The Power of a Praying Church
The Power of a Praying Church • Sermon • Submitted
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The Power of a Praying Church
Text: (Acts 4:24-33)
I. They lifted up their voice. (Verse 24)
24 And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God…
A. There must be a desire to cry out to God.
1 Samuel 1:9-18 (KJV)
9 So Hannah rose up after they had eaten in Shiloh, and after they had drunk. Now Eli the priest sat upon a seat by a post of the temple of the LORD. 10 And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore. 11 And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head. 12 And it came to pass, as she continued praying before the LORD, that Eli marked her mouth. 13 Now Hannah, she spake in her heart; only her lips moved, but her voice was not heard: therefore Eli thought she had been drunken. 14 And Eli said unto her, How long wilt thou be drunken? put away thy wine from thee. 15 And Hannah answered and said, No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but have poured out my soul before the LORD. 16 Count not thine handmaid for a daughter of Belial: for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief have I spoken hitherto. 17 Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him. 18 And she said, Let thine handmaid find grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more sad.
2 Kings 20:1-11 (KJV)
1 In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live. 2 Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying, 3 I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore. 4 And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court, that the word of the LORD came to him, saying, 5 Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the LORD. 6 And I will add unto thy days fifteen years; and I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for mine own sake, and for my servant David’s sake. 7 And Isaiah said, Take a lump of figs. And they took and laid it on the boil, and he recovered. 8 And Hezekiah said unto Isaiah, What shall be the sign that the LORD will heal me, and that I shall go up into the house of the LORD the third day? 9 And Isaiah said, This sign shalt thou have of the LORD, that the LORD will do the thing that he hath spoken: shall the shadow go forward ten degrees, or go back ten degrees? 10 And Hezekiah answered, It is a light thing for the shadow to go down ten degrees: nay, but let the shadow return backward ten degrees. 11 And Isaiah the prophet cried unto the LORD: and he brought the shadow ten degrees backward, by which it had gone down in the dial of Ahaz.
The world would have you believe that your happiness is the goal of life.
Ecclesiastes 7:1-4 (KJV)
1 A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one’s birth. 2 It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart. 3 Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better. 4 The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.
Psalm 51:15-17 (KJV)
15 O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise. 16 For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. 17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
Matthew 5:4 (KJV)
4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
James 4:8-10 (KJV)
8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. 9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
The goal if life is to glorify God. That is what we are created for, and that is the only thing that will fill our empty souls.
If we are ever to be a powerful praying church, we must continuously be lifting up our voices in corporate prayer. Its our lifeline- or connection to God
In a seminary missions class, Herbert Jackson told how, as a new missionary, he was assigned a car that would not start without a push.
After pondering his problem, he devised a plan. He went to the school near his home, got permission to take some children out of class, and had them push his car off. As he made his rounds, he would either park on a hill or leave the engine running. He used this ingenious procedure for two years.
Ill health forced the Jackson family to leave, and a new missionary came to that station. When Jackson proudly began to explain his arrangement for getting the car started, the new man began looking under the hood. Before the explanation was complete, the new missionary interrupted, “Why, Dr. Jackson, I believe the only trouble is this loose cable.” He gave the cable a twist, stepped into the car, pushed the switch, and to Jackson’s astonishment, the engine roared to life.
For two years needless trouble had come become a routine. The power was there all the time. Only a loose connection kept Jackson from putting the power to work.
B. We must cry out earnestly.
Charles Spergeon said that our prayers, not said in earnest, are like wishes “flung upward,”
James 5:16-18 (KJV)
pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. 17 Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. 18 And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.
Joel 2:12-17 (KJV)
12 Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: 13 And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil. 14 Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him; even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the LORD your God? 15 Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: 16 Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, and those that suck the breasts: let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet. 17 Let the priests, the ministers of the LORD, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O LORD, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?
Not long after Dallas Seminary was founded in 1924, bankruptcy knocked at its doors. By noon on one particular day, every creditor threatened foreclosure. That morning, the founders of the Seminary met to pray in president Lewis Sperry Chafer’s office. They asked God to provide the needed funds. Harry Ironside was part of that prayer meeting. When it was his turn to pray, he prayed in his characteristically pointed manner: “Lord, we know that the cattle on a thousand hills are thine. “Please sell some of them and send us the money.”
