Pastor H.B. Charles discusses the ministry of prayer, using Epaphras as an example. He explores the significance of earnest and unselfish prayers, the importance of praying for stability and maturity, and the power of unity and prayer in overcoming adversity.
Intercessory prayer reflects love and care for fellow believers, surpassing ethnic or cultural differences.
Effective prayer requires wholehearted dedication and genuine concern for others' well-being.
Deep dives
Epaphras' Loving Devotion to the Church through Intercessory Prayer
Epaphras, an individual mentioned in Colossians 4:12-13, exemplifies a ministry of intercessory prayer in his loving devotion to the church. Despite being a member of the church in Colossae, Epaphras viewed unity in Christ as surpassing ethnic or cultural differences. His prayer was continuous, earnest, and selfless, aimed at ensuring the stability, maturity, and certainty of fellow believers. Epaphras' commitment to intercession serves as a reminder that prayer holds a significant role in expressing love and care for one another within the church.
The Manner of Epaphras' Intercession
Epaphras engaged in prayer continually, struggling earnestly on behalf of the church. His prayers were characterized by constant attention and were not limited to emergency situations. Epaphras' struggle in prayer demonstrated the fervency and selflessness with which he approached intercession. His devotion serves as a reminder that effective prayer requires a wholehearted dedication and a genuine concern for the well-being of others.
The Sacrifice and Impact of Epaphras' Prayers
Epaphras' intercessory prayers came from a heart of sacrificial service. His selfless dedication to prayer for the church reflected his love and commitment to Christ and his fellow believers. Epaphras' prayers aimed to ensure the church's stability, maturity, and certainty in God's will. His ministry of prayer extended beyond his local congregation, as he also interceded for fellow believers in Laodicea and Herapolis. Epaphras' example challenges us to prioritize the power of prayer in our lives and recognize its impact in loving and supporting the church.