Sermon Study Notes: A Call to Intercession 10.12.25

Sermon Topic: A Call to Intercession

Primary Scripture Reference:

• Esther Chapter 4, verses 7-17 [59:19]

Supporting Scripture References:

• 2 Chronicles 7:13-14 (On humbling ourselves and turning from wicked ways) [01:18:54]

• Ezekiel 22:30 (God sought for a man to stand in the gap) [01:17:15]

• 1 John 3:22 (We receive because we keep His commandments) [01:22:21]

• Proverbs 18:16 (A man's gift makes room for him) [01:34:38]

Key Study Points & Outline

I. The Context of Intercession and Selfishness

• Purpose of the Call: The focus is on World Missions and ministering to people less fortunate, not just those in our immediate circle [56:48]. We are a body, and everyone has a part to play (praying, fasting, sowing) [58:09].

• The Danger of Self-Absorption: The "last days" are marked by men being lovers of themselves (2 Timothy 3:2). We are warned against the selfishness and greed that consume us and block opportunities for others [01:06:35].

• Contentment is Key: Our desire to "have more" will never be satisfied; we must find a way to be content with what God has blessed us with, rather than coveting what others have [01:08:52].

• Intercession Requires Service: Jesus taught that those who desire to be great among you "shall be your servant" (Mark 10:43-45). The root of every sin is selfishness; righteousness exalts a nation [01:13:12].

II. The Demand for Effective Intercession

• Beyond Prayer: Intercession is more than just praying for others; it is the act of standing between or intervening, and it requires consecration (the giving of one's self) [01:15:40].

• Standing in the Gap: God sought a man to "make up the hedge and stand in the gap" (Ezekiel 22:30). He found none, not just because none were willing, but because none were able/righteous [01:17:15].

• Pray and Live the Life: For our prayers to be effective, we must "pray and live the life." This includes:

  • Humble ourselves and pray.

  • Seek His face.

  • Turn from our wicked ways [01:18:33].

• The Doctrine of Clean Hands: The "effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much" (James 5:16). We receive what we ask because we keep His commandments and do what is pleasing in His sight (1 John 3:22) [01:22:09].

III. Queen Esther's Model for the Intercessor

• God's Preparation: While the enemy (Haman) was planning destruction, God was preparing an intercessor, Hadassah, who became Queen Esther [01:26:24]. Don't underestimate who God will use, as promotion comes from above [01:28:57].

• Favor is for a Purpose: Queen Esther's favor was not just for her benefit but for a purpose. The favor and blessings on your life are given to be a link and a blessing to others [01:31:45]. God's gift will make room for you and bring you before great men, giving you opportunities to help others (Proverbs 18:16) [01:34:38].

• The Two Reminders: Esther's cousin, Morai, called her out of her comfort zone by reminding her of two truths:

  1. Who she was: You are a Jew; don't let the palace fool you. You are a sinner saved by grace [01:36:53].

  2. Her moment: "Who knoweth whether you are come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" This is your time to act. [01:39:46].

• Don't Miss Your Moment: We must repent of procrastination regarding God's calling. Our life is a vapor (James 4:13-14), and there is no interceding or praising in the grave. Act now [01:41:37].

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