- Intercession means praying for other people.
The English word “intercede” comes from two words meaning to “go between”. The Greek word means to speak to someone on behalf of another. Intercession is one of the four central kinds of prayer, remembered by the acronym ACTS. In adoration, we praise God in our prayers (Ps. 34:1-3). In thanksgiving, we express gratitude to him (Ps. 9:1-2). In confession, we acknowledge our sins (Ps. 41:4). In supplication, we make requests, either for ourselves or for others—which is intercession.
Scripture is filled with intercessory prayers. Abraham prayed that God would spare the righteous in Sodom and Gomorrah (Gn. 18). Moses prayed for the people of Israel, that God would turn his burning anger away from them (Ex. 32:11; Ps. 106:23). While the angel was striking Israel, David prayed for them (2Sm. 24:17). Paul prayed for others “constantly”, “night and day” (2Tm. 1:3). Jesus often prayed for others, including little children (Mt. 19:13).
Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer is the greatest example of intercessory prayer. In this prayer, Jesus interceded for those who believed in him (v. 20), with requests such as: (1) Knowledge of Christ (v. 3). (2) Eternal security (v. 11). (3) Unity (v. 11). (4) Joy (v. 13). (5) Protection from Satan (v. 15). (6) Sanctification (v. 17). (7) Seeing God’s glory (v. 24).
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