Topical Encyclopedia Intercession, in the biblical context, refers to the act of intervening or mediating on behalf of another, particularly through prayer. It is a significant aspect of the Christian faith, where believers are called to pray for others, seeking God's mercy, guidance, and intervention in their lives. The concept of intercession is deeply rooted in both the Old and New Testaments, highlighting the role of individuals who stand in the gap between God and humanity.In the Old Testament, intercession is exemplified by figures such as Abraham, Moses, and Samuel. Abraham interceded for Sodom and Gomorrah, pleading with God to spare the cities if righteous individuals could be found within them (Genesis 18:22-33). Moses frequently interceded for the Israelites, especially when they sinned against God. In Exodus 32:11-14, Moses implores God to relent from His anger after the Israelites worship the golden calf. Samuel, too, is noted for his intercessory role, as he declares, "As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you" (1 Samuel 12:23). The New Testament further emphasizes intercession, with Jesus Christ serving as the ultimate intercessor. Hebrews 7:25 states, "Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them" . Jesus' intercessory prayer is vividly illustrated in John 17, where He prays for His disciples and all future believers. The Apostle Paul also underscores the importance of intercession, urging believers to pray for all people, including those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Intercession is not limited to specific individuals but is a calling for all believers. James 5:16 encourages Christians to "confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail" . This communal aspect of intercession fosters unity and mutual support within the body of Christ. Accountability Accountability, from a biblical perspective, involves being responsible for one's actions and decisions, both to God and to fellow believers. It is a principle that underscores the importance of living a life that aligns with God's standards and being answerable to others within the Christian community. The concept of accountability is woven throughout Scripture, beginning with the creation narrative. In Genesis, Adam and Eve are held accountable for their disobedience in the Garden of Eden, resulting in consequences for their actions (Genesis 3:9-19). This foundational account sets the stage for understanding the importance of accountability in the relationship between humanity and God. In the New Testament, accountability is further emphasized through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus instructs His followers to hold each other accountable in matters of sin and reconciliation. In Matthew 18:15-17, He outlines a process for addressing sin within the community, emphasizing the need for correction and restoration. The Apostle Paul also highlights accountability in his letters, urging believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling and to support one another in their spiritual journeys (Ephesians 4:1-3). Accountability is not only a personal responsibility but also a communal one. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to "consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching" . This passage underscores the importance of fellowship and mutual encouragement in maintaining accountability. Furthermore, accountability is linked to the concept of stewardship, where individuals are entrusted with resources, talents, and opportunities to be used for God's glory. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus illustrates the expectation of faithful stewardship and the accountability that comes with it. In summary, accountability in the Bible is a multifaceted principle that involves personal responsibility, communal support, and faithful stewardship, all aimed at fostering a life that honors God and edifies the Christian community. Subtopics Intercession: Abigail for Nabal Intercession: Additional Instances of Abraham's Servant, in Behalf of his Master Intercession: Additional Instances of Amos, for Israel Intercession: Additional Instances of Asaph, for the Congregation Intercession: Additional Instances of David, for Israel Intercession: Additional Instances of Ezra, for Israel Intercession: Additional Instances of for Israel Intercession: Additional Instances of for Miriam Intercession: Additional Instances of for Paul, by the Congregations Intercession: Additional Instances of in Behalf of Abimelech Intercession: Additional Instances of in Behalf of Sodom Intercession: Additional Instances of Jacob, in Behalf of his Children Intercession: Additional Instances of Jeremiah, for Israel Intercession: Additional Instances of Korah, for the Congregation Intercession: Additional Instances of Moses, in Behalf of Pharaoh Intercession: Additional Instances of Nehemiah, in Behalf of Judah and Jerusalem Intercession: Additional Instances of Onesiphorus Intercession: Additional Instances of Others, Who Sought Jesus in Behalf of Afflicted People Intercession: Additional Instances of Parents, for Their Epileptic Son Intercession: Additional Instances of Paul, for God's People Intercession: Additional Instances of Solomon, for Israel Intercession: Additional Instances of The Disciples, in Behalf of Peter's Mother-In-Law Intercession: Additional Instances of The Syro-Phoenician Woman, for Her Daughter Intercession: Answered for the plague of darkness Intercession: Answered for the plague of flies Intercession: Answered for the plague of frogs to be abated Intercession: Answered for the plague of locusts Intercession: Answered for the plague of rain, thunder, and hail Intercession: Answered in Behalf of Aaron, on Account of his Sin in Making the Golden Calf Intercession: Answered of Elijah, for Raising the Son of the Hospitable Widow from the Dead Intercession: Answered of Elisha, for Raising the Son of the Shunammite Woman from the Dead Intercession: Answered of Samuel, for Deliverance from the Oppressions of the Philistines Intercession: Answered: After the Complaining of the People Intercession: Answered: After the Israelites had Made the Golden Calf Intercession: Answered: During the Battle With the Amalekites Intercession: Answered: That Miriam's Leprosy Might be Healed Intercession: Answered: That the Plague of the Fiery Serpents Would Stop Intercession: Answered: The Prophet of Israel, for the Restoration of Jeroboam's Withered Hand Intercession: Answered: when the Fire of the Lord Consumed the People Intercession: Answered: when the People Complained on Account of the Report of the Spies Intercession: Ebed-Melech for Jeremiah Intercession: Elisha offers to See the King for the Shunammite Woman Intercession: Intercessional Influence of the Righteous Intercession: Joab for Absalom Intercession: Jonathan for David Intercession: Judah for Joseph Intercession: Paul for Onesimus Intercession: Pharaoh's Chief Baker for Joseph Intercession: Reuben for Joseph Intercession: Solicited by Daniel, of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego Intercession: Solicited by Darius, of the Jews Intercession: Solicited by Hezekiah, of Isaiah Intercession: Solicited by Israel, of Samuel Intercession: Solicited by Jeroboam, of a Prophet Intercession: Solicited by Paul, of the Congregations Intercession: Solicited by Pharaoh, of Moses Intercession: Solicited by Simon Magus, of Peter Intercession: Solicited by Zedekiah, of Jeremiah Intercession: Solicited: And by Johanan Intercession: Solicited: And by the Israelites Intercession: The King of Syria for Naaman Related Terms |