Leadership Prayers: Paul’s Prayer for the Church at Colosse; Colossians 1:1-18

1. For what things did Paul give thanks that he had heard about the church at Colosse? Colossians 1:1-8
2. For what things are you thankful that you see in this congregation?
3. What did Paul ask God to give these brethren in this congregation? Colossians 1:9-11
4. How would you like to see God bless this church where you worship?
5. What about God and His blessings moved Paul to be thankful? Colossians 1:12-18
6. What are some blessings you have received and what do you see in God that stirs gratitude in your heart?
7. Thank God for whom (saints and faithful brethren) and for what (faith, love, hope) you observe in this church, as you ask God for spiritual blessings and attributes to be given to you and others, and as you thank God for Who He is and for what He has done.

For the complete lesson outline (7 pages) > Session 9

Leadership Prayers: Jesus’ Prayer of Deathly Sorrow, Agony; Matthew 26:36-46; Luke 22:39-46

1. What did Jesus ask in prayer on the night of His betrayal?
2. How did Jesus feel as He prayed?
3. As a leader, should you expect to always feel comfortable, energized, and happy?
4. What was the immediate answer to Jesus’ prayer? How was He helped during this difficult time? Luke 22:43
5. What happened after this painful prayer? Matthew 26:47 - Matthew 27:50
6. What blessings did Jesus receive three days later? Matthew 28:1-8
7. How are we blessed by this act and example today? Hebrews 12:1-3
8. Ask God to bless you during your painful times of struggle and crucifixion. Thank Him for the new life and resurrection that you have already experienced as a Christian and that you anticipate in the future.
For the complete lesson outline (5 pages) > Session 8

I enjoyed being with the Beattie Road church of Christ in Albany, Georgia, last week for the God's Great Servants workshop. Forty-one men from five congregations participated in the sessions. To see pictures from the workshop, go to my website: Leadership Workshop .

Leadership Prayers: Jesus Prayer for Himself, His Apostles, the Disciples After Them; John 17

1. What did Jesus ask for Himself? John 17:1-5
2. What did Jesus ask for the apostles? John 17:6-19
3. What did Jesus pray for “those who will believe in Me through their word? John 17:20-26
4. How did God, the Father, answer that prayer for Jesus? Acts 7:55,56
5. How were the apostles blessed in their mission? Romans 10:13-18; Colossians 1:23
6. How was Jesus’ prayer for the unity of believers answered in the church in Jerusalem? Acts 2:42-47
7. How do we cooperate in the answer of that prayer today? Colossians 3:1-4
8. Ask God to bless you in glorifying His name, in doing His work, and in making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3).
For a full class outline (5 pages) Session 7