The Spirit’s Intercession -- By: James E. Rosscup
Journal: Masters Seminary Journal
Volume: TMSJ 10:1 (Spring 1999)
Article: The Spirit’s Intercession
Author: James E. Rosscup
MSJ 10:1 (Spring 99) p. 139
The Spirit’s Intercession
Professor of Bible Exposition
The Master’s Seminary
One of the Holy Spirit’s ministries in Romans 8 to those whom God has justified is intercessory prayer, i.e. taking personal matters of prayer beyond the believers’ own prayer effort. The chapter has the entire walk of the saints in view from the time of their being justified to their future glorification, but the only express example of a specific experience in the Christian life is prayer. The focus is on a weakness of believers, i.e. not knowing what to pray, whereas God knows perfectly. The Spirit prays on their behalf by groanings in which He does not use words. As believers pray about the myriad of life’s struggles, the Spirit works in close coordination with their prayers; yet the groanings are distinctly His own, in caring empathy, to secure what is best for them at God’s throne. Believers are imperfect and pray with limitations, but God is perfect and unlimited in seeking what is for their good.
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The central focus of Paul’s letter to the Romans is justification by faith (1:15–17; 3:10, 21–26). This justification by faith, according to Paul, results in progressive sanctification by faith in the present life (6:1–8:11) and glorification in the life to come (8:17, 18–25, 30).
In bringing righteousness to its full expression, Paul views prayer as a strategic activity, introducing communion with God in the very heart of the epistle (8:26–27).1 Intercessory assistance, Paul notes, is given to the believers as
MSJ 10:1 (Spring 99) p. 140
the Spirit presents prayer from His indwelling presence in them on earth and as Christ intercedes from His exalted estate in heaven.2
Romans 8 may well inspire the designation, “The chapter of the Holy Spirit.”3 The Holy Spirit helps with power (8:1–11); the Holy Spirit helps in privilege (8:12–17); the Holy Spirit guarantees the prospect (...
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