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THE PARABLES OF PRAYER Luke 18: 1 - 14. Prayer is communication with God, mediated by Jesus Christ (1 Jn. 2: 1- 3), and combined with intersession of the Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:26). Therefore, Luke 18:1 and 1 Thessalonians 5:17 are synonymous.
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THE PARABLES OF PRAYERLuke 18: 1 - 14 Prayer is communication with God, mediated by Jesus Christ (1 Jn. 2: 1- 3), and combined with intersession of the Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:26). Therefore, Luke 18:1 and 1 Thessalonians 5:17 are synonymous. These parables show the RECEPTION of our prayers, and the REASON of their reception.
THE DETERMINED WOMAN • The mention of an “unjust judge” is a tremendous contrast to the God of Heaven. • The widow asked for “avenging of her adversary.” • She had a need that only one of greater authority could fill. • The judge could have … • Judged the situation • Rectified the situation via his judgment • The widow knew nothing of his attitude toward God and man!
THE DETERMINED WOMAN • The ONLY reason the unjust judge answered her ... • To quiet her continual pleading • It was HIMSELF he truly satisfied! • The Lesson • If an unjust judge gives to one he abhors, how much MORE will the LOVING GOD OF HEAVEN provide our sincere requests? • God will avenge His own elect speedily. • Our prayers should INCREASE rather than DECREASE.
THE PHARISEE AND THE PUBLICAN • This parable deals with WHOM MUST WE TRUST • Note the recipients of this parable were ones who “TRUSTED IN THEMSELVES” while DESPISING others. • Romans 2: 1 – 29 • Philippians 2: 1 - 5 • James 5:16 • Thus, HOW, and TO WHOM and FOR WHOM were such “arrogant” folks praying?
THE PHARISEE AND THE PUBLICAN • The contrast of the two: • Pharisees had a reputation of being “arrogantly religious.” • Publican (tax collector) was considered the “worst of sinners.” • We (Christians) should be EXCEPTIONS to the generalized reputations.
THE PHARISEE AND THE PUBLICAN • The Pharisee’s prayer … • He was a “braggart” • He proved he trusted in himself and despised others. • There is no kindness, no remorse for his arrogance, and no SINCERE thanksgiving in his prayer. • It is as if he says, “Lord, I can do these things WITHOUT your help!”
THE PHARISEE AND THE PUBLICAN • The Publican’s prayer • “God, be merciful to me a sinner.” • Stood afar off – indicates his unworthiness. • Would not lift his eyes to heaven – indicates his humility. • Smote upon his chest – indicates his needed punishment. • “God, be merciful to me a sinner,” admits to the lowly estate of his soul, and the need that only GOD could provide.
THE PHARISEE AND THE PUBLICAN • The Justified • “I tell you this man (the publican – the one considered “worst of sinners”) went down to his house justified rather than the other: for everyone that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” • 1 Peter 5: 6 - 9
THE PHARISEE AND THE PUBLICAN • Matthew 6: 1- 8 • Not only the CONTENT of our petitions, but our FREQUENCY and SINCERITY have great effect in receiving the results desired. • 1 John 5:9 – 15 • Never, never, never give up! God knows our needs, and has NEVER failed His elect. TRUST HIM … and realize God’s mercy is greater than we can fathom.