"But I especially urge you to do this..."
Text: Hebrews 13:19
PRAYERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Sometimes we are guilty of praying without believing in answers! The writer of Hebrews certainly believed that prayers count and that answers would be forthcoming if they are offered aright.
“But I especially urge you to do this,
that I may be restored to you the sooner.”
Hebrews 13:19
The apostle Paul on a similar vein in the following texts.
“For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance
through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ.”
Philippians 1:19
“But, meanwhile, also prepare a guest room for me,
for I trust that through your prayers I shall be granted to you.”
Philemon 22
WHAT COULD HAPPEN WHEN WE PRAY ARIGHT
1. But I especially urge you to do this
a) This statement is with reference to the phrase “Pray for us”.
b) Prayers must be offered before answers can be expected.
2. Especially (“perissoteros”)
a) This word suggests “much effort”.
b) Prayer must be made with a great sense of effort and energy.
3. That I may be restored to you the sooner.
a) The writer hoped to see his friends (recipients of his epistle) because of intercession.
b) He was in prison at that point of time (Cf. Hebrews 10:34).
c) He was confident that he would be delivered from prison because of intercessory prayers and the support (“supply”) of the Holy Spirit.
i) Peter was delivered from prison (Cf. Acts 12:1-19).
ii) Paul looked forward to being delivered from prison too (Cf. Philippians 1:19).