Persistent Prayer: Responding with Love in Crisis
Summary
### Summary
In today's sermon, we delved into the pressing issues facing our society, such as the recent tragic school shooting and the pervasive anger and confusion in our culture. We acknowledged that the enemy seems to be gaining ground, but we also emphasized the importance of responding with kindness, rationality, and love, as Jesus did. We then turned our focus to Luke 11, where Jesus teaches about prayer. He provides a model prayer, often referred to as the Lord's Prayer, which serves as a framework for our own prayers. Jesus emphasizes the importance of persistence in prayer through the parable of the friend at midnight. This story illustrates that persistence, not just a one-time request, is crucial in our prayer life.
We discussed how our culture is in a state of moral and spiritual decline, and how this is evident in various societal issues, from school shootings to the normalization of behaviors that go against biblical teachings. The solution, we concluded, lies in fervent, persistent prayer. We need to be like the friend who kept knocking at midnight, refusing to give up until his needs were met. This kind of persistent prayer can change history, alter the present, and secure a different future.
We also touched on the importance of teaching the next generation the right way to live according to the Scriptures. This requires a long-term commitment to right teaching and a revival culture. We must be a community that prays fervently, not just for personal breakthroughs but for a move of God in our community. The earnest, heartfelt, and continued prayer of a righteous person makes tremendous power available, dynamic in its working.
### Key Takeaways
1. Responding to Cultural Anger with Christ-like Love: In a world filled with rage and confusion, our response should mirror that of Jesus—kindness and rationality. Jesus was kind even to the evil and ungrateful, and our speech should be seasoned with grace. This approach can defuse anger and open doors for meaningful dialogue. [03:17]
2. The Power of Persistent Prayer: Jesus teaches us the importance of persistence in prayer through the parable of the friend at midnight. This story illustrates that we should keep asking, seeking, and knocking until our prayers are answered. Persistence in prayer is a demonstration of faith, not a lack of it. [11:32]
3. The Moral Decline of Society: Our culture is experiencing a significant moral and spiritual decline, evident in various societal issues. This decline didn't happen overnight; it has been a slow process. Recognizing this helps us understand the urgency and necessity of fervent prayer and revival. [20:01]
4. Teaching the Next Generation: It will take years of right teaching to influence the next generation correctly. We must commit to teaching our children a biblical worldview and a revival culture. This requires more than just occasional lessons; it demands a consistent, long-term effort. [21:21]
5. The Role of the Church in Societal Change: The church must adopt a more militant mindset in prayer, focusing not just on personal prosperity but on the spiritual well-being of the community. Fervent, heartfelt prayer can change history and secure a different future. The church's strength lies in its collective prayer and intercession. [27:37]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [01:27] - Cultural Anger and Confusion
3. [03:17] - Responding with Christ-like Love
4. [04:23] - The Need for Revival
5. [05:18] - Introduction to Luke 11
6. [06:15] - The Lord's Prayer as a Model
7. [07:43] - The Parable of the Friend at Midnight
8. [09:15] - The Importance of Persistence
9. [11:32] - Persistence as a Demonstration of Faith
10. [14:49] - The Original Language of Asking, Seeking, Knocking
11. [16:12] - The Moral Decline of Society
12. [20:01] - The Slow Process of Decline
13. [21:21] - Teaching the Next Generation
14. [27:37] - The Role of the Church in Societal Change
15. [30:03] - Fervent Prayer Changes History
16. [33:21] - The Future of the Church
17. [35:27] - The Importance of Corporate Prayer
18. [37:58] - The Power of Collective Prayer
19. [39:36] - Revival in Dawsonville
20. [41:14] - Call to Prayer
21. [47:08] - Closing Remarks and Blessing
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Luke 11:1-13 - The Lord's Prayer and the Parable of the Friend at Midnight
