Congregational Prayer Response:
Lord, hear our prayers
as we join together in faith.
May Your grace and mercy flow upon those we intercede for,
bringing them healing and restoration.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Sermon Introduction: The Power of Intercessory Prayer
Good morning, beloved congregation. Today, we delve into the profound power of intercessory prayer and how it brings healing and restoration to our lives.
James began and ended his letter by encouraging Christians to respond to any circumstance with prayer.
If a believer becomes sick, he should convene the elders of his assembly and pray over him, anointing with oil in the name of Christ to heal his condition and to atone for any past sins that might exist. By asking others for prayers of faith over him or her, spiritual healing and forgiveness of any past transgressions can occur quickly.
Bringing Healing and Restoration
Confess Your Sins
Religion often emphasize confessing sins as an integral part of spiritual practice, whether this means more minor offenses like insults and fights to more serious transgressions like murder, theft and hurtful actions for personal gain.
True confession acknowledges that God does not only care about external behavior, but is seeking holy desires, pure hearts and holiness inwardly as well. Sin breaks our bonds to Him who loves us unconditionally.
James concludes his letter by encouraging his readers to respond to suffering with prayer, and celebrate their happiness by singing praises of joy.
Pray for One Another
James has used most of this letter to teach his readers how to respond appropriately when faced with suffering and hardship, concluding with a call to prayer.
He reminded his congregation that every circumstance, including illness, should be an opportunity for prayer. He explained how faith-based prayers could heal their loved one quickly. Additionally, he mentioned Elijah to illustrate God’s willingness and ability to heal anyone who comes seeking healing.
However, Jesus also reminds them that they must pray for each other during this difficult period; to support and encourage each other as Jesus would. They need to show each other care.
Restore the Sick
James suggests that when a believer becomes sick, they seek the elders of the church for prayer and anointing with oil in the name of the Lord. James likely assumes that sickness may be punishment from God for sin committed against Him; once they repent of this sin they can find relief and restoration will occur.
While elders’ presence, prayer offerings, and anointing with oil all play an integral role in healing, it is faith itself which brings about change. James makes this point clear throughout his letter; faith should always lead the way!
Confess Your Sins to God
Owing all our sins to Him can be difficult; therefore, recognizing them to Him as part of an important first step to recovery and forgiveness. By confessing your transgressions openly before Him it shows humility and shows your belief in His mercy.
When confessing your sins, be as specific as possible. Do not disguise them by generalizations such as saying you had issues with “lust,” when the reality may have been pornography binges instead. Such statements tend to reduce or lessen the severity of sin while also evading accountability.
Remember, confession combined with prayer (an action word!) leads to healing.
