New Testament Doctrine Of Communication with God The Grace Believer's Communication with God Class Outline and Notes by Associate Professor David K Spurbeck Dispensational Theological Seminary Evening School of the Bible P.O. Box 99, Gaston, Oregon 97119 Presented by the Bartimaeus Alliance of the Blind, Inc., P.O. Box 572, South San Francisco, CA 94083-0572 December 2004 TABLE OF CONTENTS The Prayer of Cyrus Brown Class Outline and Notes Introduction to the Studies Types of Communication with God 8 English and Greek words for prayer given I. thanksgiving - euchAriStia n. euchAriSteo v. In Review II. praise - aInesis, aInos, epaInos n. AIneo, epaIneo v. In Review III. worship - proseuChe n. proseuChomai v. In Review IV. confession - homologia n. homolego v. In Review V. vow - euChe n. EuChomai v. In Review VI. intercession - Enteuxis n. EntugChano v. In Review VII. supplication - dewhsis n. deomai v. In Review VIII. asking - aitema n. aiteo, epaiteo v. In Review IX. The Blessings of the Believer's Grace Communication The Prayer of Cyrus Brown "The proper way for a man to pray," Said Deacon Lemuel Keyes, "And the only proper attitude Is down upon his knees." "No, I should say the way to pray," Said Reverend Doctor Wise, "Is standing straight with outstretched arms And rapt and upturned eyes." "Oh, no, no, no, no," said Elder Snow, "Such posture is too proud, A man should pray with eyes fast closed And head contritely bowed." "It seems to me his hands should be Austerely clasped in front, With both thumbs pointing toward the ground," Said Reverend Doctor Blunt. "Las' year I fell in Hodgkin's well Head first," said Cyrus Brown, "With both my heals a-stickin' up, My head a-pintin' down; "An' I made a prayer right then and there Best prayer I ever said, The prayinest prayer I ever prayed, A-standin' on my head." --by Sam Walter Foss NOTE: Words in this document with dots 4 and 6, italics, usually represent Greek braille characters. If the word is enclosed by parentheses it is probably the Anglicized form of the word. Grace Communication with God Class Outline and Notes Introductory Studies to the New Testament Doctrine of Communication with God The Grace Believers Communication with God by Associate Professor David K Spurbeck Dispensational Theological Seminary Evening School of the Bible Introduction to the Studies A. The Confusion of Believers Concerning "Prayer" 1. What Is It? a. Sacred Language Addressed to God? b. Special Language Learned After Years of Christian Experience? c. Simple Language Speaking to God as in Normal Conversation? 2. How Is It Done? a. What Is the Proper Position? b. What Is the Proper Place? c. What Is the Proper Presentation? d. Who Are the Proper People? 3. When Is It Done? a. Sundays? b. In the Company of Two or Three Other Believers? c. At Times of Crisis? d. Any Time? 4. What Is One to Expect? a. Force God to Give Us Attention? b. Get Something from God? c. Change the Plan and Law of God? d. Get an Answer Every Time? e. God Hears Every Prayer We Pray? B. The Reasons for Communication 1. Participation in Our Priestly Service a. The Expression of the Believer-Priest (Hebrews 13:15, 16; 1 Peter 2:5; Revelation 1:6) b. Emphasis of Praise (Hebrews 13:15) c. Exercise of Faith (Philippians 2:17) 2. Presentation of All Your Care Upon Him (1 Peter 5:7) 3. Preservation of Fellowship with God the Father through Confession and Then Applying Positional Truth (1 John 1:9) 4. Possession of a Single Mind in Relation to God (Col. 3:1-3) 5. Preoccupation with the Glorifying of God (1 Corinthians 1:31) 6. Provision of Understanding of Your Specific Relationship to Each Member of the Godhead C. The Restrictions of Communication 1. Two Problem Passages a. 1 Timothy 2:1: b. Philippians 4:6: 2. The Partial Picture a. There are eight types of communication mentioned in the New Testament for the grace believer. b. "Prayer" is only 1/8 of the believer's communication with God. c. The terms "communication" and "communion" best convey the Bible teaching in this area of thought and teaching. D. The Benefits of Studying the New Testament Doctrine of Communication with God 1. Confidence in Communication: 2. Content of Communication: 3. Contribution of Communication: 4. Classification in Communication: 5. Connection with Salvation: 6. Characteristics in Communication: 7. Conformity in Communication: E. Why Literal Interpretation Is Important to Understanding Communication 1. The Pre-Cross Problem Concerning Communication a. b. c. d. e. 2. The Post-Ascension Privilege in Communication a. The believer has a sympathetic, heavenly high priest (Heb. 4:14). b. The believer is a priest in the New Testament priesthood of believers (1 Peter 2:5, 9). c. The believer can enter into the "holiest by the blood of Jesus" (Heb. 10:19) d. The believer has prepared for him a new and living way (Heb. 10:20). e. God the Father is now seated upon a throne of grace (Heb. 4:16). f. The believer is indwelt by the Holy Spirit (John 14:16, 17; 16:7). g. The Holy Spirit intercedes for the believer