THE CHURCH IN A CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY (25)

 BRETHREN, PRAY FOR US.

1 Thessalonians 5:25

Brethren, pray for us.

Matthew 8:14-17

And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever. And he touched her hand, and the fever left her; and she arose and ministered unto them. When evening came, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils, and he cast out the spirits with his word and healed all that were sick: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, "Himself took our infirmities and bare our sicknesses."

The sickness of Peter's wife's mother was likely new to Jesus, but Peter was already aware of it.

It is reasonable to conclude that the mother-in-law had been living elsewhere, perhaps with her husband. However, due to her illness, she was brought to Peter's house for prayers, knowing that Peter was a disciple of Jesus and could pray for her. It was hoped that she would receive an instant miracle.

Unfortunately, the situation did not unfold as expected. Peter's prayer appeared ineffective for his mother-in-law, and it took the intervention of Jesus for the spirit responsible for her sickness to leave her body.

Brother, God did not create any superhumans. If there is anyone to consider, it is the Apostle Paul. Yet, even Paul earnestly requested, "BRETHREN, PRAY FOR US."

Peter deliberately invited Jesus to his house because of his mother-in-law’s persistent illness and the obstinacy of her sickness. What was a problem for Peter became a solution in the hands of Jesus. The devil that resisted Peter's persistent prayers submitted to the command of Jesus Christ.

I am acquainted with several leaders in the faith. When I drew closer to them, I discovered that they too cried silently. The devil respects no one. Even in my own small measure of spiritual strength, I have helped some great ones regain their strength.

Brother, never think that because someone preaches inspiringly, sings melodiously, offers wise spiritual counsel, and provides enlightenment, they are devoid of problems. Sometimes, many wake up without a meal at home. Some struggle with rebellious children, sick spouses or children, and sometimes fight to keep their marriages intact.

How important it is to pray earnestly for one another, especially our leaders. What a sacrifice it would be if we could visit one another and make regular calls. How meaningful it is to send gifts at times, no matter how insignificant they may seem.

Brothers, many of us, especially leaders, wrap our problems in cloth and beautiful smiles. We pray for others and receive great testimonies from them. But at home, we are often harassed by problems that seem obstinate and rigid. They attack our faith and hope in whom we believe. Believe me, many great men are gradually becoming weak in faith because of the persistence of the problems they face, yet remain closed off to others. They are crying silently. Many have been wounded in the faith and are gradually succumbing to despair. In most cases, no one notices their wrinkled faces and forced laughter.

Sir/Madam, you are never too small to address these problems. Make that visit and see how the obstinate issues will respond to your seemingly feeble prayers. For the effectual fervent prayers of the righteous avail much. (James 5:16). You need to act quickly.

In Acts 9:29-30, "And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him forth to Tarsus." Paul faced vehement opposition in Jerusalem, even with plans to kill him. He was safely escorted to his city of Tarsus. He became seriously discouraged, and it took Barnabas to seek him out and reintroduce him to the fellowship. "Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, to seek Saul: and when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch." (Acts 11:25-26). The great Apostle Paul was sought after by Barnabas.

Brethren, pray for us!

I urge you never to allow dissension or insignificant doctrinal differences to separate us. We need each other now more than ever. And do not be so consumed by your problems that you neglect what happens to others in the body of Christ.

Let us treat our elders with double honor, especially by praying for them and visiting them. Your small gift matters.

Brethren, pray for us.

Peter Abdul-Razaq OLAYINKA  

A Serving Missionary with Living Grace Christian Missions, Ilara.  

WhatsApp: (+229) 0194139130  

Mobile No.: (+234) 8066540987, (+234) 7084504532  

Email: peterrazaq@yahoo.com  

Twitter & Instagram: @peterrazaq  

LinkedIn: Revd. Peter OLAYINKA