PAUL'S PRAYERS FOR CHURCHES

1. To Know God in Fullness (Ephesians 3:14-21) 

2. To Abound in Love (Philippians 1:3-11) 

3. To Live Worthy of the Lord (Colossians 1:9-14) 

Central Truth: Christians should pray for one another to know God, show love, and live exemplary lives. 

Focus: Study three of Paul’s prayers for believers and trust God to fulfill them in our churches. 

Evangelism Emphasis: God can deliver unbelievers from the power of darkness into Christ’s kingdom. 

Text: “For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding” (Colossians 1:9). 

INTRODUCTION 

Paul’s prayers for three different churches are addressed in this lesson. These three letters (along with Philemon) are often called the Prison Epistles, because they were penned when Paul was under house arrest in Rome (around AD 61-63). 

Each church was facing similar and unique situations. Ephesians does not address substantial false doctrines but, rather, emphasizes the Church is the body of Christ. Paul addresses the perception that the Gentile Christians were less or inferior to or differentiated by God from the Jewish Christians. While in prison, he proclaims their liberty and status in Christ (see 2:14-22). The prayer closes out the explication or teaching section (chs. 1-3), which serves as the foundation for the application (chs. 4-6) of God’s will and provision. 

The Philippian church went above and beyond in their partnership with Paul. The epistle provides a beautiful picture of what the relationship between a spiritual father and the congregation should look like. They had supported and strengthened Paul, and he does the same in his prayer for them. The Colossian church faced serious doctrinal errors that Paul confronts in love. They faced what is prevalent in today’s society: Everything is relative, and combining teachings from many religions provides a “better” philosophy; morality is based on one’s opinion, rather than the Word. 

All of the churches had a common need: encouragement to remember what Christ has done through Jesus Christ and a reminder that God is still the ultimate authority, no matter what we think or face. Today’s climate and culture is not dissimilar to that of the first century. The church universal (and some congregations!) is divided by political and theological issues. Paul’s prayers are as pertinent now as they were twenty-one centuries ago. 

The three prayers share some common concepts that are addressed in depth in section 1 and alluded to in the following two prayers. Each of the prayers could easily be a complete lesson. It would serve us all well to go back through all seven prayers of this unit theme and study aspects that need to be addressed in our lives and included in our prayers. 

1. TO KNOW GOD IN FULLNESS 

A.  Be Strengthened Through the Spirit (Ephesians 3:14-19) 

14 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; 17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.  

Grammatically, verse 14 finds its subject in verse 1 (“I [Paul]”), which confirms it is his prayer. Verses 2-13 are one long parenthetical statement about God’s purpose and Paul’s apostolic calling to the Gentiles. “For this cause” (v. 14) emphasizes a purpose that includes an element of divine favor. It can refer back to those verses (vv. 2-13) or the entire epistle to this point. Either way, the focus is twofold. First, it stresses God’s unsearchable mysteries, wisdom, love, and the vast scope of His redemptive plan. Second, it assures and confirms to the Ephesian church that they are included and accepted in that plan. By God’s grace and desire, they are now securely in the body of Christ. When Paul reflects on the Father’s love and provision (seen in and provided through Christ), there is but one proper response: “I bow my knees.” It is an act of humility, reverence, and worship. 

Verse 15 is the only place Paul uses this term for “family.” The term can be understood two different ways: (1) Paul is teaching that every family universally composes God’s creation; or, (2) the reference is to one entire family; that is, every person who finds identity through a relationship with Christ is part of the family of God. The first view is possible. Everyone is part of God’s creation and is blessed through Christ (see Gen. 12:3; Acts 3:25). However, not everyone is in a righteous relationship with God and, thus, part of His family. 