compensating for the believer's inability and ignorance (Romans 8:26-28). F. The General Definition of "Prayer" Prayer is the conscious communication and communion of the believer with God in which he communicates his appreciation to God, repeats back to God what He has said about Himself, requests for himself and others, calls for help, confesses his sin or/and makes tentative commitments to God. I. Thanksgiving -- eu&AriStia (euchAriStia) A. The Doctrinal Meaning of the Term in the New Testament DEFINITION: "Thanksgiving is communication with God in which appreciation for past, present and future benefits (all of which are totally undeserved and unmerited) is expressed." (H.L. Schafer) B. The Distinctive Mention of the Term in the New Testament 1. The Verbal Form. The verbal form eu&AriStew (euchAriSteo) occurs 39 times in 15 of the New Testament books. The word is consistently translated "thanks" in one form or another by the translators of the Authorized Version. 2. The Noun Form. The noun form eu&AriStia (euchAriStia) occurs 16 times in nine New Testament books. Consistently it is translated "thanks" or "thanksgiving" in one form or another in the A.V. 3. The Grand Total. The root occurs 55 times in the New Testament in its verb and noun forms. Colossians 3:15 is the only reference using eu&AriStos (euChAriStos) translated "thankful" making the grand total 55. C. The Basic Meaning of the Term eu&AriStia (euChAriStia) always conveys a basic idea of gratitude and appreciation for things that have been provided. 1. The Composition of the Word The word is a compound word. eu (eu) and &Aris (ChAris) combine to form the word. a. eu (eu) means "good, well" or "to do well, act rightly, to be well or prosper." It contributes to the overall meaning of the word by conveying the idea that some good thing has been contributed to our overall wellbeing. The good that has been done is measured by God's estimation of its worth in the believer's life. b. &Aris (ChAris) means "grace, favor" or "unmerited favor." 2. Lexical Definitions of the Word a. Thayer, p264 Thankfulness, the giving of thanks; p263 To be grateful, feel thankful, to give thanks. b. Vine, pp. 121, 122 (Vol. IV) -- eu, well, ChArizoma to give freely denotes (a) gratitude, (b) giving of thanks, thanksgiving. As a verb = to give thanks. D. The Significance of the Term 1. Thanksgiving is the most important communication of the Spirit-filled believer. It is one of the indicators of the believers spirituality. a. For all things -- Ephesians 5:20 b. In all things 1 Thessalonians 5:18 c. For all men 1 Timothy 2:1 2. Thanksgiving in the Lives of Mankind (Believer and Unbeliever) a. The failure of the human race was that they were unthankful and as a result receive judgment (Romans 1:21). b. You cannot do God's will without thanksgiving (1 Thessalonians 5:18). c. You cannot have the peace of God without thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6). E. Thanksgiving as an Essential Form of the Believer's Communication 1. The Character and Extent of Thanksgiving -- Ephesians 5:20 a. How Often? b. For What? c. In What Manner? 2. The Circumstances and Emphasis of Thanksgiving -- 1 Thessalonians 5:18 a. In What Circumstance? b. Why? 3. The Conduct and Expression of Thanksgiving -- Colossians 3:17 a. In Your Word While Giving Thanks b. In Your Work F. Thanksgiving as an Expression of Appreciation for the Provision of Food 1. Acts 27:35 2. 1 Timothy 4:3, 4 3. Romans 14:6 G. Thanksgiving as an Expression of Appreciation for Something that Hasn't Been Done -- 1 Corinthians 1:14 H. Thanksgiving as an Expression of Appreciation for Remembering -- Philippians 1:3 I. Thanksgiving as an Expression of Appreciation for Particular Persons 1. Acts 28:15 2. Colossians 1:3 3. 1 Thessalonians 1:2 4. 1 Thessalonians 3:9 5. 2 Thessalonians 2:13 6. Philemon 4 J. Thanksgiving as an Expression of Appreciation for Particular Reports 1. Romans 1:8 2. Ephesians 1:16 K. Thanksgiving as an Expression of Appreciation in the Believer's Conduct and for the Believer's Conduct 1. Ephesians 5:4 2. Colossians 2:7 3. 2 Thessalonians 1:3 4. Colossians 4:2 5. 1 Thessalonians 2:13 L. Thanksgiving as an Expression of Appreciation for Spiritual Blessings 1. 1 Corinthians 14:16-18 2. 2 Corinthians 1:11 3. 1 Corinthians 1:4 4. 1 Corinthians 10:30 5. 2 Corinthians 4:15 6. 2 Corinthians 9:11, 12 7. Romans 7:25 8. Colossians 1:12 9. Colossians 3:15 M. Thanksgiving as an Expression of Appreciation in the Prophetic Future 1. Revelation 4:9 2. Revelation 7:12 3. Revelation 11:17 N. Thanksgiving in Review 1. For Something -- a Benefit God Has Provided 2. Is a Response of a Spirit-Filled Believer 3. One of the Most Used Communications of All Eight 4. May Be Given to the Son (1 Timothy 1:12) as Well as the Father. By Implication It May Be Addressed to the Holy Spirit. 