What Is Intercessory Prayer?
Understanding Intercessory Prayer
Intercessory prayer is a vital and powerful aspect of the Christian life. At its heart, it means praying on behalf of others—standing in the gap between God and those in need. Throughout Scripture, believers are called to intercede, following the example of Christ Himself, who continually intercedes for us before the Father.
The Biblical Foundation of Intercessory Prayer
The concept of interceding in prayer is woven throughout both the Old and New Testaments. One of the clearest examples is found in the ministry of Moses. When the Israelites sinned against God, Moses stood before the Lord and pleaded for their forgiveness:
And he said, If now I have found favor in thy sight, O Lord, let the Lord, I pray thee, go in the midst of us; for it is a stiffnecked people; and pardon our iniquity and our sin, and take us for thine inheritance. - Exodus 34:9 ASV
The Apostle Paul also urges believers to make “supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings” for all people:
I exhort therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings, be made for all men. - 1 Timothy 2:1 ASV
Jesus: Our Ultimate Intercessor
The greatest example of intercession is found in Jesus Christ, who not only prayed for His disciples but continues to intercede for believers before the Father:
Wherefore also he is able to save to the uttermost them that draw near unto God through him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. - Hebrews 7:25 ASV
In His high priestly prayer, Jesus prayed not only for His immediate followers but for all who would believe in Him:
Neither for these only do I pray, but for them also that believe on me through their word. - John 17:20 ASV
The Practice of Intercessory Prayer
Intercessory prayer involves bringing the needs of others before God, whether for healing, provision, salvation, or guidance. Scripture encourages us to bear one another’s burdens and to pray for each other:
Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. - Galatians 6:2 ASV
Confess therefore your sins one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The supplication of a righteous man availeth much in its working. - James 5:16 ASV
This practice is not limited to pastors or spiritual leaders. All believers are invited to participate in God’s work through prayer, trusting that He hears and responds according to His will.
The Power and Purpose of Intercessory Prayer
Why does God call us to intercede? Through intercessory prayer, we join God’s mission of grace and mercy in the world. It is a selfless act, demonstrating love for others and dependence on God’s sovereignty. While God is fully able to act without us, He invites us to partner with Him in prayer. This not only blesses those we pray for but also deepens our own relationship with God.
Ultimately, intercessory prayer points to the Gospel itself: Jesus stands as the mediator between God and humanity, and we, following His example, become channels of His love and grace through our prayers.
Key Takeaways
- Intercessory prayer is praying on behalf of others, reflecting Christ’s heart.
- Scripture commands and models intercession for all believers.
- Jesus is our perfect intercessor, and we are called to follow His example.
- God uses our prayers to accomplish His purposes in the lives of others.