What is the biblical meaning of intercession?

Intercession, in a biblical context, is a profound and multifaceted practice that involves standing in the gap for others through prayer. It is an act of love, compassion, and deep spiritual engagement where one person prays on behalf of another. This concept is deeply rooted in both the Old and New Testaments, and it reveals the heart of God for His people and the power of prayer to effect change in the world.

The Hebrew word for intercession is "paga," which means to meet, to encounter, or to entreat. In the Greek, the word is "enteuxis," which signifies a petition or supplication. These definitions underscore that intercession is more than just a casual mention of someone in prayer; it is an intentional, often intense, spiritual activity where one seeks God's intervention in the lives of others.

One of the earliest examples of intercession can be found in Genesis 18, where Abraham intercedes for the city of Sodom. Knowing that his nephew Lot lives there, Abraham pleads with God to spare the city if righteous people can be found within it. Abraham's dialogue with God is a powerful illustration of intercession. He persistently negotiates with God, demonstrating both his deep concern for others and his belief in God's justice and mercy:

"Then Abraham approached him and said: “Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked? What if there are fifty righteous people in the city? Will you really sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous people in it?" (Genesis 18:23-24, NIV).

Moses also exemplifies the role of an intercessor. In Exodus 32, after the Israelites create and worship a golden calf, God expresses His anger and intention to destroy them. Moses intercedes on their behalf, appealing to God's promises and His reputation among the nations. Moses' prayer is fervent and selfless:

"But Moses sought the favor of the Lord his God. “Lord,” he said, “why should your anger burn against your people, whom you brought out of Egypt with great power and a mighty hand? Why should the Egyptians say, ‘It was with evil intent that he brought them out, to kill them in the mountains and to wipe them off the face of the earth’? Turn from your fierce anger; relent and do not bring disaster on your people." (Exodus 32:11-12, NIV).

The New Testament continues to highlight the importance of intercessory prayer. Jesus Christ Himself is the ultimate intercessor. His entire ministry was marked by prayer, often retreating to solitary places to pray (Luke 5:16). In John 17, we find the "High Priestly Prayer," where Jesus intercedes for His disciples and for all believers. He prays for their protection, unity, and sanctification:

"My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you." (John 17:20-21, NIV).

Moreover, the Apostle Paul frequently intercedes for the early churches. His letters are filled with prayers for their spiritual growth, wisdom, and strength. In Ephesians 1:16-17, Paul writes:

"I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better." (NIV).

Paul's commitment to intercessory prayer is also evident in his exhortation to Timothy:

"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." (1 Timothy 2:1-2, NIV).

Intercession is not limited to biblical characters; it is a calling for all believers. James 5:16 encourages us to pray for one another:

"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." (NIV).

Theologically, intercession is grounded in the understanding of Jesus as our High Priest. Hebrews 7:25 states:

"Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them." (NIV).

Jesus' role as an intercessor is ongoing. He stands before the Father, advocating on our behalf, ensuring that our prayers are heard and that we receive the grace and mercy we need.

In practical terms, intercessory prayer involves several key elements. First, it requires a heart of compassion and empathy. An intercessor feels the burdens of others and is moved to bring those burdens before God. Second, it involves persistence. Intercession is often not a one-time prayer but a continual, fervent plea for God's intervention. Third, it requires faith. An intercessor believes in the power of prayer and in God's willingness and ability to act.

Intercessory prayer also aligns us with God's will and purposes. As we pray for others, we become more attuned to God's heart and His desires for the world. It transforms us, deepening our relationship with God and our love for others.

Christian literature offers rich insights into the practice of intercession. Andrew Murray, in his classic work "With Christ in the School of Prayer," emphasizes the importance of intercession as a means of partnering with God to bring about His kingdom on earth. He writes:

"The power of intercession is the power of the risen and glorified Christ, through the Holy Spirit, working in the hearts of His servants. It is the power of the Holy Spirit, taking possession of the hearts and lives of believers, and enabling them to pray in the name of Jesus, in the power of His finished work, and in the confidence of His prevailing intercession."

E.M. Bounds, another influential writer on prayer, underscores the necessity of intercession in his book "The Necessity of Prayer." He states:

"Intercessory prayer is a powerful means of grace to the one who prays, as well as to the one for whom prayer is made. It is the highest form of prayer, because it is the most unselfish. It is the prayer that brings the most blessing to the one who prays because it is the prayer that brings the most blessing to others."

Intercession, therefore, is both a privilege and a responsibility. It is a way for believers to participate in God's redemptive work, to stand in the gap for others, and to see His power and love manifested in the world. As we engage in intercessory prayer, we are reminded of the profound truth that we are not alone in our struggles and that we have a God who hears and answers prayer.

In conclusion, the biblical meaning of intercession is a deep, compassionate, and persistent prayer on behalf of others. It is a practice that reflects the heart of God and the ministry of Jesus Christ. It is a call for all believers to engage in, as it brings about spiritual growth, unity, and the manifestation of God's kingdom on earth. Through intercession, we become conduits of God's grace, mercy, and love, impacting lives and circumstances in ways that are often beyond our understanding.