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

Jesus as Healer in the Gospel of Matthew, Part II: Jesus as Healer in Matthew 8–9

Richard A. Culpepper
In die Skriflig/In Luce Verbi | Vol 50, No 1 | a2116 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/ids.v50i1.2116 | © 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, James and Carolyn 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 us 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 of these biblical stories.


Keywords

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

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Crossref Citations

1. Jesus as healer in the Gospel of Matthew: In conversation with Alan Culpepper
Elna Mouton
In die Skriflig/In Luce Verbi  vol: 50  issue: 1  year: 2016  
doi: 10.4102/ids.v50i1.2143