The second rendering seems more plausible. Paul does not refer to those apart from Christ in familial terms. This designation is reserved for those who are part of the “household” of faith (Gal. 6:10; Eph. 2:19) or blood relation (1 Tim. 5:8). Paul provides the key to understanding in the word “named” (Eph. 3:15). “From whom” (NKJV) refers back to the Father (v. 14). Paul is bringing together every redeemed person (past and present) who finds their identity in Christ through the Cross. Those in the past looked forward to the redemptive work of God; those in the present (and future) look back on what Christ provided (see Rev. 13:8). Because we are identified as His, we are accountable to Him (Acts 27:23-25). 

Our relationship brings both provision and possibilities. Paul desires that God, on the basis of His infinite resources (“riches”) emanating from His majestic power and splendor (“glory”) would provide six spiritual blessings to the Ephesians (3:16). First, he expects them to grow strong with spiritual power (see Col. 1:11). This is accomplished as they yield themselves to the presence and continual work of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit gives us the freedom to move from weakness and fear to mutual love and strength. It is specifically “the inner man” that Paul wants strengthened; this refers to the highest aspect of our being that seeks after God, desires the eternal over the temporal, and fully embraces the work of God in our lives (Rom. 7:22; 2 Cor. 4:16). At times, we may lack the capability to implement it. Paul specifically believes they will receive the ability God places within those who honor Him. Thus, they can move from knowledge to application. 

Second, Paul fully anticipates the presence of Christ will inhabit (or make a home) in the believers’ hearts, as they exercise the belief (“faith”) that He is and does what Scripture reveals (Eph. 3:17a). Faith in Him is a source of spiritual power—a living, dynamic, mental, volitional, and spiritual endeavor that results in the reality of an intimate relationship. It appropriates (grabs hold of) the provision of God’s grace for our lives. Faith is absolutely necessary and commanded, but it is not the ultimate expression of our spiritual relationship. 

Third, they must be firmly planted, developing deep roots (v. 17b; cf. Matt. 13:6) and have a deep, strong foundation (“grounded”; see Matt. 7:24-25) “in” the prevalence and application of love. Love is the ultimate (fullest and most perfect) expression and essence of our relationship with God (Matt. 22:37-39). 

Fourth, Paul prays that the Ephesians may have the spiritual and mental capability (“able to”) to fully understand and seize (“comprehend”) the vast expanse of God’s love that penetrates every corner and every dimension of creation, including fellow believers from whom they can draw strength and revelation (v. 18). The language indicates there may be times that we must forcefully grasp the expanse of God’s love. This is dependent on our being appropriately fixed on the proper foundation of the previous verse. Each prayer desire of Paul builds upon the previous aspect of the prayer, that together a proper perspective will be established. 

Fifth, inseparably linked to the above is the need “to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge” (v. 19 NKJV). Paul’s understanding of “know” is linked to an Old Testament term (yada). This knowledge is an intimate and experiential encounter, rather than mere mental awareness of a fact. It is the term used for marital intimacy (Gen. 4:1) and full spiritual comprehension (3:7). This love cannot be fully expressed through human language and ability (1 Cor. 2:9-16). 

Finally, the goal of all Paul’s desires is that believers may “be filled” to overflowing with nothing but Christ and His provision (“the fullness of God,” Eph. 3:19). This allows us to enter spiritual dimensions previously unknown and unattainable through human means (Col. 2:9-10). This state does not place the focus on us, but reflects God (Eph. 4:24). This is accessible only through prayer and total submission. 

• As Christians, how is our spiritual depth reflected in our spiritual height? 

B. A Doxology (Ephesians 3:20-21) 

20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. 

Paul’s prayer embraces his hopes for them and teaches them (and us) about God’s love and provision. The result is in an outburst of praise. This doxology concludes the prayer and is a consistent and appropriate response when we reflect on God. “The power” at work in us is the same magnificent power that raised Christ from the dead and subdued every other power or force (Eph. 1:15-23). Therefore, nothing can separate us from His love (Rom. 8:31-39), and we have been enabled to operate within that power through Christ (Phil. 4:13). 