5. Is Necessary to Do the Will of God -- 1 Thessalonians 5:18 6. Is Essential for the Peace of God in the Life of the Believer -- Philippians 4:6 II. PRAISE aInos (aInos) aInesis (aInesis) and epaInos (epaInos) A. The Definition of the Words Involved 1. Its New Testament Definition: Praise is "Offered to God Continually, It Is the Fruit of Our Lips Confessing His Name." (Hebrews 13:15) 2. Its Doctrinal Definition: Praise is the communication with God in which there is the response of appreciation for some aspect of God's Character which was responsible for the benefits received by the believer." -- Dr. H.L. Schafer B. The Distribution of the Words in the New Testament 1. Two Forms. Noun and verb forms occur in a simple form and in a compound form. The compound form is a strengthened form. 2. The Verbal Form. The Verbal form aInew (aIneo) occurs nine times in four books of the New Testament (Luke, Acts, Romans and Revelation). The word is consistently translated "praise." The compound verbal epaInew (epaIneo) occurs six times in three New Testament books. It is usually translated "praise" but is also translated "laud" 1 time and "commend" 1 time in the A.V. 3. The Noun Forms. The noun form aInos (aInos) occurs twice in the New Testament (Matthew 21:16 and Luke 18:43). It is used to describe the action aInesis (aInesis) in Hebrews 13:15. The compound noun epaInos (epaInos) occurs 11 times in six books and is also translated "praise." 4. The Total References. There are 29 references using all forms of the root in the New Testament. Romans 15:11 uses both the compound and simple forms in one verse. C. Its Distinction as a New Testament Word 1. Praise always relates to the character of God in His providing a believer a benefit. 2. The more one knows about God, the better his praise will be. 3. Praise is a spiritual sacrifice of the believer-priest. 4. Praise is frequently coordinated with the giving of thanks. 5. Praise is primarily to be addressed to the Father, but may be addressed to the Son or the Holy Spirit. 6. The believer's works can praise God. 7. Believers' lives can bring praise to God. 8. Believers' victories in trial will ultimately bring praise to God. 9. New Testament praise is totally different from Old Testament praise. The Old Testament concept of praise as in Hallelujah is that of a physical action and verbal shout similar to a cheer. D. The Doctrine of Praise in the Life of the Grace Believer 1. Praise May Be Given by Man to Men (Luke 16:8; 1 Corinthians 11:2, 17, 22(2x) 2. Praise May Be Given for Qualities of Character (Philippians 4:8) 3. Praise May Be Given by God of Men (Romans 2:29; 1 Corinthians 4:5) 4. God Works in the Life of the Believer to Place Him Into the Praise of His Glory at the Moment of Salvation (Ephesians 1:6; 1:12; 1:14; Philippians 1:11) E. The Direction of Praise in the Life of the Believer 1. His Priestly Service and Sacrifice -- Hebrews 13:15 a. What Is It? b. How Often? c. How Is It Defined? 2. His Continued Expression -- Hebrews 13:15 F. The Distinctiveness of Praise Seen in Illustration 1. The Case of the Begging Blind Man -- Luke 18:43 2. The Case of the Praising Angels -- Luke 2:13, 20 3. The Case of the Multitude of Disciples -- Luke 19:37 4. The Case of the Early Church -- Acts 2:47 5. The Case of the Lame Man Made Whole -- Acts 3:8, 9 G. The Future Praise of the Saints -- Revelation 19:1-6 1. The Content of Praise -- Verse 1 2. The Certainty of the Character of God -- Verse 2 3. The Continuation of Praise for Christ's Enduring Permanent Work -- Verse 3 4. The Communication of Praise -- Verse 4a 5. The Command Coming from the Throne of God -- Verses 4b, 5 6. The Consequences of Their Praise -- Verse 6 H. The Concepts of Praise in Review 1. Praise is the distinct expression of the believer-priest in which he expresses his appreciation to God for His character as a result of something done or benefit provided. 2. Praise always involves the believer's knowledge of God. 3. Praise is defined in Hebrews 13:15. 4. Praise may be directed to any Person of the Godhead though principally to the Father. 5. Praise is the sacrifice of the believer-priest. 6. Praise is to be a habit for the believer. 7. Praise is accepted by God who is made happy and well-pleased by the sweet smelling odor of the sacrifice. III. WORSHIP COMMUNICATION = PRAYER -- proseu&wh (proseuChe) and proseu&omai (proseuChomai) A. The Definition of the Words Involved "Prayer" is the form of communication in which worship is directed to the Godhead. WORSHIP is a heart (soul, spirit and will of man) attitude in which the believer, knowing who and what God is, gives back to God His whole weight. Other forms of communication may interrupt or be included during worship communication without changing the character of worship or of the other form of communication. -- adapted from H.L. Schafer B. The Total Occurrences in the New Testament 1. Forms. The word is found in both verbal proseu&omai -- (proseuChomai) and noun proseu&wh -- (proseuChe) forms. 2. The Verb. The verb proseucomai occurs 87 times in 16 books of the New Testament. The A.V. translates it "pray, make prayer and pray for." 3. The Noun. The noun proseuch is found 37 times in 11 New Testament Books. 