Trained in the Law under the tutelage of Gamaliel (Acts 22:3), the apostle Paul’s credibility in theology was unquestionable. Despite being highly trained in theology, he recognised the importance of prayer support in his sharing of the gospel. In so doing, he would have the wisdom and courage in the ministry. He asked the church in Ephesus to pray for him: “Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel,for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should” (Ephesians 6:19-20).
Prayer is indeed the most important determining factor for effectiveness in the sharing of the gospel because the evangelist is encountering the forces of Satan rather than those of man: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12). Prayer is the divine means to bind Satan and destroy his power. As Matthew says, “Or again, how can anyone enter a strong man’s house and carry off his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man? Then he can plunder his house” (Matthew 12:29). Sharing the gospel and winning souls is a task that saves others by snatching them from the fire (Jude 1:23). Therefore, it is of paramount importance that we rely on prayer.
In carrying out mission and evangelism, one should not perceive methods and techniques as the guarantee of success, with prayer perceived as only something that supports the methods and techniques. On the contrary, Jesus always began and ended His ministry with prayer, even though He Himself is God. Success in winning souls depends greatly on our perseverance in prayer, with methods and techniques being useful aids.
Are we upholding our Mission and Evangelism ministry in prayer?