July 6, 2009

Text: Numbers 16

THE CONGREGATION OF ISRAEL

1. Sin of complaining
a) Picked up    Exodus 15:24

b) Persisted    Exodus 16:6

c) Permeating influence    Numbers 16

d) Problem of this sin is not fully comprehended
Complaining is a sin against the LORD!

"He hears your complaints against the LORD"    Exodus 16: 7

"Your complaints are not against us but against the LORD."    Exodus 16:8

"Come near before the LORD, He has heard your complaints"    Exodus 16:9

2. Sin of contention

a) Related to the sin of complaining    Exodus 17:2

b) Tempting/Testing of the Lord    Exodus 17:3

c) Contention with Moses and the Lord    Exodus 17:7

PRAYER MEETING MINISTRY

1. Instruction

a) Reading of the Lord's word

b) Remembering/Recalling important Lessons

2. Inspiration

a) To learn how to deal with the problem of sin

b) To learn how prayer helps us to overcome the problem of sin

c) To learn how we can have victory over sin!

APPRECIATING THE INTERCESSORY MINISTRY

Moses vital ministry of Intercession is exemplary

1. God's threat of judgment and punishment of sinful Israel averted

2. God's mercy extended and outpoured

SOBERING THOUGHTS

1. The Intercessory prayers of Moses did not bring about much change in Israel

2. The children of Israel continued to sin grievously against the Lord

3. Terrible consequences followed!

CHALLENGES FOR PRAYER MEETING MINISTRY

1. A well-developed personal prayer-life is vital to overcome sin!

2. Challenge to take appropriate action to cultivate this personal prayer-life

3. Moses was exemplary in sustaining a deep and meaningful prayer-life

a) How did he succeed?

b) What are some features of his well-developed prayer life?