Our Priesthood in the House of Prayer

Our Priesthood in the House of Prayer

Introduction:

Let us gather with open hearts and attentive spirits as we delve into the profound topic of our priesthood in the house of prayer. Our foundation lies in the Word of God, and our guiding verse for today is 1 Peter 2:9, which proclaims, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."

I. Definition of Priesthood:

Let us begin by understanding the concept of priesthood. Priesthood is not confined to a select few but extends to all believers. It involves the act of mediating between God and His people, offering sacrifices, and serving in the house of God. The priesthood, as outlined in the Bible, encompasses a spiritual responsibility and a divine calling for every believer.

II. Doctrine of Priesthood: Medieval Views vs. Protestant Understanding:

In medieval times, the concept of priesthood often carried a hierarchical structure, with a distinction between clergy and laity. However, the Protestant Reformation brought forth a revolutionary understanding that aligned with the teachings of Scripture. The reformers emphasized the priesthood of all believers, rejecting the notion of an exclusive clerical class. This shift restored the biblical truth that every believer has direct access to God through Christ, dismantling the barriers that separated the people of God.

III. Temptation as the Force of Evil Keeping People from Priesthood:

The force of evil, often manifested through temptation, seeks to deter believers from embracing their priesthood. Temptation lures us away from our calling, making us doubt our worthiness and separating us from the intimacy we can have with God. Recognize that the enemy attempts to weaken the influence of the priesthood by sowing seeds of doubt, discouragement, and distraction.

IV. Main Verse: 1 Peter 2:9 - The Significance of CHOSEN:

Highlighting the word "chosen" in 1 Peter 2:9, we find immense significance. As priests, we are not randomly selected, but chosen by God Himself. This divine selection reflects God's intentional design for us to serve in His kingdom. Through this calling, we are set apart for a purpose – to declare His praises and bring others out of darkness into His marvelous light.

V. Reference Bible Verses:

- 1 Peter 2:5: "You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ."

- Revelation 1:6: "And has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."

- Revelation 5:10: "And have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth."

- Revelation 20:6: "Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ and shall reign with Him a thousand years."

VI. Priests Practice Listening Prayer:

One crucial aspect of our priesthood is the practice of listening prayer. As priests, we must cultivate a spirit of attentiveness to God's voice. Through prayerful listening, we discern His guidance, seek His will, and align ourselves with His purposes. This intimate communion deepens our understanding of our priestly role and empowers us to fulfill our divine calling.

The Priesthood of All Believers

In conclusion, let us embrace the truth that we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, called to serve in the house of prayer. Reject the lies of the enemy that seek to diminish your worthiness. Embrace the priesthood of all believers as a sacred calling, and let us continually strive to declare the praises of our God, who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. May the priesthood of all believers be a beacon of hope, unity, and transformation in our lives and in the world around us.