Understanding the Basic Principles of Corporate
Š2008 Queen E. F. Phillips, Majestic Worldwide Ministries, Inc.
Lesson Objectives
Edify, equip and empower God’s people to become leaders in the prayer ministry of the local church Explore the origin of the “corporate” concept Enhance students’ knowledge and understanding of how to pray together Encourage participation in corporate prayer settings, and raise the level of expectation of the results when praying corporately.
Define corporate‌ Corporate: 1. of, or belonging to a corporation; pertaining to a united group; 2.united or combined into one (an association of individuals, created by law and having an existence apart from that of its members as well as distinct and inherent powers and liabilities. Any group of persons united or regarded as united in one body.
Corporate prayer: 1. A group of persons united in prayer; 2. praying together as one in faith, confident in the power of God’s Word as their distinct and inherent power and authority to legislate God’s laws in the earth realm.
Corporate Concept‌ Originated with God (Gen. 1:26-28) “Let US make man in OUR image, according to OUR likeness... Together THEY created man, with the capability of uniting (connecting, joining together), physically and spiritually. **God is so into ONENESS that He created every living creature (smallest to largest) to connect/join together and reproduce its kind (Gen. 1:25).
Purpose of Corporate Prayer Condition us to be subject (submissive) to the will of God, individually and collectively (Acts 1:4-8) Empower us through the Holy Spirit to obey the Word of God; to do the work of ministry, and to boldly witness and proclaim the Word of God Keep alert and watchful; encourage and strengthen each other; and handle opposition as one united in purpose.
Scripture Reference: Acts 1:4-8; 4:23-37; Hebrews 10:19-25; Ephesians 6:18-18
Power of Corporate Prayer Summon God to intervene (Exodus 3:7-9; Book of Judges; Acts 12:1-16, 16:25-26).
Provoke a move of God by the Holy Spirit that results in salvation and changed lives (Acts 16:25-26).
Astonish us and raise our awareness to the power of God; increase our faith and trust in God to answer when we call out to Him together (on one accord) Acts 12:11-16
Scripture Reference: Acts 1:1-8; 2:1-2
Pattern for Corporate Prayer The Lord’s model prayer (Matthew 6:9-13; Luke 11:1-4). Our approach – Attitude of adoration, reverence, praise and honor Avail ourselves in a spirit of submission to His way and will. (This requires repentance!) Acknowledge our dependence on Him to supply our needs by asking for sustaining substances (natural and spiritual needs). Approach Him in the spirit of forgiveness toward others as we petition for pardon from Him. **Unforgiveness is a hindrance to answered prayer (Matt. 6:14-15). Acknowledge the Father’s sovereignty Scripture Reference: Acts 1:1-8; 2:1-2
Promise of Corporate Prayer Establish and maintain godly order and conduct in the Church and in the earth realm Revelation and results through the power of agreement as it relates to the Church and Kingdom of Heaven Assurance of the Lord’s presence whenever and wherever His followers are gathered together in representation of Him, His will and purpose.
Scripture reference: Matthew 18:15-20
Review & Discussion
By exploring the “corporate” concept, how does it relate to prayer? How do we unite in purpose? How do we unite in mind? What is one of the greatest hindrances to getting prayers answered?
Action: Make it Happen Read Matthew’s and Luke’s account of the Lord’s Prayer (Matt. 6:9-13, Luke 11:1-4). What principles are outlined that can help you better understand corporate prayer. What pronoun is used throughout that implies the corporate concept?
Resources & Links Recommended reading: Jim Cymbala. Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire Dr. Myles Munroe. Power and Purpose of Prayer C. Peter Wagner. Churches That Pray Barbara Wentroble. Praying with Authority
Website Links: http://www.tlpn.org/ http://www.spirithome.com/paripray.html http://www.oasisofprayer.org Disclaimer: The resources and links are for your convenience, and does represent the views or beliefs of Majestic Worldwide Ministries, Inc.
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http://www.majesticworldwidemin.org Copyright 2008 Queen E. F. Phillips, Majestic Worldwide Ministries, Inc. All Rights Reserved.