5:14

Is there anyone sick among you?: This question could also be rendered “Is there anyone feeling weak among you?” The Greek verb used in this phrase is often rendered “be sick” when the context specifically refers to physical illness. (Joh 11:2; Ac 9:37; Php 2:27) However, in other contexts, the term is broader in meaning and is often translated “to be weak.” (Ac 20:35; 1Co 8:11, 12; 2Co 11:29; 12:10; related forms of the word are rendered “weak” at 1Th 5:14 and “weakness(es)” at 2Co 12:9, 10.) It is noteworthy that James advises those who are sick, or weak, to “call the elders” rather than a physician. Thus, James does not seem to be referring primarily to a physical illness. (Jas 5:15, 16, 19, 20) Jesus stated that those who were physically ill would “need a physician.” (Mt 9:12) Of course, challenging circumstances, including physical illness, often leave Christians emotionally and physically exhausted, depressed, and in need of encouragement from the elders. (2Co 12:7b-10; see study note on verse 7.) The Greek word found at Jas 5:14 is also used of those who have “weaknesses in [their] faith,” perhaps requiring assistance to resolve certain doubts. (Ro 14:1, 2) In the next verse, James indicates that some weak ones may have “committed sins.” In that case, the elders could help them to restore their relationship with God.​—Ga 6:1 and study notes; Jude 22, 23.

Let him call the elders: James here urges one who has become weakened emotionally or spiritually to request assistance from the elders in the Christian congregation. (See Glossary, “Elder; Older man.”) As the apostle Paul had indicated, elders should be ready and willing to assist such fellow believers. (Ac 20:35; 1Th 5:14) If a person’s weakness involved sinful conduct, the elders would be ready to help the erring one to restore his relationship with God.​—Jas 5:15.

let them pray over him: James here urges elders to pray with and for those who are feeling weak, are discouraged, or are struggling spiritually. (See study note on Is there anyone sick among you? in this verse.) A Christian dealing with any of those situations would likely feel comforted when sensing the elders’ genuine concern and compassion as they earnestly prayed to Jehovah in his behalf. He could demonstrate his own faith and express his agreement with the prayer by saying a heartfelt “amen.”​—Compare Ne 8:6.

applying oil to him: Here James refers to the soothing and healing properties of olive oil to illustrate how elders can help their fellow Christians. (Isa 1:6; Lu 10:34 and study note) Such loving shepherds use thoughts from God’s Word to encourage and comfort those who have been weakened by trials, emotional exhaustion, or discouragement. The weakened one could find refreshment in such a discussion. For one who had committed sins, the loving efforts of the elders could help him to restore and strengthen his relationship with Jehovah.​—Ps 141:5.

in the name of Jehovah: With this phrase, James emphasizes that when the elders apply spiritual oil, offering Scriptural help, they do not lean on their own ideas; rather, they seek to reflect Jehovah’s mind on matters. In doing so, they recognize Jehovah’s authority and humbly acknowledge that they themselves are not the source of comfort and spiritual healing. Such blessings originate with Jehovah.​—2Co 1:3, 4; for the use of the divine name here, see App. C3 introduction; Jas 5:14.