Healing in the name of Jesus: A theological study of charismatic speech and ontological change

Abstract

This article explores the performative utterance ‘in the name of Jesus’ within the framework of speech act theory, proposing the theological model E = hF(p). In this model, F represents the authoritative act, p the theological proposition and h signifies the intervention and empowerment of the Holy Spirit, with E indicating the resulting transformation or healing. Rather than treating the name of Jesus as a symbolic expression, the study presents it as a linguistic event that forms reality through the Spirit’s presence. Drawing from biblical texts and pneumatological theology, the article demonstrates how divine power operates in and through performative language. It also examines the ontological and charismatic implications of such speech acts, highlighting how speech, empowered by the Spirit, creates real spiritual effects. Finally, it considers the ethical and communal responsibilities of healing discourse within charismatic and ecclesial contexts.

Contribution: This study introduces E = hF(p) as a theological model for understanding how the name of Jesus, through the Spirit, produces ontological transformation. It offers a new framework connecting speech act theory with charismatic healing practice.