Hwa Yung writes in his book, Leadership or Servanthood, about the function and character of a church. “And if the church is not a hospital for the poor and broken, the wounded, and lame, and the suicidal and hopeless, what is the name of Christ?” He also warns that in Mega churches; there is little space for the weak and wounded because they do not contribute to efficiency and productivity.
Sick: The Lord Jesus Christ taught that the sick need the doctor, not the healthy. (Matthew 9:12) The religious leaders, the Pharisees, were like doctors, more concerned about themselves. They did not want to be infected; hence they wanted to keep a distance. Medical professionals cannot practice untouchability. They have to be with the sick, treat them, and be exposed to sickness.
Various kinds: First, there are people who do not know that they are sick. They feel healthy and go around doing their routine tasks. Suddenly, they fall dead, due to a heart attack or some other reason. Second, few people know they are sick, but will not announce it. They would not afford treatment, or their families would be in distress. Third, one medical professional’s blood investigations pointed to a chronic disease, which he refused to either recognise or acknowledge. Refusing treatment, he died. Four, some become more fragile every day. However, they do not have the desire to live, so they refuse treatment and die. Five, some are sick, but need help to reach the doctor. The paralysed man had four friends to carry him to the Lord Jesus Christ. (Mark 2:3-11)
Spiritual sickness: Sin is the spiritual sickness that leads to eternal separation from God. Sadly, most people do not realise that they are sick. Even when someone points to their sickness, they are angry and vehemently deny that they are sick. Such people will neither search for a spiritual doctor, nor the Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ.
Spiritual hospital: The church is the place where sick sinners can get the opportunity to be treated, healed, and receive a New Life.
Is my local church a spiritual hospital?