Intercessory Prayer: A Bible Study Lesson

1. Historical Context and Background

Intercessory prayer, the act of praying on behalf of others, is rooted deeply in biblical tradition, showing up in both the Old and New Testaments. It is a theme that stretches across many eras, from Moses' prayers for Israel (Exodus 32) to Jesus’ prayer for His disciples (John 17) and Paul’s prayers for the early church (Ephesians 1:16). This practice reflects a communal aspect of faith where individuals are not only concerned with their own needs but also carry the burdens of others to God.

Old Testament Context:

Moses’ intercession for the Israelites when they sinned (Exodus 32:11–14) was one of the earliest forms of intercessory prayer. Here, Moses pleaded with God to spare the people after the golden calf incident.

Job’s prayer for his friends (Job 42:10) represents another example of intercession, especially since Job was asked by God to pray on behalf of those who wronged him.

Abraham’s intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18:22–33) is another powerful moment, where Abraham asked God to spare the cities if righteous people could be found within them.

New Testament Context:

Jesus’ intercessory prayer in John 17, often called the "High Priestly Prayer," is perhaps one of the most profound examples. Jesus prays for His disciples and for all future believers.

Paul’s prayers for the churches, such as those in Ephesians 1:15–23 and Philippians 1:9–11, reflect his pastoral care and deep concern for their spiritual growth.

Intercession has remained central in Christian worship practices, especially during corporate prayer services, healing services, and times of crisis.

2. Passage Analysis

Intercessory prayer aligns with the biblical command to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:39). By praying for others, we fulfill this mandate, seeking their well-being, healing, and protection. Theologically, intercession reveals God’s desire for communal unity, encouraging believers to support one another in prayer.

This type of prayer also connects us to Christ's role as intercessor (Hebrews 7:25), where Jesus is described as continually interceding for believers before God. Through intercession, we reflect the compassionate heart of Christ, showing concern for the needs of others as well as reliance on God’s power and grace.

Key Pivot Points:

Intercessory prayer as a reflection of Christ’s ministry: Just as Jesus intercedes for us, we are called to intercede for others.Intercession as communal responsibility: In the body of Christ, when one member suffers, the whole body suffers (1 Corinthians 12:26). Intercession is a way of expressing that interconnectedness.

3. Text and Analysis

Let's explore a few key scriptures related to intercessory prayer.

1 Timothy 2:1 (ESV) “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.” Commentary: Paul’s instruction to Timothy outlines various forms of prayer, with intercession specifically mentioned. The word used here for "intercessions" (Greek: enteuxis) implies earnest petitions for others. This verse highlights the priority of praying for others, not just for personal needs.

Application: In today's world, praying for others encourages a selfless attitude. Whether it’s praying for leaders, family members, or those in need, intercession binds communities and brings God's grace into difficult situations. Reference Scripture: Philippians 4:6 — “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

James 5:16 (ESV) “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” Commentary: James teaches the early church to practice mutual care through confession and prayer. The promise here is clear: intercessory prayer has real power, especially when offered by someone living in right relationship with God. Application: This verse is a call to actively engage in praying for those who are hurting or struggling. It’s also a reminder of the power of community in healing — not only physical healing but emotional and spiritual healing as well. Reference Scripture: Galatians 6:2 — “Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

Romans 8:26–27 (ESV) “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” Commentary: Paul reminds the Romans that even when we are unsure of how to pray, the Holy Spirit helps by interceding on our behalf. This underscores that intercession isn’t solely dependent on human words or understanding — God participates in this process through His Spirit. Application: When we struggle to find the right words in prayer, we can trust that the Holy Spirit will step in. This encourages us to keep praying even when we feel inadequate. Reference Scripture: 1 Corinthians 14:15 — “What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also.”

Hebrews 7:25 (ESV) “Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.” Commentary: Jesus’ current ministry in heaven includes His ongoing intercession for believers. His prayers for us are not just a one-time act but a continual process of grace and mercy. Application: Knowing that Jesus intercedes for us should give us confidence in approaching God with our own needs and those of others. We can rest in the fact that our prayers are in harmony with Christ’s eternal intercession. Reference Scripture: Romans 8:34 — “Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.”

4. Preaching and Teaching Points

Here are four sermon points with reference scriptures (ESV):

The Call to Intercede for Others 1 Timothy 2:1 — Paul urges the church to pray for "all people," reflecting the Christian responsibility to lift others up in prayer. Application: Use examples of contemporary issues (family crises, government leaders, global conflicts) to show the need for prayer today.

Intercession as a Path to Healing James 5:16 — Confessing sins and praying for one another brings healing and restoration. Application: Encourage small group prayers, creating spaces in church where people can openly share their needs and pray for one another.

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Intercession Romans 8:26 — Even in our weakness, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us. Application: Discuss how the Spirit aids us in prayer when words fail, using analogies like the role of a translator in communication.

Jesus as Our High Priest and Intercessor Hebrews 7:25 — Jesus continually intercedes for us before the Father. Application: Point out how Jesus' intercession is an encouragement for us to persist in prayer, trusting His ongoing work in heaven.

5. Reference Scriptures

Ephesians 6:18 — “Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.” This verse emphasizes persistence in intercessory prayer for all saints.

Colossians 1:9 — “And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you…” Paul models continual intercession for the church.

Philippians 4:6 — “In everything by prayer and supplication…” Another call for believers to bring both personal and intercessory prayers to God.

6. Summary

Intercessory prayer is a powerful, selfless act that reflects the heart of God for His people. Whether we pray for healing, spiritual growth, or guidance, we are engaging in a holy ministry that Jesus Himself participates in. By praying for others, we foster unity in the body of Christ and allow God to work through us to bring comfort, healing, and transformation. Let us carry the burdens of others in prayer, trusting in God’s power to bring change, and be encouraged that even when we don’t know what to say, the Spirit intercedes for us.

Encourage your congregation to make intercessory prayer a regular part of their lives, bringing the needs of others before God in faith and love.