“Praying for Missionaries: Edifying Through Communication and Prayer”
I. Introduction
A. Opening Scripture: Philippians 4:15-17 (KJV)
B. Setting the context of the letter to the Philippians
C. Emphasize the importance of praying for missionaries
II. The Impact of Prayer on Missionary Work
A. Old Testament Reference: Exodus 17:8-13 (KJV)
1. Highlight the connection between Moses’ raised hands and Israel’s victory 2. Explain the significance of the support and intercession of the people
B. New Testament Reference: Acts 12:5 (KJV)
1. Discuss the power of prayer in the early church 2. Illustrate how the prayers of the church affected Peter’s miraculous release
III. The Importance of Communication and Encouragement
A. Old Testament Reference: Numbers 13:26-33 (KJV)
1. Explore the story of the twelve spies and their report
2. Discuss the effect of the negative report on the people’s faith
B. New Testament Reference: Acts 15:36-41 (KJV)
1. Highlight the disagreement between Paul and Barnabas
2. Explain how communication and encouragement are essential for unity and perseverance
IV. The Power of Prayer in Edification
A. Old Testament Reference: Nehemiah 1:1-11 (KJV)
1. Describe Nehemiah’s prayer for the restoration of Jerusalem
2. Highlight how his prayer led to action and the rebuilding of the walls
B. New Testament Reference: Acts 16:25-34 (KJV)
1. Share the account of Paul and Silas’ imprisonment and their prayer
2. Discuss the miraculous deliverance and conversion that followed
V. Prayer Beyond Monetary Support and Gifting
A. Old Testament Reference: 2 Chronicles 20:1-30 (KJV)
1. Explain King Jehoshaphat’s response to a vast enemy army
2. Emphasize how prayer played a central role in their victory
B. New Testament Reference: 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV)
1. Encourage the congregation to pray without ceasing
2. Highlight the transformative power of continuous prayer for missionaries
VI. Conclusion
A. Recap the importance of prayer for missionaries
B. Encourage the congregation to actively engage in communication and prayer
C. Call for a commitment to support and uplift missionaries through intercession
