Original Research - Special Collection: New Testament and Bio-ethics

Jesus as healer in the Gospel of Matthew, part 1: Methodology

Richard A. Culpepper
In die Skriflig/In Luce Verbi | Vol 50, No 1 | a2115 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/ids.v50i1.2115 | © 2016 Richard A. Culpepper | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 07 March 2016 | Published: 28 November 2016

About the author(s)

Richard A. Culpepper, McAfee School of Theology, Mercer University, United States and Faculty of Theology, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus,, South Africa

Abstract

This exploration of the healing narratives in Matthew 8 and 9, guided by current scholarship in the fields of medical anthropology and social-scientific study of ancient Mediterranean culture, shows that when viewed in their historical and cultural context these biblical narratives point toward a more holistic understanding of healing that may encourage contemporary movements in this direction. In this context, the goal is ‘healing’ the person rather than simply ‘curing’ the disease. The goal of restoring persons to a state of well-being and social reintegration into their families and communities requires attention to the emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of persons as well as their physical health. A critically and culturally informed interpretation of Matthew’s healing narratives may therefore promote the broader understanding of healing in view in these biblical stories.


Keywords

Matthew; Jesus; Miracle Stories; Healing; Bio-Medical Ethics

Metrics

Total abstract views: 3166
Total article views: 5550

 

Crossref Citations

1. The purpose of the theological patterns in Jesus’ healing stories in the Gospel of Matthew
In-Cheol Shin
HTS Teologiese Studies / Theological Studies  vol: 79  issue: 2  year: 2023  
doi: 10.4102/hts.v79i2.8893