H.B. Charles, Jr. :: Sermon Skeleton: Mutual Prayer for Difficult Times (2 Thessalonians 3:1-5)

Mutual Prayer for Difficult Times

2 Thessalonians 3:1-5

Point: There is a dynamic power at work when we pray for one another through difficult times.

Outline: This text teaches us three spiritual priorities for mutual prayer in difficult times.

1. The Word of the Lord (2Th 3:1-2).
   1. Pray about the opportunity that is before us to spread the word (v. 1).
      1. Pray that the word will get out: "may speed ahead".
      2. Pray that the word will get in: "and be honored".
   2. Pray about the opposition that is before us to stop the word (v. 2).
      1. The request he made: "that we may be delivered".
      2. The reality he faced: "wicked and evil men".
      3. The reason he gave: "For not all have faith".
2. The Faithfulness of the Lord (2Th 3:3-4).
   1. The Lord can be trusted to do what needs to be done for you (v. 3).
      1. Internal stability: "establish you".
      2. External security: "guard you against the evil one".
   2. The Lord can be trusted to do what needs to be done through you (v. 4).
3. The Direction of the Lord (2Th 3:5).
   1. The Priority: "your hearts".
   2. The petition: "May the Lord direct your hearts".
   3. The Provision:
      1. The love of God will lead the way.
      2. The steadfastness of Christ will lead the way.