How can we apply Paul's request for prayer to our own evangelism efforts? Setting the Scene Ephesians 6:19 – “Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, the right words will be given me so that I will boldly make known the mystery of the gospel.” Paul’s Example: Ephesians 6:19 • Paul is in chains (Ephesians 6:20) yet still focused on the gospel. • He treats prayer as indispensable, not optional. • He requests two specific outcomes: – Right words. – Bold proclamation. Lessons for Our Evangelism • Dependence, not self-confidence – John 15:5: “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” • Clarity of message – 1 Corinthians 15:3-4: the gospel is precise; pray we relay it faithfully. • Holy boldness – Acts 4:29: early believers asked for boldness, and God answered. • Shared responsibility – 2 Thessalonians 3:1: “Brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly.” Practical Ways to Pray for Evangelism 1. Ask for open doors – Colossians 4:3: “Pray that God may open a door for our message.” 2. Ask for the right words – Proverbs 15:23: “A timely word—how good it is!” 3. Ask for courage – Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous.” 4. Ask for spiritual protection – Ephesians 6:11: “Put on the full armor of God.” 5. Ask for receptive hearts – Acts 16:14: “The Lord opened her heart to respond.” Partnering Like the Early Church • Believers prayed while others spoke (Acts 12:5, 12). • Missionaries reported back, strengthening mutual commitment (Acts 14:27). • Today: form prayer chains, text updates, small-group intercession. Keeping Our Motives Pure • 1 Thessalonians 2:3-4: speak “not to please men, but God.” • Pray that love for Christ, not recognition, drives us (2 Corinthians 5:14). Walking in Assurance • Matthew 28:20: “I am with you always.” • Isaiah 55:11: His word “will not return to Me empty.” • Romans 1:16: the gospel “is the power of God for salvation.” Summary and Commitment By echoing Paul’s request—specific, humble, and bold—we anchor our evangelism in divine power rather than human skill. Pray for open doors, right words, fearless hearts, and fruitful results, trusting the Lord who still sends laborers into His harvest (Luke 10:2). |
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