AboutRev C.Brian Ross Expertise I am happy to offer answers to anyone with a question that refers to the Christian Faith in its widest possible sense. I believe that the Bible is the living Word of God, and seek to base all of my life on its teaching. I also have some knowledge of some of the cults, and of Islam and Judaism. Of course, my answers are just one man's thoughts, and I would always advise a questioner to check with others, and with the Word of God.
Experience Served as a full-time parish minister in Scotland for about six years, and then spent the last thirty as a teacher (now 'retired') of Religious Education in Secondary Comprehensive schools (ages 11-17) while continuing my own preaching and teaching ministry. I also believe that learning is a life-time process, and have recently completed a Master's degree in Divinity.
Organizations Former Presenter on Revival FM - a local Christian, community radio station, broadcasting in west central Scotland, and online at revival.fm Involved with a number of organisations that support Christians who are currently suffering persecution in some 70 countries around the world.
Publications Various articles in Christian magazines. I also have two blogsites - www.crazyrev.blogspot.com and (with audio messages) www.revcbross.blogspot.com
Education/Credentials Diploma of The Bible Training Institute, Glasgow;
Licentiate in Theology of the University of Glasgow;
Associateship of The Philosophical Society of England;
Bachelor of Arts Degree (Hons) in History from The Open University;
Post-grad Certificate of Education - Religious Education and History;
Post-grad Cetificate in Learning and Teaching;
Post-grad Diploma in Management and Learning in Education;
Master of Science Degree from the University of Strathclyde;
Master of Divinity Degree (Hons) from Trinity College and Seminary (accredited by the University of Liverpool)
Question Through Grace, I have been given the Gift of Healing and some of the healing that has happened has been so very Blessed.
However, I find that I have to use my gifts within the society I am based, which is London uk. There are a lot of rules and regulations manly to protect the vulnerable from charlatans> They are also there to protect the Healer from malicious accusations. As always, there has to be a certificate to say that you have done this course or that one to the required level of competence. To this effect I have gained certificates from the National Federation of Spiritual Healers(NFSH) and have also done 2nd degree level Reiki. The NFSH si the only healing organisation recognised by the government and its members are employed by the NHS. Whilst on this and the Reiki course words such as the Universe and Higher Spirit are used, I and others, have used the word God in our expression of Healings. Both express a divine presence in Healing. have since been told that going on these courses is unchristian and is to be discouraged. when I mention that I have to use my gift where I am based with the required certificate because of the protect mentioned above, they become unsure. I explain to them the some people are at odds with the name God because of the atrocities done in God's name and that they are happier using other words. Nevertheless, we are all talking about that same thing, however we choose to call God. Just as I am asked to respect their names and views then they also have to respect mine. I mention Jesus as the Healing source and they are happy with hat. So I am writing to you to ask your views on the subject.
In advance, may I thank you for your reply.
God Bless,
Hayden
Answer Dear Hayden,
Thank you for sharing your situation with me, I have read over your e-mail a nimber of times as it is quite involved and, in some respects, outwith my own areas of "expertise".
When you invite me to share my views, I am unsure as to whether you are referring to your own situation, or to the area of divine (I always use that word, as the word "spiritual" has a much wider connotation) healing. It is only the latter on which I feel able to comment; and I can only do so from a Christian perspective.
That miraculous healing does take place is, in my opinion, beyond doubt. I have been involved in such situations myself, and been present in others. It is the source of that healing that may be questioned. I would only pray for a person's physical healing in the Name of the Lord Jesus; God the Son. For me to bring in any other name would be akin to blasphemous, and would open up the way for any sort of spiritual entity to become involved.
Healing is, indeed, a gift but it is a simple fact of life that the devil can counterfeit the gifts (he cannot counterfeit the Fruit of the Spirit). When you say that you have achieved 2nd level Reiki, and tell me a little about the course, I am immediately concerned that you may actually be being drawn into practices that are, basically, occult. However, I freely admit that I know nothing of Reiki other than the expression.
For me, divine healing, in the Name of Jesus, should only be practised within the context of a Christian Fellowship, where there is the prayerful support of the Christian community for both the person who is using the gift,and the recipient thereof.
I am aware that this may not be the response for which you were hoping, but I would encourage you to pray about this and to seek the face-to-face counsel of your own pastor/minister/priest, or some other mature Christian whom you respect and trust.
I will try to post something on "healing" on my blog (www.crazyrev.blogspot.com) in the near future, so please feel free to check that out as well.