The Father must receive majestic praise and honor “in the church,” local and universal, as the community of the faithful (Eph. 3:21). Anything less is sinful (missing the mark). “In” implies (1) He receives the glory “within” the Church, gathered together in worship; and (2) the Church should be the “instrument” that is the reflection and visible expression of God’s glory when present in the world (see v. 10). This is accomplished through the agency of the Son (see Heb. 13:1-16) across all time, space, and eternity. Paul concludes with the affirmation that this is not only possible, but he expects it to happen (“amen”). 

In Paul’s prayer, we have seen the Trinity at work in the life of the believer. This brings the fullness of who God is (love, life, and holiness) into our lives. Because of the grace shown us, He deserves nothing less than our dedication and praise in action wherever we are. 

Glorifying God’s Grace 

God’s purpose in our redemption is not simply to rescue us from hell, as great a work as that is. His ultimate purpose in our salvation is that for all eternity the Church might glorify God’s grace.—Kyle Idleman, Grace Is Greater  

2. TO ABOUND IN LOVE 

A. Grateful Remembrance (Philippians 1:3-8) 

3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy. 5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; 6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.   

Following Paul’s customary salutation to the church (1:1-2), he records an encouraging and unique sentiment (v. 3). Every time the church entered his thoughts, it produced thankfulness for them and gratitude to God for His work in their lives and their response and acceptance thereof. He usually expressed thankfulness for the churches in the epistles written to them, but this is the only place he uses this personal and encompassing phrase. This church held a special place in his heart. That is a great legacy for us to embrace and emulate. Further, whenever he does think of them (“always”), especially during prayer, he joyfully intercedes on their behalf (v. 4). “Every prayer” conveys that every time he brought petitions before God on behalf of others, he brought requests for them also. He reinforces the requests with the same word, stating that each time he made those requests, it produced an emotion of joyful rejoicing (“with joy”; see 2:2). 

He informs them of the reason for this gladness (v. 5). They chose to be active and engaged participants (“fellowship”) with him. The term Paul uses (koinonia) suggests they did not see themselves as simply generous supporters (though they were; see 4:18), but as partners with him in spreading the magnificent and life-changing news (“gospel”) of Jesus Christ. They had done this from the time he first preached the Gospel to them, approximately ten years earlier (see Acts 16:11-40). Further, he expresses (Phil. 1:6) he was completely persuaded (“confident”) of two things: (1) Their foundation was sure because it was created by the redemptive provision (“good work”) of Jesus Christ. (2) What He started, He would bring to wholeness and perfection (see 1 Thess. 5:23-24). This sanctifying process (laying down our desires to embrace His love and will), however, is not completed until “the day” Jesus Christ appears and we are completely transformed. 

The Philippian saints had a righteous (“right” NKJV) and deeply emotional (“in my heart”) relationship with Paul (v. 7). They supported him financially, prayerfully, and emotionally through three distinct aspects of his legal process: (1) They walked alongside of him (“partakers”) when he was in prison (“bonds”). (2) They accompanied him during his “defense” proceedings before a judge. (3) They were there when he presented evidence to confirm his innocence (“confirmation”). This legal process was because of the Gospel. Notice, Paul does not call them “partakers” of his affliction, but rather, partners with him in “grace”—the totality of God’s redemptive interaction with humanity. For this, he was willing to suffer—and so were the Philippians. It is no wonder they held such a special place in the deepest, most emotional part of his being (“affection of Jesus Christ” v. 8 NKJV). 

• How did Paul support the Philippian believers, and how did they support him? 

B.  Petitions for Abundance (Philippians 1:9-11) 

9 And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; 10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; 11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. 

Paul’s prayer for the Philippians shifts from thanksgiving to specific petitions on their behalf (v. 9). He uses the common term for prayer that is a time of communion between the redeemed and the Redeemer, but he reveals that event also can include making specific concerns known to God (“that,” literally, “in order that”). 

