I DO NOT SAY TO YOU THAT I SHALL PRAY THE FATHER FOR YOU
“In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I shall pray the Father for you.”
John 16:26 (NKJV)
READ: John 16:25–33
In this passage, Jesus clarifies a major point which a number of false people usually use to deceive others. Jesus said believers or disciples will ask God the Father in His name, and not that He
shall pray for them as an intermediary.
You yourself as a believer in Christ have direct access to God the Father through Jesus’ name (John 14:6; Hebrews 10:19–22). Now, some people give money to those who are prayer contractors—who tell them that they will fast and pray on their behalf. Every believer has the right to approach God directly, and you as a believer have the right to access God without giving money to anyone to pray and fast on your behalf (Hebrews 4:16).
If you are ignorant of the Word of God, you can be deceived and bamboozled. Many people are objects of manipulation by false ministers who parade themselves as ministers of God (2 Corinthians 11:13–15). The intent of God and that of Christ Jesus is that every believer should build a fellowship, communion, or intimacy with God the Father.
Jesus’ statement in John 16:27 is that: “FOR THE FATHER HIMSELF LOVES YOU, BECAUSE YOU HAVE LOVED ME, AND BELIEVED THAT I CAME FORTH FROM GOD.” You see, Jesus was talking
about each believer’s direct communion and intimacy with God. A believer is meant to approach God directly through Jesus’ name (John 16:23,24). Not through any prayer contractor or any other
person.
Jesus said God the Father loves you as a believer. The fact that you believe in Christ Jesus and have accepted Him as your Saviour and Lord means you are loved by God the Father (John 16:27). You should simply approach God directly through Jesus Christ. Believers
should approach God with confidence and boldness through the blood of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 10:19–22)
“LET US THEREFORE COME BOLDLY TO THE THRONE OF GRACE, THAT WE MAY OBTAIN MERCY AND FIND GRACE TO HELP IN TIME OF NEED.”
Hebrews 4:16 (NKJV)
Reflect:
• Do you genuinely believe you have direct access to God, or are you still dependent on others to approach God on your behalf?
• Are you aware of anyone around you who is being manipulated financially through ‘prayer contractors’? If so, how would you counsel them?
Peace.
The Edification Daily Devotional for June is out.
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