
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What healing u2014 spiritual or physical u2014 are you seeking?