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Q3. Intercessory Prayer


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Why does Paul ask people to pray for him? How do the prayers of others have an effect? What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

1) Paul asked people to pray for him because many prayers interceded on His behalf will be answered. When one or two gather in His name, His presence is in our mist.

2) I have been taught by my Pastor that we are to intercede on behalf of others. We are to exhort one another, that's scriptural. Jesus set the example.

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I think that Paul has asked the people to pray for him because he needs God’s guidance. I think that it gives us comfort know that other are praying for you and that is what Paul needed. He was going through a rough time in his ministry and needed this comfort.

The thing that happened in my life that has helped me enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer is I had a grandson that was born that only weight a little over a pound. It gave me comfort knowing that my church family was praying for him.

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Intercession can be very important in general, but particularly in cases where the subject doesnt know how to pray or can't or won't pray. Then you as an intercessor becomes a life line!

Also, when we intercede, heaven is being bombarded from many angles. Not that God didnt hear the first time, but it appears to have an additive effect. Moreover, with more people praying over the same issue, faith is perfected. We all know that prayer is nothing without faith and when you have more people interceding, the doubts or weaknesses of 1 are compensated for by the faith and strength of another. Also its more likely to cover all the basis. When you intercede, you are a fresh pair of eyes, looking into the situation. Your own approach to prayer might bring something new to the table. In a nutshell, 2 heads are better than 1!

A few years back, I joined a group of christian women who stand in the gap and pray for one another, the world, our country etc. I'm still reeling from the shock and awe of the power of God that can be released through intercession. It really is a powerful and has changed the way I see my role as a christian. I'm a co-worker with christ.....( II Cor 6:1)

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Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11) Why does Paul ask people to pray for him? How do the prayers of others have an effect?

God seems to take more notice when more people pray for the same cause. Jesus told us that if two or more agree on anything they pray for it will be done for them by our Father in Heaven.

I'll qualify that by saying that the request has to be something that is in the will of God in the first place. That's why we get no response when we ask God for a million dollars.

We're told to pray in the Spirit. That being the case we should be in tune and in touch with the will of God and therefore when we pray we will be praying for God's will to be done. That is the ONLY instance I've found when two or more of us here on Earth agree in prayer.

Even in the case where people have called on the elders to anoint and pray for someone who is sick. If it isn't God's will that the person be healed God's answer will still be no. He may have His reasons for that person to suffer.

What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

To be honest, I haven't had much success with intercessory prayer. The success I have experienced is when people have prayed for me to obtain enough work to support myself and have sufficient to give to God's work as well. I'll be satisfied with that. I pray for a missionary friend in Thailand and for a Christian youth home in America, both of which I support financially.

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Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11) Why does Paul ask people to pray for him? How do the prayers of others have an effect? What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

Paul asks others to pray for him in order to be more effective in presenting the Gospel. God answers pray when the saints individually or corporately come together in agreement to pray.

Several years ago I was caught in a brush fire and 17% of my body was burnt. It was prayer and waiting upon the Lord that saw me through the crisis. Most importantly I had many saints praying for me. Not only did I make it through the situation, but I was able to share the gospel with the medical staff and others during my stay in the hospital. God took what seemed to be a terrible situation and turned into a training retreat and a mission field. I love Him for that and much more.

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Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11) Why does Paul ask people to pray for him? How do the prayers of others have an effect? What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

Paul asks others to pray for him in order to be more effective in presenting the Gospel. God answers pray when the saints individually or corporately come together in agreement to pray.

Several years ago I was caught in a brush fire and 17% of my body was burnt. It was prayer and waiting upon the Lord that saw me through the crisis. Most importantly I had many saints praying for me. Not only did I make it through the situation, but I was able to share the gospel with the medical staff and others during my stay in the hospital. God took what seemed to be a terrible situation and turned into a training retreat and a mission field. I love Him for that and much more.

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Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11)

Why does Paul ask people to pray for him?

It is not a known fact why, but my belief is that if we pray for what we need the Lord will answer our prayers. Jesus, Himself prayed to His Father…

How do the prayers of others have an effect?

