Prayer, Evangelism and Worship

Theologians in the " total depravity of man " “To teach men that they possess the ability to turn from sin when they choose to do so is to hide the true extent of their need.” ―  Iain H. Murray,  The Life of Martyn Lloyd-Jones - 1899-1981 “So then, let "Deserved" be written on the door of hell, but on the door of Heaven and life, "The free gift" (68).” ―  Richard Baxter

Introduction:  From the past weeks, we have been looking at Paul's overwhelming prayers for the church of Ephesus.  There were two reasons that drove Paul to pray for the church.  He wrote, " This is why, since I heard about your faith the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I never stop giving thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers."   (Eph. 1:15).  Here are the two things that is Paul's prayer focus:  faith in the Lord Jesus (salvation of people) your love for all the saints (growth of the church) Last Wednesday, we focused on evangelistic praying.  Today, we focus on Discipleship Praying and we ask the questions, what are the things that I can pray for the church.  Below are ten scriptures that dictates what you and I can pray for the church.   At the end of this session, we will go to small groups and actually pray.  Here are the 10 things to pray for the church:     1.  Pray that the church stays true to God’s message –