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Oct 12, 2008

Fervent Supplication

Passage: Acts 9:10-12

Preacher: Tim Badal

Series:The Amazing Change

Summary:

A Study of Paul's Conversion Part 3 Acts 9:10-12 "Fervent Supplication" Saul's conversion reminds us that: One of the marks of truly born-again, saved individuals is prayer. Prayer is not just a requirement; prayer is a necessary response to salvation. Prayer is not something Christians should have to be begged to do. If people are really born again, they will pray. Of course, Christians need to be encouraged to pray more than they do, but the authenticity of people's faith can be determined on the basis of their fervor in supplication. If this is true, then all Christians must: 1. Remember God's announcement about prayer. This announcement reminds us that: * Prayer is necessary for vibrant Christianity. * Prayer is noticed by God. * Prayer can be new even to the most religious. * Our prayers can seem like nonsense to others. 2. Recognize the proper attitude for prayer. Saul's passion for prayer grew because: * It was an opportunity to commune with God. * It reminded him that God was in control. 3. Respond with prayers that apply biblical truth. Biblical prayer: * Centers on the greatness of God. * Involves confession of sin. * Isn't just about our own personal concerns. and * Shows our dependence. * Settles us in times of despair. * Sets us in the right direction. Saul's example reminds us that God's answers: * Aren't always immediate. * Impact others. * Involve more than we know.

Detail:

A Study of Paul's Conversion

Part 3

Acts 9:10-12

"Fervent Supplication"

Saul's conversion reminds us that:

One of the marks of truly born-again, saved individuals is prayer. Prayer is not just a requirement; prayer is a necessary response to salvation.

Prayer is not something Christians should have to be begged to do. If people are really born again, they will pray.

Of course, Christians need to be encouraged to pray more than they do, but the authenticity of people's faith can be determined on the basis of their fervor in supplication.

If this is true, then all Christians must:

1.     Remember God's announcement about prayer.

This announcement reminds us that:

  • Prayer is necessary for vibrant Christianity.
  • Prayer is noticed by God.
  • Prayer can be new even to the most religious.
  • Our prayers can seem like nonsense to others.

2.     Recognize the proper attitude for prayer.

Saul's passion for prayer grew because:

  • It was an opportunity to commune with God.
  • It reminded him that God was in control.

3.     Respond with prayers that apply biblical truth.

Biblical prayer:

  • Centers on the greatness of God.
  • Involves confession of sin.
  • Isn't just about our own personal concerns.

and

  • Shows our dependence.
  • Settles us in times of despair.
  • Sets us in the right direction.

Saul's example reminds us that God's answers:

  • Aren't always immediate.
  • Impact others.
  • Involve more than we know.