Isaiah 53:4-5 describes in stunning detail the extent to which Jesus’ death on the cross bore the totality of human suffering set in motion by sin. Every last bit of it. Nothing too big. Nothing too small.
Bore (nasa – lift off, wipe away) our infirmities/diseases, carried our sorrows (makob – physical & mental pain)
Pierced for our transgressions (pesha – knowing rebellion)
Crushed for our iniquities (avon – sin with a focus on the need for atonement, often used in a generational sense)
Upon him was the punishment that brought us peace (shalom – a comprehensive well-being or wholeness)
With his wounds we are healed (rapha – repair thoroughly, make whole)
Recently we had the privilege of seeing firsthand God’s healing at work at our latest Elijah House course. A team from St Nicholas Australind and other local churches welcomed 24 people from seven different churches, including a number of St Nics parishioners. Attendees ranged from young blokes still at uni through to seasoned brothers and sisters in Christ. We spent the two days coming together for worship, teaching, small group reflections, hospitality, and times of prayer ministry when people could bring things to God. Strangers were encouraging and praying for each other by the end of the first day.
I have been reflecting on community ever since. We see throughout the New Testament letters that community plays a crucial role in ‘dealing with our stuff’. More to the point, James 5:16 specifically describes a rhythm of ongoing confession and prayer together as being important for healing. Notably, this is addressed to the whole body, not just church leadership.
There are a number of ways you can engage with the transforming work of ‘soul care’ for yourself. A starting place could be the Living Free videos, a core teaching series available for free on online https://stnicholasaustralind.org.au/living-free/
Another way is to dive into a Growth Group. Risk a conversation that goes beyond ‘I’m well, thanks’! And whether you’re a regular or just visiting our Sunday service, you’ll always be encouraged to speak to our prayer team (wearing red lanyards) after the service.
For a deeper dive, you can find more information on upcoming Elijah House courses, including a briefer one day introductory ‘Transforming Hearts’ seminar in Perth, and Units 3 and 5 being held at St Nicholas Australind on October 23rd to 24th.
Visit https://elijahhouse.com.au/states/wa/
I was encouraged to attend the recent Elijah House course at St Nicholas, completing Unit 1. The Holy Spirit was powerful in revealing and releasing my heart from past issues. I found a new peace in the presence of a truly Heavenly Father – attendee