JOHN 9:1-3 AND CAUSALITY OF SICKNESS AND SUFFERING: A CASE STUDY OF THREE SELECTED PRAYER CENTERS IN THE CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH INTERNATIONAL
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Date
2023-01
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KNUST
Abstract
This study examines John 9:1-3 and its implications for the ministry of healing and
deliverance. It attempts to ascertain the proper meaning of the text and its implications for the
CACI. The study contends that a lack of proper understanding of the Scriptures often leads to
misapplications with serious theological consequences. The basis of this assertion stems from
the understanding of the selected text which raises issues of ambiguities in relating sickness
and suffering to sin. John 9:1-3, considers the question posed by the disciples of Jesus, which
sought to suggest that sickness and suffering were as a result of sin. Jesus’ response reveals
otherwise, yet admissible to the disciples’ perception, the implication of which is that, people
may often attribute all forms of sickness and suffering to sin or supernatural causes, leading
to superstition. Using the biblical apparatus of exegesis based on the historical critical method,
together with the primary method of interviews and participant observation, the study revealed
that Jesus’ encounter with the blind man could be synonymous to spiritual blindness towards
the knowledge of God’s truth. It also came out that God is the only one who knows the cause
of human predicaments at all times as against the fixated retributive perception of humanity
and has power to offer the needed healing or change. The field survey findings revealed that
people often link sickness, and other forms of suffering to sin. However, it is being emphasized
that not all sicknesses are associated with one’s sin. Therefore, the study recommends that,
sick persons should visit appropriate health centers. With the understanding of the text, the
Bible should not be studied in isolation but rather to be studied with the help of people who know much about the Bible.
Description
A THESIS SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES, IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE AWARD OF MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY DEGREE IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES