Sunday Morning Service - Entering In

Summary of the Sermon: “Entering In – The Prayer Journey”

Central Theme

The message calls believers to develop a deeper, more relational prayer life—“hanging out with God.” Prayer is not merely listing personal requests but a sacred journey of communion, thanksgiving, praise, repentance, and transformation, modeled after the Old Testament tabernacle.

Key Biblical Foundations

• 1 Samuel 12:23 – Ceasing to pray for others is sin; intercession is a duty.

• Job 42:10 – Job’s restoration came when he prayed for his friends, even those who hurt him.

• Matthew 5:44 – Jesus commands prayer for enemies and those who persecute us.

These verses emphasize selfless intercession as central to powerful prayer.

Steps in the Prayer Journey

The speaker uses the tabernacle layout as a guide, showing how each stage draws believers closer to God’s manifested presence:

1. Thanksgiving (Gate – Psalm 100)

   • Enter God’s presence with gratitude for all gifts, from basic needs to spiritual blessings.

2. Praise (Outer Court)

   • Praise God for His mighty works in Scripture and personal life, inviting His manifest presence.

3. Repentance (Brazen Altar/Laver – 2 Peter 3:9)

   • Confess sins and clear hindrances to approach God boldly.

4. Sanctification (Laver – 1 Timothy 4:4-5)

   • Speak Scripture over oneself, acknowledging Christ’s righteousness and cleansing.

5. Communion & Word (Table of Showbread – John 6:48-58)

   • “Have a cup of coffee with God,” feeding on His Word and gaining His perspective.

6. Spirit-Led Prayer (Holy Place – Romans 8:26)

   • Allow the Holy Spirit to intercede with groanings beyond words, aligning with God’s will.

7. Manifest Presence (Holy of Holies)

   • Behind the torn veil is God’s deepest mercy, love, and wisdom—true worship and intimate fellowship.

Practical Insights & Challenges

• Prayer is Relationship, Not Ritual: Move beyond quick petitions; spend unhurried time with God.

• Selflessness: Focus prayers on others; sowing intercession brings blessing back (“boomerang effect”).

• Honest Conversation: Be real with God—share frustrations, failures, and doubts.

• Daily Practice: Even a few intentional minutes each day can transform one’s spiritual life.

Call to Action

Believers are urged to:

• Commit to daily “hanging out with God,” using the tabernacle pattern as a flexible guide.

• Intercede for others, including enemies.

• Seek God’s manifested presence, not merely His gifts.

• Embrace Scripture as spiritual nourishment and the ultimate source of wisdom.

This sermon invites a shift from transactional prayer to a transformative, intimate friendship with God, leading to spiritual growth, deeper peace, and a vibrant faith.