First, Paul reveals “love” is the source and foundation of who we are, for love is the foundation of God’s interaction in our lives (1 John 4:7-12, 19). There are four Greek terms for “love”: (1) eros, 

love on the physical or elementary plane; (2) storge, family affection; (3) philia, warm personal friendship or deep affection; and (4) agape, the core of the entire person as centered in Jesus Christ, the source, guiding force, and boundary (fence) for all relationships; therefore, it is God’s dimension of love, and anything that usurps that love (pride) or is substituted in its place (idolatry) is sin. (Only philia and agape are in the Geek New Testament.) Agape, used here in Philippians 1:9, does not negate but, rather, enhances the other forms of “love.” Paul (and Christ) wants them to richly and abundantly, beyond measure, overflow with that love (“abound”; see also 2:2-4). 

Second (1:9-10), with abounding love as the motivation and gatekeeper of who they are, he prays that they grow in (1) “knowledge” resulting from the process of discovering, learning, and coming to full understanding of Paul’s goal for them; (2) “all discernment” (NKJV), the ability to clearly perceive and, thus, completely understand an issue; (3) the ability to carefully examine and determine (“approve”) the good (urgent) from the things that are truly important (“excellent”). All this is building toward the ultimate goal of a full comprehension of and surrender to Christ and His kingdom and the implications such knowledge has for them (see v. 11). Paul’s grammar makes clear that this prayer is very possible and fulfillment is expected, but it is not automatic. They must actively participate in the process, if they are to be “sincere”—that is, without hidden motives—and free from stumbling or causing offense to others (“blameless” NIV) when Christ returns. 

Third, the goal is that they become living proof of “the fruits of righteousness” overflowing in and through their love (v. 11). Righteousness is a multifaceted term. Here it points to a right standing before God (Gen. 15:6) that results in a right relationship with God (Matt. 6:33). That, in turn, produces right relationships with others (“fruits”; see also 1 John 3:10). We can say that righteousness is given, caught, and taught, but it all finds its source and supply in Jesus Christ! Note Paul’s prayer addresses us as a unity (mind, soul/heart, spirit); therefore, these prayer petitions are joined together and are not multiple-choice! 

As we become the fulfillment of this prayer’s intent, it results in “the glory and praise of God” (Phil. 1:11). This can be interpreted two ways: (1) it brings glory and produces praise for God; or, (2) the glory and praise is given by God. This is known as Pauline ambiguity, perhaps intentional to make the reader think of the implications. 

No Excess in Love 

The desire of power in excess caused the angels to fall; the desire of knowledge in excess caused men to fall; but in love there is no excess, neither can angel or man come in danger by it.—Francis Bacon 

3. TO LIVE WORTHY OF THE LORD  

A. Foundational Attributes (Colossians 1:9-11) 

9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness.   

Paul received word the Colossian church was dealing with some serious doctrinal issues (1:4, 7), which are introduced in this prayer and expounded more fully later in the epistle. It concerned him deeply; doctrinal errors cannot be allowed to continue (“for this cause,” v. 9). He and his companions (“we,” see vv. 1, 7) remained in a continual attitude of concerned prayer for them. The first section of the prayer addresses three specific areas. 

First, Paul’s desire was for a proper theological understanding (v. 9). He desires that they may “be filled” with a full understanding (“knowledge”) of God’s perfect desire (“will”) for them. Also, He desires they would come to accept that will through a special understanding that results in skillful activity (“wisdom”) and spiritual (not fleshly) comprehension (“understanding”). He understood some things are beyond natural ability and desired that the veil of human limitation would be removed. Human ability sees the barriers surrounding our abilities. God’s revelation breaks through and transcends those limitations. 

Second, he desired the application (living out) of that proper theological knowledge (v. 10). It is not enough to know; we must be and we must do. A proper walk with God always produces fruit, and the communion that occurs during that proper walk always results in “increasing in the knowledge of God.” 

