Pt#2 The Nature of Intercession and Stewardship

 

Pt#2 The Nature of Intercession and Stewardship

 Introduction

- Recap the importance of intercession and the roles of watchers and gatekeepers.

- Emphasize that true intercession requires humility and a willingness to come down to the level of those we are praying for.

 I. The Example of Jesus as the Ultimate Intercessor

 A. Jesus’ Approach to Lazarus

- Jesus demonstrated humility by coming down to the level of death to call Lazarus out.

John 11:43 (NKJV): "Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, 'Lazarus, come forth!'"

  - Jesus did not call Lazarus from a position of superiority but as a man, identifying with our human condition.

 B. The Necessity of Identification

- Intercession requires an understanding and identification with those we pray for; it cannot be done from a distance.

- Every intercessor must be willing to embrace the struggles and pain of others.

 II. The Role of the Gatekeeper

 A. Definition and Function

- A gatekeeper is an intercessor who speaks out and guards the spiritual gates of the community.

- It is vital to know one's role, whether as a watchman or gatekeeper.

 B. Scriptural Basis

- Isaiah 62:6 (NKJV): "I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they shall never hold their peace day or night."

  - This emphasizes the vigilance required of gatekeepers in spiritual matters.

 III. The Importance of Watching and Stewarding

 A. The First Job Description

- The first calling of man was to watch and steward the creation.

Genesis 2:15 (NKJV): "Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it."

  - This highlights the responsibility given to humanity to care for God's creation.

 B. Understanding the Garden

- The garden represents the kingdom of God—an enclosure where stewardship occurs.

- The role of stewardship is not just about physical care but also about spiritual oversight.

 IV. The Call to Intercede with Authority

A. Command and Responsibility

- God commanded Adam to protect the garden, establishing a clear role for intercessors.

- Genesis 2:16-17 (NKJV): "And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, 'Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.'"

  - Adam’s role was to protect the garden and uphold God's commands.

 B. The Consequences of Negligence

- Failure to intercede and fulfill one’s role can lead to dire consequences.

- The church must engage in proper intercession to avoid spiritual decay and death.

 V. The Community of Intercessors

 A. Recognizing Diverse Gifts

- Every member of the body has a role; not everyone is called to be a pastor or counselor.

- It is essential to recognize the unique gifts and callings within the community.

 B. Encouragement to Seek Professional Help

- Pastors are not always equipped to solve every problem; the body of Christ should support one another.

- Seek expertise in areas like marriage counseling or financial advice when needed, acknowledging the gifts of others.

 VI. Conclusion

- Recap the importance of humility in intercession and the need to identify with those we serve.

- Encourage the congregation to embrace their roles as watchers, gatekeepers, and intercessors, understanding the weight and responsibility of their calling.