36 times it is translated "prayer" in the A.V. In James 5:17 it is translated "pray earnestly." 4. The Totals. The total references that use the word is 124. Some verses include both the noun and the verb. C. The Basic Meaning of the Term proseucomai (proseuChomai) is only used of communication with God in the NewTestament. It conveys the basic idea of worship. Rather than being a response of the believer to what God has done, proseucomai (proseuChomai) distinctly is directed to God with spontaneity giving God His full weight by the participating believer. 1. The Composition of the Word a. pros is a prepositional prefix that has the basic idea of motion or direction towards a place or object. It is often translated "to, toward, with, at." It conveys the idea of direction or relationship. b. eucomai is generally translated "pray." The idea of communication is inherent in the term. 2. Lexical Definitions of the Words a. G. Abbott-Smith, A Manual Greek Lexicon of the New Testament, p384 describes the noun as (1) prayer to God or (2) a place of prayer, of a synagogue. He simply describes the verb as meaning "to pray (always of prayer to God)." b. Thayer, Thayer's Greek English Lexicon of the New Testament, p545 describes the noun as (1) prayer addressed to God (2) a place set apart for the offering of prayer as a synagogue. It was also used of "a place in the open air where Jews were wont to pray, outside of those cities where they had no synagogues; such places were situated upon the bank of a stream or the shore of the sea, where there was a supply of water for washing the hands before prayer." D. The Significance of the Word 1. It Is Always Addressed to God. 2. It Is Never to Cease in the Life of the Believer (1 Thess. 5:17). 3. It Is to Be Communicated by a Spirit-Filled Believer (Eph. 6:18). 4. In Other Dispensations Worship Was Different Than It Is in the Dispensation of Grace. 5. Prayer Is Not to Be Made in Secret as It Will Be in the Millennial Kingdom 6. An Understanding of Worship Is Essential to an Understanding of proseucomai (proseuChomai). 7. proseucomai Involves a Major Part of the Believer's Waking Moments. 8. proseucomai Does Not Expect an Answer. 9. proseucomai Is Not a Response to Something God Has Done for a Person, Though It May Occur During Such a Response. 10. proseucomai May Be Used with Other Forms of Communication with God. E. The Common Order In Response to Things Thanksgiving -- for the thing supplied Praise -- for the character of God In supplying the thing Worship -- continuation of the thoughts about God that were motivated by the thing F. Worship Communication in Other Dispensations 1. The Dispensation of the Fullness of the Times = Millennial Kingdom a. Matthew 5:44 b. Matthew 6:5-9 c. Luke 6:28 d. Luke 11:1 2. In the Earthly Ministry of Christ (Under the Dispensation of Law) a. Matthew 14:23 b. Matthew 26:36-44 c. Mark 1:35 d. Luke 9:28, 29 e. Luke 22:41-45 3. Old Testament Believers in the Time of Our Lord a. Matthew 17:21 b. Matthew 21:22 c. Mark 9:29 d. Mark 11:17 e. Luke 18:10, 11 f Luke 20:47 4. In the Tribulation Period by Tribulation Believers a. Mark 13:18 b. Mark 13:33 c. Luke 18:1 G. Principles of Worship Communication for the Grace Believer 1. It Is Accompanied by or Accompanies Other Kinds of Communication that May or May Not Be Identified in the Passage or Its Context a. Romans 1:9 b. Romans 15:30 c. Ephesians 6:18 d. Philippians 1:9 e. Philippians 4:6 2. It Is to Be Made without "Ceasing" -- 1 Thessalonians 5:17 3. It Is to Be the Habitual Activity of the Spiritual Believer -- Ephesians 6:18 4. When We Do Not Know How to Worship in a Proper Manner, the Holy Spirit Stands in for Us -- Romans 8:26 5. Paul Practiced Praying Without Ceasing -- Colossians 1:9. Of the 27 recorded prayers of Paul in the New Testament, he only said "Amen" one time. His worship type of communication was never signed off. 6. When a Believer Suffers Bad, Let Him Pray a Prayer of Worship -- James 5:13 7. The Ministry of Elders Dealing with a Physically Sick Individual Involves a Prayer of Worship -- James 5:14 8. A Husband's Worship May Be Hindered If He Doesn't Relate to His Wife in a Proper Manner -- 1 Peter 3:7 9. Because of the Nearness of the End Times, the Believer Is to Be Sober minded to the Extent that He Is Worshipping -- 1 Peter 4:7 10. The Spirit of God Is to Be the Instrument by Which Worship Communication Is Communicated -- Jude 20 11. Deprivation of the Marriage Bed Is Only Possible by Mutual Consent for Believers for the Purpose of Worshipping God -- 1 Corinthians 7:5 H. Worship Communication in Review 1. It Is Normally Directed to the Father. In the communication of the believer, it appears that worship may be given to the Son and Spirit. In the future, worship will be clearly given to the Son -- Revelation 5:8 2. It Is to Be the Consistent Activity of the Believer -- 1 Thessalonians 5:17 3. It Is to Be Without Ceasing -- 1 Thessalonians 5:17 4. When Satan Attacks, the Believer Is to Pray a Prayer of Worship on His Own Behalf (Ephesians 6:18). This Is the