IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL PRACTICE (IJRCP )

E-ISSN 2579-0501
P-ISSN 2695-219X
VOL. 10 NO. 3 2025
DOI: 10.56201/ijrcp.vol.10.no3.2025.pg7.13

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Divine Healing Practice among Contemporary African Churches: Challenges and Prospects

Olugbade Oluwatayo Obadiah, Gloria Ngideka Ayantayo, PhD

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Abstract

Divine healing, understood as the supernatural intervention of God to restore health and wholeness, holds a central place in the theology and practice of contemporary African churches. Drawing on biblical foundations, this belief resonates strongly with African religious worldviews, attributing sickness and misfortune to spiritual causes. In Pentecostal and charismatic movements, healing ministries primarily address physical ailments and emotional, social, and spiritual needs, offering congregants hope, faith reinforcement, and communal belonging. As such, divine healing functions as both a theological anchor and a practical expression of pastoral care, attracting large followers to revival meetings, prayer camps, and anointed ministers. Despite its prominence, the practice of divine healing in contemporary African churches faces several challenges, including Theological Misinterpretation and Doctrinal Confusion, Commercialisation and Exploitation, Medical Neglect and Health Risk, Failed Healings and Spiritual Disillusion and Public Criticism and Media Scrutiny have generated internal and external debates about authenticity and accountability. Nevertheless, many African churches seek biblically faithful and pastorally responsible approaches to divine healing to promote Spiritual Renewal and Vibrant Faith Expression, Holistic Ministry and Community Support, Opportunities for Evangelism and Church Growth, Integration with Medical and Social Services and Promotion of Indigenous Theologies and Contextual Ministry for societal transformation.

keywords:

Divine Healing Practice, Contemporary African Churches, Challenges and Prospects

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