Prayer of Prime Importance

Above:  The Original Document

Image Source = Kenneth Randolph Taylor

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EDITOR’S COMMENT:

My great-grandfather referred to the 1940 General Conference of The Methodist Church (1939-1968), for these sermon notes come from late 1938/early 1939 to 1942 set, and the Methodist General Conferences meet every four years.

MARCH 17, 2014 COMMON ERA

THE FEAST OF SAINT PATRICK, ROMAN CATHOLIC BISHOP OF ARMAGH

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1 Tim. 2, 1

I.

The church faces the tragic needs of the world at home and abroad.  There are many and great needs.  The greatest is spiritual.  Only the church can be looked to to supply it.  “Ye who are spiritual restore such as one,” etc.  Others won’t and can’t if they would.

II.

Paul would have us all begin in prayer.  We, the church, need to draw near to God in prayer.  We need a fresh experience of his grace until our hearts are strangely warmed.  We can’t lead others into an experience we do not have.  “That I may know him,” etc.

III.

Pray “for all men.”  This is good and acceptable unto God.  The heart aglow with love for all men yearns for the salvation of the world.  Points for prayer suggested at the General Conference.

IV.  

It will take importune prayer to overcome the sinfulness of men’s hearts.  “Pray without ceasing.”  The effectual fervent prayer…availeth much.”  (Jas. 5, 16)  “He will avenge them speedily.”  (Lk. 18, 8)

God knows such strong cries for his grace, as the experience of many has shown.

It is time for the church to get about his work in all prayerful earnestness.

GEORGE WASHINGTON BARRETT