LHIM Classes

Download: Prayer by the Book 7 Notes

Session 7 – Colossians 1:9-12

1 John 5:14-15; Proverbs 15:29; Ephesians 6:18

Colossians 1:9-12

For this reason, also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask

↓ (that you) intention

that you may be filled with the knowledge [epignosis] of His will in all spiritual wisdom [sophia] and understanding [sunesis],

↓ (so that) further intention

so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects,

↓ further leads to

bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might,

↓ (for) ultimate purpose

for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light.

The prayer is constructed with three sets of three:

1 Filled with a knowledge of His will; 2 All spiritual wisdom; 3 All spiritual understanding

1 Bearing fruit in every good work; 2 Increasing in the knowledge of God;

3 Strengthened with all power

1 All steadfastness; 2 Patience; 3 Joyously giving thanks

9) For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding

we have not ceased to pray – Paul’s faith and steadfastness to pray is a challenging example for us to emulate.

filled – The Greek word for filled is plēroō meaning to bring to full measure, being completely filled up, saturated with, permeated or influenced by something.

Colossians 1:25; 2:10; 4:17; Ephesians 3:19

knowledge is gained from the Scriptures and direct revelation. The Greek word epignosis refers to knowing in a personal and transformative way. It emphasizes not just intellectual knowledge but relational and practical knowledge that inspires a deep connection with God.

Ephesians 1:17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.

Philippians 1:9-10 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ

2 Peter 1:2-3 Grace, and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.

Spiritual Wisdom is the correct application of knowledge. We gain wisdom when we seek it from God. Proverbs 2:6 For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Colossians 1:27-29; 2:1-3, 23; 3:14-16; 4:5; James 1:1-8

His will – based upon verse 3 this pronoun refers to God. When the phrase “His will” is used elsewhere it always refers to God; Romans 12:2; Ephesians 1:1; and 1 Thessalonians 4:3.

Understanding comes from the Greek word sunesis which means running together like tributaries into a river; thus refers to a mental grasp or comprehension. It means being thoroughly familiar with something and apprehending its character, nature, or subtleties.

2 Timothy 2:7 Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.

10) so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God

Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord means to live in a way that matches or reflects the value of the One you belong to. Conduct that is in balance with the calling, gift, or relationship you’ve received. It doesn’t mean “earning worth” before God — rather, it means living consistently with the worthiness of Christ.

Ephesians 4:1 – walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called.

Philippians 1:27 – let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ.1 Thessalonians 2:12 – walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.

The word translated “worthy” from Greek is axiōs and emphasizes that believers should let their daily walk (lifestyle) line up with: Christ’s lordship, our new identity, and the fruitful, growing life that reflects God’s character.

Think of a scale: one side is the gospel / Christ’s lordship, the other is your life. To walk axiōs is to keep the balance — your actions, attitudes, and choices “weighing up” to what God has done for you in Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:9 – we make it our aim to please Him.

1 Thessalonians 4:1 – you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more.

Romans 12:1 – presenting our bodies as living sacrifices, “holy and acceptable to God.”

Practical Sense in Colossians 1:10

To please Him in all respects:

Whole-life devotion – not compartmentalized faith, but Christ’s lordship touching every part of life.

Continuous aim – an ongoing lifestyle, not a one-time act.

Fruit-bearing obedience – as the rest of the verse says: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in knowledge of God.

11) strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously

Knowledge, wisdom and understanding prepare us to live in a manner appropriate for the Lord to please Him in all respects.

As we live to please the Lord we will 1) bear fruit in every good work, 2) increase in the knowledge of God, 3) strengthened with all power. All this happens according to God’s glorious might.

Strengthened (dunamai/dunamis) to be able, capability. Here it is a present passive participle continually empowered. We are being made capable by God. Not self-strengthening, but God pouring His enabling power into us.

Power (dunamis) power, ability, capability, strength. This is the same root as “strengthened.” It often carries the idea of inherent power (the potential or capacity that resides within). Contrast with kratos dunamis is about ability/enablement (capacity to act), while kratos is about forceful might in action (dominion strength).

Might Root: (kratos) – dominion, might, ruling strength. This word is often used of God’s overwhelming, ruling power that no one can resist. Emphasis: the force or ruling power of God’s glory. It’s not about ability in potential, but sheer manifested might.

Ephesians 1:19–20 and what is the surpassing greatness of His power [dunamis] toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength [kratos] of His might [His mighty strength] which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places,

Strengthened (δυναμούμενοι) – the soldier in the field actually being supplied and reinforced with that equipment and training day by day.

