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Jam 5:16. Ἐξομολογεῖσθε, confess) The sick man, and whoever has committed an offence, is ordered to confess: the injured party, to pray. The things to be confessed are those which especially burden the conscience: he to whom the confession is made, knows better how he ought to pray, and is more stirred up to prayer.-ἀλλήλοις, to one another, mutually) Confession may be made to any one who is able to pray.-ὅπως ἰαθῆτε, that ye may be healed) Diseases therefore were prevalent.-πολὺ, much) even to the restoration of health.-ἰσχύει, avails) even for another.-δικαίου, of the just) who is not himself involved in any fall (lapse into sin).-ἐνεργουμένη, having efficacy) Efficacy is followed by a favourable hearing: it is by this that prayer avails. There are therefore three things: (1.) efficacy of prayer; (2.) a favourable hearing; (3.) τὸ ἰσχύειν, the availing. This at length follows from the two former. The first is internal in the mind of him who prays: the third produces effects even on outward things.