Sermon Notes
- Title : A Call to Pray
Summary
This message explores the concept of “making room” in the context of spiritual growth and encountering God. It begins by highlighting the contrast between the Pharisees and teachers of the law, who were “sitting” in their positions of religious authority, and the paralytic man who was lowered down to Jesus by his friends. The message emphasizes that true spiritual progress often requires humility and a willingness to “go low” before God, acknowledging our own need for Him and relinquishing our pride or self-sufficiency.
The passage in Luke 5:17-26 serves as a powerful illustration of this principle. The paralytic man, despite facing obstacles and societal limitations, demonstrated remarkable faith and humility by being lowered down to Jesus through the roof. This act of desperation and trust moved Jesus to not only heal the man but also to assert His authority to forgive sins.
Furthermore, the message encourages listeners to consider the significance of prayer in their spiritual journey. It emphasizes that consistent prayer is essential for experiencing God’s presence and receiving His blessings. The message highlights the importance of cultivating a prayer life characterized by humility, dependence on God, and a willingness to seek His face.
Finally, the message calls the congregation to join in a collective prayer effort for the church’s future, specifically focusing on the upcoming building project. It emphasizes the need for prayer for the planning and execution of the project, protection from spiritual opposition, and divine provision for the necessary resources.
Quote: “I believe this make room project that we’re stepping into now is one that we shouldn’t stand in, but it’s one that we should kneel in.”
Key Scriptures
- Luke 5:17-26: This passage describes the healing of the paralytic man, emphasizing the importance of faith, humility, and the authority of Jesus to forgive sins.
- Ephesians 6:12: This verse highlights the spiritual battle we face and emphasizes the importance of prayer as a weapon against the forces of darkness.
- Psalm 91:9-10: This psalm offers assurance of God’s protection and promises that no harm will come to those who dwell in His presence.
Key Takeaways
- True spiritual growth often requires humility and a willingness to “go low” before God.
- Prayer is essential for experiencing God’s presence and receiving His blessings.
- Consistent prayer is a powerful weapon against spiritual opposition.
- We should pray for the planning, protection, and provision of the church’s future endeavors.
- The “boiler room” of prayer is crucial for the church’s success.
- Humility is key to encountering God’s grace.
- We should prioritize seeking God’s face over worldly pursuits.
- The church needs to be a house of prayer.
- Spiritual warfare intensifies when we step out in faith.
- We should commit to daily prayer, even if it’s just for five minutes.
Questions to Consider
- How can you personally “go low” before God in your daily life?
- What are the biggest obstacles you face in maintaining a consistent prayer life?
- How can you actively participate in the prayer needs of the church?
- How can you practically apply the principles of “making room” in your relationships with others?
- What steps can you take to cultivate a deeper level of intimacy with God through prayer?
Prayer
Lord, I thank you for this message and the powerful reminder to humble myself before you. I acknowledge my need for you and recognize that true spiritual growth requires me to “go low” – to set aside my pride and seek your face with sincerity.
Help me to cultivate a consistent prayer life, even when it feels difficult or inconvenient. Grant me the discipline to spend time with you each day, seeking your guidance and surrendering my will to yours.
Protect me from the spiritual battles that may arise as I strive to live out my faith. Surround me with your angels and guard me from the schemes of the enemy.
I pray for the church and for the success of the “Make Room” project. Grant wisdom to our leaders as they make important decisions and provide for all the necessary resources.
May this church be known as a house of prayer, where your presence is powerfully felt and where lives are transformed by your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Action Steps
1: Cultivate a Prayer Life
Task 1: Establish a Daily Prayer Routine
- Step 1: Find a quiet and peaceful space in your home.
- Step 2: Set aside a specific time each day for prayer, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
- Step 3: Begin by expressing gratitude to God for His blessings.
- Step 4: Confess your sins and seek His forgiveness.
- Step 5: Spend time reading Scripture and meditating on God’s Word.
- Step 6: Present your requests and concerns to God in prayer.
- Step 7: Conclude your prayer time by thanking God for His love and faithfulness.
Task 2: Join a Prayer Group
- Step 1: Connect with other believers who are committed to prayer.
- Step 2: Participate in regular prayer meetings or join an online prayer group.
- Step 3: Pray together for the needs of the church and the world.
- Step 4: Encourage and support one another in your prayer journeys.
2: Support the Church’s Vision
Task 1: Pray Regularly for the “Make Room” Project
- Step 1: Dedicate specific prayer times to pray for the planning, protection, and provision of the project.
- Step 2: Pray for wisdom for the leadership team and for the successful completion of each stage of the project.
- Step 3: Encourage others to join you in prayer for the church’s future.
Task 2: Consider Ways to Financially Support the Project
- Step 1: Explore giving options, such as one-time gifts, recurring donations, or pledges.
- Step 2: Talk to your financial advisor about incorporating charitable giving into your financial plan.
- Step 3: Consider volunteering your time and talents to assist with the project in any way possible.
3: Practice Humility in Daily Life
Task 1: Identify areas in your life where pride or self-sufficiency may be hindering your relationship with God.
- Step 2: Acknowledge your dependence on God and seek His guidance in all areas of your life.
- Step 3: Practice acts of service and humility towards others.
- Step 4: Be willing to relinquish control and trust in God’s plan.
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Conclusion
This message provides a powerful reminder of the importance of humility, prayer, and making room for God in our lives. By prioritizing our relationship with God through prayer and seeking His guidance in all things, we can experience the transformative power of His grace.
The call to “go low” before God challenges us to shed our pride and embrace a posture of dependence. As we do so, we open ourselves to receive the blessings and healing that only God can provide.
Furthermore, the message emphasizes the crucial role of prayer in the life of the church. By joining together in prayer, we can intercede for the needs of our community, support the church’s vision, and experience the power of collective intercession.
Ultimately, this message encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God, cultivate a life of prayer, and embrace a spirit of humility and service. As we do so, we can expect to experience the abundant life that God has promised.
Test Your Understanding
- The message emphasizes the importance of _______ in encountering God.
- The paralytic man in the passage was _____ down to Jesus.
- The message encourages listeners to _____ for the church’s future.
- _______ is a powerful weapon against spiritual opposition.
- The church needs a “_____ ______” of prayer.
Solutions:
- humility
- lowered
- pray
- Prayer
- boiler room
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