A Call to Medical Evangelism and Health Education

The Minister as a Medical Missionary

The minister will often be called upon to act the part of a physician. He should have a training that will enable him to administer the simpler remedies for the relief of suffering. Ministers and Bible workers should prepare themselves for this line of work; for in doing it, they are following the example of Christ. They should be as well prepared by education and practice to combat disease of the body as they are to heal the sin-sick soul by pointing to the great Physician. They are fulfilling the commission which Christ gave to the twelve and afterwards to the seventy: “Into whatsoever city ye enter ... heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.” Christ stands by their side, as ready to heal the sick as when He was on this earth in person.—Medical Ministry, 253. CME 28.2

To take people right where they are, whatever their position, whatever their condition, and help them in every way possible, this is gospel ministry. It may be necessary for ministers to go into the homes of the sick and say, “I am ready to help you, and I will do the best I can. I am not a physician, but I am a minister, and I like to minister to the sick and afflicted.” Those who are sick in body are nearly always sick in soul, and when the soul is sick, the body is made sick.—Medical Ministry, 238. CME 28.3