November 12, 2006

 

Intro: Ch.2:1-6- Paul now moves to subjects of interest in

the local church at Ephesus and here.

 

I. PRIORITY OF PRAYER – 2:1 “first of all…”

1) Prayer has always been a subject of importance to those

who wish to honor God-

  Prayer = the receiving and the returning to God of

appropriate concerns from a seeking heart in accordance

with divine revelation.

 

2) Four terms used:   supplications   

prayers                                         intercessions

thanksgiving

 

3) Prayer:  Admits our limitations; Appeals to God’s

justice; Alleviates our fears-

 

II. INFLUENCE OF PRAYER – Jere.33:3

1) “be made for all men..”   note 2:4 & 2:6 “all”

 

2) “for kings …..all in authority..”- = powerbrokers

Prov.21:1

 

3)”quiet & peaceable life” = domestic tranquility

 

 

III. APPROVAL OF PRAYER- 1:3-4 “good/acceptable”

1) Prayer pleases the Father, not just a means to an end.

Our Culture: acquisition – what can we get?

                  pragmatism- what is the bottom-line?

 

2) Prayer practice must include praise & thanksgiving!