What the Bible Says About Intercessory Prayer

Want to know what the Bible says about Prayer, Intercessory? Here are Bible verses about Prayer, Intercessory from the Old and New Testaments of the Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV), sorted from the most relevant to the least relevant. When studying these, note: always check the context of a verse; the context of a verse might put a very different slant on what the verse seems to say.

Examples of Intercession by Jesus

Jesus provided profound examples of praying for others. He said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” He also interceded for His disciples, telling Peter: “But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.”

In His deeper prayers for His followers, He said: “I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours.” He further requested: “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.” He also extended this intercession to all believers: “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one.”

The Call to Pray for All People

The scriptures urge us to engage in various forms of prayer. “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”

Intercession is also vital for healing and restoration. The Bible asks: “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.” Furthermore, it instructs: “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

The Results of Intercession

Praying for others has a tangible impact on the community and individual deliverance. As the text suggests: “as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.” Another passage affirms: “For I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.” Finally, we are commanded to “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May those who love you be secure.’”

Intercession Themes and Topics

Topic	Related Themes from Scripture
Intercession	Helping others, praying for each other, and perseverance.
Healing	Faith healing, laying on of hands, and the power of prayer.
Authority	Praying for kings, being quiet, and submission to God.
Forgiveness	Forgiveness of sins and interceding even when being taken advantage of.