Power (δύναμις) – the equipment and training given to each soldier, their ability to act in combat

Might (κράτος) – the unstoppable force of the army itself: tanks, jets, missiles, sheer firepower.

The big idea: Paul’s prayer isn’t just “be strong.” It’s: May God’s unstoppable might flow into you as real power, strengthening you every moment for endurance, patience, and joy.

11) for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously

The ultimate purpose of this prayer is for us to remain faithful (steadfast and patient) until Christ comes back.

for the attaining of the Greek is εἰς Literally “unto” or “for the purpose/result of.”

steadfastness (hypomonē) Endurance, perseverance, the ability to remain under pressure without giving up. More about circumstances (hardship, trial, suffering).

patience (makrothymia) Longsuffering, restraint, self-control toward people — slowness to anger, not lashing out. More relational (how we deal with others).

12) joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light.

We pray for others because we have a concern for their well-being. This prayer is rich with blessings God wants for His children.

Colossians 1:13-14 For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Colossians 4:12-13 Epaphras, who is one of your number, a bondslave of Jesus Christ, sends you his greetings, always laboring earnestly for you in his prayers, that you may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God. For I testify for him that he has a deep concern for you and for those who are in Laodicea and Hierapolis.

Colossians 4:2-4 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving; praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned; that I may make it clear in the way I ought to speak.

Eight concepts to include in prayers for others:

Filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding

Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord

Please Him in all respects

Bear fruit in every good work

Increase in the knowledge of God

Strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might

Attaining of all steadfastness and patience

Joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light

Download: Prayer by the Book 6 Notes

Intercessory prayer means to stand in the gap or plead on behalf of another person. It literally signifies stepping in for someone else. In prayer, intercession occurs when we bring another’s needs before God—asking for His help, mercy, healing, provision, or guidance on their behalf. The concepts we are studying focus on the very things God desires us to pray for others.

Paul often begins his intercessory prayers with thanksgiving. It seems to be the entry point into intercession. Thankfulness acknowledges what God has already done in the believers. The prayer then asks God to build on that foundation and take them further.

Romans 1:8-9 — First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. For God, whom I serve in my spirit in the preaching of the gospel of His Son, is my witness as to how unceasingly I make mention of you.

1 Corinthians 1:4 — I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 1:15-16 — Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith… cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers.

Philippians 1:3–5 — I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy…

Colossians 1:3 — We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you.

1 Thessalonians 1:2 — We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers.

2 Thessalonians 1:3 — We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because that your faith grows exceedingly…

The only real exceptions are Galatians (where he skips thanksgiving entirely and jumps straight into rebuke) and 2 Corinthians (he does not have a direct “I thank God for you,” though he does express deep affection and comfort later).

Thankfulness is not just a mood when things go well, it’s meant to be the constant posture of a believer’s life. Paul writes those words while facing hardship himself, beatings, prisons, uncertainty. So, when he says “always,” it’s not naïve optimism, it’s a spiritual discipline rooted in trust.

1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 – Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Ephesians 5:20 – Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Colossians 3:17 – And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Philippians 1:9-11

(9) And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment,

↓ So that

↓ In order

(10) in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ;

↓ Having been

↓ To – (Ultimate purpose)

For love to abound more and more it must be based upon true knowledge which comes from the Scriptures or direct revelation and discernment for every given situation. (Ephesians 1:17)

“Knowledge” – is translated from the Greek epignosis that carries the idea of “precise and thorough understanding.” An intensification is implied, that is a deep, experiential, and complete comprehension rather than a surface-level or abstract awareness.

1 John 5:14-15 This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.

“All discernment” – refers to the ability to judge well making careful distinctions with clarity and wisdom, distinguishing what aligns with God’s will. Such discernment and wisdom comes from God.

Proverbs 2:3-6 For if you cry for discernment, lift your voice for understanding; If you seek her as silver and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will discern the fear of Yahweh and discover the knowledge of God. For Yahweh gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.

James 1:5-6a But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting …

10a) so that you may approve the things that are excellent,

When our love is based upon true knowledge and all discernment, then we can approve the things that are excellent.

Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove [dokimazo] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Galatians 6:4 But each one must examine [dokimazo] his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone, and not in regard to another.

10b) in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ;

Sincere – The Greek word conveys the idea of being held up to the light to reveal genuineness. A sincere person is the real deal rather than one going through the motions and faking their faith.

Blameless – God desires that His children be holy and blameless before Him in love (Ephesians 1:4). This happens in Christ, by the grace of God. The guilty are now innocent, guiltless, and blameless.

Philippians 2:14-15; 2 Peter 3:13-14 We are repeatedly charged to live a blameless life.

