YOUTH STS LESSON 167 CHRIST INTERCEDES FOR THE CHURCH

Why did Jesus Chris t pray for the Church?

In the closing moments of His earthly ministry, Jesus offered a profound, passionate prayer found in John 17. Known as the High Priestly Prayer, this heartfelt intercession was not just for His disciples but for all believers across generations. This powerful passage reveals Christ's love for the Church and offers a timeless example for Christian youth today.

In a world full of distractions and spiritual battles, many young believers struggle with maintaining a prayerful life. However, Christ’s intercession is a compelling call for today's youth to step into the role of intercessors—praying fervently for their churches, fellow believers, and the global mission of the Gospel. In this lesson, we'll explore the reasons, the purpose, and the pattern of Christ’s prayer and how young Christians can follow in His steps.

Memory Verse: “I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine” — John 17:9

The Purpose of Christ's Intercession for the Church

Why Did Jesus Pray for the Church?

Jesus prayed as a High Priest and Mediator, standing between God and His people. After revealing to His disciples that He would soon depart, He turned to the Father in prayer, asking for:

• Strength and perseverance for His followers
• Unity among believers
• Protection from evil
• Their ultimate glorification with Him in heaven

This prayer was not just a closing speech—it was spiritual warfare. Christ foresaw the persecution and trials the Church would face and responded by interceding for strength, holiness, and divine help.

“In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” — John 16:33

Why Did Christ Ask the Father to Glorify Him?

Jesus’ request for glorification was not selfish—it was essential for the fulfillment of salvation. Through the cross, resurrection, and ascension, Jesus demonstrated:

• The power to forgive sin
• The reality of eternal life
• His divine identity as the Messiah

Jesus was focused on God’s glory, and He knew His glorification would bring credibility to the message of salvation. Youths who understand this will also live with purpose and manifest Christlike character in their conduct.

The Central Role of Prayer in the Church

Why Should Believing Youths Pray for the Church?

Intercession is more than a spiritual duty—it is the heartbeat of a thriving Church. Jesus' prayer shows us that:

• Preservation, unity, and strength come through prayer
• Revival is born out of intercession
• Even young believers can become powerful agents of change through consistent prayer

“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit…” — Ephesians 6:18

True or False (Interactive Reflection)

Answer these questions with YES or NO:

• Do we need to be leaders before we can pray?
• Should we stop praying because the church is too big?
• Does God hear the prayers of young believers?
• Must I be recognized before God hears me?
• Can my prayers bring revival to our fellowships?
• Can I be both a great student and a prayer warrior?

If your answers lean toward "YES" for God's ability and willingness, then you're on the path of intercession!

Christ’s Pattern of Intercession: A Guide for Christian Youths

What Can Youths Learn from Christ's Prayer?

The seven main petitions of Jesus in John 17 provide a blueprint for effective prayer:

1. That Christ be glorified (John 17:1)
2. Restoration of His eternal glory (John 17:5)
3. Protection of believers (John 17:11,15)
4. Sanctification through the truth (John 17:17)
5. Unity of the Church (John 17:21)
6. Evangelistic fruitfulness (John 17:21)
7. Believers to be with Him in heaven (John 17:24)

From this, Christian youths should take note:

• Only saved youths are qualified intercessors
• Concentration and humility are essential in prayer
• Purposeful and spiritual focus should guide intercession
• Unity is dear to Christ’s heart
• Victory over the devil is already won through prayer
• Evangelism and revival are empowered by intercessory prayer
• Christ’s desire is for all believers to be with Him in eternity

“Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Will You Answer the Call to Intercede?

The Church today needs more than Sunday service participants—it needs youth intercessors who will rise, pray, and preserve the flame of the Gospel in this generation. Prayer outlives the one who offers it. If Jesus, the Son of God, devoted time to pray for the Church, how much more should we?

“I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.” — 1 Timothy 2:8

Now is the time. Dedicate yourself to prayer and watch as God uses you to bring revival, strength, and growth to your fellowship and the global Church. You can be both a spiritual giant and an academic achiever. The choice is yours—will you interced.