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The Intercessory Character of Christ

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Intercession, the act of petitioning God or praying on behalf of another person or group, is a vital expression of concern for others among God's people. It arises as a distinct burden for those called to serve God, becoming an inevitable part of their work, especially during times of crisis or failure. This selfless concern, exemplified by Abraham's compassionate plea for Sodom in Genesis 18, prioritizes the well-being of others over personal needs. Moses also stands as a profound example, with his vivid and passionate prayers for Israel, such as after the Golden Calf incident, demonstrating intense loyalty and affection for his people. Even Pharaoh requested Moses to intercede for him, though Moses emphasized the necessity of repentance for intercession to be effective. As a righteous leader, Moses successfully pleaded with God on behalf of the Israelites, showing that faithful intercession carries significant weight. However, the ongoing sinfulness of a people can hinder its effects, as sin separates humanity from God. When intercession is offered for those who refuse to repent, its impact is dramatically limited. In contrast, during Jeremiah's time, God explicitly forbade the prophet to intercede for His people due to their abominable idolatry, rendering prayer useless for the obstinately sinful. Yet, for those who humbly walk with God by obeying His commandments, blessed intercession is received. The apostle Paul underscores this responsibility in I Timothy 2, exhorting that intercessions be made for all men, including leaders, benefiting not only individuals but also families and communities. Intercession, motivated by a righteous heart filled with love and sympathy, extends to all people, starting with families and brethren, then to the world. The prayers and praises of believers are acceptable to God through Christ's intercession. As the perpetual High Priest, Jesus extends aid to those who approach God, confiding in Him, touched by the feelings of our infirmities, and serving as a merciful and faithful intercessor. Jesus, the ultimate example of self-surrender to God's will, is the perfect intercessor for sinners, bearing human sins though innocent, and continuing His intercessory ministry even after being vindicated by God. His work inspires ordinary people to intercede for others, including for sick children, infants, friends, and even enemies, as He commands intercession for all, promising answers to prayers made in His name. The church, understood as a royal priesthood, is required to make intercession for all mankind, engaging spontaneously in prayer for others, contributing to healings and deliverances, as seen in the book of Acts. Christ's intercession, founded on justice, truth, and compassion, is perpetual and effective, presenting the merits of His sacrifice as the basis for grace and strength against adversaries. As our Advocate, He represents us before the Father, interceding continuously with a love that never wanes, ensuring that we are not left to our own resources in weakness. His prayers, especially in John 17, set the highest pattern for intercessory prayer, reflecting an intimate relationship with the Father, a fulfillment of duty, a divine unity, a plea for salvation from evil, and a broad application for unity and love among believers. This model of intercession binds the church together with each other and with our Lord, fostering a profound relational reality.

Out of the Abundance of Our Prayers

'Ready Answer' by John O. Reid

Jesus remarks that our lips tell the tale our hearts try to hide. Using this proverb as a foundation, what do our prayers tell God about us?

We Have an Advocate With the Father

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

When we sin, we have an advocate with Jesus Christ, who has been commissioned to forgive our sins upon repentance. There is no forgiveness apart from Christ.

Reasoning With God

'Ready Answer' by Martin G. Collins

Is it wrong to reason with God? Can we plead our case before the Father and get results? Yes we can, but we must follow these biblical guidelines.

The Five Paraklete Sayings

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The five parakletos sayings of Christ prove that the Holy Spirit is the essence, mind, and power of God and Christ in us, providing us assistance and counsel.

Prayer Makes a Difference

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

God expects us to intercede in behalf of others, but we must do this with wisdom, sincerity, and humility, with the help of God's Spirit, according to God's will.

The Prayers of Jesus

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Christ's example teaches us to pray humbly in all situations, including decision making, resisting temptation, and acquiring spiritual strength.

The Priesthood of God (Part Seven)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

A priest, having cognizance of his own weaknesses, has an obligation to empathize with other peoples' weaknesses and bear one another's burdens.

Sanctification and Holiness (Part 3)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

In Numbers 16-18, God performed several miracles to demonstrate conclusively that not everyone is called to the same function and that He remains the Boss.

Magic Doesn't Work (Part Two)

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

People are attracted to magic because they think it brings quick results, bringing them their desires, erasing their fears and providing for their needs.

The Offerings of Leviticus (Part Two): The Burnt Offering

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

The burnt offering is completely consumed on the altar. This type of offering teaches us about Christ's total dedication to God—and how we should emulate it.

What Are You Going To Do About It?

Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)

Activism is not the godly response to social ills. We must call out to God regarding our nation and our brethren as they are impacted by evil doers.

The Holy Spirit

Bible Study by Martin G. Collins

The Bible speaks of the Spirit as the power or mind of God, the power of love and of a sound mind. It emanates from Him and thus can be said to be poured out