The unchanging gospel in a changing world: A theological framework for divine healing today

Abstract

Divine healing remains a vital yet contested theme in Christian theology, particularly amid rapid technological advances and increasing secularisation. This study employs a qualitative literature review, using hermeneutical and comparative approaches, to explore divine healing from a Gospel perspective. The findings indicate that divine healing is not only a spiritual phenomenon but also a response to the existential needs of believers in contemporary society. Despite scepticism and marginalisation, it continues to shape religious identity, foster community solidarity and nurture spiritual resilience, especially in Pentecostal contexts, which emerged in the early 20th century with an emphasis on the Holy Spirit’s power, and Charismatic contexts, which later developed with a similar focus on spiritual gifts. Challenges posed by scientific rationalism and secular worldviews are addressed through responsible pastoral care, contextual theological education and integration with medical science and digital technology. The study is limited to a literature review without empirical data, thereby encouraging future interdisciplinary research that bridges faith and science to deepen understanding of divine healing today.
Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This study highlights the need to integrate theological reflection with pastoral practice to address challenges in divine healing. It calls for dialogue between theology, medical science and digital technology to promote a holistic healing approach. By adopting interdisciplinary perspectives, it deepens understanding of faith healing, especially in Pentecostal and Charismatic contexts. The study urges contextual theological education to help believers engage scepticism and secularisation critically. It also encourages empirical research and interfaith dialogue to enhance spiritual resilience and ethical healing ministry, supporting the church’s mission in a pluralistic, technological world.