Third, Paul desires for them ability that enables and complements the understanding and application of God’s knowledge (v. 11). This is not natural capability, but supernatural strength and ability that is experiential in nature. This further emphasizes the spiritual knowledge of Christ is not mere head knowledge or mental assent; it encompasses truths that result in a synergetic relationship with God which brings His praiseworthy and prevailing strength (“glorious power”) into their lives in a personal, yet tangible, and mutually beneficial dimension in their lives. He concludes this section of the prayer with an expectation that three additional qualities will be produced in their lives: (1) “all might,” come what may (“great endurance” NIV); (2) fortitude that desires long-term goals, rather than immediate reprieve (“longsuffering”); (3) a charming and gracious attitude and outlook on life that finds favor with God (“joyfulness”). What Paul prays for is only possible through prayer (2 Thess. 1:11).  

How Do You Want to Be Remembered? 

The three churches Paul prayed for were all remembered fondly by him. A few years ago, I was given a difficult exercise to complete. It included writing down separately how I wanted to be remembered by my wife, daughter, grandchildren, extended family, and colleagues. It then asked if my current actions would produce those memories. The goal was to align my actions with my desired results. How do you want to be remembered? Prayer enables us to see ourselves as God sees us and provides the power for any necessary change.—R. Keith Whitt 

B. A Redemptive Review (Colossians 1:12-14) 

12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins. 

Paul reminds the Colossians of the redemptive provision of God already active in their lives, which causes him correctly to give thanks to the One who made it possible and provides what follows (v. 12). First, God has “qualified” us (NKJV). We are chosen by divine intervention to be incorporated into and recipients of (“partakers”) all the benefits (“inheritance”) that are given to the larger body of “saints in light” (v. 12). “Saints” are those who have been called “out of darkness into his marvellous light” (1 Peter 2:9; 1 Cor. 1:2). 

Second, the Father has rescued (“delivered”) us out of the authority (“power”) of hell’s dominion and reach (Col. 1:13). Saints are no longer part of this earth’s world order, but now belong to the kingdom of Christ, the Son of His love (Dan. 7:13-14; Rev. 7:14-17). 

Third, through faith in Jesus Christ’s salvific work (shedding of His blood) we have “redemption” (Col. 1:14). We have been rescued from the bondage, released from its effects, and set free from its penalty. To further underscore what has been provided, Paul adds “the forgiveness of sins.” To quote a line from Cowper’s hymn, “There is a fountain filled with blood, drawn from Immanuel’s veins; And sinners plunged beneath that flood, lose all their guilty stains!” This is the complete opposite of salvation by works. Paul understood some obeyed the Law with a superficial obedience in an effort to produce righteousness (Phil. 3:9). The acceptance of God’s grace in one’s life should produce fruit as a result of salvation, not to earn it. God deserves nothing less. 

• As believers, what has God “qualified” us for (v. 12 NIV)? 
• What has God “rescued” believers from (v. 13 NIV)? 

THE PURSUIT OF GOD 

The world around us accepts no limits in the pursuit for knowledge in the sciences and humanities. Should we as children of God settle for a less-than-possible understanding of and relationship with God? Jesus said we should be baptized into the name and character of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Matt. 28:18-20). He was not talking just about a formula pronounced in a baptismal service, but becoming more like the persons of the Godhead, as well as relying on the provision from each Person. Prayer and prayerful study of the Word is the only way this can happen. Until it does, can we truly help others? 

Daily Devotions  

M.  That I May Know Thee (Exodus 33:12-17) 

T.  Love the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:4-9) 

W.  Find the Knowledge of God (Proverbs 2:1-7) 

T.  Exhortation to Live Worthy (1 Thessalonians 2:8-13) 

F.  Increase in Love (1 Thessalonians 3:9-13) 

S.  Abound in the Knowledge of God (2 Peter 1:2-8) 

Adopted from the Evangelical Sunday School Lesson Commentary 2020-2021.