Science, Religion and Faith Healing from an African Christian perspective

Abstract

This paper titled Science, Religion, and Faith Healing from the African Christian Perspective argued that science and religion are two parallel lines that cannot meet. The paper argued further that differences exist between both but the differences are not enough to say Religion and Science cannot combine to find solutions to human problems. The problem this work aims to solve is the gap between Science and Religion. Some scientific scholars believed and submitted that Religion has no contribution to scientific work, especially health issues. Similarly, some religious individuals in the Christian religion believe that science has no contribution to issues of religion, especially health issues. Unfortunately, several have died untimely from ailments that they should not have died if they had allowed Science and Religion to address their ailment. It is also a reality that many are going through pain and difficulty due to their apathy toward Science or Religion or both. Thus, this work is meant to correct the observed abnormality, educate on the need to promote, support, and approve of Science and Religion working together in resolving health-related problems; and ameliorate the adverse effects of the gap identified in Science and Religion concerning health-faith healing. This work was done among Christian religious faithful in South Western Nigeria. The observed population comprised believers having health issues, scientific health workers, and Christian clergies. The work was done theoretically devoid of any scientific–statistical calculation. Therefore, the historical survey method is used for the work. The work finds out that Science and Religion can combine on health matters; and if there is proper synergy between them, many lives will be rescued from dying of health-related problems. The findings in the work prompted the recommendations given among several suggested in the work. It is recommended that orientation, sensitisation, and enlightenment be given perennially to religious faithful on the benefits of approving and submitting to the synergy of Science and Religion concerning health issues. Religious leaders should teach their followers the rationale of Science and Religion collaborating in several spheres of human life. Faith healing as a religious practice is explored in this paper as an example of a religious practice wherein religion and science can collaborate to heal a sick person.