Meanwhile, as these men were praying, into the seminary’s business office came a tall Texan. Addressing a secretary, he said, “I just sold two carloads of cattle in Fort Worth. I’ve been trying to make a business deal go through and it won’t work. I feel that God is compelling me to give this money to the seminary. I don’t know if you need it or not, but here’s the check.”
The secretary was well aware of the seriousness of the seminary’s financial situation. She also knew that it was for that purpose the founders were gathered in prayer. So the secretary took the check to the door of the president’s office and timidly knocked. When she finally got a response, Chafer took the check out of her hand and stared at it with amazement. The amount matched the exact size of the seminary’s debt. Looking at the signature on the check, he recognized the name of the cattle rancher.
Turning to Harry Ironside, he said, “Harry, God sold the cattle!”
C. We must cry out truthfully.
-Don’t be guilty of lying to the Holy Spirit.
-Are you really repentant when you confess sin?
-Do you really want to be obedient to God when you ask for His will?
-You may think you are getting away with lying to yourself.
-Remember, Ananias and his wife thought they could lie to God.
Psalm 51:6 (KJV)
6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
Isaiah 29:-13 (KJV)
13 Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men: - precept of men- Being religious
God is not impressed with your religion.
Jesus called the religious rulers snakes, vipers, whited sepulchers. He said their thoughts were an open grave.
Matthew 7:21-23 (KJV)
21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
James 4:8-10 (KJV)
8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. 9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
John 4:23-24 (KJV)
23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
Hebrews 11:6 (KJV)
6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Revelation 3:15-18 (KJV)
15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. 16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: 18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
D. We must cry out believing God wants to hear our prayers.
Acts 12:1-16 (KJV)
1 Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. 2 And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. 3 And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.) 4 And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.
5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. 6 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. 7 And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. 8 And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me. 9 And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision. 10 When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him. 11 And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews. 12 And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying. 13 And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda. 14 And when she knew Peter’s voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate. 15 And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel. 16 But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished.
Luke 18:1-8 (KJV)
1 And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint; 2 Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man: 3 And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary. 4 And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; 5 Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me. 6 And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith. 7 And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? 8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?
1). This is a parable of contrast- the point is not that you have to beg and plead with God-
2).The point is, that God is not like an unjust Judge, but he is a righteous judge, and he desires to hear our prayers. This is why we don’t have to faint or give up on answered prayer.
3). We see here that sometimes God hears our prayers, but “bears long with us” but he doesn’t want that to cause us to “faint.”
4). We see an example of this even in how he answered Jesus prayers for his disciples.
5). Jesus prayed without fainting, or in other words, prayed with patience and faith that God would eventually and completely answer his prayer.
Luke 11:1-13 (KJV)
1 And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. 2 And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. 3 Give us day by day our daily bread. 4 And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. 5 And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; 6 For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him? 7 And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. 8 I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth. 9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
Again this is a parable by contrast: God is not like the friend that has to be begged.
Psalm 84:11-12 (KJV)
11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. 12 O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.
1 Corinthians 2:9 (KJV)
9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
Isaiah 64:4 (KJV)
4 For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him.
11 If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? 12 Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? 13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?
Jesus made praying simple by telling his disciples “all you have to do is talk to God just like you talk to your earthly father”
Mark 14:35-36 (KJV)
35 And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. 36 And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.
The word Abba was not translated, I am told, because the translators of the King James Version had a great reverence for the Word of God. When they came to the word Abba, they didn’t dare translate it into English because it was such an intimate word. It could be translated “my daddy.” God is my wonderful heavenly Father, but I would hesitate to call him “daddy.”
John 1:12 (KJV)
12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
Galatians 4:5-6 (KJV)
5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. 6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.
Romans 8:14-16 (KJV)
14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
Jesus intercedes for us before God’s throne. He knows the pain of our heart when we come to Him.
Hebrews 4:13-16 (KJV)
13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. 14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. 15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
The Holy Spirit intercedes for us according to the will of God.
Romans 8:26-28 (KJV)
26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
6). Jesus prayed for his disciples, but the results of his prayer were not instant
John 17:6-19 (KJV)
6 I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word. 7 Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee. 8 For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me. 9 I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. 10 And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them.
11 And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. 12 While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled. 13 And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 15 I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. 18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.
Listen to the following examples of how Jesus’ prayers for his disciples weren’t answered right away:
Matthew 17:16-17 (KJV)
16 And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him. 17 Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me.