Colossians 1:22-23 Every believer has the responsibility to remain blameless until Christ returns or we die. Our prayers for each other provide vital support.

1 Corinthians 1:4-8 We were made to be holy and blameless by the blood of Christ; however, we have the responsibility to remain holy and blameless by being firmly established and steadfast. When Jesus returns, we will be completely blameless for eternity.

To summarize: 1) by God’s grace through the sacrifice of Jesus, when we believed we are made blameless; 2) henceforth, we strive to live a blameless life; 3) if we remain faithful, when Christ returns, we will be blameless forevermore.

The way to be sincere and blameless to the day of Jesus is centered in abounding in love that is dependent upon true knowledge and all discernment and our God given ability to do it right. LOVE is primary!

11) having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

“The fruit of righteousness” points to the results of living the right way; and in the context of this prayer, it is a life centered in love. The fruit is listed in Galatians 5 – love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, meekness, discipline… this all comes from our Lord Jesus Christ.

“To the glory and praise of God” – the ultimate goal of this righteous living is “to the glory and praise of God.”

1 Thessalonians 3:12-13 … may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all people, just as we also do for you; so that He may establish your hearts without blame in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints.

1 Corinthians 1:4-8 I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus, that in everything you were enriched in Him, in all speech and all knowledge, even as the testimony concerning Christ was confirmed in you, so that you are not lacking in any gift, awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will also confirm you….

Five concepts to include in prayers for others:

Download: Session 3: Ephesains 3

John 14:13–14 – Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

John 15:7 – If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.

John 16:23–24 – “If you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you… ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full.”

(14-15) For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name

↓ (that) the request

(16) that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His spirit in the inner man

↓ (that) further leads to

(17) so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith

↓ (and that) for the purpose

(17b,18-19a) and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge,

↓ (that) culminates in

(19b) that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God.

↓ (now) culmination – Glory to God

(20-21) Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.

(14-15) For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name,

“Bow my knees” shows humility, surrender, and reverence.

1 Kings 19:18 — God tells Elijah about the remnant: “I will leave 7,000 in Israel, all the knees that have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him.”

2 Chronicles 6:13 — At the dedication of the temple, Solomon kneels down before all the assembly of Israel, spreads out his hands toward heaven, and prays.

Daniel 6:10 — Daniel, after hearing of the king’s decree, “went into his house… he got down upon his knees three times a day and prayed.”

Luke 22:41 — Jesus in Gethsemane: “And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw and knelt down and began to pray.”

Acts 20:36 — Paul, with the Ephesian elders, “knelt down and prayed with them all.”

Acts 21:5 — The disciples in Tyre, “kneeling down on the beach and praying.”

Philippians 2:10 — “So that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.”

Family — our spiritual family includes spiritual beings in the heavenly realm. Existence and identity for all of us comes from God. This acknowledgement magnifies the mightiness of the One to whom we pray.

(16) that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man

Riches of His glory — does not mean out of His riches (as if God gives a small portion from a limited treasury). Instead, it means in proportion to the infinite abundance of His glory.

The spirit strengthens us not with just a little help, but with a supply that reflects the vast, inexhaustible wealth of God’s glory.

So, “according to the riches of His glory” means: God empowers us in a way that corresponds to His own infinite majesty and overflowing resources. The measure is not our weakness or need, but His limitless supply.

Philippians 4:19 God supplies not “out of” but “according to” His riches – stresses abundance: our needs are met in proportion to His limitless wealth, not our small requests.

Colossians 1:27 This is not just wealth—it’s the treasure of Christ’s presence given to His people.

Romans 9:23 The idea is that His generosity towards us is designed to magnify His own glory.

Ephesians 1:18 The “riches of glory” describe the value God places on His people. His “inheritance” (us!) is framed in terms of overflowing worth and majesty.

Inner man — 2 Corinthians 4:16; Romans 7:22 Describes the spiritual core of a person. The renewed, God-oriented self that comes alive through the Spirit. It contrasts with the “outer man” (our physical body, natural desires, or human weakness), which is subject to decay and limitation.

(17) so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith

The heart — is the center of our lives determining all we do. Christ dwelling therein implies his influence on our actions. This happens by our faith.

(17b,18-19a) and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge,

Rooted and grounded — the roots of trees connect them with their life source, their existence. Grounded implies our spiritual stability. When we are completely centered in love we can comprehend the vastness of the love of Christ.

Comprehend — from the Greek word katalambano meaning more than intellectual knowledge it is experiential understanding.

With all saints — Puts emphasize that the comprehension of Christ’s immeasurable love is best and maybe only experienced in the community of believers.

