Intercession
ἔντευξις (Enteuxis)
Praying on behalf of others; standing in the gap before God
Intercession (enteuxis) means to 'approach on behalf of another.' It is the ministry of praying for others, modeled by Christ Himself who 'ever liveth to make intercession' for believers at the Father's right hand.
"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men." — 1 Timothy 2:1 (KJV)
Key Verses
1 Timothy 2:1
“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men.”Read in context
Romans 8:34
“Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.”Read in context
Isaiah 53:12
“Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.”Read in context
The Ministry of Intercession
Intercession is prayer directed not toward our own needs but toward the needs of others. The Greek 'enteuxis' means 'a meeting with, an approach, a petition.' An intercessor stands between God and another person, pleading their case before the throne of grace. It is one of the highest callings in the Christian life — a ministry that can be exercised by anyone, anywhere, at any time.
Great Intercessors of the Bible
The Bible records many powerful intercessors. Abraham pleaded for Sodom (Genesis 18). Moses interceded for rebellious Israel, even offering his own life: 'Blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book' (Exodus 32:32). Samuel told Israel, 'God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you' (1 Samuel 12:23). Daniel prayed for the restoration of Jerusalem. Paul's letters overflow with intercessory prayer for the churches.
Christ: The Great Intercessor
Jesus Christ is the ultimate intercessor. Isaiah 53:12 prophesied that the Suffering Servant would 'make intercession for the transgressors.' On the cross, Jesus prayed, 'Father, forgive them' (Luke 23:34). Now risen and ascended, He 'ever liveth to make intercession' for believers (Hebrews 7:25). The Holy Spirit also intercedes, groaning with prayers too deep for words (Romans 8:26). Believers are never without an advocate before God.
The Call to Intercede
Paul urges that intercession be made 'for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority' (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Intercession expands our prayer life beyond personal concerns to embrace the world. It cultivates compassion, breaks self-centeredness, and partners with God's purposes for others. While results are often unseen, the Bible assures us that the 'effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much' (James 5:16).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between prayer and intercession?
All intercession is prayer, but not all prayer is intercession. Prayer encompasses many forms: praise, thanksgiving, confession, petition (asking for ourselves), and intercession (asking on behalf of others). Intercession is specifically the act of praying for other people's needs, burdens, and situations.
Does the Holy Spirit intercede for us?
Yes. Romans 8:26 teaches that 'the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.' When we do not know how to pray, the Spirit prays through us and for us, communicating our deepest needs to the Father in ways that transcend human language.
How do I become a more effective intercessor?
Effective intercession involves: praying according to God's will and word, praying with persistence (Luke 18:1-8), praying with faith (James 1:6), praying specifically rather than vaguely, and maintaining a close walk with God so the Spirit can guide your prayers. Regular practice and keeping a prayer list can help develop the discipline of intercession.
What is the Greek word for "Intercession" in the Bible?
ἔντευξις (Enteuxis), pronounced "EN-tyook-sis." It means praying on behalf of others; standing in the gap before god. It is the word behind "Intercession" in both Testaments, for example in 1 Timothy 2:1.
Related Words
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Intercession (ἔντευξις (Enteuxis))
Praying on behalf of others; standing in the gap before God
Bible Verses About Intercessory Prayer
10 curated KJV verses
Bible Verses About Praying for Others
10 curated KJV verses
Praying Always in the Spirit (Ephesians 6:18)
Prayer is not a seventh piece of metal but the power that puts the whole armour
Praying in the Spirit (Ephesians 6:18)
Praying in the Spirit is prayer led, prompted, and empowered by the Holy Spirit
How to Pray for Others (Intercession)?
Prayer & Worship
Where to go next
Studied the meaning of Intercession? Continue with these word-study and Scripture pages.
- Bible word meanings A–ZHebrew and Greek words explained in plain English.Continue
- Go deeper with word studiesStrong's numbers, usage and every KJV occurrence.Continue
- Bible questions answered from ScriptureStraight KJV answers to common questions.Continue
- Read the KJV Bible online freeFull text, chapter by chapter.Continue