John 14:8-9 (KJV)
8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us. 9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?
Mark 9:32-34 (KJV)
32 But they understood not that saying, and were afraid to ask him. 33 And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? 34 But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest.
Mark 8:32-33 (KJV)
32 And he spake that saying openly. And Peter took him, and began to rebuke him. 33 But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men.
Luke 9:51-56 (KJV)
51 And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem, 52 And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. 53 And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. 54 And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? 55 But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. 56 For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.
Matthew 14:29-31 (KJV)
29 And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. 31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
Matthew 16:5-11 (KJV)
5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. 6 Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. 7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. 8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? 9 Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 10 Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees
Luke 9:28-36 (KJV)
28 And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. 29 And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. 30 And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias: 31 Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem. 32 But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. 33 And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said. 34 While he thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as they entered into the cloud. 35 And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him. 36 And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen.
Mark 14:37-42 (KJV)
37 And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour? 38 Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak. 39 And again he went away, and prayed, and spake the same words. 40 And when he returned, he found them asleep again, (for their eyes were heavy,) neither wist they what to answer him. 41 And he cometh the third time, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: it is enough, the hour is come; behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 Rise up, let us go; lo, he that betrayeth me is at hand.
Mark 16:14-15 (KJV)
14 Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen. 15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
E. There must be a vision/goal to accomplish something for God.
Proverbs 29:18 (KJV)
18 Where there is no vision, the people perish…
I. First of all, a Vision is a goal that we have set before us as a church. Paul said it best:
Philippians 3:13-15 (KJV)
II. A Vision is a Goal or a target. This vision need to be where we aim our prayers as a church.
13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark
III. This vision is where we set our minds as a church in prayer. In other words, this focuses our prayers in on what God has called this church do.
for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded:
IV. We need to pray as a church for God to reveal to us what He would have us do.
and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
V. A churches vision starts with individuals.
Illustration: How God used “vision” to call me into the ministry.
VI. A vision is the ability to see, with the minds eye, what God is able to do if we follow His divine calling.”
A. You ask “How do I know if I am called of God to do
something?
B. Here is the process of how we know what God has called us to:
1). “Every vision starts with a burden for what God has a burden for”
a. Keeps coming back- Dad’s answer to me when I was a child-
b. God wakes you with this on our mind
c. God keeps opening your eyes to it in His Word
2). “Out of a burden a desire is born” You begin to search for a way to fulfill the desire God has placed on your heart. It may be:
a. Preacher
b. Missions
c. Deacon
d. Music
e. Health Care
f. Business
G. Government
H. Science
3). “Out a desire a vision of what God can do is born”
4). “When we have the burden, then the desire, then God gives us a
vision”
a. This is why God gave us an imagination
5). When we, by faith act, on the vision that God has given us, God in
turn gives us ability. Ability to fulfill the vision he has placed within
us.
A. The ability may not be present when you start.
Luke 19:39-40 (KJV)
39 And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples. 40 And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.
Exodus 4:10-17 (KJV)
10 And Moses said unto the LORD, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. 11 And the LORD said unto him, Who hath made man’s mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the LORD? 12 Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say. 13 And he said, O my Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of him whom thou wilt send. 14 And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Moses, and he said, Is not Aaron the Levite thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart. 15 And thou shalt speak unto him, and put words in his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth, and with his mouth, and will teach you what ye shall do. 16 And he shall be thy spokesman unto the people: and he shall be, even he shall be to thee instead of a mouth, and thou shalt be to him instead of God. 17 And thou shalt take this rod in thine hand, wherewith thou shalt do signs.
Romans 9:15-16 (KJV)
15 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.
Jeremiah 1:4-9 (KJV)
4 Then the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, 5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. 6 Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. 7 But the LORD said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. 8 Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD. 9 Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth.
B. If you have the ability, but you don’t have the desire, then this
is not God’s calling on your life.
C. God is not interested in our level of ability, but our level of
commitment/obedience.
D. When we put God given ability into action, (GO), God makes our vision a reality.
VIII. When these steps are accomplished in the life of the believer, then
we see the evidence of a calling of God on the life of an
individual.
A. The Spirit of God reveals this calling to others in the church.
B. Just because someone in the church says you should do
something doesn’t make it so.
