Ephesians 6:18-20 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit… I. THE DUTY OF THE PEOPLE. 1. Constant prayer. (1) Private. (2) Family. (3) Public. 2. Habitual watchfulness. (1) Spirit. (2) Language. (3) Actions. 3. Steady perseverance. This is opposed to - (1) Indecision. (2). Lukewarmness. (3) Despondency. 4. Christian affection. (1) Sincere. (2) Ardent. (3) Comprehensive. II. THE OFFICE OF THE PASTOR - "An ambassador": one who has received a commission, and has a delegated authority. As a minister my duty is - 1. To instruct you with plainness. 2. To entreat you affectionately. (1) By exhibiting Christ in all the loveliness of His character. (2) By the exhibition of His work in all its suitableness and sufficiency. (3) By dwelling on the work of the Holy Spirit, the energy by which the soul is renewed and sanctified, and made ripe for felicity. (4) By making known the boundless love of God. 3. To warn you with faithfulness. (1) Against erroneous doctrines. (2) Against wicked practices. (3) Of imminent danger. 4. To watch over you with care. III. The text also affords me an opportunity to SOLICIT YOUR PRAYERS. 1. Pray that I may preach fluently. 2. Pray that I may preach with boldness. 3. Pray that I may preach correctly. 4. Pray that I may preach successfully.Concluding observations: From what has been said we cannot but observe - 1. The connection which subsists between a successful ministry and a praying people. 2. The importance of exemplifying all the graces of the Holy Spirit. Here is prayer, watchfulness, perseverance, comprehensive love; all these are required, and how important are they all. (W. S. Palmer.) Parallel Verses KJV: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; |
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