Prayer for All Members Based on Nik Ripken’s Message, February 26, 2023 Matthew 10:16, 11:2-6

Introduction: I can say to you that the altar of God is open in this church! Here you can find salvation, direction, and an anchor for the soul. But in most of the world, there is no gathered church and no believers to give testimony of the gospel.

1. The Message is Worth It. 10:16

   Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves...

   Jesus told His disciples that they would meet persecution, but they must go. There are humble Christians taking the gospel message in Bible stories and song who are being imprisoned and tortured, but through their message and their love they are bringing people to Christ.

   Father, thank you for those around the world who are willingly preaching the gospel in the face of persecution. Please work powerfully for them and through them.

2. The Messiah is Worth It. 11:2-6

   Now when John heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent word by his disciples and said to him, “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” And Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.

   The Messiahship of Jesus is proven by what Jesus and His disciples then and now do in the marketplace! God is still active, still doing miracles. He is doing miracles around the world, including among you, who are free to worship, free to preach the gospel without persecution. Just because you experience this miracle of freedom often doesn’t mean it’s common. Here the altar of God is open, and it is open everywhere you say a good word for God.

   Lord, thank You for Your miracle of freedom to worship and preach the gospel right here in our church and in our community! Thank You for the miracles You are also doing among the Christians who are being persecuted! Please bring many to Christ here and all around the world!