When we pray in groups we are basically saying that we, as a group, believe that God will answer our prayers. Jesus asked the multitude to pray for Him…If my Lord can ask for the multitude to pray for Him, then I, as a Christian, should have the same belief…

What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

A combination of things, really. First, I am a recovering alcoholic and the temptation to go back to drinking has been present in my life all the time…the trials and tribulations of the world today is enough…But for me it was when I went from a healthy walker, two to three miles a day, to a wheelchair in a matter of months…We could not find out what happened…we took all kinds of tests…nothing would show up..they thought it was my hips…took cortisone shots and therepy…NOTHING!!! Finally one day after about 6 months of going to doctor after doctor, my regular doctor sent me to a neck and spine specialist…He did surgery on my neck and I can walk now…I walk with a walker because my equilibrium is still off. But I can walk…Thank you Jesus. I learned a lot about prayers during this time, and about three weeks after that my father passed away…That was a shock to me, cause I thought my dad would live to be at least 95…

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Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11)

Why does Paul ask people to pray for him?

I think the idea was to make people understand the problems he was encountering and together ask the Lord to resolve them.

How do the prayers of others have an effect?

They help to bring unity and comfort as I will know the people are with me; are sharing the tribulations I am encountering.

What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

My understanding of the scripture has helpedd me to enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer.

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Q3. (2nd Corinthians 1:10-11) Why does Paul ask people to pray for him? The truth be told we can only speculate, having said that nonetheless because this has been a practice from his ancestors. Abraham, Moses, David, Samuel, Hezekiah, Elijah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel just to mention a few. Many automatically recall Abrahams intercessory prayer on behalf of Lot, (Sodom & Gomorrah), however I love the prayer Daniel prayed (Daniel chapter 9), for me it is model for intercessory prayer. Jesus prayed intercessory prayers and Paul himself previously done so. He asked the people to pray because it had been guidance given from God prior to his being, he asked because he was facing a lot, under a lot of pressure. Asking others to pray for him as well encouraged him, it helps knowing that others are willing to share in your experience, it helps knowing that others are willing to sacrifice and go before the Lord on your behalf. I think Paul asked people to pray for him because it solidifies community, brethren.

How do the prayers of others have an effect?

FAITH, by faith, through faith, with faith. The prayers of others can affect us by giving us the confidence that others are concerned with / about what concerns us. When the prayers are genuine they require others to lay aside (at least for the moment) selfish needs or focus upon ourselves, which in turn has a togetherness effect. The prayers of others can enhance spiritual growth, it can deepen our personal relationship with God. Praying for others can help us to become more like Christ; as we pray for others to become strengthen, we as well can be strengthened.

In terms of the prayers being answered, I believe that every prayer prayed to God is heard and answered. I believe that the answers are not always yes as we deem the yes should be. I believe that the answers are not always according to our desire(s) / will. The prayers, be they collaborative / intercessory or individual, they are not always answered the way we desire. Sometimes prayers to God are answered favorable, sometime not so; sometimes they answer is delayed just as the example is told in the book of Daniel.

If the prayers of many are not according to His Will, will these prayers influence God? I do not think so! We in my opinion have it twisted, we cannot place a mandate on God and because we petition something He should respond according to our desire(s). He sets the guideline, He changes not, his motives are pure ours sometimes are based from circumstances and or our emotions. I certainly have confidence that "Where two or three come together in His Name, He is in the midst" (Matthew 18:19-20) however faith and His Will have a weighing factor.

What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

Nothing specific has occurred in my life that has helped or caused me to enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer. Since becoming a Christian I have believed in this principle, since rededicating my life to Christ I continue to believe in this principle; as I live knowing of and about Christ Jesus I believe and practice this principle.

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Paul understands that prayer is the vehicle that takes us closer to God. Through our prayers in the name of Jesus, what we ask for God will provide, if it is in His will. He also knows the those who pray in agreement for something that Christ would in the midst of those praying. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that you may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. (James 5:16)

God blesses those who lift up others in prayer. Praying for others demonstrate that we love our neighbors and want the best for them.

I see the faces of God's people strained from the troubles of life. We must pray for them, us, and God's world.

Let's make a monumental effort to pray for each other.

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Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11) Why does Paul ask people to pray for him?

Paul was asking others to pray for him that he would be able to tell them about the gospel of Christ.

How do the prayers of others have an effect?

