Ep 60 A Prayer Covering, Ro 15:30-32

When we step out to serve the Lord, we come under spiritual attack. You're not just imagining that. It's true; you are. But the answer is not to hide your faith or do nothing for God and hope the devil doesn't notice you. The answer is to learn to pray for one another. This is the truth Paul models for us in this brief passage. We hear him asking believers in Rome to "agonize" with him in prayer in order to spiritually prepare the way for his mission. He needs protection from hostile unbelievers and deceived believers. He knows he's headed into trouble, so he's marshaling prayer warriors to provide a prayer covering for the mission. He's convinced that if sufficient prayer is not offered, he's likely to fall into hostile hands. He could be assassinated or arrested and executed, and he realizes he may also face stiff opposition from some in the Jerusalem church. Legalism had gained a strong foothold there in spite of some formal discussions that had been held among church leaders on that topic (Ac 11:1-18; 15:1-3; Gal 1:11-19; 2:1-14). But the dangers he faced didn't immobilize him. They focused him. He felt God wanted him to go, so he went, and though his trip wasn't uneventful (Ac 21-28), the prayers that were offered were answered... more amazingly than most people realize. To receive a free copy of Dr. Steve Schell's book Understanding Romans, email us at [email protected] and ask for your copy at no charge. The book has all the notes from each sermon in this series. Also check out our website for additional resources for pastors and leaders. We have recorded classes and other materials offered at no charge. And if you would like to receive a copy of Pastor Steve's newest book Study Verse by Verse: Genesis at no charge, we are giving out this book as well!