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"Pray for us..."

Text: Hebrews 13:18a

THE IDENTITY OF THE WRITER OF HEBREWS

The writer of Hebrews did not disclose his real identity. Nevertheless an educated guess would be that he was a Jew who was steep in his understanding of his erstwhile faith. The following details in the Book of Hebrews would suggest that the writer was certainly a son of Abraham!

1. There was significant knowledge of the history of ancient Israel shown.

2. There was deep knowledge of the Hebrew Scriptures.

3. There was profound comprehension and appreciation of the Messiah-Jesus.

4. There was strong understanding of the ancient Levitical sacrificial system.

MOTIVATION TO PRAY

While the writer of Hebrews strongly argued that the Levitical system was only a shadow, there was one aspect of the old system that was still relevant and important- the ministry of prayer. Thus he wrote, humbly,

“Pray for us.”
Hebrews 13:18a

These three simple words are not without significance! What would inspire us to pray diligently? Let us ponder the following thoughts:-

1. The example of the Lord Jesus in prayer (Cf. Hebrews 5:7)

2. The knowledge of access to the throne of grace (Cf. Hebrews 4:16)

3. The role of the Lord Jesus as our great High Priest (Cf. Hebrews 7-9)

4. The profound truth that we may enter into the Holy of Holies (Cf. Hebrews 9)

5. The astounding truth of being given a New Covenant (Cf. Hebrews 8)

THE MINISTRY OF INTERCESSION

Prayer seems to be very much reduced in practical significance over the ages. Few comprehend the place and power of intercessory prayer. Yet to the deeply spiritual there are few spiritual disciplines as important as “intercessory prayer”.

1. To intercede is to “stand in the breach” (Cf. Psalm 106:23)

2. To intercede is to provide much needed help in times of distress (Cf. 2 Corinthians 1:11)