Knowing that others are praying for us encourages us in the work to stay steadfast for the cause of Christ.

What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

God’s word has been a comfort to me. Knowing that Jesus is seating on the right hand of the Father interceding for me, He is my advocate. The Holy Spirit is able to interpret my groaning, and He intercedes for me. Trials and tribulations have helped me to enter into a ministry of intercessory prayers for others. The combination of all of these things has brought me hope, comfort, and encouragement to pray for others as others have prayed for me.

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So that those who spoke with him, might see the true glory of Jesus, in him and that he might speak the truth to others. As Paul trusted the Lord and as the Corinthians prayed, God delivered him and we should pray for one another so that thanks may be given. If many people intercede, many will thank God when He answers. Whenever we face difficulties we should let others know so they can pray and God can be praised. Answers to prayer should always receive public praise, for our Deliverer deserves our adoration. There have been many circumstances happen in my life that has helped me to live a life of momentary prayer, for myself and others. I pray in all situations. Prayer is a vital part of my life.

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  • 2 weeks later...

In Psalms, the bible notes that David was a man of pray and praise. He went through trials and tribulation, even from his own family, but through all that he remained faithfully in Prayer. Prayer gets God to notice us,but sincere Prayer gets his fully attention. This is why I feel that David was a giant of a man in Gods sight. He was not afraid to say "look God I messed up, but I will not stop loving you, I messed up but I am still here". He kept on going because he knew if he only stop seeking God he would be a dead man. And in his seeking, he became even more dedicated to God and God prospered him in all ways.

To me , once a person have that strong spiritual link to God, praying for others would be easier.

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Paul asks for prayer to be able to share the gospel.

The prayers of others have an effect because they are edifying and give encouragement.

I was able to enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer when I realized some time ago that eventho there were areas where I wanted to serve but couldn't, at least I could pray for those in need. :mellow:

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  • 4 weeks later...

Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11) Why does Paul ask people to pray for him? How do the prayers of others have an effect? What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

I believe that Paul had them pray for him cause he knew the power of prayer and how God not only delivered him once but can deliver again. He wanted others to see what the power that was in prayer from God so that they too can continue to pray for one another.

Prayers of others have the effect of much power that can only come from God through prayer. The effect it has is one like no other. It has the power to raise the dead Paul said.

I am not really a "Intercessory" prayer person. I do pray regularly and I do prayer for others. I know how prayer works and how it calls down the power of God to do the things that we ourselves can not do. Praise God for answered prayer. Without it, I don't think I would be saved right now. It was the prayers of others that brought me to my knees to repaent before God and recieve His salvation.

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Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11)

Why does Paul ask people to pray for him? How do the prayers of others have an effect? What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

Why does Paul ask people to pray for him?

I think the idea was to make people know his problems he was encountering so that they will share the burden in prayer. Sharing in this way will create a heart of humility before God.

How do the prayers of others have an effect?

They help to bring comfort and strength that there are people still with me sharing the burden that I am encountering.

What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

I think the instinct that is in me to the delight.

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Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11) Why does Paul ask people to pray for him? How do the prayers of others have an effect? What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

Paul asked people to pray for him because he realized the power of prayer. Prayer has the ability to change things and to turn around situations.By joining in prayer , hearts, minds and faith become one.

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  • 4 months later...

3a)Paul needed people praying for,so God would empower him to speak boldly and endure hardship.He knew God would answer intercessory prayers B)Paul knew that the united prayers of others for him was more effective, than his prayers alone.Matthew18:19-20Praying with one mind.c)We are in a spiritual battle and need the support of our brothers and sisters, it is part of our love for our neighbour to pray for each other.We are commanded to do so.We can learn compassion,greater care and love for others when we pray for them.

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  • 1 year later...

Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11) Why does Paul ask people to pray for him? How do the prayers of others have an effect? What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

 

Paul asked people to pray for his mission team's safety.  That was one important way of helping them and as a result many people would give thanks to God for answered prayer.  Prayer connects people not only with God but with other people, whether you know them or not.  Jesus encouraged people to pray together often and in one mind.  That it was effective and that He would be there in their midst. 

