BUILDING TO LAST (BIBLE STUDY) GUIDELINES
THEME: UNDERSTANDING THE TIMES AND SEASONS (1 CHRONICLE 12:32)
TOPIC: LIVING A LIFE OF PRAYER (PART 2)
BIBLE TEXT: Acts 6:3 – 4
INTRODUCTION
Last week, we considered the prayer life of Jesus Christ as we strive to stand firm in the faith as we see the day approaching for the return of the king of glory.
The days ahead of us are days that require a strong base of spiritual foundation. Hence, prayer is a strong pillar for a triumphant Christian living.
Jesus taught the disciples the act of prayer, and He lived the life of prayer.
However, the apostles never understood the need to pray while Jesus Christ was with them here on earth. (Luke 5:33-35).
The last commandment Jesus gave the disciples clearly stated the need for watching in prayers, He told them to tarry in Jerusalem until they receive the promise of the Father which will only be delivered to them in prayers. (Luke 24:49, Acts 1:8)
Today, as we continue in our study, we shall be considering the efficacy of prayers in the life and ministry of the apostles.
THE IMPACT OF PRAYERS IN THE LIFE AND MINISTRY OF THE APOSTLES
1. They were endued with the Holy Ghost and Power as they tarried in Prayers: The apostolic movement commenced as an aftermath of the baptism of the Holy Ghost and Power at Pentecost The fearful and timid Peter became very bold when the Holy Ghost came upon him after tarrying in the upper room for 50 days. (Acts 2:1-4,14-21,41-47)
2. The Apostles maintained continuity with God in prayers as they set aside an hour of prayer: The same set of people that were sleeping while Jesus went to pray, are now going to the temple to pray at a certain hour of the day to maintain their continuity with God in prayers which resulted in notables signs, wonders and miracles. (Acts 3:1-16, 4:16)
3. Having experienced the power of prayers, they continue to grow stronger even in the face of challenges: The Holy Ghost empowered the apostles to continue steadfastly in the faith even amid the threats and attacks against them and their work to propagate the gospel. The attack which would have made them retreat and turn backwards, rather pushed them to the place of prayer. (Acts 4:17-33)
4. They enjoyed great deliverances through the help of the Holy Ghost: Even when the sects of Sadducees were filled with indignation and cast into prison due to their commitment to making Jesus’ name known to the heathen, the angels of the Lord came to their rescue to continue with the assignment of preaching and teaching the people the gospel of the kingdom of God. (Acts 5:17-25)
In conclusion, the Holy Spirit is our helper, we need to depend on Him for help and empowerment to remain steadfast and productive in our place of assignment. When we depend on the Holy Spirit in this sinful World we are strengthened, as He keeps us from falling and thereby enabling us to live a life of peace and progress going about the most important thing in the heart of God (Soul Winning).
Jesus is Lord!
