Podcast Summary: "The Prayer That Repairs"

Elevation with Steven Furtick
Host: Steven Furtick, Pastor of Elevation Church
Episode Title: The Prayer That Repairs
Release Date: February 16, 2025

Introduction

In this pivotal episode of Elevation with Steven Furtick, Pastor Steven delves into the profound topic of prayer, specifically focusing on what he terms "The Prayer That Repairs." Celebrating the church's 20th year of ministry, Steven sets the stage by sharing exciting news about the upcoming Elevation Nights tour and emphasizes the importance of active participation in worship and community.

Notable Quote:
"Today might just be the most important day that we've ever been here because this is our first sermon of our official 20th year of ministry as a church."
— Steven Furtick [00:13]

Biblical Basis: Luke 22:31-34

Steven anchors his message in Luke 22:31-34, where Jesus addresses Simon Peter, foreseeing his impending denial. This passage serves as the foundation for exploring the multifaceted nature of prayer and its role in strengthening faith during trials.

Notable Quote:
"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. In fact, he has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail, and when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."
— Steven Furtick [02:31]

The Concept of "The Prayer That Repairs"

Steven introduces "The Prayer That Repairs" as a divine intervention designed to mend and restore faith when it falters. Unlike prayers that prevent challenges or prepare individuals for upcoming trials, this prayer focuses on healing and rebuilding after setbacks.

Notable Quote:
"But when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."
— Steven Furtick [03:58]

Steven emphasizes that this prayer is not about human effort but about God's proactive role in repairing and restoring believers when their faith is tested.

Biblical Examples: Hearing God's Voice Twice

Highlighting seven instances in the Bible where God calls individuals by their name twice, Steven illustrates how this repetition signifies a pivotal moment requiring divine attention and intervention. Examples include:

• Saul: Called twice before his transformation into Paul.
• Moses: Called twice when asked to lead the Israelites.
• Samuel: Called twice as a young boy to recognize God's voice.
• Martha: Called twice by Jesus to refocus her priorities.

Notable Quote:
"Samuel. He had to come back to him and say it again. Samuel, do you have another one?"
— Steven Furtick [26:02]

Metaphors and Illustrations: Sifting and Weightlifting

Steven employs relatable metaphors to convey complex spiritual concepts:

1. Sifting as a Fisherman:

   • Linking Peter's profession as a fisherman to the process of sifting, symbolizing the separation and purification of one's faith.
   • Notable Quote:
     "Feed my sheep in John 21. That makes me think he's trying to turn a fisherman into a shepherd."
     — Steven Furtick [35:45]

2. Weightlifting and Muscle Repair:

   • Comparing the process of building stronger muscles through deliberate strain and recovery to how prayer repairs and strengthens faith.
   • Notable Quote:
     "The prayer that repairs is the prayer that brings you back to God."
     — Steven Furtick [49:59]

Application: Embracing the Prayer That Repairs

Steven encourages listeners to adopt "The Prayer That Repairs" in their daily lives, especially during moments of doubt and weakness. This involves:

• Acknowledging Brokenness: Recognizing when faith has stumbled.
• Seeking Divine Repair: Turning to God for restoration rather than solely relying on personal strength.
• Strengthening Others: Using personal experiences of repair to uplift and support fellow believers.

Notable Quote:
"The prayer that repairs is Lord, if everything else goes away, if everything else is sifted, don't let this trial take my faith."
— Steven Furtick [55:09]

Conclusion and Call to Action

As the episode concludes, Steven extends an invitation for listeners to embrace this reparative prayer, offering a tangible way to reconnect with God during challenging times. He leads a heartfelt prayer for salvation, encouraging those who have yet to commit to Jesus to make a life-changing decision.

Notable Quote:
"He knows your name. Now it's time for you to call his name, the name of Jesus."
— Steven Furtick [55:44]

Listeners are invited to participate in a collective prayer, affirming their commitment and receiving a new beginning through faith in Jesus Christ.

Key Takeaways

• "The Prayer That Repairs" is essential for restoring faith during times of struggle.
• Biblical calls by name twice signify crucial moments requiring God's intervention.
• Metaphors like sifting and weightlifting effectively illustrate the process of spiritual purification and strengthening.
• Active participation in prayer can heal and rebuild one's relationship with God, fostering a supportive faith community.

Final Note:
This episode serves as a profound reminder of God's unwavering commitment to repairing and strengthening the faith of His followers. Whether facing personal trials or seeking spiritual restoration, "The Prayer That Repairs" offers a path to renewed faith and deeper connection with the divine.