Only Prayer He Prays on His Own Behalf 5. proseu&omai Is Only Done on Your Own Behalf (middle voice). You Cannot Worship for Someone Else. 6. The Spirit of God Is the One Who Assists in the Proper Communication of Worship to God (Jude 20). Only Spiritual Christians Can Truly Worship. IV. CONFESSION -- omologia (homologia) and omologew (homologeo) A. The Definition of the Words Involved -- "Confession" is the believer's communication with God the Father in which he says the same thing as the Father does about acts of sin calling them sin. B. The Occurrences of the Forms of the Word in the New Testament 1. The Verb. omologew occurs 23 times in 10 New Testament books. It is translated five ways in the A.V.: "confess" (17x); "profess" (3x); "promise" (1x); "give thanks" (1x) and "confession is made" (1x). 2. The Noun. omologia occurs six times in three New Testament books and is translated "profession" (4x), "professed" (1x) and "confession" (1x). 3. The Compound Form. The compound word exomologew (exhomologeo) occurs 11 times in eight books of the New Testament and is translated "confess" (8x), "thank" (2x) and "promise" (1x). The word literally means "to confess out." 4. The Grand Total. The word in all of its forms occurs in the New Testament a total of 41 times. C. The Basic Meaning of the Term for Communication with God 1. omos -- 2. logew -- 3. Outline of Basic Meanings of the Word a. Particular Description -- to say the same thing b. Public Deposition -- publicly professing c. Personal Declaration -- to confess d. Prominent Demonstration -- to praise D. Its Use as Communication Between Human Beings 1. A Statement of Details in One's Personal Defense -- Acts 24:14 2. A Statement of Determination in light of Someone's Personal Desire -- Matthew 14:7 3. A Statement of Definition Concerning One's Personal Doctrine -- 1 Timothy 6:12, 13; John 12:42 E. Its Use as Communication by Christ (Here its emphasis is upon the agreement evident between members of the Godhead) -- Matthew 7:23; 10:32; Luke 12:8 F. Its Use as a Declaration to God by Men Under Law 1. Under Law the Very Fact One Took an Animal to Be Sacrificed Was an Act of Confession. 2. In Dispensation of Law -- Matthew 3:6 3. Before Men in the Old Testament -- Luke 12:8 G. Is Confession Necessary for Salvation? cf Romans 10:9, 10 H. A Statement of Declaration of Agreement Concerning Sin -- 1 John 1:9 1. The Form of the Verb 2. The Thing Confessed 3. Some Principles from the Verse a. Confession Is a Possibility. It may or may not occur. Note the subjunctive mood. b. Note the Character of the Godhead (1) He Is Faithful in That He Will Never Change Concerning His Promises (2) He Is Righteous in That He Acts Rightly in Every Instance Concerning Sin (3) The Forgiveness of Sins is the Result. Forgiveness for Sin Is Final and Complete (4) The Believer Is to Agree with God Concerning Specific Acts of Sin. He Calls it "Sin" and Nothing Else. He Is to Name It! (5) God Forgives More Than We Confess. He Forgives All Other Forms of Unrighteousness c. Confession Is Necessary Because of the Sin Nature within the Believer -- 1 John 1:8 d. Sin Grieves the Holy Spirit Making Confession Necessary to Return to the Position of Fellowship with the Holy Spirit -- Ephesians 4:30 e. Confession Is Not a General Statement of Human Weakness and Frailty. God Already Knows You Are Weak. f. Confession Involves a Statement of Knowledge and from Action (1) A Believer Knows When He Sins (2) A Specific Statement Is Required g. A Believer Need Not Be Reluctant to Confess His or Her Sins. I. Confession in Review 1. Confession is the agreement of a person who says the same thing as another person. It is the naming of something in a common manner and content. 2. Confession is communication directed to God the Father. 3. Confession is necessary because of the sin nature. 4. Confession involves the naming of a sin in agreement with the fact that God calls it sin. This is not general confession but the confession of specifics. 5. Confession is necessary because of our relationship to the Holy Spirit 6. Confession is not a statement of human frailty. 7. Confession is not asking for forgiveness. 8. Confession involves the mind. 9. Confession is made only for sin. 10. Don't be reluctant to confess your sins to the Father. V. VOW COMMUNICATION -- eu&wh (euChe) A. The Theological Definition of the Word Involved Vow communication is the communication of a promise to the Father to accomplish something that the Holy Spirit would prompt the heart to do. B. The Total Occurrences of the Word in the New Testament 1. Noun. Three times in Acts 18:18; 21:23 and James 5:15. It is translated "vow" in Acts and "prayer" in James. 2. Verb. The verb is found seven times in five New Testament books. It is translated "would," "wish" and "pray." 3. Notice the fact that a majority of these references are non-technical and nontheological in their uses. C. The Bible Concept of a Vow 1. The Jews Were Not to Swear by Things a. Matthew 5:33 -- For the Millennial Kingdom b. James 5:12 -- Normal Type of Jewish Oath c. Were Not to Swear by a Material Object 2. A Legitimate Vow: A promise without a guarantee that the vow would not be broken i.e. no need for proof. It is used of a promise made that is based on the believer's relationship to God rather than upon a material object. 