What Does The Bible Say About Intercessory Prayer

What Does the Bible Say About Intercessory Prayer?

Intercessory prayer, the act of praying on behalf of others, is a profound and significant practice within Christianity. The Bible, as the central religious text of Christianity, provides numerous insights into the nature, importance, and efficacy of intercessory prayer. This article explores biblical teachings and examples to understand what the Bible says about intercessory prayer.

Biblical Foundation of Intercessory Prayer

The concept of intercessory prayer is deeply rooted in the Bible. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, intercession is portrayed as a vital aspect of a believer’s spiritual life.

Old Testament Examples

1. Abraham’s Intercession for Sodom: One of the earliest examples of intercessory prayer is found in Genesis 18:16-33, where Abraham intercedes for the city of Sodom. Abraham pleads with God to spare the city if righteous people can be found within it. This passage demonstrates the power of intercessory prayer in appealing to God’s mercy and justice.

2. Moses’ Intercession for Israel: Moses frequently interceded for the Israelites. In Exodus 32:11-14, after the Israelites worship the golden calf, Moses pleads with God to relent from His anger and spare the people. Moses’ intercession highlights the role of a leader in praying for the welfare of those under their care.

New Testament Teachings

1. Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer: In John 17, Jesus prays for His disciples and all future believers. This prayer, known as the High Priestly Prayer, is a profound example of intercession. Jesus prays for protection, unity, and sanctification for His followers, illustrating the depth of His concern and love for them.

2. Paul’s Prayers for the Churches: The Apostle Paul frequently mentions his prayers for the early Christian communities. In Ephesians 1:15-23 and Philippians 1:3-11, Paul intercedes for the spiritual growth, wisdom, and love of the believers. His letters are filled with examples of intercessory prayers, emphasizing the importance of praying for others within the Christian faith.

The Importance of Intercessory Prayer

Intercessory prayer is not just a spiritual exercise; it is a vital practice that reflects the heart of Christian love and community. Several key points highlight its importance:

1. Expression of Love and Compassion: Interceding for others is an expression of love and compassion. It shows a selfless concern for the well-being of others, aligning with Jesus’ command to love one another (John 13:34-35).

2. Building Unity and Community: Intercessory prayer fosters unity and strengthens the bonds within the Christian community. Praying for one another helps believers to bear each other’s burdens, fulfilling the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2).

3. Demonstration of Faith: Praying on behalf of others is an act of faith, trusting that God hears and responds to prayers. It acknowledges God’s sovereignty and His ability to intervene in the lives of others.

The Power of Intercessory Prayer

The Bible provides numerous examples of the power and effectiveness of intercessory prayer. These examples demonstrate that God responds to the prayers of His people:

1. Healing and Deliverance: In James 5:14-16, believers are encouraged to pray for the sick, with the promise that the prayer of faith will save the sick person. This passage highlights the healing power of intercessory prayer.

2. Provision and Protection: In the story of Peter’s imprisonment (Acts 12:1-17), the early church fervently prays for his release. In response to their prayers, an angel rescues Peter from prison, demonstrating God’s provision and protection through intercession.

3. Spiritual Strength and Guidance: Paul often prays for spiritual strength and guidance for the believers. In Colossians 1:9-12, he prays for the believers to be filled with the knowledge of God’s will, to live worthy lives, and to be strengthened with power. These prayers emphasize the spiritual empowerment that comes through intercession.

How to Engage in Intercessory Prayer

Engaging in intercessory prayer involves several key steps:

1. Identify the Needs: Understanding the needs of others is the first step. This can be done through direct communication, observation, or being sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s prompting.

2. Pray with Faith and Expectation: Approach intercessory prayer with faith, believing that God hears and answers prayers. Jesus encourages His followers to pray with expectation, as seen in Mark 11:24.

3. Persevere in Prayer: Persistence in prayer is crucial. Jesus’ parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8) teaches the importance of not giving up in prayer.

4. Pray in Agreement with Others: Praying together with others can amplify the power of intercession. Jesus promises that when two or three agree in prayer, it will be done by the Father in heaven (Matthew 18:19-20).

Intercessory prayer is a powerful and essential practice in the Christian faith, deeply rooted in biblical teachings and examples. It reflects love, builds unity, demonstrates faith, and brings about God’s intervention in the lives of others. By engaging in intercessory prayer, believers participate in God’s work, supporting and uplifting one another in their spiritual journey.