Prayer in Times of Crisis

Prayer in Times of Criss John 4:43-54 John Sets the Scene • Jesus spends two extra days Samaria (v. 43) • Despite the success, Jesus presses forward to his own people who will reject him (v. 44) • Jesus has performed many miracles (John has been selective about which to include in his book) and word is spreading fast (v. 45) A Dad in Crisis • The Official: Lived in Capernaum, about 18 miles from Cana in Galilee; likely in the court of Herod Antipas • The Crisis: the man’s son is burning up with a fever and death is imminent • The Request: 1. “Asked him” – see 4:40 2. “Come down” – 2x 3. This dad has already drawn two conclusions about Jesus: (a) Jesus can heal; (b) Jesus is compassionate 4. The question remains – Can you take Jesus at His word? Jesus Reveals a Prayer of Faith • Initially, Jesus responds with a rebuke not only of the Galileans, but of everyone who expects Jesus to obey them (v. 48; see also Luke 23:8). • The nobleman, however, is desperate (v. 49) and presses the matter with Jesus. • Literally, “Go, your son lives.” • The official believes and obeys, which John underlines (“went” is the same Greek root as “go,” just in the past tense form) The Next Day • The official (for whatever reason) waits until the following morning to begin his return trip (6-8 hours) • The boy’s healing was sudden and dramatic; his servants have decided to intercept the official to let him know that the boy has totally recovered (v. 51). • The official confirms (v. 52) • The official believes and recounts (v. 53-54) • The official’s story becomes so well known that John finds it to be noteworthy some 50-60 years hence Prayer that Reveals our Hearts • God’s goodness must be enough – the official’s prayer was notable for its lack of selfrighteousness. • God must remain God – Jesus wanted the official to experience something different and far more spectacular. • The God who answers prayers gives commands – As we wait for the situation to resolve, our actions reveal what we truly think of God. • Answered prayer has its fullest work when it results in praise.