C. God expects you to find the work he has called you to.
There is an old story of a farmer who said lightning struck an old shed and thus saved him the trouble of tearing it down, and rain washed off his car and saved him that chore too. When asked what he was doing now, he replied, “Waiting for an earthquake to shake the potatoes out of the ground.”
E. Doing something because no one else will do it is not the right
motive in God’s work.
F. There is no such thing as a lay-preacher.
“I am afraid too many churches today are waiting for an earthquake to shake lost souls into the kingdom of God.”
IX. We need God to open our eyes and give us a vision for this church.
“We need some people who can “Visualize what God can accomplish right here, right now, with this church.
2 Kings 6:15-17 (KJV)
15 And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? 16 And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. 17 And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.
Revelation 3:15-18 (KJV)
14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see…
John 4:35 Jesus said:
behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.
X. Real evangelism begins not by talking to people about God, but by talking to God about people.
Praying for the lost is spiritual warfare. Evangelism or personal soul winning, is like a paratrooper jumping in behind enemy lines to rescue those who have been captured by the kingdom of Satan and leading them out to the safety and protection of the Kingdom of God.
“God has a nickname it its “Go”
Matthew 16:18 (KJV)
and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Hell is on the defense, and we are on the offence- attacking the very gates of Hell! This church needs to attack the gates of Hell on its knees praying for the lost people of your community.
F. There must be self discipline keep our voices lifted up to God.
Daniel 1:8 (KJV)
8 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself…
1). There must be a set aside time to pray.
Daniel disciplined himself to pray:
Daniel 6:10-11 (KJV)
10 Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.
11 Then these men assembled, and found Daniel praying and making supplication before his God.
Many shorter prayers throughout the day are more effective than great lengths of time in prayer.
2) This must be a protected time.
Jesus disciplined himself to pray:
Matthew 14:22-23 (KJV)
22 And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. 23 And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.
Jesus broke away from the crowds to pray.
Richard Armstrong and Edward Watkin tell the story of a biologist’s experiment with “processional caterpillars.” On the rim of a clay pot that held a plant, he lined them up so that the leader was head-to-head with the last caterpillar. The tiny creatures circled the rim of the pot for a full week. Not once did any one of them break away to go over to the plant and eat. Eventually, all caterpillars died from exhaustion and starvation.
The story of the processional caterpillars is a kind of parable of human behavior. People are reluctant to break away from the rhythmic pattern of daily life. They don’t want to be different. We must break away from the crowd, however, if we are to accept Jesus’ invitation to “go off alone” with him in prayer
We must get apart before we fly apart!
3). There must be specific things we pray for.
a. Vain prayers
Matthew 6:6-7 (KJV)
6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. 7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 (KJV)
1 Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil. 2 Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.
1) Now I lay me down to sleep…
2) Lord, bless brother so and so…
3) Forgive us our sins…
4) Praying in the Kings English…
5) Repeat after me…
Luke 18:10-14 (KJV)
10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. 11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. 12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. 13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. 14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
b. Wrong motives
Most of the time our prayers are dissertations of “self pity.” True prayer turns our dissertations of self pity into a time of affirmation of our faith in the character of God.
James 4:2-3 (KJV)
2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. 3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts
II. They were in one accord. (Verse 24)
24 And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord…
A. If we expect to have power with God, we must agree with each
other.
1). Divisions in the church.
James 3:4-18 (KJV)
4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. 5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matte a little fire kindleth! 6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. 7 For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: 8 But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. 9 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. 10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. 11 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? 12 Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.
13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. 14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
a. Between families
b. Between church officers
c. Power struggles
d. Divisions of doctrines
2). Problems between husbands and wives.
1 Peter 3:7-12 (KJV)
Colossians 3:18-19 (KJV)
18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.
7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: 9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. 10 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: 11 Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.
John Wesley, founder of Methodism, had a horrible wife. Even feminists admit she was a total shrew. One friend came in his house to see her standing over him with a handful of his beautiful wavy hair she had just yanked from him.
Wesley said she kept him on his knees [in prayer]. She also kept him on the road. He traveled 250,000 miles on horse over a 40-year period. He preached 40,000 sermons. Even bad marriages can serve God’s purposes.
3). Strife between children and parents.
Ephesians 6:1-4 (KJV)
1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. 2 Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) 3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. 4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
Colossians 3:20-21 (KJV)
20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. 21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.
