Intervene

INTERVENE!

A Message on Intercessory Prayer

John 17

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Pastor Brian Matherlee

1. The primacy of intercession

a. 1 Timothy 2:1, “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone.”

i. The most important part of corporate worship is prayer.

ii. Prayer can’t be relegated only to those we know and love. It is to be made for everyone. It is the missionary mindset.

b. Isaiah 59:15b-16, “The Lord looked and was displeased that there was no justice. He saw that there was no one to intervene.”

i. This refers particularly to Christ, but I wonder if God would be just as appalled today at the lack of those interceding?

2. The picture of an intercessor

a. Job 16:20, “My intercessor is my friend as my eyes pour out tears to God; on behalf of a man he pleads with God as a man pleads for his friend.

i. The friend of the broken hearted

ii. The intercessor is the go between of earth and heaven.

iii. The intercessor has a personal interest & stake in the cause.

b. Hebrews 7:25, “He always lives to intercede”.

i. Constant

ii. Resolute

iii. Not a quitter

iv. Faithful

3. The prayer of an intercessor

a. What did Jesus pray for?

i. Himself (17:1-5)

ii. Protection of His followers (v. 11)

iii. Full measure of joy (v.13)

iv. Sanctification (v. 17)

v. Unity (v. 23)

vi. Hope of eternity (v. 24)

vii. God’s love in their hearts (v. 26)

4. The pattern of intercession

a. Sacrifice-time, comfort, food, etc.

b. Word-read it, meditate

c. Will-bend to God’s plans

d. Obedience-whatever God reveals, obey!

Do you want God to intervene? You must pray.