Intercessions/ OMBS7/ intercede

What does the Bible say about Intercession? - Intercessory Prayer Scriptures

Intercession, as mentioned in the Bible, refers to the act of praying on behalf of others, often seeking God's mercy, guidance, or intervention in their lives. The concept of intercession is deeply rooted in various passages throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of believers lifting up their fellow human beings in prayer.

One notable example is found in the New Testament, specifically in the book of 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV), where the Apostle Paul encourages believers to engage in intercessory prayer: "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness."

Additionally, the Bible portrays Jesus Christ as the ultimate intercessor, mediating between God and humanity. In the book of Hebrews 7:25(NIV), it is stated, "Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him because he always lives to intercede for them." This verse highlights Jesus' ongoing role in advocating for believers before God.

Intercession is not limited to specific individuals; believers are encouraged to intercede for one another, for leaders, and the world at large. The Bible underscores the transformative power of prayer and the potential impact it can have on the lives of those being prayed for. Through intercession, believers demonstrate a commitment to selflessly seek the well-being and spiritual growth of others, reflecting the biblical principles of love, compassion, and community.

Touch Not

Everything in the Tabernacle was portable, because Israel was on a journey. God required them to put rings on the four corners of the holy furniture to slide staves into for the priests to lift and carry the items. The Ark of the Covenant could NEVER be touched by any man, and the staves must never be removed. This teaches reverence and sanctity for the things of God and the ministry. Modern Christians desperately need to re-learn this lesson.

Exodus 38:7 - "...he put the staves into the rings on the sides of the altar, to bear it withal."

The Breastplate

The priest's breastplate was attached to the ephod (vestment) by golden rings. It had twelve stones, each representing a tribe of Israel. This dramatized the role of the High Priest as the intercessor before God in behalf of the twelve tribes. Some believe that individual stones became illuminated when God had a special message for a particular tribe. A man of God carries the burden of the people continually over his heart.

Exodus 39:8 - "And he made the breastplate of cunning work, ...It was foursquare; ...And they set in it four rows of stones."

Obeying A Mystery

Moses' team created the entire Tabernacle with literally hundreds of intricate details as prescribed by God. The furnishings, the consumables (incense, oil, sacrifices), the garments (robes, mitres, vestments, etc.) and much, much more. There is no way they could have understood the amazing prophetic significance of all those things. In like manner, we must also obey God many times when we have NO CLUE what His purpose is.

Exodus 39:43 - "And Moses did look upon all the work, and, behold, they had done it as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them."

The Glory Cloud 

The ultimate purpose of the Tabernacle was to be a place where God manifest His glory to the people. On the first day the first service was conducted, God covered the place with His glory. Jesus built the Church (us) for the same reason - to be a habitation of God's glory.

Exodus 40:34-35 - "Then a cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter into the tent of the congregation, because the cloud abode thereon, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle."

 

Universal call to intercede:

• The Bible presents praying for others as a responsibility for all Christians, not just a select few. 
• Examples in scripture:

  • Jesus praying for his enemies: Luke 23:34, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do".
  • Paul's requests for prayer: In his epistles, Paul often asks fellow believers to pray for him and his ministry. 
  • James 5:16: "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed". 

What does it mean to "stand in the gap" in intercession? 

• This phrase, often referenced in Ezekiel 22, describes the act of actively intervening through prayer to prevent calamity or plead for God's mercy on behalf of others. 

Plan of Salvation read acts 2:38