The breadth, length, height and depth — We can measure or observe dimensions of a physical object like a house, mountain, or a piece of furniture. But to see breadth, length, height, and depth all at once is impossible. The language is intentionally stretched. It is not just talking about geometry but about something vast and beyond normal comprehension. The subject matter is Love. The prayer is to comprehend something beyond our ability.

Know — is from the Greek form “ginōskō” often means knowing by experience, personal encounter. We may never fully define the love of Christ with our minds, but we can live in it, be transformed by it, and grow deeper in it daily.

When this godly love is our all in all then we can be filled with all the fullness of God. God is love!

(20) Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us,

Verse 20 bookends with verse 15 putting emphasis on the one to whom we pray and His power to help. The only possible way this prayer can be answered is by Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think. He can help us comprehend that which is humanly impossible to comprehend.

(21) to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.

The culmination is always to glorify God.

The Concepts to Include in our Prayer:

Download: Prayer by the Book 3 & 4 Notes

1 John 5:14-15; Proverbs 15:29

Ephesians 6:18 With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints…

Perseverance – asking, seeking, knocking. Jesus’ parables – the widow woman and friend at midnight. For all saints as we are led by the spirit.

INTERCESSION

The word “intercession” means to go between or to plead on behalf of another. It literally means to step in for someone else:

To stand in between someone and something. Matthew 8:24-27

To speak up or plead on someone’s behalf. Luke 22:31-33

To intervene in one situation for the sake of another. Hebrew 4:14-16

Throne of Grace – In contrast to the fearful approach to God under the Old Covenant (where only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place once a year), believers now have open access to God because of Christ’s priestly intercession.

In prayer, intercession is when you pray to God for someone else — asking for His help, mercy, grace, healing, provision, or guidance for them.

Jesus as the Ultimate Intercessor — Romans 8:34 who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us.

Hebrews 7:25 Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.

We are Called to Intercede for Others–1 Timothy 2:1-4

We love each other and really want to help or bless, intercessory prayer is one of the great ways we can do so.

As we examine these intercessory prayers, the point is not to communicate with God in a ritualistic manner or to have a repetition of memorized words. The prayers are indeed powerful but are not a magical formula. We want to grasp the concepts to incorporate into our prayers. Similar to the Lord’s Prayer we are looking for guidelines for the things that God deems important to include in our prayers for ourselves and others.

I … do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers

↓ that (substance of the prayer)

that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.

↓ that leads to

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened,

↓ so that

so that you will know

↓ three of God’s desires

1 what is the hope of His calling,

2 what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

3 and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.

↓ In accordance with

These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might

which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places,

Ephesians 1:17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.

The prayer is addressed to God the Father and not Jesus our Lord.

Spirit — The prayer is for those who already have the holy spirit. So, spirit here means an attitude, mindset, disposition or a pervasive influence. Similar to Galatians 6:1 “spirit of gentleness”; Romans 8:15 “spirit of slavery”, “spirit of adoption”, 2 Timothy 1:7 “spirit of fear”.

Wisdom — Godly wisdom comes from God. Proverbs 2:6-7 We must be connected to God to gain His wisdom.

Wisdom is essential for truly knowing God, especially in a world affected by evil.

Matthew 7:15; Matthew 24:11; Acts 20:29–30; 2 Corinthians 11:13–15; Galatians 1:6–9; 2 Peter 2:1–3

James 1:5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach [w/o finding fault, w/o rebuke] and it will be given to him.

Revelation — an unveiling or revealing of what is hidden — God making Himself and His ways known to us.

Knowledge (epignōsis) — is a deep, personal, experiential knowledge, not just knowing facts about God, but truly knowing Him in relationship. God wants us to know Him and His desires for human family.

THE SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND REVELATION IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD!

Can you think of anyone that might benefit from this prayer?

Ephesians 1:18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know…

Heart — the core of your being, including how you think, what you choose, what you feel. It is the well-spring of life, rather than some flippant, meaningless or random thought.

Proverbs 4:23 (REV) More than anything else you protect, guard your heart, because from it flow the issues of life.

Enlightened — means to be illuminated by light — not just in the sense of knowing something, but truly understanding and comprehending it on a deeper, spiritual level. It’s the difference between hearing a truth and having it come alive inside you, where it changes how you see and live.

EYES OF YOUR HEART MAY BE ENLIGHTENED

Can you think of anyone that might benefit from you praying this for them?

Ephesians 1:18 …what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints

The emphasis is on His, not ours. God desires for us to understand His heart, His purposes, and our place within them.

