Topical Encyclopedia
IntercessionIntercession refers to the act of intervening or pleading on behalf of another person, particularly in prayer. In the biblical context, intercession is a significant aspect of the believer's spiritual life, where individuals or groups pray to God for the needs and concerns of others. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on intercession, highlighting its importance and effectiveness.
One of the earliest examples of intercession is found in the life of Abraham. In
Genesis 18:22-33, Abraham intercedes for the city of Sodom, pleading with God to spare the city if righteous people can be found within it. This passage illustrates the power of intercessory prayer and God's willingness to listen to the pleas of His faithful servants.
Moses is another prominent figure known for his intercessory role. In
Exodus 32:11-14, after the Israelites sinned by worshiping the golden calf, Moses intercedes on their behalf, asking God to relent from His anger and not destroy them. Moses' intercession demonstrates the role of a mediator who stands between God and His people, seeking mercy and forgiveness.
The New Testament continues to emphasize the importance of intercession. The Apostle Paul frequently mentions his prayers for the churches and individuals he ministered to. In
Ephesians 6:18, Paul encourages believers to "pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests," highlighting the need for intercessory prayer as part of the Christian life.
Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of an intercessor. In
John 17, often referred to as the High Priestly Prayer, Jesus prays for His disciples and all future believers, asking for their protection, unity, and sanctification. Furthermore,
Hebrews 7:25 states, "Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them." This verse underscores the ongoing intercessory role of Christ, who continually pleads on behalf of believers before the Father.
MediationMediation in the biblical sense involves a mediator who acts as an intermediary between two parties, often to resolve a conflict or to facilitate communication. In the spiritual realm, mediation is primarily concerned with the relationship between God and humanity, with the mediator serving as a bridge to reconcile the two.
The Old Testament provides a foundation for understanding mediation through the role of priests and prophets. Priests, such as those from the line of Aaron, served as mediators by offering sacrifices and prayers on behalf of the people. The Day of Atonement, described in
Leviticus 16, is a prime example where the high priest would enter the Holy of Holies to make atonement for the sins of Israel, symbolizing the need for mediation between a holy God and sinful humanity.
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is presented as the ultimate mediator.
1 Timothy 2:5 declares, "For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus." This verse affirms that Jesus is the sole mediator who can reconcile humanity to God, having offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin.
The book of Hebrews elaborates on Christ's mediatory role, describing Him as the High Priest of a new covenant.
Hebrews 9:15 states, "Therefore Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, now that He has died to redeem them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant." Through His death and resurrection, Jesus established a new covenant, providing direct access to God for all who believe in Him.
The concept of mediation is also reflected in the work of the Holy Spirit, who intercedes for believers in their prayers.
Romans 8:26-27 explains, "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans too deep for words. And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God." The Holy Spirit acts as a mediator in prayer, aligning the believer's petitions with God's will.
In summary, intercession and mediation are integral aspects of the biblical narrative, demonstrating God's desire for a restored relationship with humanity through the intercessory and mediatory work of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.
