Sermon Central
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Passionate Prayer Series
Contributed by John Harvey on May 17, 2007 (message contributor)
Summary: Praying for one another as Paul prayed for the Christians at Ephesus.
“A Passionate Prayer”
May 13, 2007
When lives are changed by Jesus, it should produce excitement in the life of the church.
“For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. 17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.” Ephesians 1:15-17 (NIV)
The prayer is for spiritual wisdom and knowledge of God.
Spiritual wisdom is being able to detect truth from deception.
“I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, 20 which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.” Ephesians 1:18-21
When our hearts are enlightened by God, we celebrate what God celebrates.
God’s power at work in the human heart gives us courage to face an uncertain future.
“And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.” Ephesians 1:22-23
The church is under the authority of Christ.
As those under authority, we should represent the model of our leader.
Love the outsider.
Serve excitedly.
Unite for a greater purpose.
Application: This week, I will commit to love, serve, and unite.
“I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. 18 I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe.” Ephesians 1:17-19