1 Timothy 3:4-5 (KJV)
4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)
“I’m really worried,” said one little boy to a friend. “Dad slaves away at his job so I’ll never want for anything, so I’ll be able to go to university if I want to. Mom works hard every day washing and ironing, cleaning up after me, taking care of me when I get sick. They spend every day of their lives working just on my behalf I’m worried.… His friend asked, “What have you got to worry about?” And he replied, “I’m afraid they might try to escape.”
Two Examples of parents:
Samuel failed with his children because the waited too late:
1 Samuel 2:12 (KJV)
12 Now the sons of Eli were sons of Belial; they knew not the LORD.
1 Samuel 2:22-25 (KJV)
22 Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel; and how they lay with the women that assembled at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 23 And he said unto them, Why do ye such things? for I hear of your evil dealings by all this people. 24 Nay, my sons; for it is no good report that I hear: ye make the LORD’S people to transgress. 25 If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them.
Eli put his children before God, and it caused them to lightly esteem God:
1 Samuel 2:29-30 (KJV)
29 Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering, which I have commanded in my habitation; and honourest thy sons above me, to make yourselves fat with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people? 30 Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.
1 Samuel 4:15-18 (KJV)
15 Now Eli was ninety and eight years old; and his eyes were dim, that he could not see. 16 And the man said unto Eli, I am he that came out of the army, and I fled to day out of the army. And he said, What is there done, my son? 17 And the messenger answered and said, Israel is fled before the Philistines, and there hath been also a great slaughter among the people, and thy two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and the ark of God is taken. 18 And it came to pass, when he made mention of the ark of God, that he fell from off the seat backward by the side of the gate, and his neck brake, and he died: for he was an old man, and heavy. And he had judged Israel forty years.
Job gives us and example of how we should pray for our children:
Job 1:1-5 (KJV)
1 There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil. 2 And there were born unto him seven sons and three daughters. 3 His substance also was seven thousand sheep, and three thousand camels, and five hundred yoke of oxen, and five hundred she asses, and a very great household; so that this man was the greatest of all the men of the east.
4 And his sons went and feasted in their houses, every one his day; and sent and called for their three sisters to eat and to drink with them. 5 And it was so, when the days of their feasting were gone about, that Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all: for Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts. Thus did Job continually.
B. If we expect to have power with God, we must agree with God.
Amos 3:1-3 (KJV)
1 Hear this word that the LORD hath spoken against you, O children of Israel, against the whole family which I brought up from the land of Egypt, saying, 2 You only have I known of all the families of the earth: therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities. 3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed?
1). About sin.
In his book "Why Prayers Are Unanswered," John Lavender retells a story about Norman Vincent Peale.
When Peale was a boy, he found a big, black cigar, slipped into an alley, and lit it up. It didn't taste good, but it made him feel very grown up... until he saw his father coming. Quickly he put the cigar behind his back and tried to be casual.
Desperate to divert his father's attention, Norman pointed to a billboard advertising the circus.
"Can I go, Dad? Please, let's go when it comes to town."
His father's reply taught Norman a lesson he never forgot.
"Son," he answered quietly but firmly, "never make a petition while at the same time trying to hide a smoldering disobedience."
Psalm 51:3-13 (KJV)
3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. 4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. 5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. 6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. 8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. 9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. 10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. 11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. 12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. 13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
2). About His Word.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (KJV)
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
III. They prayed believing in the sovereign power of God. (Verse 24)
24 And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:
Quote from David Jeremiah The handwriting on the wall.
“The Book of Daniel has a high and lofty view of the sovereignty of God. The theme is: There is a God in heaven. The book repeats that He is the great God, He is the God of gods, the King of heaven. When we understand that prevailing theme, we are able to understand how God may use some people for His purposes, even when they are not His own children.”
These men believed that God would use even those who were threatening them to accomplish God’s will and further the Gospel.
Quote from J. Vernon McGee on prayer : “Praying and living in the Father's will”
… To do whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done. (Acts 4:28 nkjv)[Page 91]
They didn’t go to God and say, “Lord, the Gentiles came together with the nation Israel and murdered Your Son.” They didn’t say that at all. They said, “Lord, You’re sovereign, and the reason this happened is because it is according to Your will. They came together to put Jesus to death because You determined it.” You see, believing in what God has promised in the Scriptures and recognizing His sovereignty are essential to understanding His will.