His calling

Genesis 1:26-28 God’s original calling was for humans to be like Him on the earth.

Colossians 1:15 He [Jesus] is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.

Hebrews 1:3 And He [Jesus] is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature and upholds all things by the word of His power.

In Jesus we see what God wanted for all humans.

Romans 8:29 For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son….

Ephesians 1:18 what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints:

Inheritance:

Ephesians 1:11, 13-15 We are His inheritance, and He is ours.

1 Peter 1:3-5; Hebrews 9:15; Romans 8:16-17

WHAT IS THE HOPE OF HIS CALLING, WHAT ARE THE RICHES OF THE GLORY OF HIS INHERITANCE IN THE SAINTS

Can you think of someone who might benefit from your prayer regarding this subject?

Ephesians 1:19 and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might.

20- 23 The same power that did what it did for Jesus.

2 Corinthians 5:17 God wants you to know His power that made you who you are today and will make you who are when Christ returns. The same power that did for Jesus will do it for you.

Romans 8:29 For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren.

If you walk with God, you already experience this power in you so we can have confidence that same power will transform you when Christ returns.

WHAT IS THE SURPASSING GREATNESS OF HIS POWER TOWARD US WHO BELIEVE.

Can you think of anyone that might benefit from your prayers?

We can add the following for our intercessory prayers for others:

Know what is the hope of His calling.

Know the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

Know the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.

Download: Prayer by the Book 3 & 4 Notes

1 John 5:14-15; Proverbs 15:29

Ephesians 6:18 With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints…

Perseverance – asking, seeking, knocking. Jesus’ parables – the widow woman and friend at midnight. For all saints as we are led by the spirit.

INTERCESSION

The word “intercession” means to go between or to plead on behalf of another. It literally means to step in for someone else:

To stand in between someone and something. Matthew 8:24-27

To speak up or plead on someone’s behalf. Luke 22:31-33

To intervene in one situation for the sake of another. Hebrew 4:14-16

Throne of Grace – In contrast to the fearful approach to God under the Old Covenant (where only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place once a year), believers now have open access to God because of Christ’s priestly intercession.

In prayer, intercession is when you pray to God for someone else — asking for His help, mercy, grace, healing, provision, or guidance for them.

Jesus as the Ultimate Intercessor — Romans 8:34 who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us.

Hebrews 7:25 Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.

We are Called to Intercede for Others–1 Timothy 2:1-4

We love each other and really want to help or bless, intercessory prayer is one of the great ways we can do so.

As we examine these intercessory prayers, the point is not to communicate with God in a ritualistic manner or to have a repetition of memorized words. The prayers are indeed powerful but are not a magical formula. We want to grasp the concepts to incorporate into our prayers. Similar to the Lord’s Prayer we are looking for guidelines for the things that God deems important to include in our prayers for ourselves and others.

I … do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers

↓ that (substance of the prayer)

that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.

↓ that leads to

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened,

↓ so that

so that you will know

↓ three of God’s desires

1 what is the hope of His calling,

2 what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

3 and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.

↓ In accordance with

These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might

which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places,

Ephesians 1:17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.

The prayer is addressed to God the Father and not Jesus our Lord.

Spirit — The prayer is for those who already have the holy spirit. So, spirit here means an attitude, mindset, disposition or a pervasive influence. Similar to Galatians 6:1 “spirit of gentleness”; Romans 8:15 “spirit of slavery”, “spirit of adoption”, 2 Timothy 1:7 “spirit of fear”.

Wisdom — Godly wisdom comes from God. Proverbs 2:6-7 We must be connected to God to gain His wisdom.

Wisdom is essential for truly knowing God, especially in a world affected by evil.

Matthew 7:15; Matthew 24:11; Acts 20:29–30; 2 Corinthians 11:13–15; Galatians 1:6–9; 2 Peter 2:1–3

James 1:5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach [w/o finding fault, w/o rebuke] and it will be given to him.

Revelation — an unveiling or revealing of what is hidden — God making Himself and His ways known to us.

Knowledge (epignōsis) — is a deep, personal, experiential knowledge, not just knowing facts about God, but truly knowing Him in relationship. God wants us to know Him and His desires for human family.

THE SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND REVELATION IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD!

Can you think of anyone that might benefit from this prayer?

Ephesians 1:18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know…

Heart — the core of your being, including how you think, what you choose, what you feel. It is the well-spring of life, rather than some flippant, meaningless or random thought.

Proverbs 4:23 (REV) More than anything else you protect, guard your heart, because from it flow the issues of life.

