Topical Bible: Intercessory Prayer: should be offered up For: Servants

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Intercessory prayer, the act of praying on behalf of others, is a significant aspect of Christian practice, deeply rooted in biblical teachings. One specific group for whom intercessory prayer is encouraged is servants. In the biblical context, servants often refer to those who serve others, whether in a household, community, or spiritual capacity. The Bible provides guidance and examples that underscore the importance of praying for servants, recognizing their roles and the challenges they may face.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible emphasizes the value and dignity of all individuals, including servants, and encourages believers to pray for them. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul frequently mentions praying for others, including those who serve. In his letters, Paul often requests prayers for himself and his fellow workers in the ministry, highlighting the importance of intercessory prayer for those who serve in various capacities.

Ephesians 6:5-9 : "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. Serve with good will, as to the Lord and not to men, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free. And masters, do the same for them. Give up your use of threats, because you know that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him."

This passage from Ephesians highlights the mutual respect and responsibility between servants and masters, urging believers to serve as if serving Christ Himself. It implies a need for prayerful support for both parties, recognizing the spiritual and practical challenges involved in these relationships.

1 Timothy 2:1-2 : "First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered on behalf of all men, for kings and all those in authority, so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity."

While this passage specifically mentions praying for those in authority, it sets a precedent for intercessory prayer for all individuals, including servants. The call to pray for "all men" encompasses every role and station in life, acknowledging the interconnectedness of the Christian community.

Examples of Intercessory Prayer for Servants

The Bible provides examples of intercessory prayer for those who serve. In the Old Testament, the account of Abraham interceding for Sodom (Genesis 18:22-33) demonstrates the power and importance of intercessory prayer. Although not specifically about servants, it illustrates the broader principle of praying for others, including those who serve.

In the New Testament, the early church is depicted as a community that prays for one another, including those who serve in various ministries. Acts 12:5 states, "So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was fervently praying to God for him." This example of the church praying for Peter, a servant of the Gospel, underscores the importance of intercessory prayer for those who serve in any capacity.

Practical Application

Believers are encouraged to incorporate intercessory prayer for servants into their spiritual practices. This includes praying for:

1. Strength and Endurance: Servants often face physical and emotional challenges. Praying for their strength and endurance helps them fulfill their duties with grace and perseverance.

2. Wisdom and Guidance: Servants may encounter difficult situations requiring discernment. Praying for wisdom and guidance supports them in making decisions that honor God and serve others effectively.

3. Protection and Provision: Servants may be vulnerable to exploitation or hardship. Praying for their protection and provision ensures their well-being and security.

4. Spiritual Growth: Like all believers, servants need spiritual nourishment. Praying for their spiritual growth encourages them to deepen their relationship with God and live out their faith in their service.

Intercessory prayer for servants is a vital expression of Christian love and solidarity, reflecting the biblical mandate to support and uplift one another in prayer.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 7:2,3
And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear to him, was sick, and ready to die.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Last Discourses of Christ - the Prayer of Consecration.
... here, the Great High-Priest first offered up to the ... that' [in order that] the Father
should keep them ... In its last part this intercessory Prayer of the Great ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter xi the last discourses.htm

The Arrest
... that Jesus said to Peter, "Put up again thy ... This saying occurs in His great intercessory
prayer, offered at the ... made that very evening, "If I should die with ...
/.../stalker/the trial and death of jesus christ/chapter i the arrest.htm

Ninth Lesson. Pray the Lord of the Harvest;'
... He knew that when this work should be given in charge ... this power has been given us
in prayer to provide in ... give ourselves to this part of our intercessory work ...
/.../murray/with christ in the school of prayer/ninth lesson pray the lord.htm

Why they Leave Us
... will see, first, that it hath the force of an intercessory prayer. ... priest wore upon
his breast when he offered his fullest ... I do not wonder it should be so; how ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 32 1886/why they leave us.htm

Chapter xx
... that you may live." Efficacious intercessory prayer was practised ... be found doing
what they should (KS181 ... half dozen different interpretations offered for this ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xx.htm

Index.
... be secret, xxiii.14; and humble, xxxiv.15; should be trusted ... continued in sleep,
xxix.9; effects of intercessory, xxxi.9 ... xii.3; effects of, in the prayer of quiet ...
//christianbookshelf.org/teresa/the life of st teresa of jesus/index 2.htm

The Epistle of St. James
... 18 It was his own will that we should be born ... lady, are for ever in a passion or
a prayer.' But he ... When our father Abraham offered his son Isaac on the altar ...
/.../moffat/the general epistles james peter and judas/the epistle of st james.htm

The Incarnation and Birth of Christ
... fourth is like the Son of God." How should Nebuchadnezzar know ... like Joshua; we must
have great intercessory faith, like ... Go home and seek him by earnest prayer. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 2 1856/the incarnation and birth of.htm

Exposition of the Doctrines of Grace
... George Wyard, of Deptford, offered prayer. ... in circumstances that such and such a
thing should take place. ... where the old Puritan fathers are stored up, and I ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 7 1861/exposition of the doctrines of.htm