Continued 👇🏾
The Command to Intercede
✍🏾 The Scriptures clearly command all Christians to pray for one another:
“Pray for one another, that you may be healed.”
(James 5:16)
The prayer of Abune Zebesemaat, taught by our holy father Medhane Alem, also emphasizes praying not only for ourselves but for others showing that intercession is central to Christian prayer.
Saint Paul likewise urges:
“I exhort that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in authority... This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
(1 Timothy 2:1–4)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.”
(Philippians 4:6)
The Prophet Isaiah lamented:
“He saw that there was no one, and was appalled that there was no intercessor.”
(Isaiah 59:16)
Our Lord Himself commanded:
“Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.”
(Matthew 5:43–47)
The Superiority of the Saints’ Intercession
✍🏾 While intercession is a duty for all believers, the Scriptures clearly show that the intercession of the saints is superior, more honorable, and brings quicker answers from God. Consider the following examples:
1. Abraham’s Intercession (Genesis 18:16–33)
When the Holy Trinity appeared to Abraham, they said, “Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do?” Because of Abraham’s pleading, God spared Lot from destruction, though Sodom and Gomorrah perished for their sins.
2. Lot’s Intercession (Genesis 19:18–22)
When Lot prayed, the Lord said, “Behold, I have accepted your request in this matter; I will not destroy the city you have spoken of.” The angels spared the city on account of Lot’s faithfulness.
Part 5 Continues ...
May the name of the Holy God be praised forever and ever in every tongue that He has created, today and always.
May the blessings of God's mother, the virgin, and the cross be upon us.
Amen.
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