INTERCESSORY PRAYER

"Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth" (2 Timothy 2:1-4).

Devotion 15 of 17

WE ARE A PRIESTHOOD

Everyone in the new covenant is especially related to the Living God. Those in Christ have particular access to Him. They have been put into Christ for a reason, and that reason relates to activity. Contrary to much of the religion of our day, there is no "clergy" class in the kingdom of God. All of the saved constitute a "priesthood." This is frequently and effectively proclaimed in God's Word. "Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ" (1 Pet 2:5). "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him Who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Pet 2:9). "And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth" (Rev 5:10). "Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years" (Rev 20:6). In the body of Christ, the Lord has provided for the expression of Himself and His will. Unlike Israel, the church is not simply a vehicle for the demonstration of divine power. It has been brought into fellowship with Deity, and now works in concert with its Redeemer. God's rule is often implemented through the prayers of His saints. Thus, in a preliminary but effectual way, they "reign on the earth." Ultimately, their reign will be consistent and universal. Until then, as a kingly priesthood, we join in the heavenly reign through effectual intercession. The uniqueness of this privilege cannot be overstated, and it belongs to the entire household of Christ!