2009-11-29
The Parables of Jesus - Persevering in the Joy of Prayer
Steve Lane

A. Introduction/Review
Abiding sanctifies our desires and our passion in prayer. (I hear you knocking)
Because the man dared to ask his friend, he hot what he asked. (Luke 11)
Jesus wants his followers to pray, and with the assurance that God answers prayer.
It is a promise of power in doing the will of Jesus and living out the revolution.

B. The Weak Keep on Knocking
Luke 18: 1 - 8 The point of the next parable is found in the first verse of the parable.
Jesus didn't just say to pray. He prayed.

C. Get the Right Context of Persevering Prayer

Have we prayed for power and not seen it? (Luke 11: 13, Acts 1: 8)
But we must also consider the context of persevering prayer. (John 15: 7)

We hear His words and we pour out our longings to Him.
These chapters in John will help us in putting bold and persevering prayer within the intended context. John 16: 24 gives the same message as John 15: 7

D. The Center of Everything

At the center of my life there is a gaping hole without God. This hole constitutes my need and my rebellion at the same time. I want it filled.

~John Piper

The great enemy to always being in an attitude of prayer:
James 4: 3 - 10 Wrong praying. Asking God to fill the hold with something else.
Romans 8: 5 - 6 Having right desires is another secret to a powerful prayer life.
[John 16: 21 - 24, John 14: 12,14]

E. The Point of Prayer

I don't hold out much hope for that prayer to be answered in fullness until...
Many are trying to use their direct live for something other than the revolution.
And, their prayers are not answered, and there is no lasting joy.

Ephesians 6: 12,17,18 The point of prayer is fellowship with Jesus, and empowering for the mission. But, we try to use it for domestic purposes to increase our comfort.
Examples:
Ephesians 6: 19
Colossians 4: 3
Romans 15: 30 - 31
2 Thessalonians 3: 1
Matthew 9: 38
Right prayer propels us outward. 'Go'
This unpraying Christian then does not bear fruit, is not joyful and cannot seem to love.
What we really need are people who will pray.

What do you long for? Pursue everything you long for in Him.