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Paul Requests Prayer
Introduction:
Paul, in his first letter to the Thessalonian Christians, asked them
to pray for him and his companions. (I
Thessalonians 5:25)
He makes another request in his second letter and is specific for
what he desires them to pray.
Text:
II Thessalonians 3:1-2
Body:
I.
Pray for the Gospel
(Verse 1)
-
Paul often asked the readers of his letters to pray for him and
the work in Rome, Corinth, Philippi, Colosse, . . . He quite
obviously knew the value and power of prayer. He believed in it
fully! Pray is in the present tense. If Paul felt the need of
prayers on his behalf, how much more should we. Let’s never be
afraid to ask others to pray for us. It can be a great source
of strength and comfort to know others have us in their prayers.
-
Paul makes a specific request in this verse, “that the Word of
the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified.” Notice the direct
relationship between faithful brethren praying and the Word
running and being glorified. Obviously Paul felt that the
success of the Word was tied to their prayers and that their
failure to pray would restrict its influence. It is similar to
Colossians 4:2-3.
-
Paul desires that the Word “run.” (Psalms
147:15)
He wanted the gospel to spread rapidly all over the land and to
be presented to all people. This, of course, will only happen
if there are those willing to proclaim it. (Matthew
9:37-38)
“Glorified” The Word should be honored and admired for what it
is, “the power of God unto salvation.” The Thessalonian
Christians had received the gospel and honored it. This is what
Paul desired in all places.
II.
Pray for the Messengers
(Verse 2)
-
The Christians at Thessalonica had first-hand experience of men
like this. (Acts
17:5-9)
Some individuals were unreasonable, perverse, unrighteous,
harmful, wicked, evil, and active with malice. (Proverbs
4:16)
Paul asked the Christians at Rome to pray for a similar
deliverance. (Romans
15:30-32)
There will always be evil men who oppose the gospel; who do not
accept “the faith.” They will be around until Jesus comes
again. Remember to pray for those who teach the gospel to be
“delivered” from these types of men.
III.
Lesson to Be Learned
Paul fervently desired that the Word spread throughout the world and
be received. But there have always been obstacles that men must
overcome before they can accept the gospel message.
-
Indifference
Many in the world are simply not concerned about their spiritual
condition. This even includes many ‘religious’ people.
Example: The church at Laodicea (Revelation 3)
They try and do the very least; try and get by and see how
little they can do. We need the attitude of
Luke 17:10.
-
Worldliness
Many do not want to give up their worldly pleasures. They glory
in their possessions with hearts set on the things on earth.
These choke out their acceptance of the gospel. (Luke
8:14)
-
Religious Error
Many have been taught error. As a result, when the truth is
presented to them, they find it hard to accept. Maybe because
of family or friends, some close their eyes and ears to the
truth. Some are prejudiced against it. (Matthew 13:15)
For one to properly receive the seed [Word of God], he must have the
proper soil [free of weeds – religious errors].
Invitation:
Is there an obstacle preventing you from accepting the gospel?
Bobby
Stafford
October 2, 2011What Must One Do to become a
Christian and be saved?
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