Enlightened — means to be illuminated by light — not just in the sense of knowing something, but truly understanding and comprehending it on a deeper, spiritual level. It’s the difference between hearing a truth and having it come alive inside you, where it changes how you see and live.

EYES OF YOUR HEART MAY BE ENLIGHTENED

Can you think of anyone that might benefit from you praying this for them?

Ephesians 1:18 …what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints

The emphasis is on His, not ours. God desires for us to understand His heart, His purposes, and our place within them.

His calling

Genesis 1:26-28 God’s original calling was for humans to be like Him on the earth.

Colossians 1:15 He [Jesus] is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.

Hebrews 1:3 And He [Jesus] is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature and upholds all things by the word of His power.

In Jesus we see what God wanted for all humans.

Romans 8:29 For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son….

Ephesians 1:18 what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints:

Inheritance:

Ephesians 1:11, 13-15 We are His inheritance, and He is ours.

1 Peter 1:3-5; Hebrews 9:15; Romans 8:16-17

WHAT IS THE HOPE OF HIS CALLING, WHAT ARE THE RICHES OF THE GLORY OF HIS INHERITANCE IN THE SAINTS

Can you think of someone who might benefit from your prayer regarding this subject?

Ephesians 1:19 and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might.

20- 23 The same power that did what it did for Jesus.

2 Corinthians 5:17 God wants you to know His power that made you who you are today and will make you who are when Christ returns. The same power that did for Jesus will do it for you.

Romans 8:29 For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren.

If you walk with God, you already experience this power in you so we can have confidence that same power will transform you when Christ returns.

WHAT IS THE SURPASSING GREATNESS OF HIS POWER TOWARD US WHO BELIEVE.

Can you think of anyone that might benefit from your prayers?

We can add the following for our intercessory prayers for others:

Know what is the hope of His calling.

Know the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

Know the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.

Download: Jesus On Prayer Notes

Matthew 6:1-6; 23:1-33 Avoid hypocrisy. Do not be like the Pharisees and

Scribes who love public recognition. Instead, be authentic and sincere. Outwardly, they appeared righteous, but inside were full of greed and self­ indulgence.

Judas Iscariot (John 12:4-6; Matthew 26:14-25) – Pretended concern for the poor when criticizing Mary for using expensive ointment, but he really was a thief.

Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11) – Pretended they were giving all the proceeds from selling property while secretly holding some back.

Isaiah 29:13 Then the Lord said, “because this people draw near with their words and honor Me with their lip service, but they remove their hearts far from Me, and their reverence for Me consists of tradition learned by rote.

Matthew 6:7-8 Avoid mechanical or habitual repetition void of understanding the meaning of what is prayed. This is not an instruction to avoid repetition, rather avoid meaningless rote repetition.

The Lord’s prayer, Matthew 6:9-14, has become for many what Jesus told us to avoid.

Jesus contrasts the mechanical approach with a relationship-based approach. God already knows your needs, so prayer is not about informing Him or trying to persuade Him with word count. Prayer is not about formulas, rituals, or endless repetition. God values sincerity and trust.

Matthew 6:9-13; Luke 11:2-4

Matthew 7:7-11 The Greek uses present tense imperatives, which usually carry the sense of continuous or repeated action, so it can be properly translated “asking, seeking, and knocking”. This is a continuous ongoing action.

Luke 11:1-13 If even a reluctant friend will eventually respond to persistent knocking (because of shameless boldness), how much more will your Father who is loving and generous respond to His children who persist in prayer. It shows that persistence is not about nagging God into submission, but about demonstrating genuine need, trust, and reliance on Him.

Luke 18:1-8 It teaches not just persistence in daily prayer, but perseverance in hope when God’s timing feels delayed.

Luke 18:9-14 Jesus sets up a contrast – Pharisee vs. tax collector, the opposite ends of social/religious respectability. The most probable vs. the least likely. Not only does he teach humility, he exposes the religious hypocrisy.

The tax collector’s humble cry “God, be merciful to me, a sinner” was accepted by God, while the Pharisee’s self-congratulation was rejected.

2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face …then I will hear from heaven and forgive their sin.

Ezra 9:5-6; Psalm 51:17; James 4:6, 10; 1 Peter 5:6-7

Luke 7:37-38 The sinful woman’s act of humble devotion is as much prayer as any spoken words.

Mark 11:25; Matthew 6:12 – Prayer is hindered if we cling to unforgiveness. Prayer opens fellowship with God, but unforgiveness blocks that fellowship.

If you have difficulty forgiving someone, your first prayer is to ask God to help you forgive. He will help.

Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13

Matthew 21:18-22 Jesus provides an example for understanding faith and prayer.

