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Sermon Title: “Prayer: The Foundation of Blessing”

Text: Ephesians 6:18-20

Preacher: Randy Dyck

Date: January 19, 2025

Summary Tagline:

“Begin with prayer—God moves through our dependence on him.”

Message Summary:

In Ephesians 6:18-20, Paul calls believers to pray at all times, with all kinds of prayers, for all people, and for boldness to share the gospel. Randy emphasizes that prayer is not just preparation for ministry—it is ministry. Through prayer, believers align with God’s heart, trust in his power, and depend on him to accomplish his purposes.

The sermon highlights Jesus as the ultimate model of dependence on God through prayer. Randy reflects on how Jesus prayed before key moments in his life and ministry, setting an example for us to follow. He challenges the congregation to embrace the “BLESS” framework—beginning with prayer for five people over five weeks for five minutes a day. Through prayer, believers acknowledge their reliance on God to change lives, open doors, and provide opportunities to share the hope of Christ.

Group Discussion Guide

Icebreaker Question: (Choose 1)

  1. What’s a time in your life when prayer made a significant difference?
  2. Who is someone you’ve prayed for consistently, and how did it impact your relationship with them?
  3. What’s one way you’ve seen prayer answered in your life, big or small?

“These next discussion questions are intended to give us each a chance to engage in the message personally and hear what Jesus is doing in each of our lives too. In this, we all become preachers to one another as we learn to follow Jesus together.”

Discussion Questions:

1. In Ephesians 6:18, Paul urges believers to pray at all times with all kinds of prayers. What are some ways you can incorporate prayer more intentionally into your daily life?

2. Randy highlighted Jesus’ dependence on prayer. How does Jesus’ example inspire or challenge you in your own prayer life?

3. The “BLESS” framework begins with prayer. Who are some people in your life you feel God is calling you to pray for, and how can you commit to doing so?

4. Paul asked for boldness to proclaim the gospel. What role does prayer play in giving you courage to share your faith with others?

5. Randy encouraged the church to depend on God through prayer rather than relying on their own abilities. How does this shift your perspective on your role in ministry or in everyday life?

For Further Study:

  1. Ephesians 6:18-20 – Praying at all times with perseverance and for boldness.
  2. Luke 5:16 – Jesus withdrew to desolate places to pray.
  3. Philippians 4:6-7 – Presenting requests to God with thanksgiving.
  4. Matthew 6:9-13 – The Lord’s Prayer as a model.
  5. John 17:20-23 – Jesus’ prayer for his followers and unity.
  6. Acts 2:42 – The early church devoted themselves to prayer.
  7. Colossians 4:2-4 – Devotion to prayer and praying for gospel opportunities.
  8. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – Rejoicing, praying without ceasing, and giving thanks.
  9. Romans 8:26-27 – The Spirit intercedes when we don’t know how to pray.
  10. James 5:16 – The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

Gospel Connections

Let’s discuss how we can apply this message to our lives as we seek to make the following connections as we follow Jesus:

1. How does prayer deepen your relationship with God and increase your dependence on him?

2. How can our church cultivate a culture of prayer that empowers us to be a blessing in our community?

3. How can our group support and encourage one another in praying for others and seeking boldness in sharing our faith?

4. How can we, as individuals and as a church, reflect Jesus’ dependence on prayer as we seek to bless our neighbors and change the world?