Intercessory Prayer
Scripture
Sermon Description
Man is so tempted to put faith in his own abilities that prayer has often come as an afterthought. Learn about the concept of "prayer-backing" and the perversion of merely thinking man needs God's support. Listen as Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones addresses this serious departure from what Scripture conveys as prayer. Look at the examples of Abraham, Isaiah, and Moses – all men of action, but moreso all men of great intercession. What is the greatest thing man can do at a time like this in history? Intercede before the throne of God! Are we to have greater zeal for denouncing sin or exalting the glory of God? Consider the example of Christ when He saw the state of the people – He was burdened for them. How ought we pray? Intercessory prayer is not mechanical, nor is it simple. Praying must always start with worshipping God, not presenting one's problem. Hear about Jeremiah's prayer as he reasoned and pleaded with God – even if those he was praying for were against him. Begin to see God’s larger plan of salvation. Pray and not faint; God is your only source of strength. Fall before Him and leave your petition at His throne.
Sermon Breakdown
- Jeremiah starts his prayer by worshipping and praising God. He acknowledges God's power and sovereignty.
- Jeremiah reminds God of His past faithfulness in delivering Israel from Egypt. He appeals to God's purpose and plan.
- Jeremiah confesses the sins of Israel and acknowledges they deserve punishment. But he pleads for mercy based on God's name and glory.
- Jeremiah acknowledges the hopeless situation but declares that nothing is too hard for God. He appeals to God's power and ability.
- Jeremiah asks God to act for the sake of His own name and glory, not because Israel deserves it. He appeals to God's honor and reputation.
- Jeremiah persists in pleading with God despite discouragement and opposition. He is determined to pray without ceasing.
Itinerant Preaching
Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones
Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1899-1981) was a Welsh evangelical minister who preached and taught in the Reformed tradition. His principal ministry was at Westminster Chapel, in central London, from 1939-1968, where he delivered multi-year expositions on books of the bible such as Romans, Ephesians and the Gospel of John. In addition to the MLJ Trust’s collection of 1,600 of these sermons in audio format, most of these great sermon series are available in book form (including a 14 volume collection of the Romans sermons), as are other series such as "Spiritual Depression", "Studies in the Sermon on the Mount" and "Great Biblical Doctrines". He is considered by many evangelical leaders today to be an authority on biblical truth and the sufficiency of Scripture.