 

I believe in the power and importance of intercessory prayer.  I practice it regularly in my own life.  What helped me to enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer was God's Word said to do it.  Over the years I have seen God's work by way of answered prayer in my life, my families life, and the lives of people I have been praying for and it has built my confidence in my prayer life tremendously.  It has dramatically increased my confidence in God. God answers the prayers of the faithful.

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  • 3 months later...

Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11) Why does Paul ask people to pray for him? How do the prayers of others have an effect? What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

 

I am blessed, a person has been cursing me for a problem he feels I created. So my reaction is to pray for him. Joining a men's group with real acountability has already started to make something like this posible. I realize that I can and will pray a lot more.

 

First to surrender and let God lead me, second to pray for others and fir the poor, orphans, sinners like me, pray for the lost, pray to fearfully thank our mighty God for another day of grace and mercy, 
 

 

 

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  • 6 months later...
 

Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11) Why does Paul ask people to pray for him, and how do the prayers of others have an effect? 

 

Paul, a Jewish Pharisee, knew the importance of prayer, he was taught to pray at least 3 times a day, I can see that prayer was on the heart of Paul, as he starts off with praise to his God, the God of Israel - 2 Co 1:3-4  (Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.)

 

When Paul addressed the Holy One, it was with honor and respect, as it was for God the Son, our Lord, the Messiah who taught us the importance of praying to the Father, for we who believe know, our dependence is on God to help us through the trials we face, as it was for Paul, who was going through much sufferings, and was in need of being comforted, and in so doing, those who are praying for Paul, will also be comforted, v4  (Who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God)

 

Isn't God good!

 

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Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11) Why does Paul ask people to pray for him? How do the prayers of others have an effect? What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?
http://www.joyfulheart.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=1073

 

Pauline theology includes the eagerness and urgency for prayers for others in calling to God on their behalf.  God wants to hear from us so He can answer from heaven, forgive our sins, heal our lands and restore relationship between His children and Himself. Although there are not definitive answers, he states many times about relationship with the LORD and an integral part of that relationship is to lean on Him all the time, continually so that God will hear our pleas.  If we declare our love, loyalty and dependency on Him, we become ambassadors for the LORD and others benefit from those prayers.

 

“Jesus taught his disciples to pray by his own example of personal prayer and intercession (Luke 22:31-32; John 17:9-11). The united prayer that the early church practiced surely resulted from Jesus' teaching while he was with them (Acts 1:14; 2:42; 4:31; 6:4; etc.).”, according to our notes on these verses.

 

I have been the recipient of God’s blessings, healings, directions, and answers as a direct result of many people lifting up their intercessory prayers on my behalf. God wants to hear from people; He hears the prayers and acts upon them “in accordance” with His loving will.  Praises to God!

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  • 3 weeks later...

Lesson 1.3

  1. Paul asks people to pray for him because he knows the power of prayer. Psalm 102.1 “Hear my prayer, O Lord, and let my prayer come to you” and (102.7) “He will hear the prayer of the destitute. There has been a long history of prayer for the Jewish people. As well Jesus daid “Whenever two or three are gathered together, I will be there.”(Matthew 16.20)

    Prayer is a mystery, yet we as Christians know that it is effective for God has promised this effectiveness.

  2. It seems that the prayers of many break through to God more so than those of an individual and we in this individualistic society seem to find it odd but we are members of a community and parts of a community joined and melded togetherinto one. When this one body acts as one it is much more powerful voice in prayer than the individual alone. We in a rational society find it irrational to think of the mystic power of the community. Hmmmm! What have we lost.

  3. In may situations where intercessary prayer seemed apparent- one was offered.

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  • 7 months later...

Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:10-11) Why does Paul ask people to pray for him? How do the prayers of others have an effect? What happened in your life that has helped you enter into a ministry of intercessory prayer?

Paul ask people to pray for him so that he can declare the gospel fearlessly as he should, that the Holy Spirit will put the words in his mouth that will hep people understand God's word. For prayers also that God will keep him safe from any situation that may hinder him in his travels and from those who wish to hinder him from declaring the gospel.

When two or more are gathered in prayer God will hear the prayers and answer them. People praying in one accord for one specific purpose seem to have more power in their request, would seem the Lord hears these prayers in a greater urgency than if one was praying alone. The Lord has promised to answer our prayers, but it is according to his will not ours.     

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