resources
intercessory prayer
The word intercessor is defined by the New Oxford American Dictionary as “The act of intervening on behalf of another.” So, “Intercessory Prayer” simply means praying to God on behalf of another.
In the Bible we find many examples of people who “interceded” or prayed to God for others. These faithful prayer warriors were used of God to turn entire nations back to righteousness, avert judgment, cause draughts, end draughts, rout entire armies and turn cities upside down for Christ all as they first sought the Lord in prayer.
In Old Testament times, the appointed priests or “Levites” were set apart exclusively to give offerings to God and make blood sacrifices as atonement for theirs and the peoples sins. Once a year the High Priest would enter into the Most Holy Place and sprinkle the Mercy Seat with the blood of bulls and goats to make a yearly atonement for the sins of Israel.
In the New Testament Jesus became the High Priest of our faith forever. (See Hebrews 4:14) He made the ultimate act of intercession when He offered Himself to God on a cross making atonement for the sins of the entire world with His own blood. Although Christ is now in heaven and sitting at the right hand of the Father He still lives to make intercession for us.
“Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” Hebrews 7:25
Being hidden in Christ we too can join Christ in the ministry of intercession as we cry out for people and nations who need God’s justice and mercy right now. Intercessory prayer is not a unique or special gift, but a call for ALL believers who have placed their faith in Christ and desire to see God’s kingdom manifest on earth!
Articles on Intercessory Prayer:
http://www.allaboutprayer.org/intercessory-prayer.htm
http://www.gotquestions.org/intercessory-prayer.html
http://nhop.com/resources/12_Types_of_Intercessors.pdf
http://nhop.com/resources/Prayers_of_Jesus.pdf
Intercessory Prayer Ministries:
http://www.theluke18project.com