Mark 11:13-24 Believe that God hears and will answer according to His will. Faith is essential, though faith doesn’t mean forcing God’s hand – it’s trusting His wisdom.

John 6:11; Matthew 15:36 Jesus before multiplying the bread and fishes

Luke 22:17-19 Last supper John 11:41 Lazarus’ tomb Follow Jesus’ Example:

Jesus often prayed alone (Mark 1:35), before major decisions (Luke 6:12), in

gratitude (John 11:41), and even in deep distress (Luke 22:41-44).

His prayers showed intimacy with the Father, submission to God’s will, and reliance on Him in all circumstances.

Download: Jesus On Prayer Notes

Matthew 6:1-6; 23:1-33 Avoid hypocrisy. Do not be like the Pharisees and

Scribes who love public recognition. Instead, be authentic and sincere. Outwardly, they appeared righteous, but inside were full of greed and self­ indulgence.

Judas Iscariot (John 12:4-6; Matthew 26:14-25) – Pretended concern for the poor when criticizing Mary for using expensive ointment, but he really was a thief.

Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11) – Pretended they were giving all the proceeds from selling property while secretly holding some back.

Isaiah 29:13 Then the Lord said, “because this people draw near with their words and honor Me with their lip service, but they remove their hearts far from Me, and their reverence for Me consists of tradition learned by rote.

Matthew 6:7-8 Avoid mechanical or habitual repetition void of understanding the meaning of what is prayed. This is not an instruction to avoid repetition, rather avoid meaningless rote repetition.

The Lord’s prayer, Matthew 6:9-14, has become for many what Jesus told us to avoid.

Jesus contrasts the mechanical approach with a relationship-based approach. God already knows your needs, so prayer is not about informing Him or trying to persuade Him with word count. Prayer is not about formulas, rituals, or endless repetition. God values sincerity and trust.

Matthew 6:9-13; Luke 11:2-4

Matthew 7:7-11 The Greek uses present tense imperatives, which usually carry the sense of continuous or repeated action, so it can be properly translated “asking, seeking, and knocking”. This is a continuous ongoing action.

Luke 11:1-13 If even a reluctant friend will eventually respond to persistent knocking (because of shameless boldness), how much more will your Father who is loving and generous respond to His children who persist in prayer. It shows that persistence is not about nagging God into submission, but about demonstrating genuine need, trust, and reliance on Him.

Luke 18:1-8 It teaches not just persistence in daily prayer, but perseverance in hope when God’s timing feels delayed.

Luke 18:9-14 Jesus sets up a contrast – Pharisee vs. tax collector, the opposite ends of social/religious respectability. The most probable vs. the least likely. Not only does he teach humility, he exposes the religious hypocrisy.

The tax collector’s humble cry “God, be merciful to me, a sinner” was accepted by God, while the Pharisee’s self-congratulation was rejected.

2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face …then I will hear from heaven and forgive their sin.

Ezra 9:5-6; Psalm 51:17; James 4:6, 10; 1 Peter 5:6-7

Luke 7:37-38 The sinful woman’s act of humble devotion is as much prayer as any spoken words.

Mark 11:25; Matthew 6:12 – Prayer is hindered if we cling to unforgiveness. Prayer opens fellowship with God, but unforgiveness blocks that fellowship.

If you have difficulty forgiving someone, your first prayer is to ask God to help you forgive. He will help.

Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13

Matthew 21:18-22 Jesus provides an example for understanding faith and prayer.

Mark 11:13-24 Believe that God hears and will answer according to His will. Faith is essential, though faith doesn’t mean forcing God’s hand – it’s trusting His wisdom.

John 6:11; Matthew 15:36 Jesus before multiplying the bread and fishes

Luke 22:17-19 Last supper John 11:41 Lazarus’ tomb Follow Jesus’ Example:

Jesus often prayed alone (Mark 1:35), before major decisions (Luke 6:12), in

gratitude (John 11:41), and even in deep distress (Luke 22:41-44).

His prayers showed intimacy with the Father, submission to God’s will, and reliance on Him in all circumstances.

Download: The Cross and Resurrection

This final section of Mark’s Gospel brings the Passion narrative to its climax. The crucifixion of Jesus is marked by irony, mockery, and cosmic signs. Yet, it is also the moment of revelation—Jesus’ true identity is revealed through his suffering. The narrative ends not with triumphal appearances but with an empty tomb and trembling disciples, inviting the reader to respond in faith.

Narrative Function in the Gospel of Mark

The Crucifixion of Jesus (15:21-32)

Simon of Cyrene is compelled to carry Jesus’ cross. Jesus is crucified at Golgotha, offered wine mixed with myrrh (which he refuses), and mocked by onlookers and religious leaders. Two criminals are crucified along with him.

