Abstract: It is possible to “depend” on the leading of Holy Spirit in an unscriptural and unbalanced way—resulting in falling short of the written commands of our Lord.
Some teach that before we attempt to minister miraculous healing to someone, we must have a word from the Holy Spirit before doing so. This can be based on teaching based on John 5:19. Th e below articles, which interpret John 5:19 in light of the verses following it and others, refute that argument.
“THE SON CAN DO NOTHING OF HIMSELF” – What does this mean?
“Depending completely on God” – a NEW perspective on John 5:19
Although it is wonderful to receive a supernatural word from the Lord before healing the sick, it is not necessary. Jesus has already delegated to his disciples supernatural power and authority to cast out demons and heal the sick as evidence that He is in fact the Messiah (Luke 9:1-2). He then commands us to “heal the sick who are there and tell them, ‘the kingdom of God has come near to you’ ” (Luke 10:9). No further word is necessary.
Therefore it is up to us to obey his written commands—the “logos.” His spoken commands which we call “rhema”—although we certainly welcome them—should not take priority over his commands which are recorded in Holy Scripture. Rather “logos” should take precedence over “rhema” under normal circumstances. “In the beginning was the logos, and the logos was with God, and the logos was God” (John 1:1).
In accordance with John 14:12, we are to do the works that Jesus did. Let’s see how Jesus once healed a leper.
Luke 5:1 While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he fell with his face to the ground and begged him, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” 13 Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” And immediately the leprosy left him.
Jesus did not need a rhema from his Father before healing the leper. Since the infirmity was under his authority, the decision whether or not to heal the leper was entirely up to him. And Jesus said he was “willing.” With that he healed the man using his power and authority.
Even without a rhema from the Holy Spirit, disciples today can heal the sick as Jesus did in the context of providing evidence that Jesus is the Messiah (John 14:11-12). It can take a large measure of boldness to do this, and this boldness comes from the Holy Spirit.
Acts 1:8 But you will receive power [boldness] when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Was every word spoken by Jesus directly from the Father?