3. The Concept Presented in the New Testament a. Acts 18:18 -- Paul Shaved His Head (1) Something Temporary (2) Probably to God b. James 5:15 (1) Physical Sickness Is Not Mentioned Here (2) Mental Illness Is Emphasized by the Greek Word Here (3) Note the Problem in the Verse (a) Sick Because of a Sin That Was Committed (b) Sin Committed Toward Another Man 4. This Type of Communication Is Not Frequently Used by the Grace Believer 5. Further Negatives a. Not to Be Sworn as an Oath Like Peter Did -- Matthew 26:72, 74 b. Not like the Oath Paul Made When He Was Out of Fellowship with God Acts 18:18; 21:23 D. Review of Vow Communication 1. This communication involves making a promise to God. 2. Such a promise springs from the believer's faith. 3. This communication is rarely used by the believer. 4. You may or may not keep the promise. It isn't binding. 5. This vow is a commitment to do something if the Lord permits it to be done. VI. INTERCESSION -- Enteuxis (Enteuxis) and Entug&anw (Entugchano) A. Its Technical Meaning as Communication Definition: Enteuxis (Enteuxis) is that privilege of the New Testament priest to plead in the presence of the Father for, or against, known persons, or for known needs of human persons. B. The Total Occurrences 1. The Verb Form. The verbal form Entug&anw occurs in the New Testament six times in three of the New Testament books. One of the six is used in a nontheological, non-technical manner. The other five are used in a technical sense of intercessory communication by believers or of the intercessory ministry of the Second and Third Persons of the Trinity. 2. The Noun Form. The noun Enteuxis occurs twice in the New Testament. Each time it refers to communication with God (1 Timothy 2:1; 4:5) C. The Non-Technical Reference 1. The Reference Acts 25:24 2. Its Translation "Deal" 3. The Situation D. The Normal Forms 1. Enteuxis (Enteuxis) is a noun translated "intercession" in 1 Timothy 2:1 and "prayer" in 1 Timothy 4:5. 2. Entug&anw (Entugchano) is a verb translated "make intercession" in four passages and "deal" in Acts 25:24. 3. upErEntug&anw (hupErEntugChano) is a compound verb that is only found in Romans 8:26 and is translated "intercession." E. The Heavenly Intercessor -- The Lord Jesus Christ -- The Son of God 1. Hebrews 7:25 a. The Subject Introduced (1) The Permanence of Christ's Cross Work -- vs. 25a (2) The Persons Who Benefit from Christ's Intercession -- vs. 25b (3) The Provision of the Son at This Present Time -- vs. 25c b. The Substance Investigated 2. Romans 8:33, 34 a. The Subject Introduced b. The Situation Indicated c. The Substance Investigated F. The Helpful Intercessor -- The Holy Spirit Romans 8:26-28 1. The Content of the Spirit's Intercession vs. 26 2. The Character of the Spirit's Intercession -- vs. 27 3. The Coming of Events in the Life of the Believer -- vs. 28 G. Human Intercessors -- Believers 1. Romans 11:2 -- Intercession Against -- An Old Testament Illustration a. The Question of the Casting Away of Israel -- vs. 1 b. The Quandary of Elias Concerning Israel -- vs. 2 c. The Quotation of Elias -- vs. 3 d. Intercession Is Made Against Someone Here e. The Communication Was Made to God by an Old Testament Prophet Against a Specific Group of People for Specific Judgment 2. 1 Timothy 4:5 a. The Problem of Those Who Have Departed From the Faith -- vss. 1-3 b. The Provision of Creatures by God for His Purpose -- vs. 4 c. The Preservation of All Things by God -- vs. 5 d. Here intercession is made for an inanimate object -- meat. It is outside of (i.e. external to) the believer. e. It is for the specific need of sanctifying it for the interceding believer. f. The specific need involved appears to be twofold: the possible tampering with the meat by heathen priests and the possible spoilage of the meat (or food). 3. 1 Timothy 2:1 a. The Subject Introduced (1) The Order of Communication -- vs. 1 (2) The Objects of Communication -- vss. 2-4 b. The Situation Indicated (1) Verse one gives an order for communication while verses two through six identify what is involved in each of the four kinds of communication. (2) Note the Manner in Which These Relate (a) Supplications --- (b) Prayers of Worship --- (c) Intercessions --- (d) After Thanksgivings --- (3) Intercession Is for a Specific Thing (4) Intercession Is for More Persons Than Are Known in the Verses (5) Intercession Is for the Salvation of Unbelievers H. Intercession in Review 1. Always Involves a Known Factor. This Factor May Be: a. A Known Need of a Known Person b. A Known Need of an Unknown Person c. A Specific Need of a Group of People Known or Unknown 2. Intercession May Be for Things Rather Than Persons (1 Timothy 4:5) 3. Intercession Is Only Directed to God the Father 4. intercession