Francis Chan: Praying in the Spirit - PasCon2018

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of praying in the spirit, not just with our lips or words, but deeply from our heart. The speaker shares his personal struggle to pray for others and how he has been convicted by this passage in Ephesians 6:18. He encourages us to keep alert with all perseverance making supplication for all the saints, recognizing that our prayers can be a means of showing love and care for those around us.

Key Scripture References

• Ephesians 6:18 - This passage emphasizes the importance of praying in the spirit, specifically with all prayer and supplication to God. The speaker notes that this verse is often misunderstood as simply "praying at all times," but it's about persevering in prayer for others.
• 1 Corinthians 4:1 - This verse highlights our role as stewards of the mysteries of God, emphasizing the importance of praying in the spirit and not just relying on human wisdom or answers.
• Ephesians 3:20 - This passage emphasizes the immeasurable greatness of power toward us who believe, encouraging us to tap into this power as we pray in the spirit.
• Romans 8:15 - This verse shows that we have received the spirit of adoption as sons, enabling us to cry out Abba Father and pray in the spirit. The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.
• Ephesians 6:10-18 - This passage emphasizes the importance of being strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might, putting on all of the armor to stand against the enemy. Praying in the spirit is a crucial part of this battle cry.

Key Takeaways

• Praying in the spirit is not just about words or lips, but about deeply connecting with God and persevering in prayer for others.
• We are stewards of the mysteries of God, and praying in the spirit allows us to tap into this power and wisdom.
• The Holy Spirit enables us to cry out Abba Father and pray in the spirit, bearing witness that we are children of God.
• Praying in the spirit is a crucial part of being strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might, as we put on all of the armor to stand against the enemy.

Application

This message encourages us to reflect on our own prayer life and how we can deepen our connection with God. We are challenged to persevere in prayer for others, recognizing that this is a means of showing love and care for those around us. As we pray in the spirit, we tap into the immeasurable greatness of power toward us who believe, enabling us to stand strong against the enemy and live out our faith with confidence.