14th.: The Whole Church Needs to Pray
“And because he [King Herod] saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also.
Peter therefore was kept in prison; but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.” (Acts 12:2a, 5).
Because the whole church relentlessly prayed, God released Peter from prison (Acts 12:7-10).
This release was such a miracle, that even Peter thought he was dreaming (Acts 12:11).
It wasn't until he stood outside the prison gates, that Peter realized he wasn't dreaming.
He then headed to his friend's house.
Rhoda heard his knocking at the door. When she rushed back inside, and told everyone
that Peter was at the door, they thought that Rhoda was 'dreaming' (Acts 12:13-17).
Note the thoroughness of God’s answer.
Even though the prison guards guarding Peter were executed for Peter's escape (Acts 12:18-19),
Even though the prison guards guarding Peter were executed for Peter's escape (Acts 12:18-19),
no one went looking for him.
The whole church prayed.
Twenty-four hours a day.
Seven days a week.
God heard and God answered.
What could happen if a whole congregation were to pray like that?.
Many revivals experienced in America and Great Britain began - by many people relentlessly praying.
“That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they ask, ‘it shall be done for them of my Father, which is in heaven.” (Matt. 18:19)