Purpose in Prayer by E.M. Bounds - Chapter 01 of 13 - Prayer is a Keynote

Summary

The video script discusses the transformative power of prayer, emphasizing its role in shaping God's purpose and its impact on the world. It outlines the chapters of a book on prayer, highlighting themes like prayer's ability to change conditions, its irreplaceability, and its characteristics. The script also recounts the life of Edward Mackenzie Bounds, a devout Christian who believed prayer was essential for spiritual revival and the advancement of God's work on Earth.

Takeaways

• 📖 **Book Structure**: The book 'Purpose and Prayer' by E.M. Bounds has 13 chapters, with the speaker reading from an older edition and noting the chapter titles to ensure they are not forgotten.
• 🕊️ **Prayer's Impact**: Prayer is described as a powerful force that can change God's purpose and has the ability to disinfect and prevent the spread of evil.
• 🔑 **Key to Change**: Prayer is considered a key element in societal change, with the potential to purify and sanctify lives.
• 🌟 **Everlasting Nature**: The prayers offered are not transient; they continue to live on before God, influencing future generations.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 **Intergenerational Blessings**: The prayers of past saints strengthen future generations against sin and evil, emphasizing the importance of a legacy of prayer.
• 🌐 **Global Influence**: Prayer is seen as a global force that can revolutionize the world and is central to the advancement of God's cause.
• 💪 **Power in Prayer**: The effectiveness of prayer is highlighted, with the suggestion that a praying person can achieve more for God's kingdom than one without this practice.
• 🌱 **Growth through Prayer**: The speaker emphasizes that prayer is essential for personal sanctification and growth in one's spiritual life.
• 📜 **Scriptural References**: The script includes references to Psalms chapter 2, illustrating the divine establishment of God's cause through Jesus Christ and the importance of prayer.
• 🕊️ **Prayer as a Condition**: Prayer is presented as a condition for the prosperity of God's cause on earth, with God's presence and power realized in a praying church.

Q & A

Who is the author of the book 'Purpose and Prayer'?

The author of the book 'Purpose and Prayer' is Edward Mackenzie Bounds, commonly referred to as E.M. Bounds.

How many chapters are there in the book 'Purpose and Prayer'?

There are 13 chapters in the book 'Purpose and Prayer'.

What is the main theme of Chapter 1 in 'Purpose and Prayer'?

The main theme of Chapter 1, titled 'Prayer is a Key Note,' emphasizes the importance of prayer as a powerful and transformative force in the world, with prayers continuing to have an impact long after they are uttered.

What does E.M. Bounds suggest about the power of past prayers?

E.M. Bounds suggests that past prayers continue to influence the present and future. They strengthen future generations and shape God's plans and actions on Earth.

How does the book describe the relationship between prayer and God's power?

The book describes prayer as a means to activate God's full power in the world. God's success and actions are carried forward by the prayers of believers, and His plans are shaped by their intensity and frequency.

What historical details are provided about E.M. Bounds' life and career?

E.M. Bounds was born in Shelby County, Missouri in 1835, became a pastor at age 24, served as a chaplain during the Civil War, and later pastored churches in Tennessee, Alabama, and Missouri. He spent the last 17 years of his life writing, praying, and studying the Bible.

What example of a biblical passage is mentioned in Chapter 1, and why is it referenced?

Psalms Chapter 2 is mentioned in Chapter 1 to highlight the power of God's decree and the importance of asking for God's intervention through prayer. It emphasizes God's sovereignty and His promise to those who pray for His kingdom's advancement.

What does E.M. Bounds say about the effect of prayer on future generations?

E.M. Bounds says that the prayers of God's saints provide spiritual strength to future generations, helping them to combat sin and evil. Conversely, a generation that lacks the prayers of its predecessors faces untold perils and spiritual poverty.

What is the significance of prayer in advancing God's kingdom according to E.M. Bounds?

Prayer is depicted as the central condition for advancing God's kingdom. It is the tool through which God's power is activated on Earth, and through which Christ's kingdom grows and succeeds.

How is E.M. Bounds' personal dedication to prayer described?

E.M. Bounds is described as deeply devoted to prayer, waking up as early as 4 a.m. to spend time studying the Bible and praying. He is portrayed as a man who lived by the gospel he preached and whose life was defined by humility and fervent intercession.