Our prayers today are filled with our own wants and not the will of God. My friend, prayer is not a method of trying to get something from God that He’s reluctant to give. Prayer is a mighty, transforming experience whereby you and I are brought under the mighty hand of a sovereign God! And whatever comes to us today, we can face it and say, “This has come by the will of God, and I accept it.”
Sometime it appears that prayer changes the mind of God, but in reality we are the one who gets changed.
A. Abraham and Sodom. (Genesis 18)
1) God informs Abraham of his concern over Sodom's sin.
2) God waited for Abraham to respond, and affirmed Abraham in
his evaluation of the situation.
3) It appears that Abraham haggled, but actually God drew him
out so Abraham could learn how to depend on God's
Righteous and merciful character.
4) God was true to his nature: he judged the city for its sin
but did not punish the righteous with the wicked
B. Moses and disobedient Israel. (Exodus 32)
1) Appears that Moses is pointing out something God missed.
2) But before Moses descended, God started a conversation with
him about the situation. "Now let me alone" is curious.
3) God is actually inviting Moses to be a mediator.
4) Moses never changed God's mind, but brought Moses to a
point where he wanted the very same thing that God wanted.
5) God embarked on a different course of action based on Moses'
proper response, but did what he always intended to do.
Charles Brent (1862-1929) on prayer: "Prayer is not so much the means whereby God's will is bent to man's desires, as it is that whereby man's will is bent to God's desires. The real end of prayer is not so much to get this or that single desire granted, as to put human life into full and joyful conformity with the will of God."
A. We must believe that He is able to do what we ask.
Ephesians 3:20-21 (KJV)
20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
B. We must believe that He is willing to do what we ask.
Psalm 84:11-12 (KJV)
11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. 12 O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.
Luke 6:38 (KJV)
38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
IV. They reminded God of his Word.
25 Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things? 26 The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ. 27 For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.
A. God’s will is revealed in His Word.
B. God will always honor His Word.
V. They prayed according to the God’s will.
29 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, 30 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.
A. Their prayer was in obedience to God’s revealed will.
B. Their prayer was in response to what God had already
promised.
VI. They prayed in the name of Jesus.
that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.
A. They were already actively proclaiming the name of Jesus.
B. God has promised to honor prayer in the name of Jesus.
VII. The place was shaken by the power of God.
31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.
32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. 33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.
A. God honors prayer for the Holy Spirit.
B. The Holy Spirit always magnifies the Word of God.
C. The place was shaken by the dynamo of the Holy Spirit.
1). The Holy Spirit is the energizer of the Godhead.
2). When the church is filled with the Holy Spirit, He will energize
church.
The Power of a Praying Church
Text: (Acts 4:24-33)
I. They lifted up their voice. (Verse 24)
A. There must be a desire to cry out to God.
B. We must cry out earnestly.
C. We must cry out truthfully.
D. We must cry out persistently.
E. There must be a vision/goal to accomplish something for God.
F. There must be self discipline keep our voices lifted up to God.
1). There must be a set aside time to pray.
2) This must be a protected time.
3). There must be specific things we pray for.
a. Vain prayers
b. Wrong motives
II. They were in one accord. (Verse 24)
A. If we expect to have power with God, we must agree with each
other.
1). Divisions in the church.
a. Between families
b. Between church officers
c. Power struggles
d. Divisions of doctrines
2). Problems between husbands and wives.
3). Strife between children and parents.
B. If we expect to have power with God, we must agree with God.
1). About sin.
2). About His Word.
III. They prayed believing in the sovereign power of God. (Verse 24)
B. We must believe that He is willing to do what we ask.
A. We must believe that He is able to do what we ask.
IV. They reminded God of his Word.
A. God’s will is revealed in His Word.
B. God will always honor His Word.
V. They prayed according to the God’s will.
A. Their prayer was in obedience to God’s revealed will.
B. Their prayer was in response to what God had already
promised.
VI. They prayed in the name of Jesus.
A. They were already actively proclaiming the name of Jesus.
B. God has promised to honor prayer in the name of Jesus.
VII. The place was shaken by the power of God.
A. God honors prayer for the Holy Spirit.
B. The Holy Spirit always magnifies the Word of God.
C. The place was shaken by the dynamo of the Holy Spirit.
1). The Holy Spirit is the energizer of the Godhead.
2). When the church is filled with the Holy Spirit, He will energize
church.