In addition to the specific examples given above, we are also instructed regarding the recovery and ongoing maintenance of health and vitality within a congregation. These are tied to: brothers and sisters in Christ regularly confessing sin (Gr, hamartia; a missing the mark) to each other and praying for each other. This healing applies to all areas of an individual's life as well as to the corporate life of the congregation (16). We are to understand that "the effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish (Gr, energeo; to be at work, to work to do: accomplish, bring about, perform) much."

James makes it clear that such prayer is not to be reserved to a select few who "arrived," and have therefore somehow 'transcended" their weaknesses. He draws our attention to Elijah, who is identified as a "man with a nature like ours" (Gr, homoiopathes; of like feelings or affections) who experienced some notable answers to prayer. We are invited to examine this New Testament experience in the light of the Old Testament account of Elijah (I Kin 17:19).

1. Elijah announces to Ahab that God will directly enforce the words He gave to Moses regarding the withholding of rain when Israel was disobedient.
2. Elijah identifies himself as "one who stands" before God.
1. Because of the blood of the Old Testament covenant (imputed).
2. Because of Elijah's opening response to God's purposes in his life (imparted). Note: Acceptance (imputed righteousness) before God gives us access to Him so that His purposes on earth can be worked out in and through us. In fact, His out pouring is released through the prayer and actions of those who are His. [Example: salvation of others; 2 Pe 3:9]
3. Elijah understood that God's Will will be channeled through  His people (and specifically him).
4. Elijah's stand resulted in 3 things
1. A direct confrontation with the powers of evil (1 Ki 18:2038).
2. A change in the history of the nation of Israel (1 Ki 18:3940).
3. An influencing of nature,
5. Elijah's stand made it clear to Ahab that it was repentance that God desired from Ahab and those loyal to the false god Baal (1 Ki 18:17,18),
6. Elijah understood the relationship between prophecy, faith, prayer and Spirit led action.
1. God's Word given[ 1 Ki 17:2]
2. Elij ah's faith ("the sound of abundance of rain") [ 1 Kin 18: 4 ]
3. Elijah's travailing (birthing) prayer [1 Ki 18:4245]
1. The pagan notion that by my actions or emotions, I can convince God to do something.
2. The mistaken notion that bland, inconsistent, lifeless "praying" touches the depth of personal involvement that will enable me to participate in Christ's triumph in the arena of spiritual warfare.
4. Elijah's action [1 Ki 18:46]