The Sin of Prayerlessness

Scripture Reading: 1 Samuel 12:23

Samuel’s words of command to Israel were direct and stern and yet full of grace. He warns them against idolatry but tells them of God’s faithful love. He says that it was for God’s name’s sake that he called them and would be faithful to them. So, the prophet speaks to the people about their responsibility in grace. Samuel doesn’t put everything on the people of Israel. He takes up his mantel of responsibility.

“Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you, and I will instruct you in the right way.” (12:23)

Samuel is recognizing and taking on his responsibility towards those he is speaking to. He is responsible to pray and teach. It would be, in Samuel’s words, a sin against God if he didn’t intercede in prayer on their behalf.

This doesn’t minimize or take away the responsibility of the nation, nor the responsibility of the individuals who made up the nation. It is saying that God gives the responsibility to his people to pray for one another, to help each other in carrying out our spiritual responsibilities through the ministry of prayer.

Pray for one another. To not do so would be a sin.