We’ve learned several things about the power of praying for one another from our friend Epaphras. (Colossians 4:12) We found out that there is power in connection, there is prayer that is ongoing, and there is prayer that requires effort.
In today’s lesson we look at two ideas that may make some of you nervous. First, it takes the prayers of others to fulfill God’s will in you. Epaphras constantly struggled in prayer that his home church would, “stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.” This implies that it’s possible for Christians to fall short of the full will of God. That includes healing. Second, there is a prayer that is connected and committed to community. Epaphras was hanging with the great apostle, yet he continued to prioritize praying for his own people. He was connected and committed and passionate about their well-being.
Somehow, we’ve got to rekindle a sense of responsibility for one another. “Am I my brother’s keeper?” was a cop out deflection spoken by a murderer! Genesis 4:9-10 NKJV Then the LORD said to Cain, “Where is Abel your brother?” He said, “I do not know. Am I my brother’s keeper?” (10) And He said, “What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood cries out to Me from the ground.” God is clear: The answer to the question is a resounding “Yes!” And what’s more, he’s your keeper. We are connected and the way is tough and we need each other to make it through.
We are going to learn how to pray for one another until we stand together mature and complete in the will of God. We are not designed to do this alone. Connected, covenant prayer covers our back.
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