Praying for Passion in Ministry

The following format is based on the chapters of Stephen Seamands’ book, A Conversation with Jesus (Victor Books). Each is based on Christ’s post-Resurrection, breakfast-on-the-shore conversation with Peter in John 21. “Jesus . . . remind[ed] Peter of the essentials of ministry-–truths he already knew but had forgotten. His five ‘words’ to Peter revolve around key elements of ministry.”

Focus: Renewing Our Passion For Ministry

Format:

• Sing–-Choose a song that leads into the next theme
• Scripture--Read and Expound on Scripture (2 minutes)
• Silence-–Give everyone time to mediate on the scripture (2 minutes)
• Supplication-–Explain how to pray (partners; groups, etc)
• Song-–Transition to the next theme . . .

Scripture Themes:

• “Do You Love Me?”
• “Feed My Sheep”
•  “Where You Do Not Want to Go”
• “Follow Me”
•  “What Is That to You? Follow Me”
•  “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:21-22)

Chapter Heading Quotes:

“Do You Love Me?”
 "Whatever happens to you, never give up praying. It would be
like giving up breathing. A man or woman who does not pray
is no longer a ministry."--Henri Nouwen

“Feed My Sheep”
 "Feed my sheep-–identify yourself with My interests in other
people, not identify Me with your interests in other people."--Oswald Chambers

“Where You Do Not Want to Go”
 "The work of God can only be built upon the ruins of ourselves."--Fenelon

“Follow Me”
 "The working minister is in a co-working ministry day after day
with Christ’s own ministry, supported and energized by the Holy
Spirit."--Thomas Oden

“What Is That to You? Follow Me”
 "Envy causes us to want to be what we were never created to be–-someone else."--Robert Schnase