Prayer Initiative: Closer to Jesus Sýnishorn

Jewish festivals always gathered crowds in the Temple courts. Historians claim that the Temple Mount could hold 100,000 people at one time. The Temple was the most public place there could ever be. So, when the Festival of the Tabernacles was near, it seemed rational for Jesus’ brothers to advise Him to leave Galilee and go to Judea. “Are you planning to become a public figure? Why are You hiding? Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” Jesus knew His brothers did not believe in Him and stayed in Galilee while they left for the Festival.

However, after His brothers left, He went also, not publicly, but in secret. He knew he was hated. For the fear of the leaders, people were talking about Him in whispers. Some said He was a good man, but some believed He was deceiving the people. The Jewish leaders were determined that He was a blasphemer and were looking for a way to kill Him. Not until halfway through the Festival did Jesus go up to the Temple courts and begin to teach. The Jews were amazed. The more He taught, the more controversy He stirred. Some accused Him of being demon-possessed, and some concluded He could have been the Messiah. Many in the crowds believed. Temple guards were sent to seize and arrest Him, but they couldn’t because Jesus’ time had not yet come.

When in your life have you experienced hostility because of your allegiance to Jesus? How did Jesus respond to those who hated Him? In which way was He wise? In which way was He humble? In which way was He firm? Ask Jesus: “What do You have in Your Word for me today?” Listen and pray.

INTERCESSION : “On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria…Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” (Acts 8:1-4)

PRAYER :

• Pray for courageous disciples who make disciples even in persecution and hostility.
• Pray for at least 3, 4, 5, and even more generations.
• Pray for courageous multiplying leaders.
• Pray for courageous multiplying churches.
• Pray for the unstoppable movements of God.