Expert: Rev. Stuart Woodward - 7/18/2007

Question
is there specific scritpture for use of annointing oil for the sick?   also, recently watched christian tv.  catholic priest & protesant minister.  catholic priest explained why they pray to saints.  saints in heaven at throne of jesus, intercede for them.  saints do nOt answer prayers, only God does. i have always been taught, after death can not see, know what is going on here.  i know scripture after jesus returns NEW heaven & earth...BUT what if any scripture is there for this teaching NOW????

Answer
Hello Cara,

Thank you for your question. Regarding anointing with oil there are two relevant scripture passages of which I am aware. James 5:13-16 and Mark 6:7-13.
With regard to praying to saints I see two problems. First there is no hint in scripture that we should do this. There is no instance of it or encouragement to do it. The second problem is that praying to saints suggests that God is too busy or unwilling for us to bring our requests straight to Him. Yet everything in the bible suggests that God is not only available and willing but positively eager to hear us.
Christians have long disagreed about whether or not those who have gone before can see us now. I believe they can but my mother in law disagrees! I think Hebrews 12:1 suggests they can. Also the story in Luke 16:19-31 hints at it. Some ask how folk there could be happy seeing what is happening here. However I think the bliss of heaven is based on perfect knowledge, not ignorance.
Whether I am right or not about this does not alter the fact that there is no hint in the bible that we should pray to saints and a strong inference that we should not try to contact those now dead.
I hope my comments are of some help and that you enjoy studying the scriptures.
May God bless you,
Stuart Woodward