2. James 5:16 - The earnest, heartfelt, continued prayer of a righteous person
### Observation Questions
1. What does Jesus teach His disciples about prayer in Luke 11:1-4?
2. In the parable of the friend at midnight, why does the friend eventually get up to give the bread? ([11:32])
3. According to James 5:16, what kind of prayer makes tremendous power available?
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Jesus emphasize persistence in prayer through the parable of the friend at midnight? ([11:32])
2. How does the moral and spiritual decline in society relate to the need for fervent prayer, as discussed in the sermon? ([20:01])
3. What does it mean for the church to adopt a more militant mindset in prayer, and how does this differ from focusing on personal prosperity? ([24:23])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you responded to anger or confusion with kindness and rationality. How did it impact the situation? How can you apply this approach in your current interactions? ([03:17])
2. Think about a prayer request you have given up on. How can you renew your persistence in prayer for this request, following the example of the friend at midnight? ([11:32])
3. Identify one area in your community that is experiencing moral or spiritual decline. How can you commit to praying fervently for change in that area? ([20:01])
4. What steps can you take to teach the next generation a biblical worldview and a revival culture? How can you make this a consistent, long-term effort? ([21:21])
5. How can you participate in corporate prayer within your church community? What changes can you make to prioritize these gatherings? ([27:37])
6. Reflect on the role of the church in societal change. How can you contribute to a move of God in your community through prayer and action? ([24:23])
7. Consider the urgency of the current cultural situation. What specific actions can you take this week to be more serious and watchful in your prayers? ([36:37])
Devotional
Day 1: Responding to Cultural Anger with Christ-like Love
In a world filled with rage and confusion, our response should mirror that of Jesus—kindness and rationality. Jesus was kind even to the evil and ungrateful, and our speech should be seasoned with grace. This approach can defuse anger and open doors for meaningful dialogue. In today's society, where anger and confusion seem to dominate, it is crucial to remember that our actions and words can either contribute to the chaos or bring peace. By choosing to respond with Christ-like love, we can be agents of change and hope.
Jesus' example of kindness and rationality, even in the face of hostility, serves as a powerful model for us. When we encounter anger and confusion, we should strive to respond with grace and understanding, rather than reacting with hostility. This not only reflects the love of Christ but also creates opportunities for meaningful conversations and reconciliation. [03:17]
Luke 6:35-36 (ESV): "But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful."
Reflection: Think of a recent situation where you encountered anger or confusion. How can you respond with Christ-like love and grace in a similar situation today?
Day 2: The Power of Persistent Prayer
Jesus teaches us the importance of persistence in prayer through the parable of the friend at midnight. This story illustrates that we should keep asking, seeking, and knocking until our prayers are answered. Persistence in prayer is a demonstration of faith, not a lack of it. In our fast-paced world, it is easy to become discouraged when our prayers are not immediately answered. However, Jesus encourages us to remain steadfast and persistent in our prayer life.
The parable of the friend at midnight highlights the significance of persistence. Just as the friend continued to knock until his needs were met, we too should persist in our prayers, trusting that God hears us and will respond in His perfect timing. This persistence is a testament to our faith and reliance on God. [11:32]
Luke 18:1-5 (ESV): "And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. He said, 'In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man. And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, "Give me justice against my adversary." For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, "Though I neither fear God nor respect man, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming."'"
Reflection: What is one specific prayer request you have been waiting on? How can you commit to persistently praying for it this week, trusting in God's timing?
Day 3: The Moral Decline of Society
Our culture is experiencing a significant moral and spiritual decline, evident in various societal issues. This decline didn't happen overnight; it has been a slow process. Recognizing this helps us understand the urgency and necessity of fervent prayer and revival. The moral decay we see around us is a result of years of drifting away from biblical principles and values. It is crucial to acknowledge this decline and respond with a sense of urgency.
Fervent, persistent prayer is essential in addressing the moral and spiritual decline in our society. By seeking God's intervention and revival, we can work towards reversing this trend and restoring biblical values. This requires a collective effort from the church and individuals committed to prayer and righteous living. [20:01]
2 Timothy 3:1-5 (ESV): "But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people."
Reflection: Reflect on the moral and spiritual decline you observe in society. How can you contribute to a revival through your prayers and actions?
Day 4: Teaching the Next Generation
It will take years of right teaching to influence the next generation correctly. We must commit to teaching our children a biblical worldview and a revival culture. This requires more than just occasional lessons; it demands a consistent, long-term effort. The next generation is the future of the church and society, and it is our responsibility to equip them with a strong foundation in biblical principles.
Teaching the next generation involves more than just imparting knowledge; it requires modeling a life of faith and commitment to God's Word. By consistently teaching and living out biblical values, we can instill a revival culture in our children, preparing them to stand firm in their faith and influence the world for Christ. [21:21]
Deuteronomy 6:6-9 (ESV): "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."
Reflection: How can you incorporate consistent biblical teaching and modeling into your daily interactions with the next generation?
Day 5: The Role of the Church in Societal Change
The church must adopt a more militant mindset in prayer, focusing not just on personal prosperity but on the spiritual well-being of the community. Fervent, heartfelt prayer can change history and secure a different future. The church's strength lies in its collective prayer and intercession. In times of moral and spiritual decline, the church has a crucial role to play in seeking God's intervention and leading societal change.
