Learn From the Example of Jesus Christ: Be a "Pray-er"
Updated: Oct 1
Rev. Tse Amable | September 27 2024 | John 18:1-11
KEY VERSE:
“When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was an olive grove, and he and his disciples went into it.” John 18:1 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
In Matthew 11:29, our Master invited us to come to him and learn from him. The example he wanted us to learn from him was his humility, meekness and gentleness.
In 1 Peter 2:21, Apostle Peter wrote to the believers “... to this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, LEAVING YOU AN EXAMPLE, THAT YOU SHOULD FOLLOW IN HIS STEPS”. The example we are to learn from our Lord here is suffering for a righteous cause.
Another thing we can and must learn from Jesus Christ is HIS PRAYER LIFE. I have coined the word “PRAY-ER” to refer to A PERSON WHO PRAYS. A preacher preaches, a teacher teaches, a singer sings, etc. Therefore a PRAY-ER must also pray. This is what we see in the life and ministry of the Son of God.
Throughout his life, Jesus Christ spent time alone in solitary places praying and conversing with the Father (see Mark 1:35 and Luke 6:12-13). The whole of John chapter 17 is a record of the longest public prayer of Jesus Christ. One author said this should rather be “THE LORD’S PRAYER”. After this long prayer, Jesus Christ knew there was an unfinished business to transact with the Father. Therefore, he retired to an olive grove in the Kidron Valley with his disciples. This solitary place is also known as GETHSEMANE (see Matthew 26:36-46, Mark 14:32-42 and Luke 22:40-46). We know from the accounts of Matthew, Mark and Luke that Jesus Christ did not go to this location to go and “chill”. Instead, he went to travail in prayer. Indeed, he prayed so intensely on this occasion that his sweat was blood.
🙏🏻 Jesus Christ was never tired of praying. He was always making time to pray. This is one great example we can learn from him and emulate.
🧎♂️ Be a "PRAY-ER."
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
How is your prayer life? Do you make time to pray regularly or when you are faced with an emergency? Do you have your own “olive grove in the Kidron Valley” (your GETHSEMANE”) where you go and hide for prayer sessions alone with God?
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I thank you that you are alive and interceding on my behalf at the right hand of the Father. Teach me to be a "PRAY-ER" just as you were. Give me a passion for prayer not only for my personal needs but for never-dying souls to be saved and made ready for heaven. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: PRAYING
The word praying comes from the Greek verb proseuchomai (προσεύχομαι), which means to offer prayers or supplications. It signifies focused communication with God, typically reverently and intentionally.
In John 18:1, Jesus, having completed His prayer in John 17, continues His journey to the olive grove, a place of solitude where He often prayed. This setting shows Jesus’ commitment to prayer, even knowing the suffering He was about to face. It emphasises that prayer is not just for peaceful moments but is essential during times of trial.
This word highlights the importance of perseverance in prayer, especially in difficult situations. Jesus’ prayer life serves as an example for believers, showing that prayer is a source of strength, guidance, and communion with the Father. We are called to be “pray-ers,” like Jesus, whose life was centred around prayer.
Reflections
Jesus' life was grounded in prayer. How does His dedication to prayer, even in the face of great trials, inspire you? Are you making time to be a "pray-er" and follow His example, especially in difficult moments?
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