Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for May 22, 2022

Gospel-Driven Prayer

2 Thessalonians 3:1-5

1. Introduction

• previously: comfort in suffering (1) and composure with reference to Christ’s return (2)
• chapter 3: focus on prayer before addressing an idle minority
• Because God is faithful to transform lives through His gospel, prioritize its advancement in your prayers.

2. Pray Gospel-Driven Prayers 1-2

• that the gospel would run and be honored (Psa. 147:15)
• that deliverance would be provided from those who oppose the gospel (Acts 18:5-17)
• noteworthy absence and noteworthy emphasis

3. Observe the Perspective That Shapes Gospel-Driven Prayers 3-4

• confidence in the character of God: faithful…establish…guard (Psa. 9:10)
• confidence in the capacity of God to conform believers to Christ’s likeness

4. Consider a Specific Gospel-Driven Prayer Wish 5

• directed hearts
• love of God
• steadfastness of Christ

5. So What?

• Remember that “prayer is the power that wields the weapon of the word.” (Piper on Eph. 6:17-18)
• “Intercession is the hardest work in the world-the giving of one’s self, time, strength, energy, and attention to the needs of others in a way that no one but God sees, no one but God will do anything about, and no one but God will ever reward your for.” (E. Elliot in On Asking God Why, p. 130)
• Lord, cause your word to run and be glorified in the Sonburst Class and in all the ministries of FBC Dallas.
• “Brethren, pray, and holy manna will be showered all around.” (“Brethren, We Have Met to Worship,” G. Askins)