By prioritizing fervent, corporate prayer, the church can become a powerful force for transformation. This involves shifting our focus from individual needs to the broader spiritual well-being of our communities. Through collective prayer and intercession, we can invite God's presence and power to bring about lasting change. [27:37]
Ephesians 6:18 (ESV): "Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints."
Reflection: How can you participate in and encourage corporate prayer within your church community to seek God's intervention for societal change?
Quotes
1. "The inability to cope and to navigate through and process through people who have opposite opinions, viewpoints, worldviews. You never win by arguing. You win by being rational, thoughtful, kind, gentle. There are times to raise your voice. There are times to be adamant for sure. But hate begets hate. Anger fuels anger. Somehow in the body of Christ, we have to get this right. Our vitriol toward people of opposite... Viewpoints than us has to come to a conclusion." [01:27] (66 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We need revival. I said we need revival. Yeah, let's give God glory. Come on, give him praise. Thank you, Lord. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. Now, I need you to go to Luke 11 because this is where I'm going to camp out today. Luke chapter 11. I find this scripture that's going to connect with what we discussed last Sunday morning." [05:18] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Now, these few verses are what we would call, and even in the Jewish realm, indexes. That means that you're... God does not expect you to pray the Lord's prayer and go, well, I prayed today. It's a beautiful, beautiful prayer. But these are indexes. These are platforms of which he's saying these elements, when you pray, should be a part of your private time, your prayer time with the Lord." [06:15] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Persistence. Say it, say persistence. Persistence. find this a quite interesting story because it really rubs us the wrong way as contemporary Western Christians to a degree. Why? Because we think that being persistent is a demonstration of lack of faith rather than a demonstration of faith. Now, Jesus is telling us the story in the context of what? That he wants us to be persistent in prayer." [11:32] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The original language says this. It is in the tense, which basically says, when he says ask, it literally means to ask and to keep on asking. And to keep on asking. And to ask again. And to ask again, and again, and again, and to seek that answer, and to keep seeking. And to seek some more. And to seek another day. And to seek another time. And then he says, and then while you're at it, as you're asking and you're seeking, keep on knocking. You knock, and you keep knocking. You knock, and you keep knocking." [14:49] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "We are in such difficulty, and such darkness dominates our culture. I need you to capture that. There is good on the earth, but not much good. If you are a student of what's happening around the world, there's good happening. It's not all bad, but it's predominantly bad. I don't mean to be negative this morning and to rain on our Sunday parade, but you cannot help but draw that same conclusion when a 14-year-old walks into a school and shoots it up." [16:12] (57 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Is there an antidote? Is there a remedy? Is there a counterculture that can somehow take the momentum of darkness which seems to be bellowing? I'm talking about increasing, multiplying in its power, in its strength, and its influence. Is there? Is there something? Is there somebody? Is there a remnant that will rise up and say, you know what, I see it's crumbling. I know it's crumbling. I know it's horrific, but yet it's not fully over yet. There's still life. There's still some hope. There's still a possibility that things can change." [20:01] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "We must adopt a more militant position mindset because we're literally in an epic battle for the soul of the world and don't think world that may be too vast, too, too, too large for us, but we're really in, in, in battle for the soul of Dawsonville, our high schools, yeah, our homes, our neighborhoods. It's not going to happen. It's not going to happen because we want it to happen, desire to happen and have a prayer meeting asking for it to happen. It's going to happen when we knock and we ask and we seek and we don't leave the threshold of the door until it happens." [24:23] (64 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Fervent prayer changes history. I'm going to say it again. Fervent prayer changes history. Not only does it alter the now, but it secures a different future. When Karen says, please pray for Keneo, we go, okay, I'll pray, Lord bless Keneo. What good did that do? What impact did that do? We went, Lord bless Keneo. Now what I'm going to eat today? I'm going back. Karen, it will take 10 years to change a child's mind, to teach them to think the right way, to love their rabbi, and to get the scriptures right the first time so they don't have to unlearn something." [28:33] (59 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "For decades, the enemy has had the capacity, the wherewithal, the financial backing to put into place fortifications that are not going to be breached simply because we sing a few songs, come to a few prayer services, and hear a few good messages on how wrong things are in our culture. They're not listening. They're not going to listen, and they don't want to listen. They're not coming to our services. They're not watching our YouTube services. They're not following us on social media. They have no idea what's happening. In places like this." [30:03] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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