Lessons from the Upper Room - calls or invitations To serve one another (13) To deeply love one another (13 & 15) To persevere under trial (13 & 15) To have a heart of thanksgiving – way, with, works (14) To be open to the incredible work of the indwelling Holy Spirit (14, 15 & 16) To stay connected – abiding in Christ (15)

Invitation into the Throne Room John 14:13-14: And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. John 15:16: You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. John 16:23-24: In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.

Jesus invites us to pray I. Why do we pray? Jesus invites us to pray Prayer is an invitation into intimacy with God how God is addressed: 17:1, 5, 11, 21, 24, 25 relationship described: 17:11, 21-23

God will reveal more of Himself to you, “As you grow in prayer, God will reveal more of Himself to you, breathing more of His life into your spirit.... Fellowship with God, trust, confidence, peace, relief – these are wonderful feelings that will be yours as you learn how to pray.” Bill Hybels, Too Busy Not To Pray, pp 9-10

Jesus invites us to pray I. Why do we pray? Jesus invites us to pray Prayer is an invitation into intimacy with God how God is addressed: 17:1, 5, 11, 21, 24, 25 relationship described: 17:11, 21-23 Independence versus in dependence Prayer is our continuous expression of our dependency upon God and leads us into greater intimacy with Him.

I. Why do we pray? Prayer is an invitation to join with Christ to pray for the advancement of Kingdom purposes Romans 8:34: …Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. (see also 8:26-27) Hebrews 7:24-25: but because Jesus lives forever, He has a permanent priesthood. Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.

“In the mystery of God’s purpose, He has chosen to conquer Satan by the cross of Christ and the prayer of God’s children.” Wesley Duewel, Mighty Prevailing Prayer, pp 65

Prayer victories are your challenge and heritage as a believer. "But that eternal victory must now be applied and enforced by the Holy Spirit working through the prayers and obedience of God’s children.... Prayer victories are your challenge and heritage as a believer. Arise to your holy privilege, your Christ-purchased, God-ordained role! Onward to victory after victory for Christ through prevailing prayer …." Wesley Duewel, Mighty Prevailing Prayer, pp 65-66

“When we work, we work; but when we pray, God works.” Hudson Taylor

when one begins to pray.” “It’s amazing how many coincidences occur when one begins to pray.”

I. Why do we pray? Jesus invites us to pray Prayer is an invitation into intimacy with God Prayer is an invitation to join with Christ to pray for the advancement of Kingdom purposes

II. What do we pray for? Prayer for ourselves (1-5) Our lives would bring glory to God (17:1) We would know clearly the work God has for us to do (17:4; cf Eph 2:10) We would be resolute to do God’s will (17:4)

II. What do we pray for? Prayer for those close to you (6-19) – family, church Protection (17:11, 15) Unity (17:11; 21-23) Joy (17:13) Spiritual growth (17:17)

II. What do we pray for? Prayer for all believers (20-26) Unity (17:20-23) Aware of His presence and glory (17:24, 26) Filled with love (17:25-26)

"Arise to your holy privilege, your Christ-purchased, God-ordained role! Onward [to intimacy and] to victory after victory for Christ through prevailing prayer …." Wesley Duewel, Mighty Prevailing Prayer, p 66