Is Normally for Someone But It May Be Made against Someone 5. Intercession Is a Priestly Privilege for the New Testament Believer 6. Intercession Always Involves Three Parties. These Are: the Intercessor, the One with Whom Intercession Is Made and the One for Whom Intercession Is Made. The Following Chart Will Assist in Describing the Function of Intercession. (Chart omitted) 7. Intercession is the most frequently used form of asking type of communication in the life of the normal Christian. VII. SUPPLICATION -- dewhsis (deesis) and deomai (deomai) A. Its Technical Meaning as Communication with God Definition: Supplication is a cry for help for oneself or others, in which there is an unknown factor whether it be a need or an object. B. The Total Occurrences of the Root in the New Testament 1. The Verb: The verb deomai (deomai) occurs in the New Testament 22 times in 11 of the New Testament books. Its primary meaning is "to want, lack, in the middle voice it means to stand in need or want (Thayer, Lexicon, p129)." Thayer feels that the term means to "ask or beg" when it is applied to communication with God (Ibid.). The verb is translated "pray" (12 times), "beseech" (9x), and "make request" (1x) in the A.V. 2. The Noun: The noun dewhsis (deesis) occurs 19 times in the New Testament. It is translated "prayer," "supplication" and "request." The noun conveys the idea of a great need that needs to be met. Hence, it means "a seeking, asking, entreating (Ibid.)." The -sis (-sis) ending on this Greek noun conveys the idea of naming of the action (i.e. its abstract name). The emphasis is upon crying out in the time of need. The desire for help overcomes any inhibitions concerning the presentation of a need to the Father. The believer supplicates indicating that he will accept the response of the Father by faith whatever the answer might be. C. Non technical References. Of the 41 references that use the word only six do not refer to communication with God the Father. These passages illustrate the meaning of the word in the New Testament era (cf Acts 8:34; 21:39; 26:3; 2 Corinthians 5:20; 10:2 and Galatians 4:12). D. "Supplication" to Christ During His Earthly Ministry 1. During the presence of Christ on earth in His earthly ministry, men supplicated to Him. This was only true when He was physically present. 2. Luke 5:12: 3. Luke 8:28: 4. Luke 8:38: 5. Luke 9:38, 40 6. Summary a. Christ was present in a physical body when supplicants came b. All references are in Luke c. Three of the instances of supplication involved a visible physical need in the life of the supplicant. The physical symptoms were a result of either a disease (Luke 5:12) or demonic influence (Luke 8:28; 9:38, 40). The physician, who had heard such cries for help many times, uses deomai (deomai) because he undoubtedly knew that the possibility of cure was not available from contemporary medical knowledge or techniques. d. After the cross work of Christ, supplication is only addressed to God the Father. E. "Supplication" by Jesus Christ During His Earthly Ministry -- Luke 22:32 1. Christ Supplicated for Someone Else -- Simon Peter 2. The Unknown Factor Was Whether or Not Peter's Faith Would Fail. Christ Knew the Fact that Peter Would Deny and Simply Supplicates for His Faith, Placing Peter at the Disposal of the Father. F. Some Pre-Cross Examples of Supplication 1. Luke 1:13: 2. Luke 2:37: 3. Matthew 9:38: G. Supplication in the Dispensation of Grace 1. Acts 1:14: 2. Acts 4:31: 3. Acts 8:22, 24: 4. Acts 10:2: 5. Romans 1:10: 6. 2 Corinthians 8:4: 7. 2 Corinthians 9:14: 8. Ephesians 6:18: 9. Philippians 1:14: 10. Philippians 1:19: 11. Philippians 4:6: 12. 1 Timothy 2:1: 13. James 5:16 a. The Communication b. The Communicator c. The Character of the Communication: d. The Certainty of Energy 14. 1 Peter 3:12: H. Supplication in Review 1. There is always an area of uncertainty in supplication on the part of the communicator. This uncertainty may involve the means, method, supply, need or assistance concerning something in his own life or that of others. 2. In supplication the communicator throws himself upon God by sheer faith expecting God to Provide in His own unique way and time. 3. Supplication may be made for someone else (1 Timothy 2:1, 2) 4. Supplication may be made for oneself (Philippians 4:6) 5. Supplication may be made for persons you have never met (cf Romans 1:10) 6. Supplication is always expressed to the Father. 7. Supplication is a cry for help coming from uncertainty in the believer's heart. 8. Supplication will be a large part of your communication for yourself and others VIII. ASKING COMMUNICATION -- aitwhma (aitema) and aitew (aiteo) A. Its Technical Meaning as Communication with God Definition: aitew (aiteo) is the form of communication in which a known object is requested of the Father by the believer for Himself in the same way that Christ would ask for it. B. The Total Occurrences of the Root in Scripture 1. The Verb Form. The verb form aitew (aiteo) occurs in the New Testament 67 times in 11 books. Many of these references are not used of the grace believer's communication with God the Father. 