The Intercessor-Gift of God's Grace
Intercession is a precious gift from God, written on men's hearts, and characterized by selflessness and a focus on the needs of others.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the vital role of intercession in the life of believers, using Jeremiah as an example of a prophet who prayed fervently for his people. He explains that God provides intercessors as a gift of grace to guide and support others, ensuring they are not left without spiritual leadership. Spurgeon highlights that true intercession is selfless, focusing entirely on the needs of others rather than one's own. This form of prayer is seen as one of the most precious gifts from God, reflecting Christ's love and compassion for humanity.
Text
Jeremiah interceded for the people, but we have not to seek far before we discover the reason why he did it. God gave the weeping prophet to His sinful people in order that they might not be left as sheep without a shepherd. Wherever you meet with a man who intercedes with God for his fellow men and makes this the main business of his life, you see in him one of the most precious gifts of God's grace to the age in which he lives.
It is God who writes intercession upon men's hearts. All true prayer comes from Him, but especially that least selfish and most Christlike form of prayer called intercession, when the suppliant forgets all about himself and his own needs--and all his pleadings, his tears and his arguments are on behalf of others.
Such men are the most precious gift from Heaven.
Sermon Outline
- God's Gift of Intercession
- The Source of Intercession
- Characteristics of Intercessors
- Selfless and Christlike
- Focused on the Needs of Others
Key Quotes
“Wherever you meet with a man who intercedes with God for his fellow men and makes this the main business of his life, you see in him one of the most precious gifts of God's grace to the age in which he lives.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Such men are the most precious gift from Heaven.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“It is God who writes intercession upon men's hearts.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- We can learn from intercessors who prioritize the needs of others over their own.
- Intercession is a powerful way to show God's love and care for others.
- We can ask God to write intercession on our hearts, making us more selfless and Christlike.