RCCG YAYA SUNDAY SCHOOL FOR 7TH OF APRIL, 2024: HEALTH CARE

[30]Then Jesus answered and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

[31]Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

[32]Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side.

[33]But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion.

[34]So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

[35]On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.’

INTRODUCTION: Healthcare is the maintenance or improvement of health via the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, illness, injury, and other physical/mental impairments in human beings. The Bible is definitely pro-health and encourages us to take care of ourselves when we are sick. Proper attention should be given to any ailing parts of our bodies (Isaiah 1:5-6). The goal is to keep the body fit, as much as possible, in order to fulfil the purpose of living, serving and glorifying the Lord (Isaiah 38:19).

Seeking medical attention should not be viewed as demonic, lack of faith, or carnal. There are scriptural prescriptions as well as contemporary medical interventions that do not just bring about quick relief but also save lives (Isaiah 38:21) – ultimately, God heals (Exodus 15:26). The Bible mentions various medical processes/treatments. For instance, people applied bandages and ointments to wounds (Isaiah 1:6); oil and wine were used as healing agents (James 5:14; Luke 10:34; 1Timothy 5:23); balm was also applied on sick people (Jeremiah 8:22). This also implies that medical technological advancements, modern surgery, therapies or pharmaceuticals are not unbiblical. The gap lies in the fact that, when the Bible was written, those treatments had not yet been invented (Daniel 12:4; Isaiah 33:6).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should state at least one reason why some believers reject medical assistance.

There are several provisions at our disposal to improve or correct our health.Preventive healthy habits such as eating and sleeping well, drinking enough water, and doing regular exercises will steadily improve anyone’s health. Christians should not hesitate to visit or consult with the appropriate medical practitioners when the need arises (Proverbs 11:14). Maternal health care is essential for pregnant women. Immunisation of children, against strange diseases/epidemics, should not be taken for granted. It is also good to participate in healthcare insurance plans.

We should however avoid patronising Quacks, Magicians, or witchdoctors (Leviticus 19:31; Deuteronomy 18:10). Our ultimate faith and trust should be in God and not in medical experts or medicine (Mark 5:25-26). All medical processes/treatments should be committed unto God before, during, and after. Physicians care, and God heals (Psalms 103:3; 107:20).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should mention at least one danger of patronising quacks.

CONCLUSION: If we lack wisdom and let our bodies fall into disrepair, we risk sudden sickness or injury that can take us out of God’s purpose for living. Be intentional about your health.

QUESTIONS:

* What is health care?

* What are the right approaches to health care?