James 5:14
“Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:”
King James Version (KJV)
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Continuing his teaching on prayer, James instructs the sick to seek the praying ministry of the church's elders, with anointing done in the Lord's name.
What Does James 5:14 Mean?
James gives specific instruction for the believer who is sick: call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him while anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. This turns the sick person's need into an occasion for the community of faith to gather and pray. The afflicted one is not left alone but is surrounded by the prayers of those who lead and shepherd.
Three actions stand out. First, the sick person takes initiative -- he is to "call for the elders," reaching out for help rather than suffering in isolation. Second, the elders "pray over him," interceding directly and earnestly. Third, they anoint "with oil in the name of the Lord." The oil accompanies the prayer as a tangible act, and everything is done in the name of the Lord, making clear that healing comes from God and not from the oil or the elders themselves. James presents this as a normal practice of the believing community, an expression of faith and care. The emphasis falls on prayer offered to God in his name, with the elders acting as those entrusted to minister to the body. It is a picture of the church caring for its own and looking to the Lord for help.
In the Original Language
The word "elders" is presbyteroi, the recognized leaders of the congregation; "anointing" renders aleipho, to apply or rub with oil.
Cross References
“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”
- James 5:16
“And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.”
- Mark 6:13
“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.”
- James 5:15
Application
When you are sick or struggling, do not isolate yourself; reach out to faithful leaders and fellow believers and ask them to pray over you in the Lord's name.