2. The Noun Form. The noun form aitwhma (aitema) occurs only three times in Luke 23:24; Philippians 4:6 and 1 John 5:15. 3. The Compound Forms, There are five compound forms occurring 18 times. None of these are technical uses for communication with the Father. C. Overview of the Concepts of aitew (aiteo) 1. It Is Made for a Specific Need 2. It Is Directed by an Inferior or Lesser to a Superior (the Father Is the Receiver) 3. It Is Only Directed to God the Father 4. It Is Made for Oneself for a Personal Need. It Is Not Made for Others. D. The Results of the Death of Christ and Asking Communication 1. Jesus Christ Is Seated at the Right Hand of God the Father (Ephesians 1:20; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 1:3). 2. Jesus Christ Is the Source of a New and Living Way (Hebrews 10:19, 20). Therefore We Enter with Boldness (Hebrews 10:19). 3. Jesus Christ Was a Sufficient Sacrifice for Sin. His Blood Was Placed on the Altar in Heaven (Hebrews 9:23, 24). 4. Jesus Christ Is a Sympathetic High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). 5. God Is Now Seated on a Throne of Grace (Hebrews 4:16). 6. Every Believer Is Made a Priest (1 Peter 2:5, 9). E. The Ratification Of aitew (aiteo) Communication for Grace Believers 1. John 16:24 a. The Dual Change in Communication -- vs. 23 (1) The Disciple-Teacher Relationship to Cease (2) The Manner of Asking to Change b. The Distinct Conversion from Old Testament Principles to New Testament Principles -- vs. 24 (1) New Mode of Asking (2) New Method of Asking (3) New Meaning Resulting from Asking 2. John 14:13, 14 a. The Promise Concerning the Power of the Son and the Believer -- vs. 12 b. The Provision Concerning the Delivery of the Thing Asked -- vs. 13 c. The Problem Concerning the Fact that Few Believers Ask and the Possibility if They Do Ask -- vs. 14 d. "In My Name" (1) The Normal Errors Concerning Asking in Jesus'Name (2) The Necessary Explanation from Scripture (a) The Old Testament Relates the Idea of "Name" to the Character of God (Leviticus 24:11; Exodus 9:16; Joshua 9:9; Psalm 29:2 etc.) (b) The Father Is Manifested in His Name Showing His Character and Person (John 17:6; 17:26; Revelation 11:18). (c) Christ Is Manifested in His Name Showing His Character and Person (1 John 2:23; John 3:18; Acts 3:6) 3. John 15:7 a. The Abiding in the Vine -- vss. 1-7a b. The Acquisition of the Words by the Believer -- vs. 7b c. The Asking for Something for Oneself -- vs. 7c d. The Acquisition of the Thing Desired -- vs. 7d 4. John 15:16: 5. John 16:23, 24, 26: 6. Ephesians 3:20: 7. James 1:5, 6: 8. 1 John 3:22: 9. 1 John 5:14, 15, 16: 10. Philippians 4:6: 11. 1 John 5:16: F. aitew (aiteo) in Review 1. Must Be Done by the Abiding Christian in the "Character and Person of Christ." 2. There should be no uncertainty in this communication for the abiding believer. He should know that when he asks for something specific for himself he will receive it. 3. If a believer asks for something for himself and does not receive it, he must reevaluate his communication and attempt to discover whether or not it was done according to Biblical principles. 4. When the believer asks in Jesus' name, Jesus Christ will do the thing asked, resulting in greater works than He did when He was on earth. 5. The believer needs only ask once. If he is not heard, he is to place himself at the disposal of the Holy Spirit so that His asking will conform to the character of Christ. 6. "Praying in His Name means a recognition of one's self as a living part of Christ and, therefore, limited by the leading of the Holy Spirit in the subject of 'asking prayer' to those things in direct line with God's Will, which always result in the Father being glorified." (from Dr. Schafer, classroom notes) 7. The proper order for this type of communication is to address the request to the Father, in the name of the Son by the leading and enabling of the Holy Spirit. 8. The believer can receive an extra blessing by discovering how the Father was glorified in the provision of the thing asked. IX. The Blessings of the Believer's Grace Communication A. Communication with God Is a privilege that may be exercised all of the time. B. Every phase of the believer's life is covered in his communication and communion with God. He has the privilege of sharing every need, appreciation, concern and happiness with God. C. The believer is able to cast all of his care upon Him (1 Peter 5:7). A direct result of this is the fact that he can have the same peace that God has (Philippians 4:6, 7). D. Communication promises and practice eliminate anxiety (Philippians 4:6, 7). E. Communication permits the believer to focus his thinking on things above (Philippians 4:8, 9; Colossians 3:1-3) F. As the positive aspects of communication are emphasized and worship becomes the central form of the believer's communication, he is able to rejoice in the Lord (Philippians 4:4) always and again to rejoice.