Narrative Contribution:

The Death of Jesus (15:33-41)

At noon, darkness covers the land. Jesus cries out quoting an OT psalm and then breathes his last. The temple curtain is torn in two, and the Roman centurion proclaims Jesus as “the Son of God.”

Narrative Contribution:

The Burial of Jesus (15:42-47)

Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the council, decides to ask Pilate for Jesus’ body. Jesus is confirmed dead, Joseph buries him in a rock tomb. Women disciples are mentioned watching where he is laid.

Narrative Contribution:

The Resurrection of Jesus (16:1-8)

Early on the first day of the week (Sunday), three women come to anoint Jesus but find the stone rolled away. A young man in white tells them Jesus has risen, and they are to tell the disciples he will meet them in Galilee. The women flee in fear and say nothing to anyone.

Narrative Contribution:

Download: Betrayal and Trials

This section portrays the intensifying isolation of Jesus as he moves from Gethsemane to Golgotha. The narrative shifts from private anguish to public humiliation, revealing the failure of people to recognized God’s purpose for the Messiah. Jesus remains steady while those around him (i.e., his disciples) either fall asleep, flee, or actively deny him. The irony is heavy: the true King is rejected and mocked as a false king and messiah.

Narrative Function in the Gospel of Mark

Jesus Prays in Gethsemane (14:32-42)

Jesus brings Peter, James, and John deeper into the garden and shares his distress. While he prays for another way, he ultimately submits to God’s will. Meanwhile, the disciples repeatedly fall asleep.

Narrative Contribution:

Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested (14:43-52)

Judas arrives with a crowd of armed men and identifies Jesus with a kiss—a symbol of friendship that is an act of betrayal. Jesus is arrested, and all his disciples flee.

Narrative Contribution:

Jesus Before the Sanhedrin (14:53-65)

Jesus is brought before the Jewish council. False witnesses contradict each other. Finally, Jesus openly affirms that he is the Messiah, the Son of Man. The high priest accuses him of blasphemy, and Jesus is condemned to death.

Narrative Contribution:

Peter Denies Jesus (14:66-72)

While Jesus is on trial, Peter is in the courtyard. He denies knowing Jesus three times, just as Jesus foretold. When the rooster crows, Peter breaks down in tears.

Narrative Contribution:

Jesus Before Pilate (15:1-15)

Jesus is handed over to the Roman governor. Pilate is puzzled by Jesus’ silence and perceives that the chief priests are acting out of envy. Still, he gives in to the crowd and orders Jesus’ crucifixion.

Narrative Contribution:

The Soldiers Mock Jesus (15:16-20)

Inside the governor’s palace, Roman soldiers dress Jesus in purple, crown him with thorns, and mock him as “King of the Jews.” After this cruel parody, they lead him out to be crucified.

Narrative Contribution:

Download: Anointing and Last Supper

This section of Mark initiates the Passion narrative and is rich with irony, contrast, and prophetic fulfillment. Jesus is surrounded by plots of betrayal, yet he remains composed and purposeful. Acts of devotion (the anointing) are set against treachery (Judas’s betrayal), and the Last Supper becomes both a moment of intimate fellowship and the announcement of looming failure among the disciples

Narrative Function in the Gospel of Mark

Mark 14:1-31 functions as the emotional and contextual setup for Jesus’ subsequent arrest and crucifixion.

Religious leaders scheme to arrest and kill Jesus but want to avoid doing it during the Passover festival to prevent unrest in Jerusalem.

Narrative Contribution:

At a meal in Bethany, an unnamed woman anoints Jesus with costly perfume. Some present criticize her for waste, but Jesus defends her, saying she has anointed him for burial.

Narrative Contribution:

Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, seeks out the chief priests and agrees to betray Jesus for money.

Narrative Contribution:

Jesus sends two disciples ahead to prepare the Passover meal, giving them specific instructions that unfold just as he said they would.

Narrative Contribution:

At the table, Jesus announces that one of the Twelve sitting there will betray him. The disciples are distressed and begin asking if it is them. Jesus confirms the betrayer is one “dipping bread into the bowl” with him.

Narrative Contribution:

During the meal, Jesus takes bread and wine and redefines them as his body and blood—symbols of the new covenant.

Narrative Contribution:

After singing a hymn, Jesus predicts that all his disciples will fall away (quoting Zech. 13:7). Peter insists he will remain faithful, even to death, but Jesus prophesies Peter’s threefold denial before the rooster crows twice.

Narrative Contribution: